Pete Brown (jazz musician) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Pete Brown
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Pete Brown, between 1938 and 1948
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| Background information | |
| Birth name | James Ostend Brown |
| Born | November 9, 1906 Baltimore, Maryland, U.S. |
| Died | September 20, 1963 (aged 56) New York City, U.S. |
| Genres | Jazz |
| Occupation(s) | Musician |
| Instruments | Saxophone |
| Years active | 1910–1966 |
James Ostend "Pete" Brown (born November 9, 1906 – died September 20, 1963) was an American jazz musician. He was famous for playing the alto saxophone. Pete Brown was also a bandleader, which means he led his own music groups.
Contents
Pete Brown's Musical Journey
Pete Brown started playing music when he was very young. He learned to play the piano, trumpet, and saxophone. The saxophone became his main instrument.
Early Music Days
In 1928, Pete Brown began playing in New York City. He joined Bernie Robinson's orchestra. From 1928 to 1934, he played with Charlie Skeete. These early experiences helped him become a skilled musician.
Working with Other Jazz Stars
In the 1930s, Pete Brown played with many famous jazz artists. In 1937, he joined John Kirby's band. He also worked with Frankie Newton for several years. Pete Brown and Frankie Newton often recorded music together.
He also recorded his own music. Besides that, he played with other great musicians. Some of these included Willie "The Lion" Smith, Jimmie Noone, and Maxine Sullivan.
Playing on 52nd Street
During the 1940s, Pete Brown was a regular on 52nd Street in New York. This street was a very popular place for jazz music. He played as a sideman, which means he played with other bands. He also led his own groups. In 1946, he was part of Allen Eager's 52nd Street All-Stars.
Later Performances and Teaching
In the 1950s, Pete Brown wasn't able to perform as much. However, he still played with other musicians. He performed with Joe Wilder and Big Joe Turner. In 1957, he appeared at the Newport Jazz Festival. He played there with Coleman Hawkins and Roy Eldridge. His last known performance was in 1960 with Dizzy Gillespie.
Pete Brown also shared his musical knowledge. He taught two other famous saxophone players. These were Cecil Payne and Flip Phillips.
Pete Brown's Recordings
Pete Brown released several albums as a bandleader. These albums showed his unique saxophone style. He also played on many recordings with other artists.
Albums as a Leader
- Peter the Great (1955)
- Jazz Kaleidoscope (1957)
- From the Heart (1960)
Albums as a Sideman
Pete Brown played on many albums with other jazz musicians. Some of these include:
- Champion Jack Dupree's Blues from the Gutter (1958)
- Coleman Hawkins' The Coleman Hawkins, Roy Eldridge, Pete Brown, Jo Jones All Stars at Newport (1957)
- Big Joe Turner's Big Joe Rides Again (1960)
