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Charlie Parker

One of jazz's most legendary figures, saxophonist Charlie Parker - or Bird as he was affectionately known - was an iconic figure of the Beat Generation who helped change the course of jazz with the creation of a new "bebop" style. The son of an alcoholic pianist and singer, Parker first started playing sax at the age of 11 and by the time he was 14, he was playing in a school band. Inspired by Kansas based groups led by Count Basie and Bennie Moten, Parker practiced constantly, going on to join Jay McShann's band playing night clubs, where his exceptional talent was first noted. ...