One of the truly originals in not only jazz, but in popular culture, pianist and composer Dave Brubeck died and went to his eternal reward today at the age of 91.
Born Dec 6, 1920, Brubeck grew up on a California ranch, was part of George Patton’s army during WWII, and came back to America to transform music not only rhythmically, but culturally. His compositions like”Blue Rondo a la Turk” used uncommon meters for jazz and changed the direction of it from a dancing to a listening art. He formed a quartet with Paul Desmond/as, Eugene Wright/b and Joe Morello that brought forth one of America’s most famous pieces, “Take Five.” This band achieved world-wide fame not only for its musical skills, but for being one of the first integrated bands during a time that had American still dealing with segregation and Civil Rights for black Americans.
Not only was Brubeck adept at jazz composition and performance, but he had a part of his career that is little known. Having played piano for gospel groups before turning to jazz, Brubeck, a Catholic, also wrote many religious and liturgical pieces for his church. He also set up a school for upcoming jazz artists, and his sons carry on his legacy with bands of their owns. He will be missed as a musician, man, father, devoted husband and follower of The Lord