Harry Betts (September 15, 1922 – July 13, 2012) 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! (Verve, 1959) by Ella Fitzgerald.

Music

He wrote and orchestrated soundtracks for several films, including A Swingin' Summer (1965), The Big Mouth (1967), A Time for Dying (1969), The Fantastic Plastic Machine (1969), Goodnight, My Love (1972), Black Mama White Mama (1972), Little Cigars (1973) and Nice Dreams (1981). 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 was known for his 1962 album, The Jazz Soul of Doctor Kildare. He did numerous arrangements for singer Jack Jones.

Discography

As sideman

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