Calvin Jackson - pianist, composer, arranger, band leader, radio host (1919-1985)
Calvin Jackson was born on May 26, 1919, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He studied music at the Juilliard School for a year (1941), and then went to California as assistant music director at the Hollywood studios of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer. In addition to his film studio work, Jackson also arranged music for orchestra leader Harry James and recorded with Phil Moore's band.
He moved back to New York in 1947, where he was billed with Mildred Bailey at the Cafe Society. He continued to pursue a career as a recording artist in his roles as arranger, pianist and ensemble leader, touring widely in North and South America with a trio or quartet.
Jackson moved to Toronto, Canada, in 1950. His quartet appeared regularly at the Park Plaza Hotel, and he hosted a weekly program featuring jazz music on Canadian television. Jackson returned to the United States in 1957, and in 1961 he moved back to Southern California, where he settled permanently. He became a part of musical life in Los Angeles and San Diego, playing with small groups and presenting radio programs, including “Jazz with Jackson” on KOGO-FM and “Just Jazz” on KCBA.
Calvin Jackson died in Encinitas, California, in 1985.
