One of the many changes occurring in the world during the ‘40s was one of musical variety. The Big Band era brought us the sounds of Tommy Dorsey, Harry James, and countless others. John Stinson (BS ’51, Business Administration) recalls his time at the University and how the combination of Big Band and Bronco camaraderie created one of his most treasured memories.
In May of 1947 the Glenn Miller Orchestra visited WMU, and the 35 member group played to a capacity audience of 2,600 people. The band performed in the Kalamazoo Central High School auditorium, and Stinson said the crowd was extremely energized.
“The joint was jumpin’ and a great time was being had by all,” Stinson said.
The Glenn Miller Orchestra first started in 1935 when founding member Glenn Miller started recording under his own name for Columbia Records. By 1947, they had released ‘Glenn Miller Masterpieces, Vol. 2’ which topped album charts.
Led by Tex Beneke, the orchestra played some of their most popular tunes for an hour and a half; and even snuck in some new music from their most recent recording session. Such songs included “Moonlight Serenade,” “Chattanooga Choo-Choo,” and “Tuxedo Junction.”
Stinson said the audience became extremely lively when the orchestra played ‘(I’ve Got A Gal In) Kalamazoo.’
“The students went wild,” Stinson said. “You could not imagine the thrill of it all. I am sure the ceiling cracked, but what a night to behold.”
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Posted by Stan Sulewski