Pierre Michelot

Pierre Michelot (3 March 1928 – 3 July 2005) was a renowned French jazz double bassist and composer. He was a prominent figure in the post-war Paris jazz scene and collaborated with many famous musicians, including Miles Davis, Lester Young, and Stan Getz.

Early Life

Michelot was born in Saint-Denis, a suburb of Paris. He began studying the piano at a young age, but switched to the double bass in his teens. He was largely self-taught, learning by listening to records and playing along with them.

Career

Michelot started his professional career in the late 1940s, playing in various Parisian jazz clubs. He quickly gained recognition for his virtuosic technique and melodic sensibility. In the 1950s, he became a member of the Quintette du Hot Club de France, a group led by Django Reinhardt and Stéphane Grappelli.

In the 1960s, Michelot began to focus more on composition. His works are noted for their lyrical melodies and sophisticated harmonies. He also composed music for several films, including Ascenseur pour l'échafaud, a classic of the French New Wave.

Legacy

Michelot's contributions to jazz have been widely recognized. He received numerous awards during his lifetime, including the Grand Prix du Disque for Jazz in 1977. His influence can be heard in the work of many contemporary jazz bassists.

See Also

• List of jazz bassists
• Music of France