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'''Robert Harry "Bob" Curnow''' (born November 1, 1941) is an American musician who served as a [[trombonist]], [[Arrangement|staff arranger]] and [[Record producer|producer]] for the [[Stan Kenton Orchestra]] during the 1960s and 1970s.<ref name=Sparke>Sparke, Michael; Venudor, Peter (1998). "Stan Kenton, The Studio Sessions". Balboa Books. {{ISBN|0-936653-82-5}}</ref> As a composer and arranger he has become well known for large ensemble jazz music set to contemporary fusion and rock music of groups such as [[Chicago (band)|Chicago]], [[Blood, Sweat & Tears|Blood, Sweat and Tears]], and [[the Yellowjackets]]. Most notably he arranged the music for and produced the award-winning and critically acclaimed CD, ''Bob Curnow's L.A. Big Band Plays The Music of [[Pat Metheny]] and [[Lyle Mays]].''<ref name=jjour>Review (2000). ''The Music of Pat Metheny''. Jazz Journal International, vol. 53, page 31.</ref><ref name=CDREV>Review (1995). ''The Music of Pat Metheny''. CD Review Magazine, vol. 11, Volume 11, Issue 10, page 13.</ref> His compositions and arrangements are heavily influenced by earlier writers for the [[Stan Kenton Orchestra]] such as [[Pete Rugolo]],<ref>{{YouTube|aKYEHiaAUAk|August 22, 1998 interview with Pete Rugolo and Bob Curnow}}</ref> [[Bill Russo]], [[Johnny Richards]] and [[Bill Holman (musician)|Bill Holman]].<ref name=Harris>Steven Harris. ''The Kenton Kronicles'' Dynaflow Publications. 2000. pp. 266-268</ref> Curnow is currently owner and President of Sierra Music Publications, Inc., he is also prominent in the instrumental music and [[jazz education]] fields.
'''Robert Harry "Bob" Curnow''' (born November 1, 1941) is an American musician who served as a [[trombonist]], [[Arrangement|staff arranger]] and [[Record producer|producer]] for the [[Stan Kenton Orchestra]] during the 1960s and 1970s.<ref name=Sparke>Sparke, Michael; Venudor, Peter (1998). "Stan Kenton, The Studio Sessions". Balboa Books. {{ISBN|0-936653-82-5}}</ref> As a composer and arranger, he has become well known for large ensemble jazz music set to contemporary fusion and rock music of groups such as [[Chicago (band)|Chicago]], [[Blood, Sweat & Tears|Blood, Sweat and Tears]], and [[the Yellowjackets]]. Most notably, he arranged the music for and produced the award-winning and critically acclaimed CD, ''Bob Curnow's L.A. Big Band Plays The Music of [[Pat Metheny]] and [[Lyle Mays]].''<ref name=jjour>Review (2000). ''The Music of Pat Metheny''. Jazz Journal International, vol. 53, page 31.</ref><ref name=CDREV>Review (1995). ''The Music of Pat Metheny''. CD Review Magazine, vol. 11, Volume 11, Issue 10, page 13.</ref> His compositions and arrangements are heavily influenced by earlier writers for the [[Stan Kenton Orchestra]] such as [[Pete Rugolo]],<ref>{{YouTube|aKYEHiaAUAk|August 22, 1998 interview with Pete Rugolo and Bob Curnow}}</ref> [[Bill Russo]], [[Johnny Richards]] and [[Bill Holman (musician)|Bill Holman]].<ref name=Harris>Steven Harris. ''The Kenton Kronicles'' Dynaflow Publications. 2000. pp. 266-268</ref> Curnow is currently owner and President of Sierra Music Publications, Inc., he is also prominent in the instrumental music and [[jazz education]] fields.


==Early life, musical education and influences==
==Early life, musical education and influences==
Bob Curnow was born and grew up in [[Easton, Pennsylvania]] and was first exposed to music through learning the trumpet at age 9 but then switched to [[baritone horn]]. He ultimately started to play the [[trombone]] at age 12. Curnow had started high school when he first heard the [[Stan Kenton Orchestra]] with [[Kai Winding]] on the 45 single ''Collaboration''.<ref name="Harris"/> In addition to learning the trombone Curnow was doing a great deal of transcribing big band music and eventually of the Kenton band composers.<ref>NOTE from author: this is an essential part of learning the technique of [[Musical composition|composing]] and [[orchestration]].</ref> During college he first met Stan Kenton in person in 1961 during the [[Stan Kenton Band Clinics]].<ref name="Harris" /> Curnow worked his way through college playing the string bass, he graduated from [[West Chester University of Pennsylvania]] in May 1963.
Bob Curnow was born and grew up in [[Easton, Pennsylvania]] and was first exposed to music through learning the trumpet at age 9 but then switched to [[baritone horn]]. He ultimately started to play the [[trombone]] at age 12. Curnow had started high school when he first heard the [[Stan Kenton Orchestra]] with [[Kai Winding]] on the 45 single ''Collaboration''.<ref name="Harris"/> While in college, he met Stan Kenton in person in 1961 during the [[Stan Kenton Band Clinics]].<ref name="Harris" /> Curnow worked his way through college playing the string bass and he graduated from [[West Chester University of Pennsylvania]] in May 1963.


