Role

:

Composer  

Country

:

United States of America

Birth

:

October 13, 1909 in Toledo, OH

Death

:

November 5, 1956 in Los Angeles, CA

 

Art Tatum was a legendary American jazz pianist and composer who is widely regarded as one of the greatest pianists of all time. Born on October 13, 1909, in Toledo, Ohio, Tatum was the son of a guitarist and pianist who played in local bands. He began playing the piano at a young age and quickly showed a natural talent for the instrument. Tatum's early musical education came from his mother, who was a church pianist. He also took lessons from a local piano teacher, but he quickly outpaced his teacher and began teaching himself. By the age of 13, Tatum was playing professionally in local clubs and theaters. In the 1920s, Tatum moved to Cleveland, where he became a regular performer at the city's top jazz clubs. He quickly gained a reputation as a virtuoso pianist, known for his lightning-fast runs and complex harmonies. Tatum's playing was heavily influenced by the stride piano style of Fats Waller and James P. Johnson, as well as the blues and swing music of the era. In the 1930s, Tatum moved to New York City, where he became a fixture on the jazz scene. He played with some of the biggest names in jazz, including Benny Goodman, Lionel Hampton, and Roy Eldridge. Tatum's playing was so impressive that he was often asked to play solo, without accompaniment, which was a rare feat in jazz at the time. Tatum's playing was characterized by his incredible speed and technical ability, as well as his innovative use of harmony and rhythm. He was known for his ability to play complex chord progressions and intricate melodies with ease, often using his left hand to play bass lines while his right hand played the melody and improvised solos. Tatum's most famous compositions include "Tea for Two," "Tiger Rag," and "Body and Soul." His version of "Tea for Two" is considered one of the greatest jazz recordings of all time, and his rendition of "Body and Soul" is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful and emotional performances in jazz history. Despite his incredible talent, Tatum struggled with alcoholism throughout his life. He died on November 5, 1956, at the age of 47, from complications related to liver disease. Today, Tatum is remembered as one of the greatest pianists in the history of jazz. His innovative playing and groundbreaking use of harmony and rhythm continue to influence musicians to this day. Tatum's recordings remain popular among jazz fans and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians.

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