Bellson, Louie [Luigi Paulino Alfredo Francesco Antonio Balassoni]. (1924 - 2009)
Drum Case
A black drum carrying case, stamped by and once used by the influential jazz drummer, composer, arranger and bandleader who performed regularly with many of the greats, including Duke Ellington, Benny Goodman, Louis Armstrong, Count Basie, Tommy and Jimmy Dorsey, Ella Fitzgerald and many others. Duke Ellington said of him: "Not only is Louie Bellson the world's greatest drummer . . . he's the world's greatest musician!" Other artists concurred. Oscar Peterson described Bellson as 'the epitome of musical talent. . . . I consider him one of the musical giants of our age.'" (Don Heckman, Obituary, February 17, 2009, Los Angeles Times)The case is stamped "Louie Bellson / Set 2" and has numerous labels affixed, including two addressed in Bellson's hand from himself to fellow drummer Ray Porello, whose name was later stamped on the case top. Louie Bellson was a close mentor and inspiration to Porello and it was on his recommendation that he performed with the Count Basie Orchestra and later was hired by Sammy Davis Jr., becoming his personal drummer. Interestingly, the present case was originally obtained from the estate of drummer Danny Barcelona (1929 - 2007), best known for his years with Louis Armstrong's All-Stars. It is not known when the case was transferred from Porello to Barcelona.
Approximately 11.25 x 16 x 16 in ( 28.6 x 40.6 x 40.6 cm)
with a 53 in Diameter ( 134.6 cm) (12203)
Signed Photograph Jazz