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Hey everyone, my name is Shayla Blydell and today I am going to be talking about Dick Johnson. Johnson is one of the most respected clarinet players of his time and has worked with many musicians including: Frank Sinatra, Charlie Parker, and Tony Bennett. Born in Brockton, Massachusetts Johnson started playing the clarinet at age 16. After serving in WWII he began touring with various big bands before forming his own jazz groups. While following his musical passions he also taught other young musicians in Boston, at Berklee College. He is best known for his time in the Artie Shaw Orchestra and for his fluent style. Although Johnson died in 2010, at age 84 he will forever be remembered for his prominent role on the jazz scene over the past 60 years. His colleague Artie Shaw was once quoted as saying “...You wanted to know what I think of Dick Johnson’s clarinet playing? As of this time, he’s the best that I’ve ever heard. Bar nobody. And you can quote me on that, anywhere, anytime!” Well that’s all for today folks, until next time, thanks for listening!