Broadcast on 20-Jan-2014

Bob Florence was born and raised in Los Angeles on May 20 1932 and passed away on May 15,2008 at age 75. He began his career as a concert pianist but was converted to Jazz at the Los Angeles City College. He began playing every variety of gig on piano, movie soundtracks, TV shows,backing singers of every variety but continued to compose and arrange. He wrote for Kenton, Basie, Ellington, Herman,Buddy Rich and also at times led his own bands which he called "The Limited Edition". He was able to pick the virtual cream of the crop of L.A. based players who were able to reach his very high demands. His writing always emphasised the soloist and he never over-wrote. His music preserved the freedom and swing of small group Jazz. This album called "Serendipity 18" is one of Florence's masterpieces. 18 great musicians playing his arrangements and his compositions. Viva Bob Florence!