==Professional career==
==Professional career==
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===with Stan Kenton===
===with Stan Kenton===


On May 19 of 1963 (1 day after college graduation) Bob Curnow started as a [[trombonist]] with the [[Stan Kenton]] Orchestra at the age of 21 touring all of the United States and the UK through the end of November; this was the last of Kenton's [[Mellophonium]] Bands and the group disbanded after this tour until 1965.<ref name=Lee>William F. Lee, Audree Coke Kenton (1980). ''Stan Kenton: Artistry In Rhythm''. Creative Press of Los Angeles.</ref> During this tour Curnow had arranged "[[God Save The Queen]]" for the orchestra; this would be his entry into the cadre of Kenton composers and arrangers.<ref name="Sparke"/> He recorded in the [[trombone]] section of the Kenton Orchestra for [[Capitol Records]] on the LP's ''Artistry In Voices And Brass'' and ''From The Creative World Of Stan Kenton Comes Jean Turner''.<ref name="Sparke" /> Most notably he sat next to and established a friendship with trombonist [[Jiggs Whigham]] during their time on the Kenton band together.
On May 19 of 1963 (1 day after college graduation) Bob Curnow started as a [[trombonist]] with the [[Stan Kenton]] Orchestra at the age of 21 touring all of the United States and the UK through the end of November; this was the last of Kenton's [[Mellophonium]] Bands and the group disbanded after this tour until 1965.<ref name=Lee>William F. Lee, Audree Coke Kenton (1980). ''Stan Kenton: Artistry In Rhythm''. Creative Press of Los Angeles.</ref> During this tour Curnow had arranged "[[God Save The Queen]]" for the orchestra; this would be his entry into the cadre of Kenton composers and arrangers.<ref name="Sparke"/> He recorded in the [[trombone]] section of the Kenton Orchestra for [[Capitol Records]] on the LP's ''Artistry In Voices And Brass'' and ''From The Creative World Of Stan Kenton Comes Jean Turner''.<ref name="Sparke" />


===Back to school and teaching===
===Back to school and teaching===


After leaving the [[Stan Kenton Orchestra]] he did graduate work at [[Michigan State University]] in [[East Lansing, Michigan]] from 1964 through 1967 earning two master's degrees and completing his doctoral course work. He served as Professor of Instrumental Music and director of the Jazz Lab bands at [[Case Western Reserve University]] in [[Cleveland, Ohio]] from 1967 through 1973.<ref>Billboard Magazine, ''Jazz Labs in Cleveland start'' Jan 16, 1971, Page 28.</ref>
After leaving the [[Stan Kenton Orchestra]] he did graduate work at [[Michigan State University]] in [[East Lansing, Michigan]] from 1964 through 1967 earning two master's degrees and completing his doctoral course work. He served as Professor of Instrumental Music and director of the Jazz Lab bands at [[Case Western Reserve University]] in [[Cleveland, Ohio]] from 1967 through 1973, then becoming A&R director back with the Stan Kenton Orchestra.<ref>Billboard Magazine, ''Jazz Labs in Cleveland start'' Jan 16, 1971, Page 28.</ref><ref>[https://www.sierramusicstore.com/Articles.asp?ID=134 Bob Curnow Bio page from Sierra Music, start as A&R person with Stan Kenton in 1973]</ref><ref name="ALLIANCE">[https://www.cajazz.org/hall-of-fame/bob-curnow California Alliance for Jazz Hall of Fame, Bob Curnow bio page]</ref>


===As producer for Stan Kenton===
===As producer for Stan Kenton===


[[File:Bob Curnow & Stan Kenton, United-Western Studio - Nat'l Anthems album.jpg|left|thumb|Stan Kenton & Bob Curnow<br>[[Universal Audio|United-Western Studios]], Los Angeles<br>''National Anthems of the World'' sessions]]
[[File:Bob Curnow & Stan Kenton, United-Western Studio - Nat'l Anthems album.jpg|left|thumb|Stan Kenton & Bob Curnow<br>[[Universal Recording Corporation|United-Western Studios]], Los Angeles<br>''National Anthems of the World'' sessions]]
By 1971 Curnow was contacted again by [[Stan Kenton]] to do the arrangements for a new concept, double LP, ''National Anthems Of The World''.<ref name="Sparke" /> Kenton remembered the earlier arrangement done in 1963 of "[[God Save The Queen]]", this sparked the interest of Kenton and led to Curnow serving as chief arranger, conductor, and the producer for the new 1972 concept album. Though the recordings ended up being a commercial failure for the [[Stan Kenton Orchestra]], the project became a high point for Curnow as an arranger and record producer.<ref name=Sparke /> After the ''National Anthems'' project Curnow stepped in on numerous dates for an ailing Kenton to conduct during that next year.<ref name="Harris" />
By 1971 Curnow was contacted again by [[Stan Kenton]] to do the arrangements for a new concept, double LP, ''National Anthems Of The World''.<ref name="Sparke" /> Kenton remembered the earlier arrangement done in 1963 of "[[God Save The Queen]]", this sparked the interest of Kenton and led to Curnow serving as chief arranger, conductor, and the producer for the new 1972 concept album. Though the recordings ended up being a commercial failure for the [[Stan Kenton Orchestra]], the project became a high point for Curnow as an arranger and record producer.<ref name=Sparke /> After the ''National Anthems'' project Curnow stepped in on numerous dates for an ailing Kenton to conduct during that next year.<ref name="Harris" />


