Henderson, Fletcher 1897-1952
US pianist, arranger and bandleader

Born in Cuthbert, Georgia, he graduated in chemistry from the all-black Atlanta University, but on moving to New York in 1920 to continue his studies, he became diverted into a musical career, starting as house pianist for publishing and recording companies. In 1924 he put together a big band for what was supposed to be a temporary engagement, but stayed at the head of an orchestra until the mid-1930s, attracting the finest instrumentalists and arrangers of the time. His own orchestrations, and those of Don Redman, set the standard for the swing era. However he lacked business acumen, lost the initiative and remained in relative obscurity. His performing career was cut short by a stroke in 1950.