Simplify the following text for a Grade 10 native English-speaking person.
Original: As he did with Duke Ellington , Willie `` the Lion '' Smith helped Basie out during the lean times arranging gigs at house-rent parties , introducing him to other top musicians , and teaching him some piano technique .
Simplified: Willie `` the Lion '' Smith helped Basie out when there was not much work , arranging gigs at house-rent parties , where he met other important musicians .