Charlie Parker

29 August 1920 – 12 March 1955

Charlie Parker was an American jazz saxophonist and composer who was a leading figure in the development of bebop. Known as 'Bird', he revolutionized jazz improvisation with his virtuosic technique and harmonic innovation.

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Lived at the same time

Well-documented people whose lives overlapped with Charlie Parker.

Life events

Born in Kansas City, Kansas
29 August 1920

Charlie Parker was born in Kansas City, Kansas.

Source: en.wikipedia.org
Birth ✓
Began playing saxophone as a teenager
1933

Parker took up the saxophone and immersed himself in the Kansas City jazz scene.

Source: en.wikipedia.org
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Moved to New York City
1939

Parker relocated to New York, where he became central to the emerging bebop movement.

Source: en.wikipedia.org
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Joined Jay McShann's orchestra
1940

Parker toured and recorded with the Jay McShann band, gaining early recognition.

Source: en.wikipedia.org
Career ✓
Pioneered bebop with Dizzy Gillespie
1945

Parker and Dizzy Gillespie developed and recorded the bebop style in collaborative sessions.

Source: en.wikipedia.org
Achievement ✓
Recorded landmark sessions for Savoy and Dial
1945 – 1948

Parker led seminal recording sessions producing classics such as 'Ko-Ko' and 'Ornithology'.

Source: en.wikipedia.org
Achievement ✓
Charlie Parker with Strings released
1950

Parker recorded an acclaimed album pairing his saxophone with a string ensemble.

Source: en.wikipedia.org
Achievement ✓
Died in New York City
12 March 1955

Parker died at age 34 in New York, his health long affected by addiction.

Source: en.wikipedia.org
Death ✓