A superb trombonist. The best you'll ever hear. Jack Teagarden transformed an instrument that had prior been relegated by many as a supportive sideline played in the heavy "glissandi" style, and elevated trombone playing to a beautiful, lyrical and soulful instrument that it is. And what a tone he got! Coupled with Big T's sleepy Texas drawl and baritone-tenor voice to match Big Jack created a tone and style that was unmistakeable as well as unforgettable.Considered by many jazz lovers (including this fan) to be the greatest jazz trombonist to have graced the world of jazz. His style was so personal, so unique, that he had few followers, and founded no school.There is much I could say here about Big T and the legacy he left behind for the jazz listener to hear and enjoy. Suffice to say, Big Jack was at the top of his game and the peak of his career when he played with Louis Armstrong and his All Stars from July 1947 until August 1951. Just listening to Jack's version of "Stardust" and "Body & Soul" from the "Louis Armstrong: The California Concerts" CD confirms my belief Big T was the finest there ever was, and there's never been another since.It is a fitting tribute that Barney Bigard, Louis Armstrong's clarinetist, and fellow All-Stars band member said of Jack: "He played it just like he talked: with a drawl. Just beautiful. Jack was one of the greatest trombone players that I ever heard."I couldn't agree more.~appNov 1/06