American pianist and bandleader Count Basie became one of the most important figures in swing and big band jazz. With the Count Basie Orchestra, he set the standard for decades with tight rhythms, smooth piano touches and captivating arrangements. Known for pieces like "One O’Clock Jump" and "April in Paris", Count Basie grew into a true jazz icon. A fun fact is that Count Basie learned to play piano by sneaking into theaters and secretly watching pianists from underneath the stage.
