Casa Loma Orchestra

The Casa Loma Orchestra was a popular American dance band active from the late 1920s into the 1940s. Formed by saxophonist Glen Gray, the band was named after the hotel in Toronto where they first gained fame. They are often credited with being one of the earliest bands to have a "swing" style, which became very popular during the Big Band era. The orchestra was known for its strong reed section and its sophisticated arrangements, which helped bridge the gap between 1920s jazz and the swing music of the 1930s. They scored several hits during their peak years and worked with arrangers like Gene Gifford and Larry Clinton, contributing to their distinctive sound. While they did not have a single dominant soloist, their collective sound was widely appreciated, and they were one of the most sought-after bands for both live performances and recordings during their time.