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Oral History of Music in Pittsburgh

The Oral History of Music in Pittsburgh (OHMP) collection consists of over 300 interviews conducted by Mr. Maurice Levy, unless indicated otherwise. Mr. Levy is a long-time Music Department volunteer and a legendary mathematics teacher (now retired) in the Pittsburgh Public Schools. The interviews include a wide variety of people in Pittsburgh who have been heavily involved with professional and amateur music, be it in the areas of jazz, classical, popular, or folk and traditional. The project began in 1991 and continues.

Each of the recorded interviews is available for listening in the Music Department.

If you wish to use the collection, please call for an appointment. Copying of the materials is prohibited.

Please contact us directly if you have specific questions about the project, about its contents, or its use.

Phone: 412-622-3105; e-mail: musicdept@carnegielibrary.org.


Number: OHMP 1
Name: Leich, Roland
Date of Interview: 07/29/1991
Occupation/Affiliation: Composer and faculty member at Carnegie Mellon University.
Date of Death: 10/30/1995
Topics Covered:
  • Webern, Anton
  • Carnegie Tech
  • Dorian, Frederick
  • Mendelssohn Choir
  • Lopatnikoff, Nikolai
  • Pittsburgh Chamber Music Society
  • Barber, Samuel
  • Pittsburgh Alliance of Composers
  • Friends of the Music Library
  • Steinberg, William
  • Menotti, Gian Carlo


Number: OHMP 2
Name: Kaplan, Sid
Date of Interview: 08/02/1991
Occupation/Affiliation: Manager and director of operations of the Pittsburgh Symphony. Hornist.
Topics Covered:

  • Pittsburgh Symphony
  • Stokowski, Leopold
  • Bernstein, Leonard
  • Steinberg, William
  • Reiner, Fritz
  • Previn, Andre
  • Maazel, Loren
  • Ormandy, Eugene


Number: OHMP 3
Name: Demmler, Dorothy
Date of Interview: 08/08/1991
Occupation/Affiliation: Music educator - Pittsburgh Public Schools.
Date of Death: 10/10/1997
Topics Covered:

  • Demmler, Oscar
  • Boyd, Charles
  • Evanson, Jacob
  • Musicians Club
  • Levin, Stanley
  • Pittsburgh Youth Symphony
  • Pittsburgh Conservatory of Music
  • Pittsburgh Concert Society
  • Levant, Oscar
  • Wild, Earl
  • Bloom, Robert
  • Sprankle, Robert
  • McVicker, Carl, Sr.


Number: OHMP 4
Name: Robertson, Margery Boyd
Date of Interview: 08/15/1991
Occupation/Affiliation: Daughter of Charles Boyd, Pittsburgh organist and musicologist.
Topics Covered:

  • Menuhin, Yehudi
  • Boyd, Charles
  • Western Theological Seminary
  • Pittsburgh Musical Institute
  • Musicians Club


Number: OHMP 5
Name: Hardy, Mary Craft
Date of Interview: 08/19/1991
Occupation/Affiliation: Secretary to Manager of Carnegie Music Hall.
Date of Death: 06/03/2000
Topics Covered:

  • Heinroth, Charles
  • Bidwell, Marshall
  • American Guild of Organists
  • Beegle, May
  • Pittsburgh Symphony, Broadcasts of
  • Koch, Paul
  • Pittsburgh Savoyards
  • United We Sing
  • McGrail Opera
  • Mendelssohn Choir
  • Bach Choir
  • Friends of the Music Library


Number: OHMP 6
Name: Bianco, Anthony
Date of Interview: 08/21/1991
Occupation/Affiliation: Bassist - Pittsburgh Symphony and faculty - Carnegie Mellon University.
Topics Covered:

  • Toscanini, Arturo
  • Reiner, Fritz
  • Steinberg, William
  • De Sabata, Victor
  • Klemperer, Otto
  • Stravinsky, Igor
  • Previn, Andre
  • Chatham College Summer Music Camp
  • Chautauqua Symphony
  • Mansfield, Mass Summer Home
  • Carnegie Mellon University
  • Maazel, Loren


Number: OHMP 7
Name: McVicker, Carl, Sr.
Date of Interview: 08/26/1991
Occupation/Affiliation: Music educator at Westinghouse High School.
Topics Covered:

  • Carnegie Tech
  • Sousa, John Philip
  • Earhart, Will
  • Strayhorn, Billy
  • Herforth, Harry
  • Garner, Errol
  • Prattis, Patricia
  • Westinghouse High School
  • Demmler, Oscar
  • Bakaleinikoff, Vladimir
  • Reiner, Fritz
  • Pittsburgh Musical Institute
  • Boyd, Charles


Number: OHMP 8
Name: Rubinstein, Belle
Date of Interview: 08/30/1991
Occupation/Affiliation: Y Music Society.
Topics Covered:

  • Y-IKC Music Series
  • Anderson, Marian
  • Passamaneck,Herman
  • Seeger, Pete
  • Hess, Dame Myra
  • Stern, Isaac
  • Steinfirst, Donald
  • Tureck, Rosalyn
  • Janis, Byron
  • Maazel, Loren
  • Maazel, Marie


Number: OHMP 9
Name: Eibeck, Walter
Date of Interview: 09/16/1991
Occupation/Affiliation: Barbershop quartet singing.
Date of Death: 03/30/1992
Topics Covered:

  • Early Radio and TV Music
  • Barbershop Quartet Singing in Pittsburgh
  • Barbershop Quartet Singing -- Contests
  • Barbershop Quartet Singing -- Technique
  • Barbershop Quartet Singing -- Content


Number: OHMP 10
Name: Freeman, Peggy Pierce
Date of Interview: 11/08/1991
Occupation/Affiliation: Pianist. African-American musical life in Pittsburgh.
Date of Death: 03/28/2006
Topics Covered:

  • National Negro Opera Company
  • Dawson, Mary Cardwell
  • Treble Clef Choir
  • Johnson, Maudelena
  • Women's Civic Choir
  • Davis, Ralph
  • Music and Art Club
  • Pittsburgh Piano Teachers Association
  • National Association of Negro Musicians
  • Prattis, Patricia
  • Sounds of Heritage Choir


Number: OHMP 11
Name: Frisch, Wilbert
Date of Interview: 11/11/1991
Occupation/Affiliation: Violinist and associate concertmaster, Pittsburgh Symphony.
Date of Death: 06/09/2006
Topics Covered:

  • Klemperer, Otto
  • Zimbalist, Efrem
  • Reiner, Fritz
  • Kolberg, Hugo
  • De Sabata, Victor
  • Stokowski, Leopold
  • Steinberg, William
  • Previn, Andre
  • Bernstein, Leonard


Number: OHMP 12
Name: Marracino, Lucretia Russell
Date of Interview: 11/12/1991
Occupation/Affiliation: Pianist and piano teacher.
Topics Covered:

  • Russell, Dahlmyer
  • Pittsburgh Musical Institute
  • Pittsburgh Piano Teachers Association
  • Pittsburgh Concert Society
  • Tuesday Musical Club


Number: OHMP 13
Name: Davis, Velma
Date of Interview: 11/20/1991
Occupation/Affiliation: African-American musical life - Ralph Davis.
Topics Covered:

