Jaki Byard

Jaki (John) Byard (June 15, 1922 - February 11, 1999) was a jazz piano player. He was noteworthy for his eclectic style, incorporating everything from ragtime and stride to free jazz.

Related Topics:
June 15 - 1922 - February 11 - 1999 - Jazz - Piano

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Byard began playing professionally at the age of 15. After serving in World War 2 he toured with Earl Bostic in the late 1940s, then in the Herb Pomeroy Band in the 1950s.

Related Topics:
World War 2 - Earl Bostic - Herb Pomeroy

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He recorded extensively with Charles Mingus in the periods 1962 to 1965 and 1970. He also made important recordings as a sideman with Eric Dolphy, Booker Ervin and Sam Rivers. As a leader, he recorded a string of albums for the Prestige label during the 1960s. He fronted an occasional big band, the Apollo Stompers. He taught at the New England Conservatory.

Related Topics:
Charles Mingus - Eric Dolphy - Booker Ervin - Sam Rivers - Prestige - New England Conservatory

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Byard was killed during a burglary of his apartment.

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