Daily Almanac - February 10

[<pkrampert@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Classical harmonica pioneer Larry Adler was born on this day in 1914.  Adler
is credited as having elevated the harmonica in the 1930's from being a
novelty instrument used in Vaudeville, Blues and Country music to the field
of Classical music.  During his career he had over a dozen works composed
for him as well as interpeting many of the great works for the harmonica.
For more about the life, career and recordings of Larry Adler, please visit:
http://www.eharmonica.net/larry_adler.htm

Blues harmonica player Oscar Wills, better known as TV Slim, was born on
this day in 1916.  Wills began playing both the guitar and harmonica while
in his teens and got his nickname from his day job as a TV repairman.
For more about the life, career and recordings of Oscar Wills, please visit:
http://www.eharmonica.net/oscar%20wills.htm

Pope Puis XI died on this day in 1939.  The Hohner company made a gift to
him of the world's most expensive harmonica, made of ivory and gold and
encrusted with precious stones.  It is not known whether or not he actually
played the instrument.

That is all I have for today.  Have fun and practice.

Peter Krampert, author
The Encyclopedia of the Harmonica
http://www.eharmonica.net