Jiggs Whigham is an internationally acclaimed trombonist, bandleader, and educator whose deft skills and warm sound have left a significant imprint on the jazz world. Born on August 20, 1943, in Cleveland, Ohio, Whigham began his professional career at the early age of 17, becoming the first trombonist with the Glenn Miller Orchestra under Ray McKinley. His versatile approach to the trombone has allowed him to traverse genres and lead innovative projects, making him a respected figure in both performance and academic circles.
Whigham's discography is a testament to his breadth as a musician, with albums spanning traditional jazz, big band tributes, and cross-genre collaborations. "Jiggs' Back in Town" and "I'm in the Mood for Love" highlight his skillful solo work and command of the jazz idiom. His profound respect for jazz history is evident in projects like "A Tribute to the Clarke - Boland Big Band," where he celebrates the legacy of one of Europe's leading big bands. With "Cuban Fire" and "Brazilian Portrait," Whigham showcases his versatility, delving into Latin jazz and bossa nova. Albums like "Values," "Hope," and "Love Walked In" reflect his continuous pursuit of new musical expressions, while "Rias Big Band Berlin Presents Helmut Brandt" and the collaborative work "Whigham, Jiggs / Bertoncini, Gene: Jiggs and Gene" demonstrate his ability to lead and inspire large ensembles and intimate duos alike. Through his recordings and international performances, Jiggs Whigham has become a venerated name in the world of jazz trombone, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations to explore.
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