Frank Foster is one of the most skilled and versatile jazz veterans working today. He was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, on September 23, 1928 and was leading and writing charts for a twelve piece band while still in high school. Frank honed his saxophone playing with Snooky Young and Milt Jackson and became a part of the "New Testament" Count Basie Orchestra immediately after military service. The original work penned for the Basie band was a huge part of their success as was his sharing of the tenor sax solos with section mate Frank Wess. Frank launched a new side of his career in 1964, performing and recording with a long list of top jazz artists, including Elvin Jones and Clark Terry. He led the big band "The Loud Minority" continued to compose new music and took over leadership of the Basie band from 1986 to 1995. Frank continues a busy life as a composer, player and teacher. He and his wife Cecelia manage Swing That Music and continue to enjoy their union of over 30 years.
The Fillius Jazz Archive has made a reasonable effort to secure permission from the interviewees to make these materials available to the public. Use of these materials by other parties is subject to the fair use doctrine in United States copyright law (Title 17, Chapter 1, para. 107) which allows use for commentary, criticism, news reporting, research, teaching or scholarship without requiring permission from the rights holder.
Access Rights
Video is available on loan in DVD format from the Hamilton College Library, via Interlibrary Loan. Please contact your local library's Interlibrary Loan department to have them request specific items via WorldCat Resource Sharing or ALA Form. Interested scholars and jazz enthusiasts are welcome to visit the Hamilton campus and the archive room for consultation with the director. URL: http://www.hamilton.edu/jazzarchive/