Ernest Richardson Tickets

and Jazz Music

Ernest Richardson was an American conductor, arranger, and pianist, best known for his contributions to both classical and jazz music. He was born in North Carolina in 1943 and began playing the piano at a young age. His love of music led him to study at the Juilliard School in New York City and the American Conservatory of Music in Chicago.

Richardson’s early career as a classical musician saw him conduct for many prestigious orchestras including the New York Philharmonic, the Boston Symphony Orchestra, and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. He was awarded the ExxonMobil Symphony Marathon Conducting Prize in 1995 and was appointed as the resident conductor for the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra in 2002.

However, Richardson also had a deep appreciation for jazz and its unique musical language. In the 1970s, he began arranging pieces for jazz ensembles and collaborating with jazz musicians such as Stan Kenton and Doc Severinsen. His diverse skills were showcased when he conducted the Boston Pops Orchestra, which has a strong reputation for blending genres and crossing boundaries. Richardson worked with the orchestra on multiple projects, including performances with jazz legends like Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, and Mel Tormé.

Richardson’s ability to create a seamless blend of classical and jazz music was remarkable. He often used jazz techniques, such as syncopated rhythms and improvisation, in his arrangements of classical pieces, giving them a fresh and modern sound while maintaining their integrity. When conducting jazz ensembles, he brought his classical training to the table, creating sophisticated orchestrations that enhanced the richness and complexity of the music.

One of Richardson’s most notable contributions to jazz music was his work with jazz saxophonist Stan Getz. He arranged several pieces for Getz’s album Apasionado, which earned critical acclaim upon its release in 1990. Richardson’s tasteful and thoughtful arrangements complemented Getz’s signature sound and helped showcase the full range of his talents.

In addition to his work as a conductor and arranger, Richardson was also an accomplished pianist. He often performed as a solo artist or with jazz ensembles, showcasing his technical prowess and fluid improvisation abilities.

Ernest Richardson’s contributions to both classical and jazz music were significant and celebrated. His ability to merge the two genres seamlessly was a testament to his musical talent and creativity. His legacy will be remembered as someone who pushed boundaries, broke down barriers, and left an indelible mark on the world of music.