The five of them are part of the Miles Davis Quintet, an American jazz band from 1955 to early 1969 led by Miles Davis. The quintet did undergo changes, like the change of members, throughout the years into a different ensemble in 1969. Most references pertain to two distinct and relatively stable bands: the First Great Quintet from 1955 to 1958; and the Second Great Quintet from late 1964 to early 1969, Davis being the only constant throughout.
These five did their roles in the First Great Quintet, wherein: • Miles Davis played the trumpet • John Coltrane played the tenor saxophone • Red Garland played the piano • Paul Chambers played the bass • Philly Joe Jones played the drums
The group was actually expanded to a Sextet in 1958 (FGQ) with: • Cannonball Adderley on alto saxophone
The trumpeter's band played a mixture of pop standards and bebop originals. The group became very influential with jazz music, among from their most popular songs are the "Smoke gets in your Eyes" and "Stella by Starlight."
