Michael Sparke was born in Greater London, England, and continues to live there after retiring from teaching. He was first switched on to good music after hearing Woody Herman's First Herd in 1945, and with Stan Kenton soon afterwards via Capitol shellac 78s from America sent by a pen-pal. Collaboration with the Dutch discographer Pete Venudor resulted in the discographies Kenton on Capitol and The Studio Sessions. Sparke has written liner notes for Kenton CDs on several labels, but this is his first full historical narrative about his favourite subject.
"A delightful read, start to finish. The inclusion of so much
primary source material makes this the most authoritative account
of Kenton's story to date. He 'gets' the man and the music and
tells it like it was."--Terry Vosbein, Washington and Lee
University "I read this book with mounting excitement and finished
it confident that it is the best yet written on Kenton's
professional life. It is an irresistible volume that ought to be
devoured in one sitting."--Anthony Agostinelli, Kenton newsletter
publisher
"Stan Kenton: This Is an Orchestra! by Michael Sparke is an
exciting addition to jazz literature. . . . This is, I believe, the
single best source of information for anyone who wants to get to
the crux of Stan Kenton and his music."--Jersey Jazz
"Michael Sparke has written a detailed, fascinating chronicle of
the Stan Kenton Orchestra that enjoyed a performing and recording
career covering four decades ('40s-70s). . . . Sparke's devotion to
his subject is evident in his attention to detail and in presenting
Kenton both as a person and as a professional."--All About Jazz-New
York
"Michael Sparke's book, the first general history of the Kenton
Orchestra, is the best evaluation yet of Kenton's 40-year musical
development."--The Wall Street Journal
"Packed with fascinating anecdotes and exhaustive research this
book will be welcomed not only by Stan Kenton devotees but by all
aficionados of the big band era."--Jazz Journal
"This detailed and fascinating look at Kenton's long career is the
best book on this musician and impresario since Carol Easton's
Straight Ahead: The Story of Stan Kenton (1973). Recommended for
all readers with an interest in Americana, jazz, or music
generally."--Library Journal
A delightful read, start to finish. The inclusion of so much
primary source material makes this the most authoritative account
of Kenton s story to date. He gets the man and the music and tells
it like it was. Terry Vosbein, Washington and Lee University
I read this book with mounting excitement and finished it confident
that it is the best yet written on Kenton s professional life. It
is an irresistible volume that ought to be devoured in one sitting.
Anthony Agostinelli, "Kenton" newsletter publisher"
 |
Ask a Question About this Product More... |
|
