Fletcher Henderson Biography, Photos and Posters

Fletcher Henderson

Biography

Born: December 18, 1897
Hometown: Cuthbert, GA
Instrument: Piano
Music Training: Piano lessons starting at 6;
Bands and Orchestras: Benny Goodman
Top Recordings: "Christopher Columbus,"
Fletcher Henderson biography: Both of his parents and his brother were musicians. He started taking piano lessons at the age of 6. He was educated in private schools. While earning a degree in chemistry and mathematics from Atlanta University he earned extra money playing the piano. When he finished school he came to New York with the intention of attending graduate school, but lack of career opportunity for blacks in science coupled with a gig playing piano on a river boat on the Hudson River influenced his decision to reorient his career goal to become a musician. He worked with the Harry Pace/W.C. Handy Music Company music demontrator from 1920-24. In 1924 he organized a big band playing at various clubs and ballrooms around the New York area. He earned the label as the black Paul whiteman for his tendency to stick crowd pleasing non-controversial music selections. This changed in 1925 with the addition of Louis Armstrong who had a brief stay with the group. Never a man with much business savvy, according to his wife he lost all ambition after a road accident in 1928. He joined the Benny Goodman band in 1939 as staff arranger. During the 40s he once again organized his big band to play the Savoy Ballroom and Roseland. In 1947 he hooked up once again with Goodman for a short stint and in 1948-49 he toured with Ethel Waters.
Died: December 28, 1952

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