DONALD McGRATH, 90, from cancer on April 17 in Riverside, Calif. A trombonist who during his life played with such California bands as Jazz-A-Ma-Tasa and Little Big Band and was known for his scat singing. He was an original member of the Society for the Preservation of Dixieland Jazz that meets monthly in Covina. He worked as a salesman and stockbroker.
JOE TEMPERLY, 86, on May 11 in New York City from complications related to gastrointestinal stromal tumors. A Scottish-born saxophonist, he broke in with Humphrey Lyttelton's band in London in the late 1950s. He moved to New York City in 1965 where he racked up an impressive list of credits, doubling on the baritone sax and bass clarinet. He toured with the Duke Ellington Orchestra (directed by Mercer Ellington) as a replacement for Harry Carney and was an original member of the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra.
GEORGE "Buster" COOPER, 87, on May 13 from prostate cancer in St. Petersburg, FL. Played in a territory band in Texas in the late 1940s and toured with Lionel Hampton in 1963. Was in the house band at the Apollo Theater in Harlem and spent time with Benny Goodman before forming the Cooper Brothers Band with his brother Steve. Trombonist with the Duke Ellington Orchestra (1962-69) before moving to Los Angeles where he booked festivals and jazz cruises and did soundtrack gigs. Returned to his home town in 1994 where he led
You've read three articles this month! That makes you one of a rare breed, the true jazz fan!
The Syncopated Times is a monthly publication covering traditional jazz, ragtime and swing. We have the best historic content anywhere, and are the only American publication covering artists and bands currently playing Hot Jazz, Vintage Swing, or Ragtime. Our writers are legends themselves, paid to bring you the best coverage possible. Advertising will never be enough to keep these stories coming, we need your SUBSCRIPTION. Get unlimited access for $30 a year or $50 for two.
Not ready to pay for jazz yet? Register a Free Account for two weeks of unlimited access without nags or pop ups.
Already Registered? Log In
If you shouldn't be seeing this because you already logged in try refreshing the page.