Omer Simeon facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Omer Simeon
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Joe Thomas, Omer Simeon and Eddie Wilcox, Loyal Charles Lodge No. 167, New York, c. October 1947
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| Background information | |
| Birth name | Omer Victor Simeon |
| Born | July 21, 1902 New Orleans, Louisiana, U.S. |
| Died | September 17, 1959 (aged 57) New York City, U.S. |
| Genres | Jazz |
| Occupation(s) | Musician |
| Instruments | Clarinet |
| Years active | 1920–1950s |
| Associated acts | Jelly Roll Morton, Earl Hines |
Omer Victor Simeon (born July 21, 1902 – died September 17, 1959) was a talented American jazz musician. He was best known for playing the clarinet. He also played other instruments like the soprano, alto, and baritone saxophone, and the bass clarinet.
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Early Life and Music
Omer Simeon was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in the United States. His father made cigars. Later, his family moved to Chicago, Illinois.
Learning the Clarinet
In Chicago, Omer learned to play the clarinet. His teacher was Lorenzo Tio, Jr., a famous musician from New Orleans. Omer started playing music professionally in 1920. This means he began playing for money.
Early Bands and Performances
Omer Simeon played with different bands in Chicago and Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Some of these bands included Jimmy Bell's Band and Charlie Elgar's Creole Orchestra.
Playing with Jazz Legends
Omer Simeon played with many important jazz musicians. He became very well-known for his skills.
Joining Jelly Roll Morton
In 1926, Omer started playing with Jelly Roll Morton. Morton was a very famous jazz pianist and bandleader. Omer made many recordings with Morton's Red Hot Peppers band. These recordings are still very popular today. Omer also taught music to others.
Moving to New York City
In 1927, Omer joined King Oliver's Dixie Syncopators. He moved with this band to New York City. After some time, he went back to Chicago. He played with Luis Russell in Manhattan. Then, in 1928, he returned to Chicago to play with the Erskine Tate Orchestra.
With Earl Hines
In 1931, Omer Simeon joined Earl Hines's band. He played with Hines for ten years. This was a very important part of his career.
Later Career and Tours
In the 1940s, Omer played with the bands of Coleman Hawkins and Jimmie Lunceford. He also made some recordings with Kid Ory's band.
With Wilbur de Paris
Most of the 1950s, Omer Simeon spent playing with the Wilbur de Paris band. They even went on a tour of Africa in 1957.
Playing with Louis Armstrong
In 1954, Omer played the saxophone in a song called "Skokiaan." He played with the legendary Louis Armstrong, who played the trumpet. This was a very popular Dixieland jazz recording.
Final Years
Omer Simeon passed away in New York City. He was 57 years old.
