Wilson, Teddy

Wilson, Teddy

 orig. Theodore Shaw Wilson

(born Nov. 24, 1912, Austin, Texas, U.S.—died July 31, 1986, New Britain, Conn.) U.S. pianist and bandleader. He began recording as the leader of small groups in 1935. These recordings, often featuring vocalist Billie Holiday, are classics of small-group swing. Wilson joined Benny Goodman's trio in 1936. After 1940 he worked primarily as a leader of small ensembles or as a solo pianist, showcasing his tasteful and refined style. He was one of the most influential pianists of his time.

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Wilson, (Theodore Shaw) Teddy (1912–86) jazz musician; born in Austin, Texas. He was a brilliant pianist who became the first black musician to work with a prominent white band when he joined Benny Goodman in 1936. He led numerous all-star recordings in the 1930s, fronted a big band and combo in the 1940s, worked on the staff of CBS in the 1950s, and free-lanced as a soloist and conservatory teacher thereafter.