Roger Segure
Roger Segure (May 22, 1905 – January 28, 2000) was an influential American jazz arranger and songwriter, born in Brooklyn, New York. Primarily self-taught, Segure began his career in the 1930s managing and accompanying singer Midge Williams on piano during her tours across the United States and East Asia. He collaborated with Langston Hughes to write several songs for Williams. During the late 1930s, Segure arranged music for prominent jazz figures such as Louis Armstrong, Andy Kirk, and John Kirby.
From 1940 to 1942, Segure served as the principal arranger for Jimmie Lunceford, contributing to the score of the film "Blues in the Night," in which Lunceford's band appeared. In the 1940s, Segure relocated to Los Angeles, where he worked as a musical director for television and engaged in music education. He played a significant role in integrating the Los Angeles chapters of the American Federation of Musicians. Additionally, Segure became a high school teacher and was active in the United Teachers-Los Angeles union for over 30 years. His contributions to jazz and music education left a lasting impact on the industry.