Vic Dickenson facts for kids

Victor Dickenson (born August 6, 1906 – died November 16, 1984) was an amazing American jazz trombonist. He played the trombone, a brass instrument that makes a deep, rich sound. His music career started way back in the 1920s. He worked with many famous musicians like Count Basie, Sidney Bechet, and Earl Hines.

Vic Dickenson's Early Life and Music Journey

Victor Dickenson was born in Xenia, Ohio, in 1906. When he was young, he thought about becoming a plasterer, just like his dad. But a fall from a ladder changed his mind!

Instead, he started studying the organ in 1922. Soon after, he switched to playing the trombone. He began performing with local bands, showing off his musical talent.

First Recordings and Famous Bands

Vic Dickenson made his very first recording in December 1930. He sang with Luis Russell's band. In the early 1930s, he joined Blanche Calloway's orchestra. These were important steps in his growing music career.

Later, from 1947 to the mid-1950s, Vic Dickenson led his own music groups. He performed with them on both the East and West Coasts of the United States.

Playing with Jazz Legends

After leading his own groups, Vic Dickenson became a "session man." This means he was a musician who was hired to play on recordings or performances with many different artists. He played with some of the biggest names in jazz!

In 1957, he appeared on a TV show called The Sound of Jazz. He played alongside jazz giants like Count Basie, Coleman Hawkins, Roy Eldridge, Gerry Mulligan, and Billie Holiday. Imagine playing with all those stars!

He also recorded music with many other famous musicians. These included Jimmy Rushing, Pee Wee Russell, Benny Carter, and Lester Young. In 1953, he recorded his own album called The Vic Dickenson Showcase. He played with Edmond Hall on clarinet and Ruby Braff on trumpet.

In 1958, Sidney Bechet invited him to France. Vic Dickenson went there to play and record music at the Brussels Expo.

The World's Greatest Jazz Band

Vic Dickenson was a member of a group called "The World's Greatest Jazz Band." This band was the main band at The Roosevelt Grill in New York City. He also played at the same place in a smaller group with trumpeter Bobby Hackett.

You can even see Vic Dickenson in a famous photograph called A Great Day in Harlem. This picture shows many legendary jazz musicians all together. Another trombonist, Miff Mole, is also in the photo.

Vic Dickenson passed away in New York City in 1984. He was 78 years old.

See also

In Spanish: Vic Dickenson para niños