Friday, November 5, 2010

Remembering Benny Goodman

Benny Goodman is his idol, and he even looks a little like Goodman! Check out the wire rimmed glasses, the double-breasted suits and two-toned shoes. He began playing the clarinet at age 10 when he was given a clarinet by his grandparents, and he taught himself to play Goodman songs by ear, listening to a tape given to him by his grandfather. His first feature appearance was in his 5th grade band concert when he played Bei Mir Bist Du Schoen. At age 12, Dave was invited to the bandstand of the famous Sweet Basil Jazz Club in New York to sit in with the trumpet great, Doc Cheatham. As an early teen, due to Pete Fountain hearing an early tape of Dave, Pete Fountain called the young teen and told him that he was "right on track". By age 14, Dave started traveling frequently around America as a member of Saginaw, Michigan's, popular New Reformation Dixieland Band. At age 17, Dave was selected as one of two high school students (from a field of 600) to perform as a special guest with the Count Basie Orchestra.

Now an established entertainer, Dave Bennett performances include Caribbean cruises, Dixie style bands, Rock & Roll bands, symphony orchestras, guest soloist spots and more.

"Dave Bennett wowed the audience and brought the house down. I can't wait to bring him back!" - Detroit Symphony Orchestra

Audio & Video

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