Shearing, George

Shearing, George (Albert)

(1919– ) jazz musician; born in London, England. Blind from birth, he played piano with Harry Parry's Radio Rhythm Band and Frank Weir's Orchestra in London during World War II. He moved to New York in 1947 and led a trio and quartet before forming the quintet in 1949 that brought him international fame. He maintained a widespread touring schedule thereafter while making numerous guest appearances with symphony orchestras.