Joe Wilder

A versatile trumpeter sporting a beautiful tone quality, Joe Wilder's playing was full of character and the invaluable ability to tell a story with his horn -- a trait he said was fueled by one of his "original inspirations," Benny Carter.

Born in Colwyn, PA (February 22, 1922), Wilder was raised in Philadelphia, where his father led a band, making his debut on a local radio show spotlighting talented Black children. His first professional job was with Les Hite in 1941, where he met Dizzy Gillespie in the trumpet section. He joined Lionel Hampton the following year and became co bandmaster for a Marine band during World War II. Rejoining Hampton after the war, Wilder moved on to the Jimmie Lunceford, Lucky Millander, Sam Donahue, and Herbie Fields bands while also playing in the pit orchestras for Broadway musicals (including three years with Guys and Dolls). He played with Count...

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Joe Wilder Albums

1 record

Albums featuring Joe Wilder

39 records