Bill Watrous

Bill Watrous was a highly influential American jazz trombonist known for his virtuosic playing, innovative style, and prolific career. Here are some key facts about him:

1. Early Life and Musical Beginnings: Bill Watrous was born on June 8, 1939, in Middletown, Connecticut. He began playing the trombone at a young age and showed exceptional talent and dedication to the instrument. Watrous' early influences included jazz trombonists such as J.J. Johnson and Tommy Dorsey, whose recordings inspired him to pursue a career in jazz.

2. Innovative Playing Style: Bill Watrous developed a highly distinctive and innovative trombone playing style characterized by its technical brilliance, fluidity, and improvisational prowess. He was known for his dazzling virtuosity, effortless facility in the upper register, and ability to execute rapid-fire runs and complex harmonic passages with ease. Watrous' innovative approach to the trombone helped elevate the instrument to new heights and earned him acclaim as one of the greatest trombonists in jazz history.

3. Collaborations and Sideman Work: Throughout his career, Bill Watrous collaborated with many renowned jazz musicians and artists. He performed and recorded with luminaries such as Quincy Jones, Maynard Ferguson, Woody Herman, and Johnny Richards, among others. Watrous' exceptional musicianship and versatility made him a sought-after sideman, and his contributions to countless recordings helped shape the sound of jazz during the latter half of the 20th century.

4. Recording Career: Bill Watrous released numerous albums as a leader and appeared as a sideman on countless others. His discography includes classic albums such as "Manhattan Wildlife Refuge" (1974), "A Time for Love" (1993), and "Space Available" (2005), among many others. Watrous' recordings showcase his extraordinary trombone playing and his ability to navigate various jazz styles with aplomb, earning him critical acclaim and a dedicated following.

5. Educator and Mentor: In addition to his performing and recording career, Bill Watrous was also a respected educator and mentor. He taught masterclasses and workshops at various institutions and jazz festivals, sharing his knowledge and expertise with aspiring trombonists and musicians. Watrous' passion for jazz education and his commitment to passing on the tradition of jazz ensured that his legacy would live on through the countless students he inspired and influenced.

Bill Watrous passed away on July 2, 2018, but his legacy as a master trombonist and jazz innovator continues to inspire musicians an