Harry Carney

About

Baritone saxophonist who played in Duke Ellington's Orchestra for forty-five years, making him the longest-playing performer in the ensemble.

Before Fame

He played piano, clarinet, and then took up saxophone when he was fourteen.

Trivia

He used to drive Ellington to concerts so he could brainstorm on the way, immortalized in the movie But Beautiful.

Family Life

He was born in Boston but moved to New York City and then back to Massachusetts to play with Ellington.

Associated With

One of Carney's biggest musical influences was Coleman Hawkins.