Paul Desmond

About

Jazz musician and songwriter who played alto saxophone for the Dave Brubeck Quartet and penned the group's 1959 hit song "Take Five." He was a prominent member of the post-World War II "cool jazz" movement.

Before Fame

As a child, he played the violin and the clarinet. He learned to play the alto saxophone during his first year at San Francisco State College.

Trivia

He served a three-year term in the United States Army.

Family Life

His mother suffered from psychological problems, and he spent most of his childhood living with extended family in New York City.

Associated With

He and Art Blakey both made important contributions to jazz music.