Paul Gonsalves Quartet

Paul Gonsalves (1920-1974) was a U.S. jazz tenor saxophonist, best known for his work with Duke Ellington.

Born on 12th July 1920 in Brockton, Massachusetts to Cape Verdean parents, Gonsalves' first instrument was the guitar. He grew up in New Bedford, Massachusetts and played as a member of the Sabby Lewis Orchestra. His first professional engagement in Boston was with the same group on tenor saxophone, with whom he played before and after his military service during World War II. Before joining Duke Ellington's orchestra in 1950, he had also played with the big bands of Count Basie (1947-1949) and Dizzy Gillespie (1949-1950). Gonsalves also made a large number of recordings as leader of various small groups.

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