User:Sbrauner1/sandbox

Buzz Brauner (March 1, 1930 – January 31, 2001) was an accomplished American woodwind player and Jazz Tenor Saxophonist known for his versatile skills on various instruments and extensive contributions to the world of music. Born in Brooklyn, New York, Brauner's musical journey took him through an illustrious career, leaving an indelible mark on Broadway, recordings, and live performances.

Biography

Early Life and Musical Education

Buzz Brauner was born on March 1, 1930, in Brooklyn, New York. His passion for music manifested early in life, and he quickly became proficient in a wide range of instruments. Brauner's dedication to his craft led him to study under notable mentors:

  • Lou Arfine: Saxophone
  • Harold Bennett: Flute (Principal flutist of the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra)
  • Don Ashworth: Oboe and English horn (Tonight Show with Johnny Carson)

Career Highlights

In 1945, at the age of 15, Buzz Brauner joined Local 802 of AFM by falsifying his age. His first professional engagement was with the Art Mooney orchestra, and he played on the original recording of "I’m Looking Over A Four Leaf Clover." Throughout his career, he collaborated with renowned orchestras, including those led by Ted Lewis, Richard Maltby, and Buddy Morrow.

Brauner joined Jimmy Dorsey's band as a jazz tenor saxophonist around 1952, and his musical journey continued with military service from 1954 to 1956 in the 19th Army Band at Fort Dix. Notably, he appeared on the Dorsey Brothers 'Stage Show' on the same evening Elvis Presley made his television debut.

Returning to civilian life, Brauner resumed his association with Jimmy Dorsey, staying with the band until the passing of both Tommy and Jimmy Dorsey. He later worked at the Roxy Theater in New York and gained prominence as a woodwind doubler in Broadway and the jingle scene.

Broadway Career

Buzz Brauner's Broadway career spanned numerous productions, showcasing his mastery of woodwind instruments. Some of the notable shows he appeared in include:

  • Bravo Giovanni
  • Hello Dolly
  • 1776
  • How Now Dow Jones
  • Seesaw
  • Applause
  • Lorelei
  • Mack And Mable
  • The Night that Made America Famous
  • A Chorus Line
  • Fiddler On the Roof
  • Grease
  • The Beast in Me
  • The Fig Leaves Are Falling

Recordings and Legacy

Buzz Brauner's contributions extend beyond live performances. He recorded with esteemed artists such as Nat King Cole, Barbra Streisand, and Harry Chapin. His work on commercial jingles, including the iconic flute solo in the Jeopardy theme, showcased his versatility and musicianship.

In 1983, Brauner retired from active performance due to Parkinson's disease. Despite health challenges, he remained involved in the music field and pursued his hobby of photography until his passing on January 31, 2001, in Westwood, New Jersey.

Buzz Brauner's legacy endures through his extensive body of work and the impact he made on the world of music.

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