Wilson, Teddy (1912-1986), was one of the greatest pianists in jazz history. He was known for his sophisticated, graceful style and dignified manner as a performer. During the 1930’s, Wilson made a number of small band recordings that rank as jazz classics.
Theodore Shaw Wilson was born in Austin, Texas. He began his career as a professional musician in Chicago and moved to New York City in 1933 to join Benny Carter’s band as pianist and arranger. Wilson made some important recordings that year with a band called the Chocolate Dandies.
In 1935, Wilson joined Benny Goodman’s band, becoming one of the first African Americans to perform with a white band. Wilson played in a trio consisting of himself on piano, Goodman on clarinet, and Gene Krupa on drums. Vibraphonist Lionel Hampton joined Goodman in 1936, enlarging the trio to a quartet. Wilson remained with Goodman until 1939, participating in trio and quartet recordings that are considered masterpieces of chamber jazz.
While playing with Goodman, Wilson organized numerous small band recording sessions. These famous sessions featured such musicians as Lester Young, Roy Eldridge, Benny Goodman, and Harry James, along with vocalist Billie Holiday. Wilson led a big band in 1939 and 1940 and a sextet from 1940 to 1944. From that time until his death, he primarily played solo piano or led a trio. He also recorded with larger groups and taught at the Juilliard School from 1945 to 1952. He reunited with Benny Goodman periodically for concerts and recordings.
