Russell Garcia and his Orchestra

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This 1958 recording showcases the talents of the Russell García Orchestra, featuring notable musicians such as Don Fagerquist and Frank Rosolino on trombone, Bud Shank and Ted Nash on tenor sax, Art Pepper on alto sax, and Alvin Stoller on drums.

Russell Garcia, QSM (April 12, 1916 – November 20, 2011), was a prolific composer and arranger whose musical compositions spanned a wide range of genres for various mediums, including screen, stage, and broadcast.

Although born in Oakland, California, Russell Garcia spent much of his life residing in New Zealand. Despite being self-taught, he made his breakthrough in the music world when he filled in for an ailing colleague on a radio program. This opportunity eventually led him to become a composer and arranger at NBC Studios. His talents graced the soundtracks of television shows like “Rawhide” (1962) and “Laredo” (1965-67), as well as major studios like MGM and Universal. Notably, he worked on the scores for films such as “The Time Machine” (1960) and “Atlantis, the Lost Continent” (1961), both under the direction of George Pal. His orchestrations also left a lasting impact on movies like “Father Goose” (1964) and “The Benny Goodman Story” (1956).

Russell Garcia had the privilege of collaborating with a multitude of musical and Hollywood luminaries. His arrangements and orchestral conducting were sought after by the likes of Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong, Anita O’Day, Mel Torme, Julie London, Oscar Peterson, Stan Kenton, Maynard Ferguson, Walt Disney, Orson Welles, Jane Wyman, Ronald Reagan, Andy Williams, Judy Garland, Henry Mancini, and Charlie Chaplin. His versatile talent allowed him to seamlessly adapt to the needs of these celebrated figures.

Russell Garcia’s legacy lives on through his contributions to the world of music and film. He passed away on November 20, 2011, in New Zealand, leaving behind a rich and enduring musical heritage.

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