Kenton, Stan (1911-1979), was an American bandleader, pianist, and composer. Throughout his career, Kenton led bands that departed from the big-band sound of the swing era. For example, in 1950, he toured with his 40-piece Innovations in Modern Music Orchestra, which included strings. In 1961, Kenton formed an orchestra featuring a brass instrument called the mellophone. In 1965, he assembled a semisymphonic band of 27 pieces he called the Neophonic Orchestra.
Such Kenton compositions as “Artistry in Rhythm” (1943), “Eager Beaver” (1943), and “Intermission Riff” (1946) became famous. Kenton helped establish the careers of such famous jazz musicians as alto saxophonists Lee Konitz and Art Pepper, trumpeter Maynard Ferguson , and drummer Shelly Manne.
Stanley Newcomb Kenton was born on Dec. 15, 1911, in Wichita, Kansas. In 1941, he formed his first band, which received wide praise for its precise, brassy sound. Its popularity increased after Pete Rugolo began arranging the band’s music in 1945. Many jazz critics disliked Kenton’s music during his lifetime, but his bands remained popular with listeners. He died on Aug. 25, 1979.
