Big Bill Bissonnette

Jazz Trombonist and Bandleader: Big Bill Bissonnette was an American jazz trombonist, bandleader, and record producer known for his contributions to traditional jazz and Dixieland music. Born on December 19, 1937, in Westbrook, Maine, Bissonnette began playing the trombone at a young age and developed a passion for jazz music.

Founder of the Easy Winners Jazz Band: In the early 1960s, Bissonnette founded the Easy Winners Jazz Band, a traditional jazz ensemble dedicated to preserving and performing the music of early jazz pioneers such as Jelly Roll Morton, King Oliver, and Louis Armstrong. The Easy Winners Jazz Band gained a loyal following in the traditional jazz community and became known for their authentic renditions of classic jazz tunes.

Record Label and Production Work: Bissonnette was also a prolific record producer and founded the Jazz Crusade record label in the 1970s. Through Jazz Crusade, he released numerous recordings of traditional jazz and Dixieland music, featuring both his own Easy Winners Jazz Band and other acclaimed jazz artists. Bissonnette's recordings helped to document and preserve the legacy of traditional jazz for future generations of music enthusiasts.

Author and Educator: In addition to his musical endeavors, Big Bill Bissonnette was an author and educator who wrote extensively about jazz history and performance. He authored several books and instructional materials on topics such as jazz improvisation, trombone technique, and the history of New Orleans jazz. Bissonnette's writings provided valuable insights into the development and evolution of traditional jazz styles, making him a respected figure in jazz scholarship.

Legacy and Influence: Big Bill Bissonnette's contributions to traditional jazz and Dixieland music have left a lasting legacy in the jazz community. His work as a trombonist, bandleader, record producer, author, and educator helped to preserve and promote the rich tradition of early jazz for future generations. Bissonnette's recordings continue to be cherished by jazz enthusiasts around the world, ensuring that his influence on the gen