Miles Davis

This passage is about the famous jazz trumpeter, Miles Davis.

Lexile Level: 860L

Categories: People & Places Art & Music

Miles Davis was one of the most influential jazz musicians of the 20th century. He was a trumpeter, composer, and band leader. He influenced most types of jazz music and was partially responsible for the creation of modal jazz. Modal jazz uses musical modes instead of chords. His musical style is known for its melody. He came from a long line of famous trumpeters that included Louis Armstrong and Dizzy Gillespie. Davis was given his first trumpet at the age of nine. But he didn't begin taking lessons until he was thirteen. His mother actually wanted him to learn the violin instead. In 1955, Miles formed the Miles Davis Quartet, which included another famous jazz musician, John Coltrane.