Reviving the Golden Era: Bringing 40s Big Band Music Back
Introduction
The 1940s were a period marked by a unique blend of musical styles that influenced generations. Today, we often wonder how we can bring back the charm and excitement of this era's big band music. This article explores the potential methods and challenges involved in reviving this period music.
Understanding the Roots of 40s Big Band Music
The music of the 1940s was a reflection of the diverse cultural influences of that time, ranging from jazz to swing. These influences are unlikely to reappear in the same way. Fortunately, there are performers today who continue to captivate audiences, such as the Glenn Miller Orchestra and Michael Bublé's band.
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite the enduring appeal of 40s big band music, there are several challenges to its revival. One major issue is the homogenization of radio stations, particularly on the AM band, due to deregulation by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). This has led to a lack of regional variety. To address this, it is essential to make the public aware of the desire for this music by showing a significant interest through record sales and downloads.
A few more decades ago, swing music witnessed a brief resurgence with punk rockers in the 1980s. Could a similar revival happen today? The potential is certainly there. Imagine how delightful it would be to attend a grand ballroom dance in a fancy dress and dance to those wonderful tunes once again.
From Music to Dance: The Best Way to Experience it
One thing that my father, who is 97 and whose father played with Paul Whiteman and the Dorsey Brothers, often emphasized is that the music didn't leave. He even continues to play, shifting from tenor sax to clarinet as he grows older. As the music of the 1940s is dance music, the best way to bring it back is to dance and encourage others to participate.
Joining a swing dancing club is an excellent way to experience this music more personally. Such clubs offer the perfect atmosphere to dance and continue the tradition of big band music. Furthermore, the Internet and high-definition (HD) radios now provide an opportunity to hear these tunes in stereo, even from the AM band.
Economic and Financial Considerations
Another significant challenge in reviving 40s big band music is making it financially viable. The cost of hiring a full band can be prohibitive, especially at union scale. However, there are innovative ways to make this more economical, such as leveraging technology to host virtual performances and recordings.
Conclusion
The revival of 40s big band music is not just a matter of nostalgia; it is a rich cultural heritage that deserves to be celebrated. By making the public more aware, supporting radio stations, and encouraging active participation through dance and community involvement, we can bring this golden era back to life.