In June 1973, at the age of 31, Curnow was hired as the Director of Artists & Repertoire; by August Kenton fired the general manager and Curnow was in charge of the complete Creative World operations.<ref>Billboard Magazine, ''Robert H. Curnow named to Creative World'' Aug 11, 1973, Page 4.</ref> Starting with the LP ''7.5 On The Richter Scale'', Curnow was the producer for 6 of the final 7 [[Stan Kenton]] studio albums for Creative World leading up to Kenton's death in August 1979. He also oversaw the re-issue of numerous LPs from Kenton's [[Capitol Records]] catalogue. During this tenure with Kenton he was in charge as composer, arranger, and producer of one of the last commercial successes the band was to have with ''[[Stan Kenton plays Chicago]]''.<ref name="Sparke" /><ref name=HiFi>Review: High fidelity Musical America, Volume 25, Issue 1, page 34. Billboard Pub.(1975)</ref><ref>Billboard Magazine, ''RECOMMENDED TOP JAZZ PICKS'' Oct 26, 1974, Page 66.</ref>
In June 1973, at the age of 31, Curnow was hired as the Director of Artists & Repertoire; by August Kenton fired the general manager and Curnow was in charge of the complete Creative World operations.<ref>Billboard Magazine, ''Robert H. Curnow named to Creative World'' Aug 11, 1973, Page 4.</ref> Starting with the LP ''7.5 On The Richter Scale'', Curnow was the producer for 6 of the final 7 [[Stan Kenton]] studio albums for Creative World leading up to Kenton's death in August 1979. He also oversaw the re-issue of numerous LPs from Kenton's [[Capitol Records]] catalogue. During this tenure with Kenton he was in charge as composer, arranger, and producer of one of the last commercial successes the band was to have with ''[[Stan Kenton plays Chicago]]''.<ref name="Sparke" /><ref name=HiFi>Review: High fidelity Musical America, Volume 25, Issue 1, page 34. Billboard Pub.(1975)</ref><ref>Billboard Magazine, ''RECOMMENDED TOP JAZZ PICKS'' Oct 26, 1974, Page 66.</ref>


[[File:Bob Curnow & Stan Kenton, 1974 Universal Studios - Chicago album.jpg|thumb|Bob Curnow & Stan Kenton<br>[[Universal Audio|Universal Studios, Chicago]] June 1974<br>''[[Stan Kenton plays Chicago]]'' sessions]] During this period as a younger composer, arranger and producer, Curnow was able to help usher in a new, more vital concept and style for the orchestra which helped appeal to a younger music audience of the post big band/[[rock n' roll]] era.<ref name=SparkeII>Sparke, Michael (2010). "Stan Kenton: This Is An Orchestra". University of North Texas Press. p. 260 {{ISBN|1-57441-284-1}}.</ref> Due to deteriorating business conditions with the [[Stan Kenton Orchestra]] and Creative World Records, Curnow resigned from his post in 1976. Curnow is quoted as to the frustration he encountered, "I was burnt out...I really didn't like the record business...it's a dirty game working with the big players and all the crap that goes on there".<ref name="SparkeII" /> Kenton's 1977 album ''Journey To Capricorn'' would be the last studio-produced project for the orchestra and the final LP for which Curnow served as producer for Creative World.<ref>Billboard Magazine, review (Dave Dexter Jr.), Stan Kenton ''Journey To Capricorn'', page 83.</ref>
[[File:Bob Curnow & Stan Kenton, 1974 Universal Studios - Chicago album.jpg|thumb|Bob Curnow & Stan Kenton<br>[[Universal Recording Corporation|Universal Studios, Chicago]] June 1974<br>''[[Stan Kenton plays Chicago]]'' sessions]] During this period as a younger composer, arranger and producer, Curnow was able to help usher in a new, more vital concept and style for the orchestra which helped appeal to a younger music audience of the post big band/[[rock n' roll]] era.<ref name=SparkeII>Sparke, Michael (2010). "Stan Kenton: This Is An Orchestra". University of North Texas Press. p. 260 {{ISBN|1-57441-284-1}}.</ref> Due to deteriorating business conditions with the [[Stan Kenton Orchestra]] and Creative World Records, Curnow resigned from his post in 1976. Curnow is quoted as to the frustration he encountered, "I was burnt out...I really didn't like the record business...it's a dirty game working with the big players and all the crap that goes on there".<ref name="SparkeII" /> Kenton's 1977 album ''Journey To Capricorn'' would be the last studio-produced project for the orchestra and the final LP for which Curnow served as producer for Creative World.<ref>Billboard Magazine, review (Dave Dexter Jr.), Stan Kenton ''Journey To Capricorn'', page 83.</ref>


===CSULA and the McDonald's All-American High School Band===
===CSULA and the McDonald's All-American High School Band===


