Charlie Parker

American alto saxophonist, composer and bebop pioneer (b. August 29, 1920, Kansas City - d. March 12, 1955, New York City, aged 34). Widely considered to be one of the most influential of jazz saxophonists, jazz musicians, and indeed musicians in general. Also known as 'Bird' (a shortening of 'Yardbird', Parker acquired the nickname early in his career with many contradictory stories regarding the name's origin).