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Art TatumPianist
Date of Birth: 13.10.1909
Country:  USA |
Content:
Biography of Art Tatum
Art Tatum was an American jazz pianist and composer. He was one of the first virtuoso jazz soloists and was renowned for his phenomenal technique, which even impressed Vladimir Horowitz. His distinctive style involved frequent use of scales and arpeggios that spanned the entire keyboard, as well as harmonic innovations in well-known standards. It is widely believed that his experiments anticipated the harmonic language of bebop performers.
Early Life and Education
Tatum was born blind due to congenital cataracts. He underwent a series of operations and regained partial sight in one eye, allowing him to distinguish outlines of objects. He studied at a school for the blind in Columbus, where he began playing the violin and piano at the age of 13. He did not receive any formal education beyond this.
Rise to Fame
Tatum started performing in clubs in Toledo, and his radio programs soon gained nationwide attention. In 1932, he traveled to New York City as an accompanist for Adelaide Hall and gained widespread acclaim for his unique playing style. Fats Waller once famously said, "God is in the house tonight," referring to Tatum's performance. From 1935 to 1936, Tatum led an orchestra at the Tigee Oesis club in Chicago before returning to New York City. In 1938, he formed a sextet and performed in London.
Later Career and Influence
In 1943, Tatum formed a trio with Slam Stewart on bass and Tiny Grimes on drums. He also collaborated with Coleman Hawkins, Barney Bigard, Mildred Bailey, and recorded a duet with Big Joe Turner. Tatum had a significant influence on the development of jazz piano. Some of his notable followers include Oscar Peterson, Ahmad Jamal, Billy Taylor, and others. His innovative and virtuosic playing continues to inspire musicians to this day.
