Strings of Memories

by Jim LaDiana

Overview

During the 1930s and ‘40s, the Big Band Era and national radio broadcasts found the guitar slowly emerging from its status as a rhythm instrument to a viable, natural melodic voice. A minute number of guitarists would later capture the infectious sound of the guitar in the recording studios, releasing lasting audio impressions of the instrument, on a grand scale, onto the masses via records, early television and motion pictures.

Strings of Memories contains a definitive collection of stories and interviews of many unheralded guitarists whose playing has filled the ears and touched the hearts of millions and continues to inspire and influence guitar players and music lovers everywhere. Along the way, several important guitarists segued from the recording studios to expound, develop and create the standards of jazz guitar.

At the helm of the West Coast recording scene, studio giant Bob Bain earned his place as the number one guitarist for many Hollywood studios. The heart of the book contains a biographical account of Bain’s personal musical contributions, experience and recollections over his prestigious career of more than 60 years. Bain spent years on live radio; worked with big name artists such as Tommy Dorsey, Harry James, Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole and Peggy Lee; and held the guitar chair for one of the greatest television orchestras of all time—The Tonight Show Band.

All told, Strings of Memories provides the reader not only valuable insight into the actual mechanics of the recording process, but also the names, places, events and musical milestones that played a significant role in the evolution of American popular music. This book is a must-read for guitar aficionados, as well as anyone interested in the history of recorded music.

Product Details

BN ID:	2940148988168
Publisher:	ISLAND BORN PRESS
Publication date:	11/26/2013
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
File size:	7 MB

About the Author

Jim LaDiana is a musician, writer and educator residing in Southern California. His articles and reviews have appeared in guitar publications such as Vintage Guitar and Just Jazz Guitar magazines, and on the Internet. Although he tends to gravitate toward jazz players, Jim strives to spend time with others who cause his inner chord to resonate. He teaches children with intellectual and developmental disabilities, combining unyielding compassion and enthusiasm with an animated, hands-on approach. He has also created a unique music program, Music Experience Workshop, which emphasizes rhythm and group participation as a way to foster self-expression and help develop listening and social skills.