  • Davis, Ralph
  • Young Women's Civic Choir
  • Dawson, Mary Cardwell
  • Music Jubilee
  • Messiah
  • Hill, Ralph


Number: OHMP 14
Name: Gardner, Catherine Cardwell
Date of Interview: 12/06/1991
Occupation/Affiliation: African-American musical life in Pittsburgh.
Topics Covered:

  • Dawson, Mary Cardwell
  • National Negro Opera Company
  • National Association of Negro Musicians
  • Mary Cardwell Dawson Choir


Number: OHMP 15
Name: Johnson, Albert
Date of Interview: 12/07/1991
Occupation/Affiliation: African-American musical life - Maudelene Johnson.
Topics Covered:

  • Johnson, Maudelena
  • African-American Church Choir
  • Treble Clef Choir
  • Symphonic Choir
  • Treble Clef Concert Association


Number: OHMP 16
Name: Koch, Paul
Date of Interview: 01/07/1992
Occupation/Affiliation: Organist and director, St. Pauls Cathedral and Carnegie Music Hall.
Topics Covered:

  • Koch, Caspar
  • Singenberger, John
  • Johnson, Thor
  • Pittsburgh Musical Institute
  • American Guild of Organists
  • Beckerath, Rudolph von
  • Steinberg, William
  • Buckley, William F.
  • Princess Irene of Greece
  • Bachauer, Gina
  • O'Reilly, Anthony (wedding)


Number: OHMP 17
Name: Jennings, Patricia Prattis
Date of Interview: 11/11/1992
Occupation/Affiliation: Pianist - Pittsburgh Symphony.
Topics Covered:

  • Carnegie Tech
  • Symphonium Newsletter
  • Pittsburgh Symphony
  • Steinberg, William
  • Previn, Andre
  • Maazel, Loren
  • African Americans and Classical Music


Number: OHMP 18
Name: Hayes, Silvia Sconza Schmidt
Date of Interview: 01/13/1992
Occupation/Affiliation: Pittsburgh Opera.
Topics Covered:

  • Evanson, Jacob
  • Ross, Lanny
  • Karp, Richard
  • Carnegie Tech
  • Pittsburgh Savoyards
  • Pittsburgh Opera
  • Agnini, Armando
  • Steber, Eleanor
  • Briney, Mary Martha
  • Happy's Party (on early TV)
  • Austrian-American Cultural Society
  • Tourel, Jennie
  • Steinberg, William


Number: OHMP 19
Name: Watkins, Franklin
Date of Interview: 01/15/1992
Occupation/Affiliation: Organist and choir director. Musician's Club of Pittsburgh.
Topics Covered:

  • Musicians Club
  • Harris, Roy
  • Evanson, Jacob
  • Harris, Johanna
  • Koch, Caspar
  • Pittsburgh Concert Society
  • Jennings, Arthur
  • Temple Sinai Music
  • American Guild of Organists
  • Women Organists
  • African-American Membership in A.G.O.
  • Wedding Music


Number: OHMP 20
Name: Karsh, Claryne
Date of Interview: 01/21/1992
Occupation/Affiliation: Pittsburgh Opera.
Date of Death: 11/06/1998
Topics Covered:

  • Gaul, Harvey
  • Pittsbugh Opera
  • Harrell, Mack
  • McGrail, Josephine
  • Peerce, Jan
  • Syria Mosque
  • Pittsburgh Opera Workshop
  • B'nai Israel Synague Music
  • Hasidic Music
  • Lewando, Ralph
  • Lissfelt, Fred
  • Steinfirst, Donald
  • Pittsburgh Concert Society


Number: OHMP 21
Name: Rossetti, Lucio
Date of Interview: 01/27/1992
Occupation/Affiliation: Violinist - Pittsburgh Symphony.
Topics Covered:

  • Mascagni, Pietro
  • Pittsburgh Symphony
  • Modarelli, Antonio
  • Klemperer, Otto
  • Reiner, Fritz
  • Hofmann, Josef
  • Steinberg, William
  • Chatham College Summer Music Camp
  • Karp, Richard
  • Previn, Andre
  • Guilini, Carlo Maria
  • De Sabata, Victor


Number: OHMP 22
Name: McCullough, C. Hax, Jr.
Date of Interview: 01/29/1992
Occupation/Affiliation: Published programs for Pittsburgh Opera and other groups.
Date of Death: 07/16/2007
Topics Covered:

  • Pittsburgh Opera
  • Karp, Richard
  • Mendelssohn Choir
  • Flagg, Gurdin
  • Nixon Theater Opera
  • Heinz Hall
  • Previn, Andre
  • Page, Robert
  • Milstein, Nathan
  • Y- Music Society
  • Sills, Beverly
  • Pavarotti, Luciano
  • Rodef Shalom Temple Music Series


Number: OHMP 23
Name: Oehmler, Jane
Date of Interview: 02/07/1992
Occupation/Affiliation: Women's Association of the Pittsburgh Symphony.
Topics Covered:

  • Pittsburgh Symphony
  • Women's Association of PSO Fashion Gala
  • Silhouettes (PSO Lecture Luncheons)
  • Jenkins, Joseph Willcox
  • Tiny Tots Concert
  • Previn, Andre
  • Steinberg, William
  • Heinz Hall
  • Heinz, Jack
  • Fosner, Lou
  • Three Rivers Training Orchestra


Number: OHMP 24
Name: Bernt, Connie
Date of Interview: 02/01/1992
Occupation/Affiliation: Mendelssohn Choir.
Topics Covered:

  • Mendelssohn Choir
  • Page, Robert
  • Yevtushenko, Yevgeny
  • Junior Mendelssohn Singers
  • Pittsburgh Symphony


Number: OHMP 25
Name: Lundin, Viola
Date of Interview: 02/12/1992
Occupation/Affiliation: Pittsburgh Concert Society.
Topics Covered:

  • Pittsburgh Musical Institute
  • Bellefield Prebysterian Church
  • Bodycombe, Aneurin
  • Fireflies Vocal Trio
  • Tuesday Musical Club
  • Pittsburgh Concert Society
  • Reiner, Fritz
  • Wright, Bishop
  • Mendelssohn Choir
  • Lunt, Ernest
  • Chautauqua
  • Shaw, Robert
  • Previn, Andre


Number: OHMP 26
Name: Stark, Sidney, Jr.
Date of Interview: 02/19/1992
Occupation/Affiliation: Y Music Society.
Topics Covered:

  • Reiner, Fritz
  • Pittsburgh Symphony
  • Pittsburgh Opera
  • Karp, Richard
  • Steinberg, William
  • Previn, Andre
  • De Sabata, Victor
  • Rosen, Seymour
  • Turkin, Marshall
  • Y- Music Society
  • Sher, Allen
  • Pittsburgh Chamber Music Society
  • Milstein, Nathan


Number: OHMP 27
Name: O'Brien, Joseph
Date of Interview: 03/09/1992
Occupation/Affiliation: Organist, choral music.
Topics Covered:

  • Pittsburgh Symphony
  • Heinroth, Charles
  • Pittsburgh Musical Institute
  • Bidwell, Marshall
  • American Guild of Organists
  • Pittsburgh Concert Society
  • Mendelssohn Choir
  • Lunt, Ernest
  • Page, Robert
  • Hamer, Al
  • De Sabata, Victor
  • Previn, Andre
  • Maazel, Loren