In 1976 Curnow accepted the position as Director of Jazz Studies at [[California State University, Los Angeles]]; he held that position until 1987. He conducted the award-winning No. 1 Jazz Ensemble,<ref>Dave Dexter Jr., Billboard Magazine, ''Kenton Memorial Concert at Cal. St. L.A.'' Dec 6, 1980</ref>
In 1976 Curnow accepted the position as Director of Jazz Studies at [[California State University, Los Angeles]]; he held that position until 1987. He conducted the No. 1 Jazz Ensemble, the Brass Ensemble, Symphonic Band and the Wind Ensemble.<ref>Dave Dexter Jr., Billboard Magazine, ''Kenton Memorial Concert at Cal. St. L.A.'' Dec 6, 1980</ref>
For eight years (1981–1989) Curnow directed the [[Coast to Coast (McDonald's Jazz Band album)|McDonald's All-American High School Jazz Band]], touring the country and discovering many talented young jazz players.<ref name ="ALLIANCE" />


===Pat Metheny's music and Sierra Publishing===
===Pat Metheny's music and Sierra Publishing===


Curnow ultimately penned some twelve arrangements of compositions by Pat Metheny and/or Lyle Mays; the initial arrangement of Metheny's [[First Circle (album)|''The First Circle'']]<ref>{{YouTube|4cwheDSPYrM|''The First Circle'', Bob Curnow's L.A. Big Band Plays the Music of Pat Metheny and Lyle Mays}}</ref> was tested out and recorded on a critically acclaimed [[We're Back! (album)|school jazz LP]] at [[California State University, Los Angeles]].<ref>[[We're Back! (CSULA album)|We're Back!]] (LP). Cal State L.A. Jazz Ensemble, Dave Caffey; director, side A, No.&nbsp;3, ''The First Circle'', Pat Metheny, arr. Bob Curnow (1986)</ref> These works and the resulting CD album from 1994, ''Bob Curnow's L.A. Big Band Plays the Music of Pat Metheny and Lyle Mays'' have been called a prime example of the art of arranging for large jazz ensemble in a contemporary setting.<ref name=Cadence>Bob Rusch, reviewer: Cadence Magazine, Volume 21, Issue 3, page 91 (1995)</ref> A second CD was released in 2011 entitled ''The Music of Pat Metheny & Lyle Mays, Volume II'' by the Bob Curnow Big Band.
Curnow ultimately penned some twelve arrangements of compositions by Pat Metheny and/or Lyle Mays; the initial arrangement of Metheny's [[First Circle (album)|''The First Circle'']] was tested out and recorded on a critically acclaimed [[We're Back! (album)|school jazz LP]] at [[California State University, Los Angeles]].<ref>[[We're Back! (CSULA album)|We're Back!]] (LP). Cal State L.A. Jazz Ensemble, Dave Caffey; director, side A, No.&nbsp;3, ''The First Circle'', Pat Metheny, arr. Bob Curnow (1986)</ref> These works and the resulting CD album from 1994, ''Bob Curnow's L.A. Big Band Plays the Music of Pat Metheny and Lyle Mays'' have been called a prime example of the art of arranging for large jazz ensemble in a contemporary setting.<ref name=Cadence>Bob Rusch, reviewer: Cadence Magazine, Volume 21, Issue 3, page 91 (1995)</ref> A second CD was released in 2011 entitled ''The Music of Pat Metheny & Lyle Mays, Volume II'' by the Bob Curnow Big Band.


Since 1976 Curnow has been the C.E.O. of [http://www.sierramusicstore.com/default.asp Sierra Music Publications, Inc.] and currently resides in [[Liberty Lake, Washington]]. The company is the exclusive publisher of music from the [[Stan Kenton Orchestra]] library as well as many other important and historic large jazz ensemble scores. The company is currently overseeing the production of large ensemble music of the rock/pop group [[Radiohead]].
Since 1976 Curnow has been the C.E.O. of Sierra Music Publications, Inc. The company publishes music from the [[Stan Kenton Orchestra]] library as well as many other large jazz ensemble scores and [[Radiohead]] arrangements.<ref>[https://www.sierramusicstore.com/About_Us_s/200.htm Bob Curnow, Sierra Music Publishing, "About us" page]</ref>


In 2005, Curnow was given the Distinguished Music Alumnus Award by the [[West Chester University of Pennsylvania]] School of Music. Curnow has donated almost $60,000 worth of musical compositions, CDs and books to the School of Music Jazz Studies Area.<ref>[http://subjectguides.wcupa.edu/music West Chester University of Pennsylvania, The Presser Music Library]</ref>
In 2005, Curnow was given the Distinguished Music Alumnus Award by the [[West Chester University of Pennsylvania]] School of Music. Curnow has donated almost $60,000 worth of musical compositions, CDs and books to the School of Music Jazz Studies Area.<ref>[http://subjectguides.wcupa.edu/music West Chester University of Pennsylvania, The Presser Music Library]</ref>


