Swing into History: Popular Music of the Big Band Era

With the exception of the most ardent collectors and the older generations, the influence and legacy of the big bands is largely forgotten despite their overwhelming popularity and significant role in early radio.  Join Larson as he revisits the sounds that America listened and danced to for more than three decades.  Learn how iconic artists like Bing Crosby and Ella Fitzgerald first got their start, along with fellow vocalists, composers, and musicians.  And, enjoy the real thing, as Larson plays from his personal collection of recordings and shares sheet music, posters, and postcards from the era.

Larson, a graduate of San Diego State University, spent the majority of his career with the Boys Clubs of America (now Boys & Girls Clubs), managing and starting clubs around the country and serving on the national staff, responsible for volunteer training and board, program and resource development.  Upon retirement, Larson joined the volunteer staff at Riordan Mansion State Historic Park in Flagstaff, Arizona, and has been assisting with their efforts for sixteen years.  He has always had an interest in popular American music, both passionately studying and collecting it.  His primary focus is music of the Swing era.