Biography
Alfred Viola, 16 June 1919, New York City, New York, USA, d. 21 February 2007, Los Angeles, California, USA. Taught to play guitar by his mandolinist brother, who needed an accompanist, he and a violinist friend formed a duo to play restaurants and bars. During World War II, Viola played in an army band while stationed in California alongside Gil Evans and Jimmy Rowles, teaming up to good effect with pianist Page Cavanaugh and bass player Lloyd Pratt to form the Page Cavanaugh Trio. Out of the army, the trio became popular in Los Angeles, made records, alone and with Mel Tormé, and appeared in films, including A Song Is Born and Romance On The High Seas (both 1948). In the latter, they played ‘Put ’Em In A Box, Tie ’Em With A Ribbon’. From 1949 Viola was a respected studio musician, capable of playing in many styles and with a wide range of artists. Among those with whom he played, often on record, were Laurindo...
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