Celebrating over 30 years of live jazz...
Founded in 1983, the mission of Gainesville Friends of Jazz is to support, promote and increase public awareness, interest, participation and education in jazz, America's music.
2004 Gene Grissom
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In recognition of outstanding achievement and artistic contributions to jazz |
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Honored by Gainesville Friends of Jazz2004 Gene Grissom (1922-2009)Gene Grissom, along with Dr. Lemuel Moore, Director of Cultural Affairs for the City of Gainesville in 1982, was instrumental in starting Jazz at the Thomas Center, the precursor to the Gainesville Friends of Jazz Concert Series. The following year, he served as a founding Director of Gainesville Friends of Jazz, Inc. and along with nine other jazz musicians and enthusiasts formed our jazz society. From 1985 to 1987, Gene served as President of the organization. He also produced many of the concerts during those early years. In addition, Gene was a founding member and past Director of the American Federation of Jazz Societies.Gene was also an accomplished musician that spent many years playing trombone in swing bands, dance bands and other jazz ensembles. He was the benefactor for the Grissom Trombone Literature Library at the University of Florida School of Music. He was a major supporter of the Rosolino Student Scholarship of the International Trombone Association. Gene and, his wife, Nancy Grissom, endowed the Rosolino/Grissom Trombone Award at the University of Florida School of Music. |
