GEORG BRUNIS (GEORGE BRUNIES)

George Brunies, aka Georg Brunis, (February 6, 1902 – November 19, 1974) was a jazz trombonist who came to fame in the 1930s, and was part of the Dixieland revival. He was known as the "King of the Tailgate Trombone".  George Clarence Brunies was born in New Orleans, Louisiana on February 6, 1902 into a very musical family. His father led a family band, and his brothers Henry, Merritt, Richard, and Albert ("Abbie") all became noted professional musicians. By the age of 8 young George was already playing alto horn professionally in Papa Jack Laine's band. A few years later he switched to trombone. He played with many jazz, dance, and parade bands in New Orleans. He never learned to read music, but could quickly pick up tunes and invent a part for his instrument. He first went to Chicago in 1919 with a band led by Ragbaby Stevens, then worked read more...