Jazz saxophonist, composer, and arranger Herb Geller was born on November 2,
1928 in Los Angeles, California Inspired by his mother, who played piano during
theatrical showings of silent films, Herb was given an alto saxophone at the age
of 8. Two years later, he also learned the clarinet. He attended Dorsey High
School and joined the school band, which also included future jazz icon Eric
Dolphy. After seeing Benny Carter perform when he was 14, he decided to pursue a
career in music. Herb Geller’s first professional live engagement was as a
member of violinist Joe Venuti’s band....