Eric Dolphy

About

Jazz flautist who came to prominence during the 1960s and who is considered the first important bass clarinet soloist in jazz. He also played instruments like clarinets and piccolos.

Before Fame

He learned the oboe in school and later performed locally as a member of bebop big bands led by Gerald Wilson and Roy Porter.

Trivia

In 1962 he put a young pianist named Herbie Hancock onto one of his working bands.

Family Life

Before his death he was engaged to be married to Joyce Mordecai, a classically trained dancer.

Associated With

He was a frequent collaborator and friend of John Coltrane.