Orkestr Glenna Millera
Orkestr Glenna Millera
This big band gained particular popularity for its unique sound and catchy compositions that have become classics of orchestral jazz and swing hits. These include legendary themes such as Moonlight Serenade, In the Mood, Tuxedo Junction, Chattanooga Choo Choo, and I've Got a Gal in Kalamazoo. Miller and his colleagues in the collective are the authors of a number of innovations and characteristic techniques in the arrangement and performing practice of large jazz orchestras. Together with its leader, the Miller band starred (and took part in the recording of soundtracks) in the films "Serenade of the Sun Valley" (1941) and "Wives of Orchestras" (1942).
After Miller's death on a flight from London to Paris on December 15, 1944, the orchestra came under the control of singer and saxophonist Tex Beneke, Miller's closest friend. A few years later, Miller's heirs parted ways with Beneke and, after a short pause, hired a new leader in 1956 - Ray McKinley, a drummer from Miller's military music group.
Since then, the orchestra has continued to record and perform compositions under the direction of various conductors, including the famous clarinetists Buddy DeFranco and Pinats Jaco. The longest period is twice in the 80s. and then until the end of the first decade of the new century, the orchestra was led by trombonist Larry O'Brien. One of the most notable works of this time was the recording of an album of Miller-style Christmas tunes. In 2012, the team was taken over by the Kruner Nick Hielscher.