Wilbur Ware facts for kids

Wilbur Bernard Ware (born September 8, 1923 – died September 9, 1979) was an American jazz musician. He was famous for playing the double bass. This is a very large string instrument, like a giant cello.

Wilbur Ware played with many well-known jazz artists. He was a regular bassist for the Riverside record label in the 1950s. During that time, he recorded with musicians like Johnny Griffin, Kenny Dorham, Kenny Drew, and Thelonious Monk. He also appeared on albums by Sonny Clark, Tina Brooks, and Grant Green.

Wilbur Ware's Music Journey

Early Life and Learning Music

Wilbur Ware grew up in Chicago, Illinois. He taught himself to play several instruments. These included the drums, banjo, and bass. He often played music at church. In the 1940s, he started working with jazz stars. Some of these were Stuff Smith, Sonny Stitt, and Roy Eldridge. In the early 1950s, he recorded with Sun Ra.

Moving to New York and Famous Bands

Later in the 1950s, Wilbur Ware moved to New York City. There, he played with Eddie Vinson, Art Blakey, and Buddy DeFranco. His only album as a band leader during his life was The Chicago Sound. This album came out in 1957. He also made special jazz teaching albums. These were for people learning to play music.

In 1958, Wilbur Ware was part of a famous photo. It was called A Great Day in Harlem. This picture showed 57 jazz musicians.

Playing with Thelonious Monk and Sonny Rollins

Wilbur Ware was a member of Thelonious Monk's band. He played with them from 1957 to 1958. He also performed with the Sonny Rollins Trio in 1957. They played at a famous club called the Village Vanguard.

Wilbur Ware mostly taught himself how to play. He had a very special and unique style. He played the bass in a rhythmic way, almost like a drum.

Later Years and Legacy

After a break from music, Ware played again in 1969. He performed with Clifford Jordan, Elvin Jones, and Sonny Rollins. Wilbur Ware passed away in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in 1979. He was 56 years old.

Wilbur Ware's Albums

Albums as a Leader

• The Chicago Sound (1957): This album was with Johnny Griffin.
• Super Bass (2012): This album was recorded in 1968 with Clifford Jordan. But it was not released until more than 40 years later!

Albums as a Sideman (Playing with Others)

Wilbur Ware played on many albums with other famous jazz musicians. Here are a few examples:

• With Art Blakey: Originally (1982)
• With Tina Brooks: The Waiting Game (1961)
• With Sonny Clark: Dial "S" for Sonny (1957)
• With Kenny Dorham: 2 Horns / 2 Rhythm (1957)
• With Grant Green: Remembering (1961)
• With Johnny Griffin: Johnny Griffin (1956)
• With Thelonious Monk: Thelonious Himself (1957), Monk's Music (1957), Mulligan Meets Monk (1957)
• With Sonny Rollins: Night at the Village Vanguard (1958)