Number: OHMP 28
Name: Levine, Evelyn Light
Date of Interview: 04/07/1992
Occupation/Affiliation: Widow of David Light.
Topics Covered:

  • Light, David
  • Saudek, Victor
  • Musical Forecast
  • This Week In Pittsburgh
  • Beegle, May
  • David Light Memorial Record Library
  • Light, Enoch


Number: OHMP 29
Name: Norton, Eunice
Date of Interview: 06/02/1992
Occupation/Affiliation: Pianist and piano teacher.
Date of Death: 12/09/2005
Topics Covered:

  • Matthay, Tobias
  • Schnabel, Artur
  • New Friends of Music
  • Lewis, Bernard
  • Beethoven Sonatas
  • Bach Well-Tempered Clavier
  • Phillips, Natalie Barnet
  • Spinelli, Henry


Number: OHMP 30
Name: Cohen, Fannie
Date of Interview: 06/04/1992
Occupation/Affiliation: Pittsburgh Symphony.
Topics Covered:

  • Pittsburgh Symphony
  • Cohen, Sidney
  • Spector, Edward
  • Reiner, Fritz
  • De Sabata, Victor
  • Steinberg, William
  • Guilini, Carlo Maria
  • Heinz Hall
  • Gateway To Music
  • Stern, Isaac
  • Heifetz, Jascha


Number: OHMP 31
Name: Rifugiato, Cornelius
Date of Interview: 06/08/1992
Occupation/Affiliation: Pittsburgh Opera.
Topics Covered:

  • Pittsburgh Opera
  • Karp, Richard
  • Stivanello, Anthony
  • Schmidt, Silvia Sconza Hayes
  • Heinz Hall
  • Benedum Center
  • Syria Mosque
  • Agnini, Armando
  • Stellute, Mary
  • Guadagno, Anton
  • Karp, Barbara
  • Fellner, Rudolph
  • Capobianco, Tito


Number: OHMP 32
Name: Clarke, Marion Gregus
Date of Interview: 06/11/1992
Occupation/Affiliation: Pittsburgh Symphony.
Topics Covered:

  • Gregus, George
  • Pittsburgh Symphony
  • Bernthaler, Carl
  • Pittsburgh Festival Orchestra
  • Pittsburgh Civic Orchestra
  • Stock, David


Number: OHMP 33
Name: Sterne, Colin
Date of Interview: 06/17/1992
Occupation/Affiliation: University of Pittsburgh Music Department.
Topics Covered:

  • University of Pittsburgh Music Department
  • Antiqua Players
  • Early Music
  • Renaissance and Baroque Society
  • Contemporary Music
  • Pittsburgh Flute Club
  • New Friends of Music
  • Pittsburgh Recorder Society
  • Musicians Club
  • Saudek, Victor
  • Levin, Stanley


Number: OHMP 34
Name: Lively, John
Date of Interview: 06/19/1992
Occupation/Affiliation: Organist. Carlow College.
Date of Death: 08/20/2001
Topics Covered:

  • Downtown Chorale
  • Steinberg, William
  • Pittsburgh Symphony
  • Pittsburgh Concert Choir
  • Third Presbyterian Church
  • Contemporary Music
  • Mount Mercy (Carlow) College


Number: OHMP 35
Name: Hamburger, Martin
Date of Interview: 07/01/1992
Occupation/Affiliation: Three Rivers Piano Competition. Music in Pittsburgh Project.
Topics Covered:

  • Y- Music Society
  • Three Rivers Piano Competition
  • Music in Pittsburgh Project


Number: OHMP 36
Name: Malfatti, Lorenzo
Date of Interview: 07/07/1992
Occupation/Affiliation: Voice teacher and coach.
Topics Covered:

  • Murdoch, Martha
  • Harrell, Mack
  • Copland, Aaron
  • Shaw, Robert
  • Krebs, Beatrice
  • Y- Music Society
  • Chatham College
  • Pittsburgh Public Schools
  • Harris, Roy
  • Harris, Johanna
  • Minna Kaufmann Ruud Fund
  • Posvar, Mildred Miller
  • Pittsburgh Opera Theater


Number: OHMP 37
Name: Cohen, Carl
Date of Interview: 07/09/1992
Occupation/Affiliation: Pittsburgh Symphony.
Topics Covered:

  • Pittsburgh Symphony
  • Fiddlesticks


Number: OHMP 38
Name: Levin, Stanley H.
Date of Interview: 07/10/1992
Occupation/Affiliation: Pittsburgh Youth Symphony.
Topics Covered:

  • Barrere, George
  • Julliard School
  • Kay Kyser Orchestra
  • Earhart, Will
  • Demmler, Oscar
  • Pittsburgh Youth Symphony
  • Pittsburgh Public Schools
  • Centers for the Musically Talented
  • Bakaleinikoff, Vladimir
  • Maazel, Loren
  • Gateway To Music
  • All-City Orchestras and Ensembles
  • Rodef Shalom Temple


Number: OHMP 39
Name: Ferro, Jane
Date of Interview: 08/18/1992
Occupation/Affiliation: I Campagnoli, Italian song and dance group.
Date of Death: 11/22/1998
Topics Covered:

  • I Campagnoli
  • Malfatti, Lorenzo
  • Aldisert, Ruggiero


Number: OHMP 40
Name: Maazel, Marie
Date of Interview: 08/20/1992
Occupation/Affiliation: Pittsburgh Youth Symphony. Loren Maazel.
Topics Covered:

  • Pittsburgh Youth Symphony
  • Maazel, Loren


Number: OHMP 41
Name: Wickline, Homer
Date of Interview: 08/21/1992
Occupation/Affiliation: Organist.
Date of Death: 12/27/1996
Topics Covered:

  • Gaul, Harvey
  • Knotts, Richard
  • WJAS Radio
  • Mendelssohn Choir
  • Lunt, Ernest
  • Beegle, May
  • Koch, Caspar


Number: OHMP 42
Name: McCulloh, Byron
Date of Interview: 09/17/1992
Occupation/Affiliation: Pittsburgh Symphony.
Date of Death: 03/15/2001
Topics Covered:

  • Steinberg, William
  • Previn, Andre
  • Contemporary Music
  • Kingsley Settlement House
  • Carnegie Mellon University
  • Shadyside Concerts
  • Day, Charlotte


Number: OHMP 43
Name: Hill, Ralph
Date of Interview: 09/23/1992
Occupation/Affiliation: Music educator, harpsichordist, African-American Music.
Date of Death: 03/20/2007
Topics Covered:

  • Pittsburgh Public Schools
  • Harpsichord in Pittsburgh
  • Whitaker, Nelson
  • African-American Church Music
  • Gospel Music
  • African-American Classical Musicians


Number: OHMP 44
Name: Stolarevsky, Kathryn
Date of Interview: 09/24/1992
Occupation/Affiliation: Music educator - Chatham College.
Topics Covered:

  • Chatham College Music Laboratory School
  • Chatham College Summer Music Camp
  • Pasquinelli, Joanne


Number: OHMP 45
Name: Fritsch, Betsey
Date of Interview: 09/29/1992
Occupation/Affiliation: Bach Choir.
Topics Covered:

