Arthur Pryor - Fantastic Polka - Hana Beloglavec and Liz Ames

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Fantastic Polka – Arthur Pryor (1870-1942)

American turn of the century trombone-virtuoso and bandmaster Arthur Pryor joined the John Philip Sousa Band in 1892, and he is estimated to have performed over 10,000 solos with the band during his 12-year tenure. Pryor was a prolific composer who wrote works for band, trombone solos, duets, quartets, and sextets. His virtuosic works and performances earned himself the title of the “Paganini of the trombone.” Fantastic Polka follows the format of many of his pieces, including a short introduction, lyrical melodic section, and variations to follow. Fantastic Polka stands out from his other works due to its unique use of the pedal register juxtaposed with the upper register throughout. I am deeply indebted to my former teacher and producer of this album, Steve Wolfinbarger, for introducing me to the music of Arthur Pryor and for carefully teaching me the style of this music!

Filmed by Overneath Creative
Recorded by Paul Schaedig and Western Sound Studios
Produced by Steve Wolfinbarger
Bayou Home, Summit Records
Funding provided by State of Louisiana Board of Regents ATLAS grant