Doc Severinsen

Doc Severinsen, born Carl Hilding Severinsen on July 7, 1927, is a retired American jazz trumpeter known for his leadership of the NBC Orchestra on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. Born in Arlington, Oregon, Severinsen's nickname 'Doc' was inspired by his dentist father, who was the only dentist in town. Initially wanting to play trombone, Severinsen settled for the cornet due to his arms not being long enough. He quickly excelled at the instrument, winning a state trumpet contest at the age of 9. By the age of 13, he was already performing with a professional big band. Doc Severinsen's career in music spanned several decades, leaving a lasting impact on the jazz world.More