  • Bach Choir
  • Peterson, Max
  • American Wind Symphony
  • Boudreau, Robert
  • Bedford Music Festival
  • Tuesday Musical Club
  • Pittsburgh Early Music Ensemble


Number: OHMP 46
Name: Palmer, Rufus
Date of Interview: 09/30/1992
Occupation/Affiliation: Bach Choir.
Topics Covered:

  • Bach Choir
  • Baird, John J.
  • Bernstein, Leonard
  • Pittsburgh Opera
  • Wilkins, Donald
  • Wagner, William
  • Peterson, Max


Number: OHMP 47
Name: McGrail, Josephine
Date of Interview: 11/20/1992
Occupation/Affiliation: Opera and vocal coach.
Topics Covered:

  • Carnegie Tech
  • Duquesne University School of Music
  • Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Music Dept.
  • WPA (Works Progress Administration)
  • Mount Mercy (Carlow) College
  • Pittsburgh Concert Society
  • Pittsburgh Opera
  • Beegle, May
  • Fillion Music Studios
  • Karp, Richard


Number: OHMP 48
Name: Di Pasquale, Henry
Date of Interview: 12/01/1992
Occupation/Affiliation: Instrumental teacher.
Topics Covered:

  • Italian Wind Bands
  • Ringling Brothers Circus Bands
  • Dance Bands
  • Pittsburgh Symphony Chauffeur


Number: OHMP 49
Name: Donnelly, Alice Sapienza
Date of Interview: 12/03/1992
Occupation/Affiliation: Italian musical life in Pittsburgh.
Topics Covered:

  • Sapienza, Sebastian
  • KDKA Radio
  • Italian-American Musical Life in Pittsburgh
  • Pittsburgh Public Schools


Number: OHMP 50
Name: Hoffrichter, Bertha
Date of Interview: 12/04/1992
Occupation/Affiliation: Tuesday Musical Club.
Topics Covered:

  • Tuesday Musical Club
  • Tuesday Musical Club Scholarships
  • Music Care Programs
  • Pittsburgh Opera


Number: OHMP 51
Name: Not Available


Number: OHMP 52
Name: Jacob, Gretchen Schmertz
Date of Interview: 12/29/1992
Occupation/Affiliation: Folk music in Pittsburgh.
Topics Covered:

  • Schmertz, Robert
  • Evanson, Jacob
  • Jacob, Gretchen Schmertz
  • Richman, Vivien
  • Davidson, Eero


Number: OHMP 53
Name: Kschier, Louis
Date of Interview: 12/30/1992
Occupation/Affiliation: String instrument repair.
Date of Death: 05/01/2003 & 06/15/1998
Topics Covered:

  • Violin Making
  • Musical Instrument Repair
  • Rubinoff, David
  • Spitalny, Maurice
  • Welk, Lawrence
  • Hungarian Violinists
  • Gypsy Music
  • Demmler, Oscar
  • Guitar


Number: OHMP 54
Name: Thomas, Jean
Date of Interview: 01/06/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Musicologist and flute teacher.
Topics Covered:

  • Pittsburgh Flute Club
  • American Recorder Society
  • Renaissance and Baroque Society
  • Dear Friends


Number: OHMP 55
Name: Swetnam, George
Date of Interview: 01/08/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Folk music.
Date of Death: 04/03/1999
Topics Covered:

  • Pennsylvania Folklore Society
  • Folk Music
  • Schmertz, Robert
  • McCarthyism
  • Seeger, Pete
  • De Sabata, Victor
  • Steinberg, William
  • Evanson, Jacob
  • Kreisler, Fritz


Number: OHMP 56
Name: Balderose, George
Date of Interview: 01/13/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Calliope House. Folk music in Pittsburgh.
Topics Covered:

  • Calliope - The Pittsburgh Folk Music Society
  • Smoky City Folk Festival
  • Pittsburgh Folk Music
  • Bagpiping
  • McIntosh, James
  • Music Tree Talent Agency


Number: OHMP 57
Name: Lascheid, Vince
Date of Interview: 01/14/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Organist at Three Rivers Stadium & Civic Arena.
Topics Covered:

  • Beneke, Tex
  • Pittsburgh Musical Institute
  • Pittsburgh Pirates Organist
  • Three Rivers Stadium
  • Pittsburgh Penguins Organist
  • Pittsburgh Civic Arena


Number: OHMP 58
Name: Nirella, Ruth
Date of Interview: 01/20/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Nirella family.
Date of Death: 04/17/2003
Topics Covered:

  • Nirella, Joseph
  • Westinghouse Air Brake Band
  • Pittsburgh Symphony
  • Nirella, Danny
  • Peabody High School Musical


Number: OHMP 59
Name: Reutzel, Helen
Date of Interview: 01/21/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Telephone Music Service.
Topics Covered:

  • Telephone Music Service


Number: OHMP 60
Name: Posvar, Mildred Miller
Date of Interview: 01/27/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Opera singer and director.
Topics Covered:

  • Metropolitan Opera
  • Pittsburgh Opera
  • Pittsburgh Symphony
  • University of Pittsburgh
  • Gateway To Music
  • Pittsburgh Chamber Opera Theater
  • Carnegie Music Hall


Number: OHMP 61
Name: Heagy, Delores
Date of Interview: 02/01/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Dance instructor.
Topics Covered:

  • Appalachian Music
  • Coal Country Cloggers
  • Coal Country Traditions
  • Coal Country Conventions


Number: OHMP 62
Name: McAllister, William
Date of Interview: 02/06/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Renaissance and Baroque Society.
Topics Covered:

  • Renaissance and Baroque Society
  • Sterne, Colin
  • Thomas, Jean
  • Synod Hall
  • Musick's Recreation
  • Pittsburgh Early Music Ensemble


Number: OHMP 63
Name: Bryant, Walter H. "Slim"
Date of Interview: 02/08/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Country musician.
Topics Covered:

  • KDKA Radio
  • Slim Bryant and the Wildcats
  • Rodgers, Jimmy
  • Autry, Gene
  • Eeny Meeny Dixie Deeny (song)
  • Bluegrass Music
  • KDKA TV
  • Foley, Red
  • Allegheny County Fair
  • Kennywood Park


Number: OHMP 64
Name: Krysty, Dave
Date of Interview: 02/10/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Director of Calliope House.
Topics Covered:

  • Fiddle Music
  • Bryner, Jim
  • Square Dance Music
  • Calliope House Folk Music Society
  • Richman, Vivien
  • Evanson, Jacob
  • Folk Music Venues in Western Pennsylvania
  • Smoky City Folk Festival
  • Coal Country Cloggers


Number: OHMP 65
Name: Egerman, Jeannette
Date of Interview: 02/19/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Pittsburgh Concert Society.
Topics Covered:

  • Pittsburgh Concert Society
  • WPA Orchestra
  • Saudek, Victor
  • Mazer, Henry


Number: OHMP 66
Name: Colleran, William ("Mac Martin")
Date of Interview: 02/24/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Founder of the Dixie Travelers Bluegrass Group.
Topics Covered:

  • Bluegrass Music
  • Dixie Travelers
  • Newgrass Music
  • Bluegrass Festivals
  • Smoky City Folk Festival


