As a kid I had inadvertently heard some jazz.  Maynard Ferguson, Dave Brubeck - maybe even a little Miles Davis.  My first main and intentional exposure to the genre came via Chuck Mangione.  I will point out that I had heard him before his hit, "Feels So Good" (which is a great album). I saw him perform three times - met his dad at his merch booth twice!  I always enjoyed the music.  Bellavia - one of the most beautiful pieces ever!  Rest in peace, Chuck.