The Jazz Organ Scene

USA

Chester E. Smith Chester is living in the Bay area. In 1977, his "Jazz Machine" opened for the Larry Coryell show in Philadelphia to a full house. Soon after, he went on a United States tour as product artist/concert artist for the Conn Organ Company stationed near Chicago. It was during this period that he became intrigued with the instrument's inner workings and started programming his own sounds and developing organs. He is a technical consultant in the music products industry as well as to well-known jazz organist Jimmy Smith, no relation. Chet Smith is currently writing his book on the history and evolution of the electronic organ in America, entitled "Digital Progress."   His talents include both arranging and composing and his performances feature many of his own compositions though he is strongly influence by the music of Duke Ellington, Erroll Garner and Jimmy Smith. In 1997, San Jose State University premiered the "Wildlife" movement of his innovative "Preservation Suite", a symphonic work dedicated to nature. Of it, Louie Bellson, legendary drummer with the Duke Ellington Orchestra says, "Chet’s Preservation Suite for full orchestra is a wonderful and exciting work. It should be played by all the major symphonies of the world."   The Black Entertainment Network (BET) hosted the Chet Smith Orchestra in 2000 on its BET On Jazz and Jazz Discovery programs. It was well received and highlighted his unique heel-toe walking bass technique. His bass solos are always a popular segment of his performance and have earned him the name "Mr. Feet ‘n’ Fingers".

contact:	chester7654321@aol.com
homepage:	www.feetnfingers.com
	Click on the logo to see Chester's tour dates.

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