Bennett Lester Carter (1907–2003) was a major figure in American jazz, celebrated as a saxophonist, clarinetist, trumpeter, composer, arranger, and bandleader. A pioneering force on the alto saxophone alongside Johnny Hodges, he helped define the swing era with his arrangements for Fletcher Henderson's orchestra in the 1920s. Carter's remarkable career spanned over seven decades, earning him eight Grammy nominations and a Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his lasting influence on jazz.