Houghton “Hoot” Peterson grew up in a small town called Virginia, Minnesota and played the trombone in his high school band. That led him to become a member of the highly regarded United States Air Force jazz band called Airmen of Note after enlistment. During a short tour at Nellis Air Force base, Peterson decided that the Las Vegas, Nevada entertainment scene might have career opportunities for him.
He moved to Las Vegas in 1962 during an era of celebrity performers and tourists who enjoyed the crowds and nightlife. Peterson’s career spanned 20 years. Eventually, the Las Vegas scene for live musicians began to change and Peterson transitioned to working as a carpenter and at a music store.