Biography of Dave Brubeck

The master of odd time signatures, Dave Brubeck began at age 13, playing with bands in Concord, CA. His studies with Milhaud and Schoenberg were a lasting influence on the construction of his solos and compositions. During the '50s and '60s, his groups were the most popular in the world, especially on college campuses. He was the most popular "cool" stylist ever from an exposure standpoint. He and alto saxophonist Paul Desmond were precise, sparing players whose every note seemed measured, and they seldom pushed or rushed any tempos. Brubeck employed a host of things from the classical world -- block chording, counterpoint, and fugues -- and made them palatable. He's been a huge seller since 1954 and remains immensely popular. ~ Ron Wynn