The Clef Club of New York City, Inc. was a fraternal and professional organization for the advancement of African-American musicians and entertainers; all of the composers on this recording were members or closely affiliated with the Club. The "Clef Club" was founded toward the end of 1909 in New York by James Reese Europe and his associates. Their mission to highlight the value, dignity, and professionalism of African-American performers was a great success and did much to change racial attitudes at all levels of white society. It quickly became a "whoÕs who" of early twentieth-century black music and show business. With its reputation for reliability, gentility, and quality performances, the Clef Club soon gained the favor of the loftiest of New YorkÕs white society; it became the very height of fashion to announce that one had secured a genuine "Clef Club Orchestra" for an upcoming social event. The composers featured on this revelatory recording represent the cream of Black BohemiaÕs musical lifeÑthe movers and shakers who paved the way for the music of the better remembered "Harlem Renaissance" of the 1920s. And while their names are obscure today, all once enjoyed national reputations in white America as well, feeding its burgeoning interest in black music, theater, and dance. Taken altogether, the talent, persistence, cooperation, and courage of these pioneers is an amazing American story that deserves to be better known. The recording features nineteen works by ten composers and is accompanied by a 40-page booklet. In addition to those by Europe and Cook, highlights include works by Will Vodery, an acknowledged influence on Ellington, and the first instrumental rag ever published, Sambo: A Characteristic Two Step March (1896), by Will Tyers.
Label: New World Records
Olivia Newton-John's 'Totally Hot' Celebrates 45th Anniversary With a Return to Vinyl and CD
by Michael Major
- September 22, 2023
MCA/UMe is set to release both vinyl and CD editions of Dame Olivia Newton-John’s smash-hit, tenth studio album, 1978’s Totally Hot, a record that further reinforced her status as a surefire international superstar. In celebration of Newton-John’s first-ever platinum-certified album’s 45th anniversary, Totally Hot returns to vinyl.
Kevin Davis' ONE IN A MILLION MUSICAL To Be Published By Next Stage Press
by Chloe Rabinowitz
- September 20, 2023
Discover the journey of Kevin Davis' One in a Million Musical as it finds a publisher in Next Stage Press. With its lively and faith-full storyline, this musical has gained acclaim through workshops, showcases, and even a film documentary. Get the inside scoop and learn how this exciting new musical is making waves in the industry.
Guillermo Marigliano Releases New Book TANGO GUITAR METHOD
by Blair Ingenthron
- September 17, 2023
Guillermo Marigliano, the renowned Argentine musician, educator, and composer, has announced the release of his latest masterpiece, the Tango Guitar Method. Published independently and available now, this book is set to revolutionize the way individuals learn to play the enchanting rhythms of Argentinian Tango music.
New Translation of SOPHOCLES - THREE PLAYS Released
by Blair Ingenthron
- September 17, 2023
Discover 'Sophocles - Three Plays', a collection of two tragic and one comedic play by Sophocles, translated and directed by Gary Beck. Immerse yourself in the world of classic theater with Antigone, Electra, and the hilarious 'Searching Satyrs'.
Gail Merrifield Papp Will Discuss Her New Book with George C. Wolfe at Joe's Pub
by Nicole Rosky
- September 12, 2023
More than half a century after the Public Theater opened its doors with Hair, Gail Merrifield Papp will speak for the first time about her vivid and fascinating behind-the scenes memoir, Public/Private: My Life with Joe Papp at The Public Theater. The event will be held on Monday, September 18 at 6pm at Joe’s Pub – the Public Theater venue named for Joseph Papp.
Listen: A COLLECTIVE CY: JEFF HARNAR SINGS CY COLEMAN Out Now
by Chloe Rabinowitz
- September 08, 2023
Discover the latest album release from JEFF HARNAR, 'CY COLEMAN.' Immerse yourself in the timeless melodies and unforgettable performances of this must-listen project. Get your copy today and experience the magic of CY COLEMAN's music brought to life by JEFF HARNAR and his extraordinary musical guests.
JSP Records to Issue Judy Garland's 1952 NY Palace Closing Night
by Blair Ingenthron
- September 03, 2023
JSP Records will release Judy Garland: The Two-A-Day Is Back In Town, Closing Night at the Palace, February 24, 1952, Garland's legendary closing night at the Palace in New York after her historic sold-out 19-week run, on October 6, 2023.
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