Benson Orchestra Of Chicago - Wabash Blues, 1921

The Benson Orchestra Of Chicago dir. by Roy Bargy - Wabash Blues (Dave Ringle /Fred Meinken), Victor 1921 (USA; accoustic recording) NOTE: Benson Orchestra of Chicago was founded in 1920 by cellist and impresario Edgar A. Benson. With pianist and arranger Roy Bargy leading the orchestra, it was one of the top Midwest early jazz dance bands of the '20s. Using section arranging and solo instruments to play against a whole section in harmony, the band was very progressive for its era. Based at Chicago's Marigold Gardens, a notorious gangster hangout, the orchestra was considered one of the best bands in the city. Their recording of "Wabash Blues" sold in over 750.000 copies! After a falling out with Benson in late 1921 Bargy left the group to form his own orchestra, taking many Benson members with him. Pianist Don Bestor was hired to replace him. Bestor's orchestra featured much of the same fine musicianship, including saxophonist Frankie Trumbauer. Bestor left the group in 1925 to form an orchestra of his own. The group continued playing under various leaders for several more years, under name ''A Benson Orchestra".