The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: wjk
Date: 2003-01-19 21:39
Is anyone familiar with the Max Kaminsky book, "My Life in Jazz?"
It has some incredible descriptions of playing with Artie Shaw in WWII. Apparently, the Artie Shaw band endured more hardships in the Pacific than the Glenn Miller band did in the European theater. Does anyone know more details?
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Author: Jean
Date: 2003-01-20 03:19
I read it earlier this year. I had to do an inter-library loan thorugh the college I am attending. As per details, do you mean about Kaminsky or Shaw?
You are correct about hardships. I believe Shaw was on a mine sweeper while in the Pacific. If you are looking for a book about Shaw one that I would recommend is by Vladimir Simosko. The book is both a biography and discography. I enjoyed Mr. Shaw in his home last year and one of the things we discussed was his time in the Navy. I can tell you it was not a pleasant experience by any means for Shaw. He spent time in therapy after the experience and was very candid with me about the military and the after effects of the war.
In the 5 cd set that was released in the past couple of years there is an excellent booklet
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Author: Jean
Date: 2003-01-20 03:32
Sorry about that. My keyboard wouldn't let me type anymore. As I was saying, the booklet has some interesting things about Shaw's Navy experience. If you are a Shaw fan I would recommend you save your pennies and get both the book and the cd set.
The Kaminsky book is out of print and quite hard to find. At least it was in my part of the world.
I would agree the Shaw band had a rougher go of it. England or the South Pacific? There was talk of the instruments literally rotting in the heat and humidity. Of course Miller died so we all know about his experience. Shaw (always the rebel) didn't get as much press did he?
Have you seen the PBS show about Miller's plan and how they think he was killed? Very interesting and plausible.
Feel free to email me if you have any more questions. I am always happy to share my Artie story.
Jean
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