[Dixielandjazz] Glenn Miller Demise and End of the Big Bands.

[EDWIN COLTRIN]

I was in Europe at the time the "STARS AND STIPES" headline announced the loss of Glenn Miller. contrary to lots of speculation and rumor, I still believe the story of loss over the English Channel. Fog was ever present over that region of Europe, concealing the German build up prior to the 16th Dec. The only associated rumor was that there were many Christmas packages and mail on board.. Speculation if your CARE package was lost. 
   
  As to the demise of the Big Bands, I contend the the outtgrowth of be-boppers and musicians that were determined to demonstrate their chops, fingering and the ability to reach new heights led to a drawing away from the bands, which were an anchor for many returning veterans to try and regain some sense of our lost  youth. We all left with dance steps to the music of the Big Bands and many were lost in the sweet and soft sounds of Dorsey, Miller and Sinatra. Sure some returned to further schooling, but where could you go and dance as entertainment on a weekend ???
   
  I was fortunate, Lu opened the Dawn Club, and there were a few "black" clubs that had the ever present early R&B, which once or twice admitted a few whites. Dave Brubeck was in atendance to Mills College and played in a bar close to Lake Merrit in Oakland. 
  In Dave's case sitting and listening was the norm, there was no pulsating beat to tap your toes to, no swinging melody to encourage dancing. No sweet sounds to hold wife or girlfriend closely and think pleasantries.
   
  Without the clubs providing danceable music and the audience for the ''NEW FORM OF JAZZ" increasing, those that sat and listened and sipped a cover drink made it difficult for owners to present big name Bands and the returning of those that were in the service in the bands, trying to adapt to the  Parker's and Gillespie' s style, I don't think i could work.  
   
  I don't know of the economics in the rest of the U.S. but I had a job, was going to school full time, wasn't planning marriage and had plenty of time to enjoy MKOM and there many young ladies reaady to enjoy an evening out. 
   
  Can't dust my shoulders on the dance floor anymore. but can still make the feet work.
   
  Slainte  m'hath
   
  Ye Olde Mouldy Fygge
   
  Ed Coltrin