Pete Fountain, born Pierre Dewey LaFontaine Jr., was an American jazz clarinetist whose career spanned several decades. Known for his sweet fluid tone and mastery of the clarinet, Fountain became a beloved figure in the world of jazz. His journey from a sickly child to a celebrated musician is a testament to his talent and determination. This article delves into Fountain's life, his musical style, and the legacy he left behind.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Pete Fountain was born
on July 3, 1930, in New Orleans, Louisiana, a city known for its rich musical heritage. His father, a truck driver and part-time musician, changed the family name from LaFontaine to Fountain. As a child, Pete suffered from respiratory infections, which led a doctor to recommend playing a wind instrument to strengthen his lungs. Fountain chose the clarinet, and despite initial struggles, he persevered and eventually mastered the instrument.
Fountain's early musical education included private lessons and playing along with phonograph records of Benny Goodman and Irving Fazola. By his teenage years, he was performing regularly in nightclubs on Bourbon Street, marking the beginning of his professional career. His talent was evident, and he quickly became a fixture in the New Orleans jazz scene.
Career Highlights and Musical Style
Fountain's career took off when he joined the Lawrence Welk orchestra in Los Angeles, where he gained national recognition through his solos on The Lawrence Welk Show. Despite a brief stint with Welk, Fountain returned to New Orleans to lead his own bands and open his club in the French Quarter. His musical style was characterized by a sweet, fluid tone, and he recorded over 100 albums, some in the Dixieland style and others as instrumental pop records.
Fountain's clarinet sound was distinctive, partly due to his use of crystal mouthpieces, which he preferred over the more common rubber ones. His ability to blend harmony and time made him a respected figure in jazz, even though he often chose to stick with familiar repertoire and sidemen.
Legacy and Personal Life
Pete Fountain's impact on jazz is undeniable. He was a founder of the Half-Fast Walking Club, a well-known Mardi Gras parade unit in New Orleans. His friendly rivalry with trumpeter Al Hirt and collaborations with other musicians further cemented his place in jazz history. Fountain's personal life was marked by a long marriage to Beverly Lang and a close-knit family.
Fountain passed away on August 6, 2016, at the age of 86, leaving behind a legacy of music and memories. His contributions to jazz continue to be celebrated, and his influence on the genre remains significant. Pete Fountain's life story is one of resilience, talent, and a deep love for music that touched the hearts of many.
