Miles Davis Biography
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Biography:
Born in Alton, Illinois on May 25, 1926, Miles Dewey Davis III grew up in East St. Louis, Illinois. His father was a successful dentist who was able to provide Miles with a privileged life. His family had a big house in the city and 200 acres of land in the country where Miles loved to ride horses when he was a boy. After receiving a trumpet from his father for his 13th birthday, Miles began trumpet lessons and practiced his instrument every chance he got.
In high school Miles claimed he was the best trumpet player in his music class but was overlooked during competitions because he was Black. Prejudiced attitudes motivated Miles to outdo his classmates and do extremely well as a musician. After high school Miles went to study at the Jilliard School of Music in New York City.
After Attending the Jilliard for a semester, Miles dropped out to join Charlie Parker's quintet. In 1948 Miles decided to leave Charlie Parker's quintet and find his own style...