Charlie Parker

Charlie Parker was one of the most important and influential saxophonists and jazz players of the 1940’s. He was the only child of Charles and Addie Parker. When Parker was still very young, his family moved to Kansas City, Missouri, where jazz, blues and gospel music were flourishing. His first contact with music came from school. At that time, he played baritone horn with the school’s band. Later at the age of 15, he showed a great interest in music and the alto saxophone. Soon, Parker was playing with local bands. In 1935, Charlie left school to pursue a career in music.

Parker worked in Kansas City with several local jazz and blues bands from 1935 to 1939. As a result of this experience, he developed his art. In 1939, Parker went to New York for the first time, and stayed there for approximately one year. He worked as a professional musician and participated in many jam sessions. The music atmosphere in New York greatly influenced Parker’s style.

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