The legend of 'Big Chief' Russell Moore

Affectionately known as 'Big Chief', Russell Moore was from the Gila River Indian Community (GRIC) located just south of Phoenix, Arizona. He was born on August 13, 1912 in the area known as Gila Crossing on the Westend of the GRIC. His parents were J. Newton & Elizabeth Moore of GRIC. Russell was 11 years old when his father passed away and he was sent to live with his uncle, William Moore, in Chicago, Illinois. William Moore and his wife, Mary, taught Russell to play several instruments and encouraged him to study Bach, Beethoven, jazz, classical and other types of music. He found a love for music, specifically jazz and decided to focus his efforts on the trombone.

Russell was asked to perform at the Kennedy Center for the Arts in New York City. In March of 1982, he was honored on "First Americans in the Arts" which was broadcast on national television. Russell walked out to middle stage, looked around, then yelled, "Hey Sammy, bring me a chair!" Sammy Davis walked onto stage with a chair and said "I almost said 'yes massah'." He gave the chair to Russell, then said, "I've been working with this guy for a long time." Russell then played a solo of his own song "Wounded Knee Chant" and received the only standing ovation of the evening, which included President Reagan.

Russell married Ida Powlas Moore in January of 1957 in New York. They had two children Randall and Amy Moore.

For additional information about Russell Moore click HERE.

Russell Moore Music Fest

Jean M. Nahomni Mani • Phone: 520.796.3333 • Email: rmmf@gilanet.net

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