Number: OHMP 67
Name: Kruger, Cecilia
Date of Interview: 02/27/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Various Pittsburgh musical organizations.
Topics Covered:

  • American Recorder Society
  • Faire Musick
  • Renaissance and Baroque Society
  • Tuesday Musical Club
  • Friends of the Music Library
  • Calvary Episcopal Church Choir
  • Wilkins, Donald


Number: OHMP 68
Name: Shaffer, Rex
Date of Interview: 04/26/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Church organist.
Topics Covered:

  • Church Organist
  • Bach Choir
  • Kruger, Cecilia
  • Church Organs


Number: OHMP 69
Name: Lupish, Ronald
Date of Interview: 04/28/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Bagpiper.
Topics Covered:

  • Bagpiping in Pittsburgh
  • Carnegie Mellon University Bagpipe Program
  • McIntosh, James
  • MacDonald Pipe Band
  • Pipe Major


Number: OHMP 70
Name: Bolden, Frank
Date of Interview: 04/30/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Music & drama editor for the Pittsburgh Courier.
Date of Death: 08/28/2003
Topics Covered:

  • University of Pittsburgh Band
  • Pittsburgh Jazz
  • Eckstine, Billy
  • Race Relations
  • Centre Avenue YMCA
  • YMCA Symphony
  • Hill District Fragmentation


Number: OHMP 71
Name: Scot, Arthur
Date of Interview: 05/04/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Music educator - Pittsburgh Public Schools.
Topics Covered:

  • Wesley A.M.E. Zion Church
  • Prattis, Patricia
  • Grace Memorial Church
  • Johnson, Maudelena
  • Central Baptist Church
  • Ozanam Center
  • Pittsburgh Public Schools


Number: OHMP 72
Name: McIntosh, James
Date of Interview: 05/05/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Bagpiper.
Topics Covered:

  • Bagpiping
  • Carnegie Mellon University Bagpipe Program
  • Bagpipe Bands
  • Bagpipe Music
  • Pibroch (Classical Bagpipe Music)


Number: OHMP 73
Name: Wright, Mary Louise
Date of Interview: 05/10/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Organist and choir director. Musician's Club of Pittsburgh.
Topics Covered:

  • First Baptist Church
  • Jennings-Smith, David
  • Caruso, Tom
  • Johnson, Maudelena
  • Secular Music in Church
  • Church Organ Music


Number: OHMP 74
Name: Ruben, Susan
Date of Interview: 05/12/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Renaissance and Baroque Society.
Topics Covered:

  • Renaissance and Baroque Society
  • Classical Vocal Music in Pittsburgh


Number: OHMP 75
Name: Huguley, Neal
Date of Interview: 05/20/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Musician and music educator.
Topics Covered:

  • Irene Kaufmann Settlement Music School
  • Johnson, Maudelena
  • Central Baptist Church
  • Gift of Song (vocal ensemble)
  • Dorian, Frederick
  • Civic Light Opera (CLO)
  • Rogers School for the Creative and Performing Arts
  • Riverview Presbyterian Church Choir
  • Duquesne University School of Music
  • Pittsburgh Public Schools


Number: OHMP 76
Name: Swan, Ralph
Date of Interview: 05/25/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Director of Ralph Swan Chorale.
Topics Covered:

  • Ralph Swan Chorale
  • Radio and TV Programs
  • Pittsburgh Symphony
  • Steinberg, William
  • Pittsburgh Churches
  • Gospel Music


Number: OHMP 77
Name: Brautigam, Paul
Date of Interview: 06/01/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Pittsburgh Public Schools.
Date of Death: 10/09/1998
Topics Covered:

  • Carnegie Tech
  • Pittsburgh Public Schools -- Centers for the Musically Talented
  • Evanson, Jacob
  • Levin, Stanley
  • KDKA Radio
  • Pittsburgh Conservatory of Music
  • Webster, Beveridge


Number: OHMP 78
Name: Corbett, Harry
Date of Interview: 06/03/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Pittsburgh Chamber Music Society.
Topics Covered:

  • Pittsburgh Chamber Music Society
  • Cantor, Owen
  • Silberman, Aaron
  • Leich, Roland
  • Vocal Music


Number: OHMP 79
Name: Jordanoff, Christine
Date of Interview: 06/08/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Duquesne University. Children's Festival Chorus.
Topics Covered:

  • Duquesne University Tamburitzans
  • Kolar, Walter
  • Duquesne University Music Education
  • Children's Festival Chorus
  • Kodaly Method
  • Pittsburgh Opera
  • Contemporary Music


Number: OHMP 80
Name: Jordanoff, Nicholas
Date of Interview: 06/08/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Duquesne University Tamburitzans.
Topics Covered:

  • Duquesne University Tamburitzans
  • Tamburitzan Institute of Folk Arts (DUTIFA)
  • Pittsburgh Folk Festival
  • Robert Morris College


Number: OHMP 81
Name: May, Julia
Date of Interview: 06/13/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Vocalist. Faculty Duquesne University.
Topics Covered:

  • Pittsburgh Symphony
  • Steinberg, William
  • Pittsburgh Opera
  • Karp, Richard
  • Chatham College Music Laboratory School
  • Duquesne University School of Music
  • Pearson, Charles
  • Rodef Shalom Temple
  • Tree of Life Synagogue
  • Karp, Ilse
  • Novich, Mia
  • Wilkins, Donald
  • Cliburn, Van


Number: OHMP 82
Name: Beckom, O'Labrice
Date of Interview: 06/14/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Vocalist, teacher, African-American musical life.
Topics Covered:

  • National Negro Opera Company
  • Dawson, Mary Cardwell
  • Pittsburgh Public Schools --Centers for the Musically Talented
  • Macedonia Baptist Church Choir
  • Hill House


Number: OHMP 83
Name: Worthington, Walter
Date of Interview: 06/14/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: African-American musical life in Pittsburgh.
Topics Covered:

  • Ebenezer Baptist Church
  • Dawson, Mary Cardwell
  • National Negro Opera Company
  • Pittsburgh Playhouse
  • Green Pastures (at Pittsburgh Playhouse)
  • Eldridge, Roy
  • Crawford Grill
  • Hurricane Bar and Grill
  • Gospel Music
  • Westinghouse High School


Number: OHMP 84
Name: Worthy, Oscar
Date of Interview: 06/16/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Jazz in Pittsburgh.
Topics Covered:

  • Crawford Grill
  • Davis, Nathan
  • Diplomat Club
  • Encore (nightclub)
  • Walt Harper's Attic
  • Hurricane Bar and Grill
  • Rosebud Café
  • Pittsburgh Jazz


Number: OHMP 85
Name: Ross, Paul
Date of Interview: 06/23/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Pittsburgh Symphony.
Date of Death: 06/16/2000
Topics Covered:

  • Pittsburgh Public Schools -- All-City Orchestra
  • Steinberg, William
  • Previn, Andre
  • Pittsburgh Symphony
  • Maazel, Loren
  • Pittsburgh Quartet
  • African Americans and Classical Music
  • African-American Community Orchestra
  • Wesley A.M.E. Zion Church
  • East Liberty Presbyterian Church
  • Mazer, Henry
  • Stolarevsky, Mikhail


