We Aren't Really an Academy

Because the word "Academy" is part of our organization's name, we occasionally receive unsolicited mail from entities who believe us to be an actual school. I've gotten letters inquiring about our admission policies and tuition rates, often from aspiring musicians in other countries. These letters are so heartfelt and sincere that a reply is mandatory, even though it isn't the reply each would-be student eagerly awaits.

Mail also arrives from real schools, again under the impression that the BBAA has classrooms, performance space and a flagpole out front. These schools usually want to partner with us in some way. The most recent such invitation comes from the European School of Music and Art, based in Rancho Palos Verdes, Calif.:



We're not beating the drum for this particular institution, of course, but simply presenting its letter as an example of the things that go on behind the scenes of the Big Band Academy.

I first thought about writing on this subject a few months ago when a manila envelope arrived in the mail. Inside, a catalog of animal organs available for purchase by school science departments. In glorious color. I didn't eat for days.

But I decided to wait for something a little more palatable instead of posting a few photographs from the catalog. Despite America's obesity epidemic, I couldn't do that to you.

*************

Highly recommended is the music of jazz songwriter and singer Marilyn Harris. Her latest CD, "Round Trip," features the backing of a big band populated by a number of friends of the BBAA. Saxophonists Pete Christlieb and Dan Higgins, reedman Don Shelton, and trombonists Andy Martin and Bill Watrous are among those lending their considerable talents to this marvelous disc:

   
Visit www.marilynharris.com for more information about Marilyn and to learn how to order her recordings.
 

*************

Reader Chuck Helms asks:

"I am interested in hearing what you know about Bruce Snyder, who played saxophone with Tommy Dorsey and the Airmen of Note. I knew Bruce in the '70s, but he died in 1980 and I wish to learn more about his background. His wife gave me his tenor sax, which I am playing now. Do you have any history on him, especially during his Dorsey years? I am aware that he was personal friends with Frank Sinatra and that he performed with Sammy Nestico and Tommy Newsom in the Airmen of Note."

Well, Sammy Nestico himself checks out this blog from time to time, so maybe he'll write in. And we'll be pleased to print reminiscences of Bruce from anyone else. Thanks, Chuck!

The Bandstand: February 2007

We begin the new year with further information pertaining to our final blog entry of the old year. Jazz authority Stephen Fratallone says: 

"I have a correction to make in regards to the Christmas holiday quiz.

One question asked who was the only female member of the Pied Pipers. The answer given was Jo Stafford and, indeed, Jo was the first and best-known female member of the group.

However, another girl singer joined the Pipers after Jo Stafford went solo. This was June Hutton, who originally sang with Charlie Spivak's orchestra. June was with the Pied Pipers when they recorded their hit, 'My Happiness,' in 1948."

Thanks for the correction, Stephen. But I'll see your correction and raise you an elucidation.

June Hutton was herself not the last female member of the Pied Pipers. Following in her footsteps were Sue Allen and later Virginia Marcy. And to top it off, the Pipers continue to this day, with Nancy Knorr out front on vocals. Who knew? Check out the group at www.thepiedpipers.com.

*************