Jazz virtuoso Dizzy Gillespie was a cool, Cold War warrior who wielded his signature “bent” trumpets to battle communism abroad and racism at home. In the 1950s, the nation’s dismal civil rights record …

Aug 13, 2025 · In 1953, a split-second accident gave Dizzy Gillespie the most recognisable horn in jazz — and a sound that became part of his signature. Blistering high-wire trumpet lines and bebop …

He was a trumpet virtuoso and improviser, building on the virtuosic style of Roy Eldridge [5] but adding layers of harmonic and rhythmic complexity previously unheard in jazz. His combination of …

Jan 5, 2018 · But the most lasting symbol of his remarkable career may well be his signature “bent” trumpet —and the story of how the American History Museum got its hands on one of these unusual ...

The movement originated during the early 1940s in the playing of trumpeter Dizzy Gillespie, guitarist Charlie Christian, pianist Thelonious Monk, drummer Kenny Clarke, and the most richly endowed of …

Jun 3, 2022 · Although he passed away 29 years ago, his music remains legendary as he pioneered countless jazz subgenres and became famous for his iconic ability on the well-known “bent” trumpet. …

John Birks “Dizzy” Gillespie (October 21, 1917 – January 6, 1993- died at age 75) was an American jazz trumpeter, bandleader, singer, and composer. Together with Charlie Parker, he was a major figure in …

John Birks "Dizzy" Gillespie was an African American jazz trumpet player, bandleader, singer, and composer dubbed "the sound of surprise". Together with Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie was a major …

Jan 6, 1993 · In 1953, someone accidentally fell on his trumpet, bending the bell back. Gillespie discovered he liked the sound and from then on, he had trumpets built for him with the bell pointing …

Feb 14, 2025 · Leading his own big band from 1946 to 1950, Gillespie solidified his status as a showman and soloist. His unique trumpet, altered after an accident, enhanced his sound and …