==Jazz education and former students==
==Jazz education and former students==
[[File:Bob Curnow conducting in PA, 2010.jpg|thumb|Bob Curnow conducting in PA, 2010]]Curnow is a strong advocate of [[Jazz education]] and has been very involved since being a part of the well known [[Stan Kenton Band Clinics]] when first associated with the group in 1963.<ref>Billboard Magazine, ''Stan Kenton Slates Clinics on Campus'' Mar 10, 1973, Page 25.</ref> As well as holding academic positions at universities, he has served as a guest conductor and educational clinician for groups and organizations throughout the United States and Canada. He has served as a guest artist, adjudicator, conductor, or clinician at colleges and jazz festivals over the past 30 years throughout the world. Numerous students Curnow has worked with have gone onto have very successful music careers such as [http://www.allmusic.com/artist/danny-house-p88047/credits Danny House], [http://www.allmusic.com/artist/phil-feather-p75380/credits Phil Feather], [[Luis Bonilla]], [https://web.archive.org/web/20120402132505/http://www.rccjazz.com/faculty.html Charlie Richard], [[Jack Cooper (American musician)|Jack Cooper]], [[John Hollenbeck (musician)|John Hollenbeck]], [http://www.allmusic.com/artist/christopher-hollyday-p6760 Christopher Hollyday], [[Geoffrey Keezer|Geoff Keezer]], [[Don Braden]], [[Wycliffe Gordon]], [[Greg Gisbert]], [https://web.archive.org/web/20110913063001/http://www.armyfieldband.com/pages/home/command_staff.html Loran McClung], Tony Kadleck, John Bailey, [[Javon Jackson]], [[John Medeski]], Neal Finn, and [[Delfeayo Marsalis]].
[[File:Bob Curnow conducting in PA, 2010.jpg|thumb|Bob Curnow conducting in PA, 2010]]Curnow is a strong advocate of [[jazz education]] and has been very involved since being a part of the well known [[Stan Kenton Band Clinics]] when first associated with the group in 1963.<ref>Billboard Magazine, ''Stan Kenton Slates Clinics on Campus'' Mar 10, 1973, Page 25.</ref> As well as holding academic positions at universities, he has served as a guest conductor and educational clinician for groups and organizations throughout the United States and Canada. He has served as a guest artist, adjudicator, conductor, or clinician at colleges and jazz festivals over the past 30 years throughout the world.


==Select discography==
==Select discography==
* 1963 ''[[Artistry in Voices and Brass]]'' Stan Kenton ([[Capitol Records|Capitol]]) – as performer
* 1963 ''[[Artistry in Voices and Brass]]'' Stan Kenton ([[Capitol Records|Capitol]]) – as performer
* 1963 ''[[Stan Kenton / Jean Turner]]'' Stan Kenton ([[Capitol Records|Capitol]]) – as performer
* 1963 ''[[Stan Kenton / Jean Turner]]'' Stan Kenton ([[Capitol Records|Capitol]]) – as performer
* 1963 [http://www.worldcat.org/title/kenton-63-concert-in-england/oclc/43896406&referer=brief_results ''Kenton '63, Concert in England''] Stan Kenton (Astral Jazz) – as performer and arranger
* 1963 [https://www.worldcat.org/oclc/43896406 ''Kenton '63, Concert in England''] Stan Kenton (Astral Jazz) – as performer and arranger
* 1972 ''[[National Anthems Of The World (album)|National Anthems of the World]]'' [[Stan Kenton]] (Creative World Records) – as arranger/conductor/producer
* 1972 ''[[National Anthems Of The World (album)|National Anthems of the World]]'' [[Stan Kenton]] (Creative World Records) – as arranger/conductor/producer
* 1973 ''[[7.5 on the Richter Scale]]''. [[Stan Kenton]] (Creative World Records) – as arranger/conductor/producer
* 1973 ''[[7.5 on the Richter Scale]]''. [[Stan Kenton]] (Creative World Records) – as arranger/conductor/producer
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* 1976 ''[[Journey Into Capricorn]]'' [[Stan Kenton]] (Creative World Records) – as producer
* 1976 ''[[Journey Into Capricorn]]'' [[Stan Kenton]] (Creative World Records) – as producer
* 1978 ''CSULA Jazz Ensemble'' Cal State L.A. Jazz Ensemble (CSULA, ℗1978) – as producer/composer/arranger/conductor
* 1978 ''CSULA Jazz Ensemble'' Cal State L.A. Jazz Ensemble (CSULA, ℗1978) – as producer/composer/arranger/conductor
* 1980 [http://www.worldcat.org/title/crusade/oclc/863155634&referer=brief_results ''Crusade''] Cal State L.A. Jazz Ensemble (CSULA, ℗1980) – as producer/composer/arranger/conductor
* 1980 [https://www.worldcat.org/oclc/863155634 ''Crusade''] Cal State L.A. Jazz Ensemble (CSULA, ℗1980) – as producer/composer/arranger/conductor
* 1984 ''[[Coast to Coast (McDonald's Jazz Band album)|Coast to Coast]]'' The McDonald's All-American High School Jazz Band – as producer/composer/arranger/conductor
* 1984 ''[[Coast to Coast (McDonald's Jazz Band album)|Coast to Coast]]'' The McDonald's All-American High School Jazz Band – as producer/composer/arranger/conductor
* 1986 ''[[We're Back! (CSULA album)|We're Back!]]'' Cal State L.A. Jazz Ensemble (CSULA 886) – as arranger
* 1986 ''[[We're Back! (CSULA album)|We're Back!]]'' Cal State L.A. Jazz Ensemble (CSULA 886) – as arranger
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*[http://www.mamajazz.org/pages/biocurnow.html MAMA Foundation Records site biography]
*[http://www.mamajazz.org/pages/biocurnow.html MAMA Foundation Records site biography]
*{{YouTube|mL6roXVG5N8|NW Profiles: Big Band Theory, 2010 interview and profile on KSPS-TV, Spokane, WA}}
*{{YouTube|mL6roXVG5N8|NW Profiles: Big Band Theory, 2010 interview and profile on KSPS-TV, Spokane, WA}}
{{Navbox
|name = :Bob Curnow
|title = Bob Curnow
|listclass = hlist

