Henderson, Fletcher (1897-1952), was a bandleader, pianist, and arranger. He was the first jazz artist to introduce the concept of the “big band” divided into brass, reed, and rhythm sections. Henderson’s band was prominent from 1924 until 1938 but never achieved the fame critics believe it deserved. It included such jazz stars as Louis Armstrong, Buster Bailey, Coleman Hawkins, and Lester Young. Beginning in 1934, during the “swing era,” Henderson gained fame as the writer of many arrangements for the Benny Goodman band.
Henderson was born on Dec. 18, 1897, in Cuthbert, Georgia. He took up music after moving to New York City in 1920. He played piano for several singers. He died on Dec. 29, 1952.
