He studied at the Institute of Musical Art (now Juilliard), and while in New York was also involved with the Harlem jazz scene, performing in 1924 with the Harlem Orchestra, and befriending the composer William Grant Still who played piano in the orchestra.
During his time in New York, a musician attended the Institute of Musical Art (now Juilliard) and was immersed in the thriving Harlem jazz scene. In 1924, he performed with the Harlem Orchestra and formed a bond with composer William Grant Still, who was also a member of the orchestra.