Number: OHMP 86
Name: Montgomery, Ruth
Date of Interview: 06/25/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Pittsburgh Chamber Music Society.
Topics Covered:

  • Pittsburgh Chamber Music Society
  • University of Pittsburgh
  • Stock, David
  • Leich, Roland


Number: OHMP 87
Name: Segall, Dorothy
Date of Interview: 06/29/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Music educator.
Topics Covered:

  • Bloom, Julius
  • Bloom, Robert
  • Duquesne University
  • Levin, Stanley
  • Pittsburgh Public Schools -- Centers for the Musically Talented
  • Mu Phi Epsilon


Number: OHMP 88
Name: Rice, Norman
Date of Interview: 06/30/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Dean of Carnegie Mellon University's College of Fine Arts.
Date of Death: 06/07/1994
Topics Covered:

  • Carnegie Mellon University
  • Harth, Sidney
  • Pittsburgh Chamber Music Society
  • Leich, Roland
  • Montgomery, Ruth
  • Steinfirst, Donald
  • Steinberg, William


Number: OHMP 89
Name: Ackerman, Edward
Date of Interview: 07/03/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Musical life in Pittsburgh.
Date of Death: 10/25/2005
Topics Covered:

  • Enright Theater
  • Stanley Theater
  • Y- Music Society
  • Pittsburgh Symphony
  • Pittsburgh Chamber Music Society
  • Syria Mosque
  • Roosevelt Theater
  • Landau Theater
  • Downtown Nightclubs


Number: OHMP 90
Name: Mastracci, Louis (Lou Tracey)
Date of Interview: 07/07/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Song lyricist, writer, record store manager.
Topics Covered:

  • Big Bands
  • Sinatra, Frank
  • Nightclubs
  • Connick, Harry
  • Nixon Theater
  • National Record Mart
  • Song Lyrics


Number: OHMP 91
Name: Sisk, Leo
Date of Interview: 08/10/1992
Occupation/Affiliation: Barbershop quartet singer.
Topics Covered:

  • Barbershop Quartets
  • Town and Country Four


Number: OHMP 92
Name: Cassinelli, Floyd "Flo"
Date of Interview: 07/08/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Leader of jazz group.
Topics Covered:

  • Clairton Eagles Marching Band
  • Club Mirador (Homestead)
  • Cassinelli Brothers Trio
  • WJAS Radio
  • Armstrong, Louis
  • Deuces Wild
  • Midway Lounge
  • Turk, Tommy
  • Flo's Club
  • Young, Lester
  • Poli's Grill


Number: OHMP 93
Name: Jennings-Smith, David
Date of Interview: 08/10/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Singer and teacher.
Topics Covered:

  • Carnegie Mellon University
  • Civic Light Opera (CLO)
  • Pittsburgh Opera
  • Capobianco, Tito
  • Knowles, Willis
  • Wright, Mary Louise
  • Leontyne Price Award -- National Negro Businesswomen's Club
  • Pittsburgh High School for the Creative and Performing Arts
  • Pittsburgh Public Schools -- Centers for the Musically Talented


Number: OHMP 94
Name: Rummo, Carmen
Date of Interview: 08/13/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Pianist and teacher at Duquesne University.
Topics Covered:

  • Stanley Theater Orchestra
  • Racial Segregation
  • Raye, Martha
  • Pittsburgh Radio Stations (KDKA, KQV, etc.)
  • Pittsburgh Musicians Club
  • Restaurant Dinner Music
  • Duquesne University School of Music
  • Piano -- Teaching
  • Kay, Billy
  • Italian Wind Bands
  • Saudek, Victor


Number: OHMP 95
Name: Kolar, Walter
Date of Interview: 08/16/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Duquesne University Tamburitzans.
Topics Covered:

  • Duquesne University Tamburitzans
  • Tamburitzan Institute of Folk Arts (DUTIFA)
  • Pittsburgh International Folk Theater


Number: OHMP 96
Name: Shiner, Matthew "Matty"
Date of Interview: 08/17/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Director of the brass department at Duquesne University.
Date of Death: 01/12/2003
Topics Covered:

  • KDKA Radio
  • Ice Capades
  • Ice Follies
  • Harris, John
  • Stanley Theater
  • Dorsey, Tommy
  • Nixon Theater
  • Civic Light Opera (CLO)
  • Pittsburgh Civic Arena
  • Duquesne University School of Music
  • Mid-East Music Educators Conference
  • Westinghouse Air Brake Band
  • Nirella, Joseph


Number: OHMP 97
Name: Litman, Leonard "Lenny"
Date of Interview: 08/17/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Night club owner, columnist, agent, promoter.
Date of Death: 08/13/2002
Topics Covered:

  • Nut Houses
  • Copa (nightclub)
  • Vaughan, Sara
  • Williams, Andy
  • Nightclub Singers
  • Belafonte, Harry
  • Jorgensen, Christine
  • Tatum, Art
  • Torme, Mel
  • Phillipe, Andre
  • Holiday House (nightclub)
  • Davis, Sammy, Jr.
  • Rickles, Don


Number: OHMP 98
Name: Marsico, Alvin
Date of Interview: 08/20/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Orchestra and band leader.
Topics Covered:

  • KDKA Radio
  • WDTV TV
  • Telethons
  • Enright Theater
  • Powell, Dick
  • Crosby, Gary
  • Penner, Joe
  • Nixon Restaurant
  • Ralph Harrison Orchestra
  • State Silent Movie Theater
  • Nirella, Danny
  • New Arena (nightclub)
  • Raye, Martha


Number: OHMP 99
Name: Taylor, Edna Maye
Date of Interview: 08/27/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Singer. Director of the Mus-Arts Ensemble.
Topics Covered:

  • Johnson, Maudelena
  • Lissfelt, Fred
  • Perlow, Anna
  • Mansell, Grace
  • Macedonia Baptist Church Choir
  • Musarts Ensemble
  • Centre Avenue YMCA
  • Floyd, Sheryl


Number: OHMP 100
Name: Oliver, Patsy "Pat"
Date of Interview: 08/30/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Trumpeter.
Date of Death: 02/03/2002
Topics Covered:

  • WWSW Radio
  • Al Marsico's "Memory Time"
  • Bachelors Club
  • Venuti, Joe
  • Monte Carlo (nightclub)
  • Vogue Terrace (nightclub)
  • Major Bowes Amateur Hour
  • Allegheny County Fair
  • Castle, Lee
  • William Penn Hotel
  • Duquesne University School of Music
  • Ankara Nightclub
  • Ringling Brothers Circus Bands


Number: OHMP 101
Name: Wallace, Joseph
Date of Interview: 09/02/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Bassist - Pittsburgh Symphony.
Date of Death: 09/02/2005
Topics Covered:

  • Travelogue Music
  • Holmes, Burton
  • Nirella, Joseph
  • Nirella, Danny
  • Parade Bands
  • Peyton, Eddie
  • Penn Shady Ballroom
  • Soldiers and Sailors Hall
  • Marmarosa, Michael "Dodo"
  • Barry Blue Band
  • Pittsburgh Symphony
  • Klemperer, Otto
  • Steinberg, William


Number: OHMP 102
Name: Farrar, Arthur
Date of Interview: 09/22/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Orchestra leader.
Topics Covered:

