1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Society dances on, October 31, 2010
This review is from: Music for Moonlight Dancing (Audio CD)
Society Dances were part of a bygone era where chosen young ladies were presented to society with big extravagant formal balls. Whether it was GrossePointe or Washington DC, or New York City large orchestras were in demand for these affairs held in June or December. Among the most popular orchestras was the Lester Lanin Orchestra. His sound was unique. Selections from The Great American Song Book (30s and 40s) and Broadway shows and melodic pieces from 50s and 60s all played with a very distinct beat most often played to a strong Foxtrot Beat. The most interesting part of his playing was that the music played non stop through the whole event. One piece followed right into another. He did this using arrangements that highlighted different sections of the orchestra. For example after a number of pieces in succession with the full orchestra the Brass section would take a break as the beat changed to a waltz and the strings would take over and the brass section would go on break. When several sections went on break the group may be down to a small group of three or four, but the music never Stopped. This recording is faithful to Lester Lanin's style though there are breaks. This style of music is long gone along with "coming out" balls, but this distinct style is an interesting piece of music history as well as being pleasant rendition of many wonderful old melodies.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you? Yes
No
