Stanley Newcomb Kenton, born on December 15, 1911, in Wichita, Kansas, was a prominent American jazz bandleader, pianist, composer, and arranger. He passed away on August 25, 1979, in Los Angeles, California. Kenton was a key figure in the development of progressive jazz, a genre he helped define, and was known for his innovative approach to big-band music. His career spanned from the 1930s to 1978, during which he led a series of influential jazz orchestras.

Kenton's early life saw him moving with his family to Colorado and later to Bell, California. He attended Bell High School, where he began playing the piano and developed an interest in jazz, influenced by musicians like Louis Armstrong and Earl Hines. By the age of 16, he was performing regularly and had formed his own group, "The Bell-Tones."

In the 1930s, Kenton played with various bands, including the Francis Gilbert Territory band and the Everett Hoagland Orchestra. He gained significant experience and exposure while working with Gus Arnheim's band, where he made his first recordings. After leaving Arnheim, Kenton continued to refine his skills in composition and performance.

Kenton's own band, formed in 1940, became known for its unique sound, characterized by high, loud trumpet sections and complex arrangements. His music often incorporated elements of classical music and Latin-American rhythms, and he was known for using unconventional instruments like the mellophonium. Notable musicians such as Lee Konitz, Art Pepper, and Conte Candoli were featured in his bands.

A pioneer in jazz education, Kenton established the Stan Kenton Jazz Camp in 1959 and frequently conducted clinics at universities. He also founded Creative World, a combination record company and promotional network, in 1970. Among his most famous compositions are "Artistry in Rhythm," "Intermission Riff," and "Peanut Vendor."

Throughout his career, Kenton received numerous accolades, including Grammy Awards in 1961 and 1962. His contributions to jazz and his innovative spirit left a lasting impact on the genre, making him a significant figure in the history of American music.