Alley Cat Strut Oscar Holden _top_ May 2026

Oscar William Holden (1886–1969) was a cornerstone of Seattle’s vibrant jazz scene. A virtuoso pianist and clarinetist, he moved to Seattle in 1919 and became a fixture of the Jackson Street jazz clubs.

: Holden was known for a "powerhouse" stride style similar to Fats Waller and possessed a deep classical background. alley cat strut oscar holden

: He raised a musical dynasty; his children, including singer Ron Holden and pianist Dave Holden, continued his legacy in the Pacific Northwest. Oscar William Holden (1886–1969) was a cornerstone of

: Beyond his music, Holden was a principled man who played in venues where other Black musicians were often excluded, breaking barriers through sheer talent. "Alley Cat Strut" in Fiction Celebrating Seattle Black Jazz History alley cat strut oscar holden