Gary Burton

Biography

Gary Burton (born on January 23, 1943, Anderson, Indiana, USA) is an American jazz vibraphonist and composer.

Having been self-taught on the vibraphone, Burton developed a style of four-mallet chording as an alternative to the usual two-mallets. This approach caused Burton to be heralded as an innovator and his sound and technique were widely imitated.

Burton is notable as one of very few openly gay musicians in jazz history, and has stated that his coming out in his 40s had no adverse consequences for his career as he had feared.

Retired from performing at the age of 74 in 2017 after health issues caused him to lose his perfect pitch and ability to play at the virtuoso level that he demanded of himself.