HORACE SILVER
Horace Silver, who was born on September 2, 1928 and studied classical piano with the church organist in his teens, developed into one of the most creative and innovative figures in jazz.
Stan Getz discovered and hired Horace in Hartford, Connecticut. After touring and recording with Getz, Horace moved to New York and began working with jazz luminaries such as Miles Davis, Terry Gibbs, Coleman Hawkins, and his early idol, Lester Young.
He eventually teamed up with Art Blakey, Clifford Brown, Lou Donaldson and Curley Russell to form the original Jazz Messengers. Like Blakey, Silver is an inspiration to young musicians. In 1956 he formed his own quintet and signed a contract with Blue Note Records that lasted twenty-eight years.
Horace has received the following honors and awards:
- 1954 - Downbeat Critics' Choice
- 1992 - Rutgers State University Hall of Fame
- 1994 - Honored by the Academi du Jazz, Paris
- 1996 - Doctorate from Berklee College; Downbeat Hall of Fame; Grammy Nominations: Best Album and Best Jazz Instrumental Solo
- 1997 - International Hall of Fame induction
Horace loves playing and composing but he admits that, if forced to choose, composing would win. His songs are his children.
"I love them all. First they-re born, I doctor them up a bit and record them. Then they go out into the world. Some are successful and bless others with joy. Then," he laughs, "they send Daddy home some money!"
Horace Silver's latest album is "Jazz Has a Sense of Humor, " on Verve Records.
