During the 1930 – 1950 era many beautiful songs were written and played extensively by big bands and smaller jazz groups. The big bands provided live music in ballrooms and dance halls. The smaller jazz groups also played this wonderful music in lounges and night clubs and were heard by millions of people throughout America, Europe and the Far East. Many of the most successful big bands were led by famous musicians such as Benny Goodman, Artie Shaw, Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Glenn Miller, Tommy and Jimmy Dorsey, and Woody Herman to mention a few. Many of these famous band leaders either played the clarinet or featured clarinet soloists.

Today, most of the big bands are gone and the clarinet has been displaced by the guitar as the most prominent lead instrument. However, many people remember those golden years and yearn to hear that wonderful music again.