Hailing from the Tremé neighborhood in New Orleans, Troy "Trombone Shorty" Andrews got his nickname by wielding a trombone twice as long as he was high. A prodigy, he was leading his own band by age six, and today this Grammy-nominated artist headlines the legendary New Orleans Jazz Fest.

Also known as 'Satchmo,' Louis Armstrong was one of the most influential jazz musicians of all time. As a trumpet player and singer, Armstrong brought his musical talent to fans around the world. During his lifetime he broke down racial barriers and showed that people of all colors can work together to achieve great things. Celebrate Black History Month all year long! Our highly acclaimed Journey to Freedom series provides comprehensive information...

A short look at the life of the famous musician.

"Music has been in my blood from the day I was born," said Louis Armstrong. Author Wendie C. Old weaves a rich, colorful tapestry of the life of this beloved and brilliant musician known to his fans as Satchmo. Louis Armstrong rose from poverty and a troubled childhood to set the music world on fire with his lively trumpet playing and trademark raspy singing voice. With a natural talent for showmanship, Armstrong won fame while touring around the...

Growing up, John was a seeker. He wondered about spirit, and the meaning of life. And whether music could be a key to unlocking those mysteries. Like his grandfather's preaching and his parents' songs, could John's music bring people closer to God? Told in moving prose and powerfully illustrated, this is the story of a shy, curious boy from a deeply religious family who grew up to find solace and inspiration in his own unique approach to both spirituality...

An acclaimed biographer for children, Jonah Winter brings historical figures to life for young listeners. Here he turns his talents to jazz legend John Birks "Dizzy" Gillespie. Born into poverty and the victim of vicious parental abuses, Dizzy received a trumpet one day and it changed his life forever. Dizzy follows Gillespie's journey from rural South Carolina to New York City-straight into the burgeoning jazz scene he soon immersed himself in.

Presents information about Ella Fitzgerald, from her youth mired in tragedy to her rise to stardom as one of the top jazz singers of all time.

A biography of the noted jazz trumpeter who got his start with Charlie Parker's quintet and gained fame performing at the first Newport Jazz Festival in 1955.

The story of the young Art Tatum, who became one of the all-time greats of jazz piano.

Examines the life and career of the talented jazz composer, bandleader, and pianist, from his childhood in Washington, D.C., through his battle against racism, to his influence on the world of jazz.