Buddy DeFranco Quartet

Legendary Jazz Clarinetist and Ensemble

Buddy DeFranco was an American jazz clarinetist who led the Buddy DeFranco Quartet. Born in 1923, DeFranco grew to become one of the few clarinetists to embrace the bebop style of jazz. Throughout his career, he played with many renowned musicians and bands, including the Tommy Dorsey band and Count Basie's septet. DeFranco won numerous awards, including multiple DownBeat Magazine polls and was named a NEA Jazz Master in 2006. His virtuosity on the clarinet was widely recognized, and he was known for his ability to bridge the worlds of swing and bebop. The Buddy DeFranco Quartet was an important outlet for his talents, allowing him to explore various musical avenues and collaborate with other talented jazz musicians.