Celebrating the Legacy of a Musical Genius

Quincy Jones, the musical maestro whose influence reverberates through the halls of Garfield High School and the vibrant city of Seattle, has left an indelible mark on all of us. His extraordinary journey began at Garfield High in 1947, where he played in a swing band with his friend Charlie Taylor. This was no ordinary group; they performed alongside legends like Billie Holiday and Billy Eckstine, under the gifted direction of Robert “Bumps” Blackwell. These early experiences ignited the spark that propelled Quincy to stardom.

By 1959, Quincy was already on his way to becoming a household name. Tasked with assembling a jazz band for a European tour with Sammy Davis Jr., he included his talented Seattle crew members, such as the brilliant trumpeter Floyd Standifer and the exceptional pianist Patti Bown. These opportunities, facilitated by Quincy, were crucial in launching their illustrious careers.

Quincy’s legacy

Quincy’s dedication to nurturing talent and creating opportunities extended far beyond music. His legacy at Garfield High School exemplifies the power of passion and mentorship. In 1983, the city celebrated his 50th birthday with a benefit gala for Garfield and Seattle Central College, featuring concerts at the Paramount Theatre and the old Mercer Arena. He was joined by longtime friends and collaborators Charles, Blackwell, Anderson, Catlett, Standifer, and the Garfield High School Jazz Band.

Quincy was always a staunch supporter of Garfield’s jazz ensemble, conducting them at prestigious events like the 1991 Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland and the 2008 dedication of the Quincy Jones Performance Center at Garfield, which now serves as the band’s official home. He returned in 2008 when the Seattle Repertory Jazz Orchestra (SRJO) honored him on his 75th birthday during the opening of the Northwest African American Museum, where he received a lifetime achievement award.

Clarence Acox, who directed the Garfield High School Jazz Band until 2019, cofounded the Seattle Repertory Jazz Orchestra, another institution Quincy supported with his legendary touch. In 2001, Quincy returned from Los Angeles to conduct the SRJO, performing his music at the old Seattle Center Opera House (now McCaw Hall), generously providing the band with copies of his arrangements.

The SRJO showcases the classic, swinging big band music that Quincy Jones crafted throughout his career, connecting his early days as a young trumpeter at Garfield with the current Garfield High School Jazz Band and the SRJO. Though Quincy left Seattle to pursue his dreams, he carried the lessons learned here with him and never hesitated to share his wisdom.

Your stories

As we celebrate Quincy’s phenomenal journey, we invite all Garfield alumni to share your memories and thoughts about his impact. Whether you witnessed his genius firsthand or were inspired by his incredible legacy, your stories are a cherished part of this tribute. Let’s come together to honor a man whose talent and generosity touched countless lives and continue to inspire the music world.

Please send your comments or memories to gggwebsite1964@gmail.com with the reference “Quincy Jones memories,” so Quincy’s spirit can continue to uplift future generations.