Teddy Wilson

Teddy Wilson (1912-1986) was an American jazz pianist known for his gentle, elegant, and virtuosic piano style. He was influenced by legendary jazz pianists Earl Hines and Art Tatum. Wilson's work can be heard on the records of prominent jazz musicians such as Louis Armstrong, Lena Horne, Benny Goodman, Billie Holiday, and Ella Fitzgerald. He played a significant role in breaking racial barriers in the music industry, being one of the first black musicians to perform alongside white musicians, particularly with Goodman. In addition to his sideman work, Wilson led his own groups and recording sessions from the late 1920s to the 1980s. Born in Austin, Texas, Wilson began his music education at an early age and later studied various instruments at Tuskegee Institute in Alabama. He eventually settled in Detroit and embarked on his professional career.