Order of Events

Welcome Roya Hu

Introduction Bill Pierce

Keynote Address Benny Golson
Hey Rim Jeon

Performance Benny Golson
Hey Rim Jeon
Ralph Peterson Jr.
Ron Mahdi

Benny Golson

 

Multitalented and internationally famous jazz legend Benny Golson (H ‘99) was born
in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on January 25, 1929. A tenor saxophonist known for
his expressive playing, his career spans a remarkable six decades—from his early
years with John Coltrane, Dizzy Gillespie, and Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers to his
continued success as a solo performer and composer, arranger, lyricist, and producer.

Golson has recorded more than 30 albums and written more than 300 compositions
that have been recorded countless times in the U.S. and abroad. Jazz aficionados
love his original compositions “Blues March,” “I Remember Clifford,” “Killer Joe,”
and “Stablemates,” while TV and film fans know his music from M*A*S*H, Mission
Impossible, and The Cosby Show theme. In addition, he has composed music for
The Partridge Family and The Academy Awards; numerous television specials for
ABC, CBS, and NBC; and national radio and television commercials for Chrysler,
Clorox, Gillette, Heinz Foods, MacDonald’s, Mattel Toys, Nissan, Pepsi, Texaco,

and others.

Golson has not only blazed a trail in the world of jazz but is passionate about
teaching jazz to young and old alike. He has many accolades to his name, including
a Lifetime Achievement Grammy Award, and he was named a Kennedy Center
Living Jazz Legend. This humble musical giant continues to impress critics, fans,
and fellow musicians with his prodigious contributions to the world of jazz.