Bud Henderson

The late Bud Henderson was born in Vancouver in 1916 and grew up with a desire to be a jazz pianist. He attained his life’s goal, becoming one of the finest exponents of the piano. He played for many musicals during his school and university days, gaining an unparalleled reputation as an ultra-talented musician. His talents were recognized by the executives at C.B.C. Radio who offered him a chance to host his own musical show that subsequently starred the musical celebrities of the day including Lena Horne, Juliet and Lorraine MacAllister and Bobby Hughes.

He also worked with such band leaders as Dave Robbins, Harry Price and George Kalangis. But his longest gig as a featured pianist was with Dal Richards who, with his orchestra and Bud, entertained at the Panorama Roof in the Hotel Vancouver for more than 20 years. Crowds swarmed around Bud’s piano with the first down beat of his famous Bumble Boogie…