Gus Bivona
1915–1996 (age 81)
Clarinetist and saxophonist
Biography
Clarinetist and saxophonist Gus Bivona brought soulful sophistication and improvisational flair to swing and big band ensembles, delighting audiences with his warm tone across decades of performances. His mastery of reed instruments made him a sought-after collaborator among some of the era’s finest orchestras.
Bivona’s musicianship extended beyond solo work, as he supported fellow artists with stylish arrangements and a generous spirit that strengthened the music community. He rests at Westwood Village Memorial Park Cemetery, his legacy resonating in every note of the jazz and swing traditions he helped sustain.