On February 18, 1924, eight men of the Wolverine Orchestra gathered together to record their music in Richmond, Indiana at Gennett Records. This Midwestern recording studio was founded by Starr Piano Company in 1917. It was active from 1917 to 1948. It recorded a wide breadth of music and audio and has “The Gennett Walk of Fame” to honor its most important artists.
The studio was 125 feet long and 30 feet wide. From the photograph, it is a cozy place to play music.
http://www.umvphotoarchive.org/digital/collection/scdpl/id/3876/rec/3169
Bandmates of the Wolverine Orchestra featured in the photograph above are: Bix Beiderbecke (Cornet), Jimmy Hartwell (Clarinet), Robert Gillette (Banjo), Victor Moore (Drums), Albert Gandee (Trombone), George Johnson (Saxophone), Wilford Leibrook (Tuba), and Richard Voynow (Piano). We were able to identify the players with the assistance of the book, Bix: The Leon Bix Beiderbecke Story by Philip R. and Linda K. Evans.
In the following months, advertisements like these appeared in the Richmond newspapers promoting the latest recordings cut in the studios. “Jazz Me Blues (Fox Trot)” played by the Wolverine Orchestra is highlighted.
Join us on Saturday, March 9th from 1:30-2:30 PM at the Davenport Public Library at Eastern in Meeting Room A and B to explore Bix Beiderbecke’s history with Gennett Records through a conversation with Dr. Charlie B. Dahan and Bob Jacobsen. Follow this link to learn more about this event celebrating Bix’s Birthday Weekend!
(posted by Kathryn)
