The world of jazz lost a titan today with the passing of Chicago-born saxophonist Johnny Griffin. A fireplug of a man, Mr. Griffin earned the nickname "The Little Giant" for his speed and control at bebop improvising. He a product of Captain Walter Dyett's legendary music program at DuSable High School, which also produced his contemporaries Von Freeman, Gene Ammons, Nat King Cole and Dinah Washington. With the rise of free jazz, Mr. Griffin moved to Holland in 1963, returning to Chicago periodically to play places like Green Mill and Jazz Showcase. more ›