A talented trumpet player and bandleader who led a popular dance band in the 1940s and 1950s, known for their energetic and swinging style. They recorded many hits, including "Bandstand Boogie," which became a classic.
Les Elgart was born on August 3, 1917, in New Haven, Connecticut, to a family deeply rooted in music. His mother, Bessie Aisman Elgart, was a concert pianist who had performed at Carnegie Hall and ran her own music conservatory. This rich musical environment nurtured Les and his brother Larry, exposing them to a wide range of influences from an early age.
Les' professional career began in the 1940s, playing with prominent bandleaders such as Raymond Scott, Charlie Spivak, and Harry James. During this period, he often found himself performing alongside his brother Larry. In 1945, the brothers formed their own orchestra, recruiting talented arrangers like Nelson Riddle, Ralph Flanagan, and Bill Finegan to create a unique sound.
The Les Elgart Orchestra signed with General Amusement Corporation for bookings and recorded several sessions, although none were initially released. The band's early sound was characterized by a slower tempo and a Glenn Miller-esque quality. Despite struggling to gain traction, the orchestra persisted, recording two singles for Bullet Records in 1948 and performing at various venues in New York and northern New Jersey.
As the popularity of big bands began to wane in the late 1940s and early 1950s, Les Elgart disbanded his orchestra and embarked on a freelance career, working on various record dates and projects. This period allowed him to explore new musical directions and collaborate with other prominent musicians.
Les Elgart's contributions to swing jazz have had a lasting impact on the genre. His trumpet playing, characterized by its warm, expressive tone and technical mastery, has influenced generations of musicians. The Les Elgart Orchestra's distinctive sound, which blended the classic big band style with a more modern, nuanced approach, continues to inspire and delight audiences today.
Les Elgart's contributions to jazz have been recognized with several awards and honors, including his induction into the Big Band and Jazz Hall of Fame.
Through his remarkable career, Les Elgart left an indelible mark on the world of swing jazz, inspiring countless musicians and entertaining audiences with his unique sound and captivating stage presence.
Born in 1913
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