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Art Tatum, 1909-1956
A legendary jazz pianist, Art Tatum combined brilliant technique with a talent for adventurous improvisation. Blind in one eye and with low vision in the other, Tatum learned to read music with the aid of eyeglasses and braille while studying at the Toledo School of Music. He performed in assorted venues in Toledo before his job as accompanist to a cabaret singer took him to New York City in 1932. Once there, Tatum's career took a giant leap forward. He quickly established his reputation by playing in the city's jazz clubs, and within a year he cut his first solo recordings -- including a sparkling version of "Tea for Two" (1933). Tatum's playing evolved stylistically, moving from a bold "stride" piano technique to more nuanced interpretations that often featured breathtaking "runs" along the keyboard. A highly versatile musician, Tatum built a vast, eclectic repertoire that ranged from popular songs to classical favorites. |