American composer and trombonist William Russo (1928–2003) was a significant figure in jazz and classical music. Initially gaining prominence as an arranger and composer for Stan Kenton's orchestra in the 1950s, he later dedicated himself to bridging the gap between jazz and classical forms through his extensive catalog of orchestral, choral, and theatrical works. Russo also founded the Contemporary Music Project at Columbia College Chicago, influencing generations of musicians and educators.