Art Simmons facts for kids
Arthur Eugene Simmons (born February 5, 1926 – died April 23, 2018) was a talented American jazz pianist. He was known for his smooth playing style. He spent many years living and playing music in Europe.
His Musical Journey
Arthur Eugene Simmons was born in Glen White, West Virginia, in February 1926. He began his musical journey early. In 1946, he played in a band while serving in the U.S. military. After the war, he stayed in Germany to study music.
In 1949, Simmons moved to Paris, France. He continued his music studies there. He attended the famous Conservatoire de Paris and the Ecole Normale de Musique. While in Paris, he played with many well-known jazz musicians. These included Charlie Parker and Kenny Clarke at the Paris Jazz Festival. He also performed with Aaron Bridgers, Don Byas, Robert Mavounzy, and Nelson Williams.
Simmons led his own music group in 1951 at the Ringside Club. In the early 1950s, he played with jazz legends like Dizzy Gillespie and Quincy Jones. He also toured London with singers such as Bertice Reading. He became the main pianist at the Mars Club. There, he worked with musicians like Michel Gaudry, Pierre Cullaz, and Elek Bacsik. He also played for touring singers, including Carmen McRae and Billie Holiday in 1958. In the early 1960s, he performed in a duo with Art Taylor.
Simmons also created music arrangements for Barclay Records. In 1971, he played in Spain. After this, he returned to the United States. He then retired from his long and successful music career. Arthur Eugene Simmons passed away on April 23, 2018. He was 92 years old and died at his home in Beckley, West Virginia.
Discography
- Boogie Woogie (Mercury Wing, 1955)
