Russell Moore

"Big Chief" Russell Moore (August 13, 1912 – December 15, 1983) was an American jazz trombonist. Moore, a Pima tribe member, grew up on a Native American reservation before moving to Chicago and then Los Angeles where he learned to play various instruments, eventually settling on trombone. Throughout his career, Moore worked with an array of artists including Frank Sinatra, Lionel Hampton, Alberta Hunter and Pee Wee Russell as well as recording under his own name. He is best remembered for his work as a member of Louis Armstrong's band.

Life and career

Early life Moore was born in Gila Crossing, Arizona inside the Gila River Indian Community reservation in 1912 and belonged to the Akimel O'otham tribe. He was one of five children born to mother Amy Bending Moore and father José Newton Moore. Musical performances were important to community life on the reservation particularly due to the inaccessibility of record players and radios. Moore's exposure to music from local school bands as well as traditional Pima music sparked an interest in music from a young age.

Moore released two albums under his own name in the 1970s: Russell “Big Chief” Moore’s Pow Wow Jazz Band and Russell Moore Volume II. Both of these albums had extremely limited pressings.

Moore died in Nyack, New York after a lengthy illness associated with diabetes in December 1983. His funeral was held at a Presbyterian church in Nyack and featured a six-piece jazz band. Moore was buried at Oak Hill Cemetery.

Personal life Moore met Ida Powlas, a member of the Oneida Nation and schoolteacher, in the 1950s. The couple married in 1956 and adopted two children.

Moore was proud of his Native American identity and his "Big Chief" nickname. He often participated in events for the Native American community and encouraged Native American youth to embrace their heritage.

Discography

Russell "Big Chief" Moore's Powwow Jazz Band (Jazz Art, 1973) Russell "Big Chief" Moore, Vol. 2 (Jazz Art, 1975)