Dizzy Gillespie was an American trumpeter, composer and bandleader who became one of the founding figures of bebop and modern jazz. In the 1940s, notably alongside Charlie Parker, he developed a virtuosic style built on complex harmonies, fast tempos and great improvisational freedom, while gradually introducing Afro-Cuban influences into jazz. With pieces such as A Night in Tunisia, Groovin’ High and Manteca, Dizzy Gillespie profoundly shaped the development of jazz and modern trumpet playing.