Don Friedman

Pianist

Birthday May 4, 1935

Birth Sign Taurus

Birthplace California

DEATH DATE Jun 30, 2016 (81)

#245854 Most Popular

About

Jazz artist who developed a huge following in Japan, leading to extensive overseas tours.

Before Fame

He began his career on the West Coast in the late 1950s, playing with Dexter Gordon, Buddy Collette, Chet Baker, and others.

Trivia

He accepted a teaching position at New York University and also led the school's jazz ensemble.

Family Life

His parents were music lovers and encouraged his passion for the piano.

Associated With

He developed a love for Kenton soloists after hearing Stan Kenton, Billy May, and Les Brown's bands at the Hollywood Palladium as a teenager.