Edition: Hardcover, January 2002

Description: 263 Pages This chronologically arranged collection of more than 50 biographical sketches ranges from the pioneers to contemporary players and includes such notables as Louis Armstrong, Sarah Vaughan, and Wynton Marsalis. An introduction to each era discusses the evolution of the styles that various individuals represent. Each profile focuses mainly on the subject's musical training, influences, and contributions rather than on personal background or family, and includes black-and-white photographs, a sidebar of pertinent facts, a discography, further reading, and Web sites. An excellent one-source overview of the important jazz contributors.