Paul Specht facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Paul Specht
Born	March 24, 1895 Sinking Spring, Pennsylvania
Died	April 11, 1954 (aged 59) New York City, New York
Occupation	Bandleader

Paul Specht (born March 24, 1895 – died April 11, 1954) was a famous American bandleader. He was very popular in the 1920s. He led dance bands and helped shape the sound of music during that exciting time.

Paul Specht's Early Life and Music Career

Paul Specht was born in Sinking Spring, Pennsylvania. His father, Charles G. Specht, was a violinist, organist, and bandleader. Paul learned to play the violin from his father.

He later studied music at the Combs Conservatory in Philadelphia. In 1916, Paul Specht led his very first band. This band traveled across the Western United States during World War I.

Recording Music with Columbia Records

In 1922, Paul Specht signed a contract with Columbia Records. He recorded music with two different groups. One was a larger dance orchestra. The other was a smaller group called The Georgians. This smaller group played music that was more like jazz.

One of his early recordings was "Dear Old Lady." It was made with the Hotel Alamac Orchestra.

Touring and Teaching in England

Paul Specht visited England several times, starting in 1922. He even opened a "School for Jazz Musicians" there in 1924. However, he faced some problems with his performances in England. These issues were often reported in music magazines. Because of these difficulties, he decided not to return to England after 1926.

Paul Specht (far right) with his orchestra in the early 1920s.

Paul Specht's Impact on Radio and Film

Paul Specht recorded most of his music for Columbia Records. His last commercial records were released in 1932. His orchestra made history in several ways.

Firsts in Broadcasting and Film

Paul Specht's group was the first orchestra to broadcast for the RCA company. This was a big deal for radio at the time. His ensemble was also the first to film after the end of the silent movie era.

In 1929, Paul Specht's orchestra was chosen to play at the inauguration of President Herbert Hoover. This was a great honor, as his band was picked over other famous groups.

Radio Success in the 1930s

In 1932, Paul Specht's band became very popular on the radio. They worked with a harmony group called the Three X Sisters. They performed together on ABC radio shows. Paul Specht continued to lead bands into the 1940s.

Later in his life, he developed arthritis. This made it harder for him to play music. He lived in Greenwich Village and worked on arranging music for radio and television.

Paul Specht passed away in New York City in April 1954. He was 59 years old.

Famous Musicians Who Played with Paul Specht

Many well-known jazz and popular musicians played in Paul Specht's bands. Playing with his groups helped many of them become famous. Some of these talented musicians include:

• Hank D'Amico
• Russ Morgan
• Sylvester Ahola
• Arthur Schutt
• Charlie Spivak
• Joe Tarto
• Art Christmas
• Chauncey Morehouse
• Clarence Zylman
• Lou Calabrese (Lou Breese)