Klarinet Archive - Posting 000996.txt from 1998/02

From: Richard White <whitco@-----.com>
Subj: Re: Seeking Moondog
Date: Sat, 28 Feb 1998 07:24:10 -0500

ROBERT HOWE <arehow@-----.net> Wrote:

>Just heard a piece on National Pubic Radio about a composer, uses the
>stage name Moondog, apparently both quite eccentric--has lived on the
>street in Manhattan, keeps time with a bass drum to each beat, a friend
>of Stravinsky's--and quite remarkable, the stuff they played of his
>(mostly for Saxophones) was really interesting.
>
>Anyone have a name, a publisher, a contact of any sort on this man? I
>am, of course, also contacting NPR.
>
>Thanks,
>
>Robert Howe

What memories the name Moondog brings back! As a student at the Mannes
College of Music in New York City in the mid sixties I had the luxury of
enough time to wander around and discover the wonders and terrors of its
streets. One such wonder was Moondog, whose real name was Lewis (Louis?)
Hardin. Moondog held court, so to speak, on the corner of 53rd St. and 6th
Avenue. And what a sight to behold! You see, Moondog was blind and he
dressed as a Viking, spear and all. He was always glad when someone wanted
to stop and chat about just about anything. He also sold small,
self-published pamphlets of his music which were transcribed by hand by an
assistant whose name escapes me. I do remember his music had very colorful
titles and it was uniquely catchy in its rhythm, simple harmonies and
melodies. Many times I stopped by to chat, and of course, buy some of his
music. I still have it; I'll have to look it up.

Sadly, Moondog passed away a few years ago, so I'm not sure I can help you
with any contacts. His music, however, has been recorded. I don't think you
will have much trouble finding it.

Thanks for the memories.

Best,

Richard White - Composer - Who invites you to visit him at:
http://www.octet.com/~whitco
whitco@-----.com