|group1 = as sideman on trombone<br />(recordings)
|list1 =
* ''Aristry in Voices and Brass''
* ''Stan Kenton/Jean Turner''
* ''Retrospective: The Capitol Years''
* ''Concert in England''
* ''Live at Newport: 1959, 1963, 1971''
* ''At Brant Inn 1963''
|group2 = as producer<br />(recordings)
|list2 =
* ''National Anthems of the World''
* ''7.5 on the Richter Scale''
* ''Fire, Fury and Fun''
* ''Kenton Play Chicago''
* ''Kenton '76''
* ''Stan Kenton Without His Orchestra, solo
* ''Journey to Capricorn''
* ''Music of Pat Metheny & Lyle Mays''
* ''Radiohead Jazz Project''
|group3 = as composer and arranger<br />(recordings)
|list3 =
* ''National Anthems of the World''
* ''7.5 on the Richter Scale''
* ''Place in the World''
* ''Stan Kenton Plays Chicago''
* ''Time After Time''
* ''Live at Montreux:BYU''
* ''National Anthems of the World''
* ''Music of Pat Metheny & Lyle Mays''
* ''Disposable Income''
* ''Live at Carthage College, Vol. 1''
* ''Bandit''
* ''Dick Shearer and His Stan Kenton Spirits''
* ''Night in the Tavern''
* ''Classic Mix: By the Texas Christian University Jazz Ensemble''
* ''At Brant Inn 1963''
* ''Upside Out''
* ''Kenton for Collectors, Vol. 1''
* ''Kenton for Collectors, Vol. 2''
* ''Voices''
* ''Sounds from the Road''
|group4 = liner notes<br />(recordings)
|list4 =
* ''Hawk's Out''
* ''[[Big Band Reflections of Cole Porter]]''
* ''Memphis Jazz Box''
* ''Memphis Jazz Box''
|group5 = compositions
|list5 =
* ''Festival Piece''
* ''First Child''
* ''For The Li'l Ones''
* ''Rise And Fall of a Short Fugue''
* ''Dreamscape''
* ''The Doctor is Out''
* ''Children of the Sun''
* ''Cayenne''
* ''Bone Appetit''
* ''Badger Blues''
* ''An American Trilogy''
* ''Jackhammer''
* ''Kelly's Theme''
* ''Keystone Shuffle''
* ''Li'l Bro's Blues''
* ''Lines for Lions''
* ''Lullaby Waltz''
* ''Non-Skid Soul''
* ''Northwest Riff''
* ''Of Another Time''
* ''The Path Well Chosen''
* ''Promise of Dreams''
* ''Scorpion Dance''
* ''Slide Show''
* ''Spencer Is Here!''
* ''Suite Seasonings''
* ''Sweetlumps''
* ''Sword''
* ''Towednack''
* ''Vida De Sueno''
* ''Writer's Cramp''
|group6 = arrangements
|list6 =
* ''Alone''
* ''America The Beautiful''
* ''Another Life''
* ''The First Circle''
* ''The Heat of the Day''
* ''Have You Heard''
* ''First Noel''
* ''Every Summer Night''
* ''Dream of the Return''
* ''Chet's Call''
* ''Beeline East''
* ''The Awakening''
* ''As It Is''
* ''Artemis and Apollo''
* ''Samana''
* ''Are We There Yet?''
* ''Always and Forever''
* ''Afernoon''
* ''Across the Sky''
* ''5-5-7''
* ''Here's That Rainy Day''
* ''I Hope In Time A Change Will Come''
* ''If I Could''
* ''In Her Family''
* ''Inner Crisis''
* ''It's Just Talk''
* ''James''
* ''Just a Few''
* ''Kenton Hits Medley''
* ''Kenton Kollage''
* ''Letter From Home''
* ''Live and Let Die''
* ''Lo, How A Rose E'er Blooming''
* ''Minuano (six eight)''
* ''My Foolish Heart''
* ''Nimbus''
* ''Not To Be Forgotten''
* ''O Sole Mio''
* ''A Place in the World''
* ''Riverdance''
* ''See The World''
* ''Silent Night''
* ''So May It Secretly Begin''
* ''Something to Remind You''
* ''Speak Low''
* ''The Star Spangled Banner''
* ''Sunlight''
* ''Too Soon Tomorrow''
* ''A Walkin' Thing''
* ''Well, Git It''
* ''Wherever You Go''
* ''You''
|group7 = recordings under his name
|list7 =
* ''The Bob Curnow L.A. Big Band: The Music of Pat Metheny''
* ''Towednack: Bob Curnow and the SWR Big Band''
|group8 = related acts
|list8 =
* [[Stan Kenton]]
* [[Boston Pops]]
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Latest revision as of 00:04, 27 January 2024