  • Marathon Dance Champion
  • Coconut Grove Supper Club
  • Garner, Errol
  • Bill Green's (nightclub)
  • Enright Theater
  • Powell, Dick
  • Cohen, Harold V.
  • Stanley Theater
  • Kennywood Park Ballroom
  • Motor Square Garden
  • Africam Club
  • West View Danceland
  • William Penn Hotel


Number: OHMP 103
Name: Burton, Beny
Date of Interview: 10/25/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Clarinetist and orchestra leader.
Topics Covered:

  • WJAS Radio
  • Martin, Dean
  • West View Danceland
  • Nelson, Skip
  • Baird, Eugenie
  • Vogue Terrace (nightclub)
  • Islam Grotto Ballroom
  • Conrad Ostertag and His Little German Band


Number: OHMP 104
Name: Kuhn, J. Craig
Date of Interview: 10/27/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Pittsburgh Chamber Music Society.
Topics Covered:

  • Pittsburgh Chamber Music Society
  • Pittsburgh Oratorio Society
  • Leich, Roland
  • Pittsburgh Symphony


Number: OHMP 105
Name: Lomakin, Nick
Date of Interview: 11/01/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Clarinetist, saxophonist, Lomakin's Music Store.
Date of Death: 09/28/2001
Topics Covered:

  • Cervone's Band
  • Al Marsico's "Memory Time"
  • Marmarosa, Michael "Dodo"
  • Don Charles Orchestra
  • Society bands
  • Lomakin's Music Store
  • Harmonicas
  • Accordions
  • Dixieland Six
  • William Penn Hotel


Number: OHMP 106
Name: Budway, Leo
Date of Interview: 11/03/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Lebanese / Arabic music.
Date of Death: 09/14/2000
Topics Covered:

  • Lebanese Music
  • Arabic Music
  • Budway Brothers (musical group)
  • Saab, Ray
  • Pittsburgh Folk Festival


Number: OHMP 107
Name: Clark, Harry
Date of Interview: 11/09/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Trumpeter and music educator.
Topics Covered:

  • Duquesne University School of Music
  • Garner, Errol
  • Pittsburgh Public Schools
  • Pittsburgh High School for the Creative and Performing Arts
  • Nero, Beverly
  • Humphries, Roger


Number: OHMP 108
Name: Hodges, Fletcher, Jr.
Date of Interview: 11/10/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: First curator of the Stephen Foster Memorial.
Date of Death: 03/13/2006
Topics Covered:

  • Lilly, Josiah K.
  • Stephen Foster Memorial
  • Tuesday Musical Club
  • Humphrey, Hubert
  • Earhart, Will
  • Gaul, Harvey
  • Demmler, Oscar
  • Seeger, Pete
  • Foster, Stephen (and Racism)
  • Root, Deane


Number: OHMP 109
Name: Thunhurst, Wilford "Bill", Jr.
Date of Interview: 11/15/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Managing director of the Civic Light Opera.
Topics Covered:

  • Carnegie Tech
  • Civic Light Opera (CLO)
  • Heinz Hall
  • Pittsburgh Civic Arena
  • CLO Ministars
  • Franz, Joe
  • McCullough, C. Hax
  • Heinz, Vira
  • Broadway Tonight (CLO Celebration)
  • Bate, Tom
  • Brockett, Don
  • Purcell, Jack
  • Fellner, Rudolph


Number: OHMP 110
Name: Williams, Thomas "Saxie"
Date of Interview: 11/18/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Tap dancer.
Topics Covered:

  • Tap Dancing
  • Private Clubs
  • Floor Shows
  • WYEP Radio -- Jazz Program
  • Brice, Buck


Number: OHMP 111
Name: Fischer, Frank
Date of Interview: 11/20/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: National Record Mart. Pittsburgh Opera.
Topics Covered:

  • Karp, Richard
  • Pittsburgh Opera
  • National Record Mart
  • Syria Mosque
  • Duquesne University Opera Center
  • Capobianco, Tito


Number: OHMP 112
Name: Constable, Dan ("Danny Conn")
Date of Interview: 12/01/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Trumpeter.
Date of Death: 11/02/2006
Topics Covered:

  • Italian Wind Bands
  • Turk, Tommy
  • Musicians Club
  • Casino Burlesque Theater
  • After-hours Clubs
  • Holiday House (nightclub)
  • Allen, Marty
  • Turrentine, Tommy
  • Dallas, Sonny
  • Circus Band (Hamid - Morton)
  • Gateway To Music
  • Marmarosa, Michael "Dodo"


Number: OHMP 113
Name: Crantz, David
Date of Interview: 12/02/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Musical shows.
Date of Death: 12/17/2003
Topics Covered:

  • Carnegie Tech (Scotch and Soda Shows)
  • Welch, Ken
  • Pittsburgh Playhouse
  • WTAE TV
  • Stohl, Hank
  • Negri, Joe
  • McGovern, Maureen
  • Pittsburgh Civic Arena
  • Gene Kelly Awards
  • Thunhurst, Wilford "Bill", Jr.
  • Checco, Al


Number: OHMP 114
Name: Crummie, Ray
Date of Interview: 12/06/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Pianist. Orchestra leader at clubs.
Topics Covered:

  • Deuces Wild
  • Turk, Tommy
  • Marmarosa, Michael "Dodo"
  • Win, Place, and Show Restaurant
  • WJAS Radio
  • Mellon Jazz Festival
  • Baxter, Jeanne
  • After-hours Clubs


Number: OHMP 115
Name: Ostrowski, Frank
Date of Interview: 12/07/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Trumpeter for the Pittsburgh Symphony and Pittsburgh Ballet.
Topics Covered:

  • McVicker, Carl, Sr.
  • Fiedler, Arthur
  • Italian Wind Bands
  • Perella, Nick
  • Pittsburgh Symphony
  • Musician Contracting
  • Gateway To Music
  • Pittsburgh Opera and Ballet Orchestra
  • Musicians Unions
  • Crosby, Bob
  • Spivak, Charley
  • Big Bands


Number: OHMP 116
Name: Carra, Lawrence
Date of Interview: 12/10/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Head of Drama Department at Carnegie Mellon University.
Date of Death: 03/30/2006
Topics Covered:

  • Carnegie Mellon University (Carnegie Tech) -- Drama Department
  • Carnegie Mellon University (Carnegie Tech) -- Department of Music
  • Carnegie Mellon University (Carnegie Tech) -- Scotch and Soda Shows
  • Civic Light Opera (CLO)
  • Melody Tent
  • Godspell
  • Pittsburgh Music Festivals (1949 and 1950)


Number: OHMP 117
Name: Volkwein, Walter
Date of Interview: 12/16/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Owner, Volkwein's Music Store.
Topics Covered:

  • Volkwein Brothers Music Store
  • Sheet Music
  • Piano Rolls
  • Song Pluggers
  • Pittsburgh Musicians Club


Number: OHMP 118
Name: Sharff, Merle
Date of Interview: 12/21/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Choirmaster at the Pittsburgh Opera, organist, choir director.
Topics Covered:

