Hal Otis

American big band leader, jazz fiddler, violinist and accordionist. Born February 19, 1922 Chicago, California Died October 18, 1973 (51) Park Ridge, Illinois. As a youngster, Hal intended to become a classical violinist. But hearing the Benny Goodman band switched him to Jazz and popular music. He ran away from home in Hammond, Indiana, hoping to get to New York to join music by way of Major Bowes' radio program. Before reaching New York, he got side-tracked at Grand Rapids, where he became a tavern troubadour, playing violin and accordion. He reached New York a few years later, where Gertrude Niesen and Dave Garroway signed him up to play violin for their various theatrical and TV ventures. In 1946, Hal received the Down Beat Award for best jazz violinist. He next joined Stan Kenton's Orchestra as the featured violinist. Next he stepped out with his own band, centered at the Hotel Sheraton-Blackstone in Chicago. In 1959, Hal joined Henrici's Restaurant and played at the O'Hare Inn until 1962, when he started at the Arc Steak House in Glenview, where he played until his death.