Fletcher Henderson
James Fletcher Hamilton Henderson, Jr. was an American pianist, bandleader, arranger and composer, important in the development of big band jazz and swing music. He was one of the most prolific black musical arrangers and his influence was vast. He was often known as Smack Henderson . Fletcher is ranked along with Duke Ellington as one of the most influential arrangers and band leaders in jazz history, and helped bridge the gap between the dixieland and swing era.
Fletcher Henderson was born in Cuthbert, Georgia in 1897. He grew up in a middleclass AfricanAmerican family. His father, Fletcher H. Henderson Sr. , was the principal of the nearby Howard Normal Randolph School from 1880 until 1942. His home, now known as the Fletcher Henderson House, is a historic site. His mother was a teacher, and taught he and his brother Horace Henderson how to play the piano. He first began the lessons by the age of six. His father was his biggest supporter but very tough on him. He would occasionally lock Fletcher in his room to practice for hours. Around the age ofHenderson found himself with a keen ability to read music and sense pitch. He pursued the studies with his mother and further engaged himself in lessons on European art. Although being a very talented musician, Henderson decided to dedicate himself to math and science.
Source: Wikipedia