Jazz musician; born in Beardstown, Ill. He was a xylophonist and vibes player who worked as a sideman with Victor Young's Radio Orchestra in Chicago in 1927 and Paul Whiteman's Orchestra between 1928--32. After two years of free-lance recording work in New York, he led his own orchestra, featuring his wife, vocalist Mildred Bailey, until 1944. He alternated thereafter between leading his own small groups and appearing as a featured sideman with Benny Goodman and various All Star swing ensembles. Norvo played until his mid-80s, when a stroke ended his career.