Bob Curnow
Background information
Birth nameRobert Harry Curnow
Born (1941-11-01) November 1, 1941 (age 82)
OriginEaston, Pennsylvania, United States
GenresFusion
Bop
Big band
Swing
Symphonic jazz
Occupation(s)Trombonist, Conductor, Composer, Arranger, Music Producer, Educator, Music publisher
Instrument(s)Trombone
Piano
Bass

Robert Harry "Bob" Curnow (born November 1, 1941) is an American musician who served as a trombonist, staff arranger and producer for the Stan Kenton Orchestra during the 1960s and 1970s.[1] As a composer and arranger, he has become well known for large ensemble jazz music set to contemporary fusion and rock music of groups such as Chicago, Blood, Sweat and Tears, and the Yellowjackets. Most notably, he arranged the music for and produced the award-winning and critically acclaimed CD, Bob Curnow's L.A. Big Band Plays The Music of Pat Metheny and Lyle Mays.[2][3] His compositions and arrangements are heavily influenced by earlier writers for the Stan Kenton Orchestra such as Pete Rugolo,[4] Bill Russo, Johnny Richards and Bill Holman.[5] Curnow is currently owner and President of Sierra Music Publications, Inc., he is also prominent in the instrumental music and jazz education fields.

Early life, musical education and influences[edit]

Bob Curnow was born and grew up in Easton, Pennsylvania and was first exposed to music through learning the trumpet at age 9 but then switched to baritone horn. He ultimately started to play the trombone at age 12. Curnow had started high school when he first heard the Stan Kenton Orchestra with Kai Winding on the 45 single Collaboration.[5] While in college, he met Stan Kenton in person in 1961 during the Stan Kenton Band Clinics.[5] Curnow worked his way through college playing the string bass and he graduated from West Chester University of Pennsylvania in May 1963.

Professional career[edit]

with Stan Kenton[edit]

On May 19 of 1963 (1 day after college graduation) Bob Curnow started as a trombonist with the Stan Kenton Orchestra at the age of 21 touring all of the United States and the UK through the end of November; this was the last of Kenton's Mellophonium Bands and the group disbanded after this tour until 1965.[6] During this tour Curnow had arranged "God Save The Queen" for the orchestra; this would be his entry into the cadre of Kenton composers and arrangers.[1] He recorded in the trombone section of the Kenton Orchestra for Capitol Records on the LP's Artistry In Voices And Brass and From The Creative World Of Stan Kenton Comes Jean Turner.[1]

Back to school and teaching[edit]

After leaving the Stan Kenton Orchestra he did graduate work at Michigan State University in East Lansing, Michigan from 1964 through 1967 earning two master's degrees and completing his doctoral course work. He served as Professor of Instrumental Music and director of the Jazz Lab bands at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio from 1967 through 1973, then becoming A&R director back with the Stan Kenton Orchestra.[7][8][9]

As producer for Stan Kenton[edit]

Stan Kenton & Bob Curnow
United-Western Studios, Los Angeles
National Anthems of the World sessions

By 1971 Curnow was contacted again by Stan Kenton to do the arrangements for a new concept, double LP, National Anthems Of The World.[1] Kenton remembered the earlier arrangement done in 1963 of "God Save The Queen", this sparked the interest of Kenton and led to Curnow serving as chief arranger, conductor, and the producer for the new 1972 concept album. Though the recordings ended up being a commercial failure for the Stan Kenton Orchestra, the project became a high point for Curnow as an arranger and record producer.[1] After the National Anthems project Curnow stepped in on numerous dates for an ailing Kenton to conduct during that next year.[5]

In June 1973, at the age of 31, Curnow was hired as the Director of Artists & Repertoire; by August Kenton fired the general manager and Curnow was in charge of the complete Creative World operations.[10] Starting with the LP 7.5 On The Richter Scale, Curnow was the producer for 6 of the final 7 Stan Kenton studio albums for Creative World leading up to Kenton's death in August 1979. He also oversaw the re-issue of numerous LPs from Kenton's Capitol Records catalogue. During this tenure with Kenton he was in charge as composer, arranger, and producer of one of the last commercial successes the band was to have with Stan Kenton plays Chicago.[1][11][12]

Bob Curnow & Stan Kenton
Universal Studios, Chicago June 1974
Stan Kenton plays Chicago sessions

During this period as a younger composer, arranger and producer, Curnow was able to help usher in a new, more vital concept and style for the orchestra which helped appeal to a younger music audience of the post big band/rock n' roll era.[13] Due to deteriorating business conditions with the Stan Kenton Orchestra and Creative World Records, Curnow resigned from his post in 1976. Curnow is quoted as to the frustration he encountered, "I was burnt out...I really didn't like the record business...it's a dirty game working with the big players and all the crap that goes on there".[13] Kenton's 1977 album Journey To Capricorn would be the last studio-produced project for the orchestra and the final LP for which Curnow served as producer for Creative World.[14]

