Harry Betts


Harry Betts was an American jazz trombonist.

Background

Born in New York and raised in Fresno, California, he was active as a jazz trombonist and played with Stan Kenton's orchestra in the 1950s. He can be heard on the album Get Happy! by Ella Fitzgerald.

Music

He has written and orchestrated soundtracks for several films, including A Swingin' Summer, The Big Mouth, A Time for Dying, The Fantastic Plastic Machine, Goodnight, My Love, Black Mama White Mama, Little Cigars and Nice Dreams. Music from his score to Black Mama White Mama was used in the 2003 soundtrack for Kill Bill, Volume 1.
Aside from his work in scoring, he is known for his 1962 album, The Jazz Soul of Doctor Kildare. He did numerous arrangements for singer Jack Jones.

Discography

With Elmer Bernstein
With Bobby Darin
With Fred Katz
With Stan Kenton
With Barney Kessel
With Shorty Rogers
With Pete Rugolo