Stan Kenton

Stanley Newcomb Kenton (December 15, 1911 - August 25, 1979), was an American jazz pianist, and bandleader known for his innovations in jazz music.

He was born in Wichita, Kansas December 15, 1911, but raised in Colorado

Stanley Newcomb Kenton (December 15, 1911 - August 25, 1979), was an American jazz pianist, and bandleader known for his innovations in jazz music.

He was born in Wichita, Kansas December 15, 1911, but raised in Colorado and then California. He learned piano as a child and toured with various bands in his teens. In June 1941 he formed his own band and reached the height of his popularity by 1953. He used anywhere from 19 to 23 musicians at a time in his bands.