CSULA and the McDonald's All-American High School Band[edit]

In 1976 Curnow accepted the position as Director of Jazz Studies at California State University, Los Angeles; he held that position until 1987. He conducted the No. 1 Jazz Ensemble, the Brass Ensemble, Symphonic Band and the Wind Ensemble.[15] For eight years (1981–1989) Curnow directed the McDonald's All-American High School Jazz Band, touring the country and discovering many talented young jazz players.[9]

Pat Metheny's music and Sierra Publishing[edit]

Curnow ultimately penned some twelve arrangements of compositions by Pat Metheny and/or Lyle Mays; the initial arrangement of Metheny's The First Circle was tested out and recorded on a critically acclaimed school jazz LP at California State University, Los Angeles.[16] These works and the resulting CD album from 1994, Bob Curnow's L.A. Big Band Plays the Music of Pat Metheny and Lyle Mays have been called a prime example of the art of arranging for large jazz ensemble in a contemporary setting.[17] A second CD was released in 2011 entitled The Music of Pat Metheny & Lyle Mays, Volume II by the Bob Curnow Big Band.

Since 1976 Curnow has been the C.E.O. of Sierra Music Publications, Inc. The company publishes music from the Stan Kenton Orchestra library as well as many other large jazz ensemble scores and Radiohead arrangements.[18]

In 2005, Curnow was given the Distinguished Music Alumnus Award by the West Chester University of Pennsylvania School of Music. Curnow has donated almost $60,000 worth of musical compositions, CDs and books to the School of Music Jazz Studies Area.[19]

Jazz education and former students[edit]

Bob Curnow conducting in PA, 2010

Curnow is a strong advocate of jazz education and has been very involved since being a part of the well known Stan Kenton Band Clinics when first associated with the group in 1963.[20] As well as holding academic positions at universities, he has served as a guest conductor and educational clinician for groups and organizations throughout the United States and Canada. He has served as a guest artist, adjudicator, conductor, or clinician at colleges and jazz festivals over the past 30 years throughout the world.

Select discography[edit]

References[edit]

  1. ^ a b c d e f Sparke, Michael; Venudor, Peter (1998). "Stan Kenton, The Studio Sessions". Balboa Books. ISBN 0-936653-82-5
  2. ^ Review (2000). The Music of Pat Metheny. Jazz Journal International, vol. 53, page 31.
  3. ^ Review (1995). The Music of Pat Metheny. CD Review Magazine, vol. 11, Volume 11, Issue 10, page 13.
  4. ^ August 22, 1998 interview with Pete Rugolo and Bob Curnow on YouTube
  5. ^ a b c d Steven Harris. The Kenton Kronicles Dynaflow Publications. 2000. pp. 266-268
  6. ^ William F. Lee, Audree Coke Kenton (1980). Stan Kenton: Artistry In Rhythm. Creative Press of Los Angeles.
  7. ^ Billboard Magazine, Jazz Labs in Cleveland start Jan 16, 1971, Page 28.
  8. ^ Bob Curnow Bio page from Sierra Music, start as A&R person with Stan Kenton in 1973
  9. ^ a b California Alliance for Jazz Hall of Fame, Bob Curnow bio page
  10. ^ Billboard Magazine, Robert H. Curnow named to Creative World Aug 11, 1973, Page 4.
  11. ^ Review: High fidelity Musical America, Volume 25, Issue 1, page 34. Billboard Pub.(1975)
  12. ^ Billboard Magazine, RECOMMENDED TOP JAZZ PICKS Oct 26, 1974, Page 66.
  13. ^ a b Sparke, Michael (2010). "Stan Kenton: This Is An Orchestra". University of North Texas Press. p. 260 ISBN 1-57441-284-1.
  14. ^ Billboard Magazine, review (Dave Dexter Jr.), Stan Kenton Journey To Capricorn, page 83.
  15. ^ Dave Dexter Jr., Billboard Magazine, Kenton Memorial Concert at Cal. St. L.A. Dec 6, 1980
  16. ^ We're Back! (LP). Cal State L.A. Jazz Ensemble, Dave Caffey; director, side A, No. 3, The First Circle, Pat Metheny, arr. Bob Curnow (1986)
  17. ^ Bob Rusch, reviewer: Cadence Magazine, Volume 21, Issue 3, page 91 (1995)
  18. ^ Bob Curnow, Sierra Music Publishing, "About us" page
  19. ^ West Chester University of Pennsylvania, The Presser Music Library
  20. ^ Billboard Magazine, Stan Kenton Slates Clinics on Campus Mar 10, 1973, Page 25.

Bibliography[edit]

  • Steven Harris. The Kenton Kronicles. Dynaflow Publications. 2000. ISBN 0-9676273-0-3
  • William F. Lee, Audree Coke Kenton. Stan Kenton: Artistry In Rhythm. Creative Press of Los Angeles. 1980.
  • Michael Sparke, Peter Venudor. Stan Kenton, The Studio Sessions. Balboa Books. 1998. ISBN 0-936653-82-5
  • Michael Sparke. Stan Kenton: This Is An Orchestra. University of North Texas Press. 2010. ISBN 1-57441-284-1

External links[edit]

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