Woody Herman's "Four Brothers" is a renowned jazz composition featuring a saxophone section. Here are some interesting facts about it:
Composed by Jimmy Giuffre: "Four Brothers" was composed by Jimmy Giuffre, an American jazz clarinetist, saxophonist, and composer. The piece was written for the Woody Herman Orchestra and first recorded in 1947.
Saxophone Quartet: The distinctive feature of "Four Brothers" is the saxophone quartet arrangement. It typically includes four saxophones playing in harmony, creating a unique and memorable sound. The original recording featured three tenor saxophones and one baritone saxophone.
Inspiration for the Title: The title "Four Brothers" refers to the four saxophonists who played on the original recording. The saxophonists were Stan Getz, Zoot Sims, Herbie Steward, and Serge Chaloff. Each had a distinct style, contributing to the rich texture of the composition.
Influence on Jazz: "Four Brothers" has become a classic in the jazz repertoire and is often associated with the cool jazz movement. The saxophone quartet arrangement has inspired many musicians, and the piece remains a popular choice for jazz ensembles and big bands.
Woody Herman's Orchestra: Woody Herman, known as the "Thundering Herd," led a series of successful big bands over the years. His orchestra played a significant role in the development of jazz, and "Four Brothers" is one of the standout pieces associated with his ensemble.
These facts highlight the significance of "Four Brothers" in the jazz world and its lasting impact on the genre.