Fraser MacPherson facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Fraser MacPherson
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Fraser MacPherson
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| Background information | |
| Birth name | John Fraser MacPherson |
| Born | 10 April 1928 Saint Boniface, Manitoba, Canada |
| Died | 27 September 1993 (aged 65) Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada |
| Genres | Jazz |
| Occupation(s) | Musician |
| Instruments | Saxophone, clarinet, piano |
Fraser MacPherson (born John Fraser MacPherson) was a talented Canadian jazz musician. He was born in Saint Boniface, Manitoba, in 1928. He became famous for playing the saxophone, but he also played the clarinet, piano, and flute.
When he was a child, Fraser moved to Victoria, British Columbia. There, he started learning to play music. He later moved to Vancouver to continue his studies. In Vancouver, he played in many different bands.
Early Music Career
Fraser MacPherson started leading his own music groups. He also became the leader of the house band at a popular place called the Cave supper club. This was a big step in his music career.
In 1958, he took a year off to study music in New York City. This trip helped him learn even more. He added the flute to the list of instruments he could play.
Achievements and Recordings
Fraser MacPherson often played music on the CBC. This is Canada's national public broadcaster. His music reached many people across the country.
He won a Juno Award in 1983 for Best Jazz Album. This award is one of the highest honors for musicians in Canada. In 1987, he received the Order of Canada. This is a very special award given to Canadians who have made a big difference.
Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Fraser was a very busy musician in Vancouver. He was often the first person called when someone needed a studio musician. This means he played on many recordings for other artists.
He also taught music for a short time at Vancouver Community College. Some of his students became successful musicians themselves.
Albums and Legacy
Fraser MacPherson released his first album as a band leader called Live at the Planetarium. This album was first recorded for a French-language CBC radio show. He later released it on his own record label.
The album was then re-released by Concord Records, a well-known jazz label. Fraser went on to record several more albums with them. He also recorded for other labels like Sackville Records and Justin Time Records.
In the summer of 1993, a special fund was created in his name. It was called the Fraser MacPherson Scholarship Fund. This fund gives money to young music students who are just starting out. It helps them pursue their dreams in music.
Fraser MacPherson passed away in Vancouver later that year, at the age of 65. His music and his contributions to jazz continue to inspire many.
Images for kids
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From left: Chris Gage, Louis Bellson, Stan "Cuddles" Johnson, Tony Gage, Fraser MacPherson, Harry Carney (Photo from the Fraser MacPherson estate)
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From left: Jack Teagarden, Sandy DeSantis, Velma Middleton, Fraser MacPherson, Cozy Cole, Arvell Shaw, Earl Hines, Barney Bigard at the Palomar Supper Club in Vancouver, B. C. (17 March 1951)
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From left: Stan "Cuddles" Johnson, Fraser MacPherson, Bob Smith, Harry James, Al Johnson, Stew Barnett. (The Cave Supper Club, May 1970)
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MacPherson in 1966 (photo by Franz Lindner)
