| As the big band era started to
simmer, Fletcher Henderson distinguished himself as one of the best arrangers
and big band leaders. His main emphasis while arranging was on soloists,
and often, in his voicings he pitted saxes against brass. Henderson is
also known for perfecting the block voicing technique. Henderson learned
to play the piano from his mother who was a classical piano teacher. His
knowledge in music theory, and his ability to read music fluently helpled
him to succeed in blues. In the early 1920's, Henderson recorded accompaniments
for over 30 blues singers. Henderson began his professional career as a
piano player after moving to New York City in 1920. He soon discovered
that his degree in mathematics and chemistry would get him nowhere, so
he decided he would probably make more money as a piano player. |
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