Fletcher Henderson

Henderson, Fletcher (1898–1952), jazz musician who first introduced the “big band” sound. His band, which used written arrangements as well as improvised material, helped pave the way for the more formalized dance orchestras of the 1930s. Although never achieving the popular success critics felt he deserved, he played a part in bringing to public attention such famous musicians as Louis Armstrong, Benny Goodman, and Coleman Hawkins.