  • Pittsburgh Opera
  • Karp, Richard
  • Syria Mosque
  • Byerly, Virginia
  • Tuesday Musical Club
  • Opera Prompting
  • Karp, Barbara
  • Michaloski, Susan
  • Lissfelt, Mildred
  • WQED TV -- Pittsburgh Opera Production
  • St. Peter's Evangelical and Reformed Church
  • St. Paul of the Cross Monastery Church
  • Community College of Allegheny County


Number: OHMP 119
Name: Melodini, Edward
Date of Interview: 12/29/1993
Occupation/Affiliation: Singer - Pittsburgh Opera.
Date of Death: 08/06/2003
Topics Covered:

  • St. John Damascene Choir
  • Boback, John
  • Pittsburgh Opera
  • Karp, Richard
  • Capobianco, Tito
  • Valentino, Frank
  • St. Andrew's Episcopal Church


Number: OHMP 120
Name: Goldberg, Bernard
Date of Interview: 01/12/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Principal flutist - Pittsburgh Symphony. Teacher.
Topics Covered:

  • Pittsburgh Symphony
  • Reiner, Fritz
  • Bernstein, Leonard
  • De Sabata, Victor
  • Stokowski, Leopold
  • Bakaleinikoff, Vladimir
  • Steinberg, William
  • Maazel, Loren
  • Maazel, Marie
  • Previn, Andre
  • Pittsburgh Youth Symphony
  • Three Rivers Training Orchestra
  • Duquesne University School of Music


Number: OHMP 121
Name: Packer, Betty
Date of Interview: 01/13/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Singer and chorister - Pittsburgh Opera.
Topics Covered:

  • First Baptist Church
  • Floyd, Allen
  • Gaul, Harvey
  • Pittsburgh Opera
  • Karp, Richard
  • Flagg, Gurdin
  • Pittsburgh Opera Workshop
  • Tuesday Musical Club
  • Operatunity Shop
  • Artz, Vincent
  • Karp, Barbara


Number: OHMP 122
Name: Weiner, Anne
Date of Interview: 01/27/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Piano teacher.
Topics Covered:

  • Piano
  • Karp, Ilse
  • Lopatnikoff, Nikolai


Number: OHMP 123
Name: Marino, John B.
Date of Interview: 01/29/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Trumpeter.
Topics Covered:

  • Casino Burlesque Theater
  • Stanley Theater
  • Police and Firemen's Band
  • Nixon Theater Band
  • Carousel (nightclub)
  • Riley, Luke


Number: OHMP 124
Name: Boswell, Robert "Bobby"
Date of Interview: 02/01/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Bassist.
Date of Death: 06/11/2001
Topics Covered:

  • After-hours Clubs
  • Turrentine, Tommy
  • Turrentine, Stanley
  • Black Musicians Union Hall
  • Holiday, Billie
  • Roach, Max
  • Crawford Grill
  • Musicians Club
  • Midway Lounge
  • Negri, Joe
  • Negri, Bobby


Number: OHMP 125
Name: Downs, Donald
Date of Interview: 02/03/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Violinist - Pittsburgh Symphony.
Topics Covered:

  • Pittsburgh Symphony
  • Steinberg, William
  • Previn, Andre
  • Pittsburgh Chamber Music Project
  • Smoliar, Harold
  • Music in Pittsburgh Project
  • Coleman, Marilyn


Number: OHMP 126
Name: Franze, Joe
Date of Interview: 02/11/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Theater performer. Director of Civic Light Opera.
Topics Covered:

  • Odd Chair Playhouse
  • Brockett, Don
  • Dinner Theater
  • Wiz, The
  • Civic Light Opera (CLO)
  • CLO Ministars
  • CLO Academy of Music Theater
  • Sondheim, Stephen
  • CLO Gene Kelly Awards
  • CLO Gallery of Heroes Productions


Number: OHMP 127
Name: Hornberger, Fred P.
Date of Interview: 02/14/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Teutonia Mannerchor.
Topics Covered:

  • Teutonia Maennerchor
  • Teutonia Damenchor
  • National Saengerfest of the North American Singers Asociation
  • German Singing Societies
  • United We Sing
  • McIlvaney, G. Logan
  • German Dance Orchestra


Number: OHMP 128
Name: Feeney, Anne
Date of Interview: 02/15/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Folksinger and composer.
Topics Covered:

  • Cucumber Rapids Bluegrass Band
  • Back and Push Bluegrass Band
  • Wobbly Joe's Bar
  • Wildsisters Bar
  • Fitzgerald, D.C.
  • Balderose, George
  • WYEP Radio
  • Richman, Vivien
  • Folk Music Evolution
  • Cohen, Stuart


Number: OHMP 129
Name: Negri, Joe
Date of Interview: 02/25/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Guitarist and composer.
Topics Covered:

  • Lopatnikoff, Nikolai
  • Leich, Roland
  • Carnegie Tech
  • Joe Negri Trio (WDTV)
  • Buzz and Bill
  • WTAE TV
  • Pirates Fight Song ("Beat 'em Bucs")
  • McCully, Bob
  • Cabaret Shows
  • Dinner Theater
  • Rogers, Fred
  • Mr. Roger's Neighborhood
  • Pittsburgh Public Schools


Number: OHMP 130
Name: Benedict, John
Date of Interview: 02/26/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Folk singing group - Front Street.
Topics Covered:

  • Wobbly Joe's Bar
  • Folk Music
  • Gildersleeve, Rick and Sara
  • Portfolio Nightclub
  • Queen Anne's Lace (folk music group)
  • Di Leonardo, John
  • Penn Cafe (nightclub)
  • Graffiti Showcase Café
  • Waverly Coffee House
  • East End Collective
  • Front Street Group
  • Wilkins School Community Center
  • Smoky City Folk Festival


Number: OHMP 131
Name: Fitzgerald, D.C. (Delbert Clyde)
Date of Interview: 03/01/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Folk musician and singer.
Date of Death: 11/13/2006
Topics Covered:

  • D.C. Band
  • Gaslight Club
  • Razzberry Rhinoceros
  • Harris, Cozy
  • Blues Rock
  • Dixie Dogs
  • Common Threads
  • Beach, Bob
  • Feeney, Anne
  • Penn Cafe (nightclub)
  • Social Action Concerts
  • American Music (musical group)
  • Encore (nightclub)


Number: OHMP 132
Name: Davidson, J.E.
Date of Interview: 03/10/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Folk musician and singer.
Topics Covered:

  • Davidson, Eero
  • Folk Arts Leadership Committee
  • Square Dances
  • Folk Music
  • White, Josh
  • Gateway Trio
  • Cubelic, Charles
  • Richman, Vivien
  • Davidson, J.E.
  • Pittsburgh Folk Festival
  • Oral Tradition in Music
  • Mac Martin and the Dixieland Travelers


Number: OHMP 133
Name: Purcell, Jack
Date of Interview: 03/14/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Orchestra leader, trombonist, violinist.
Topics Covered:

  • Tobias, Neal
  • KDKA Radio
  • Pittsburgh Symphony
  • De Sabata, Victor
  • Bernstein, Leonard
  • Jack Purcell Orchestra
  • Carnegie Tech (Scotch and Soda Shows)
  • Patton, Ann
  • Symphony Ball
  • Society Orchestra Engagements
  • High School Proms
  • Musician Contracting
  • Steinberg, William


Number: OHMP 134
Name: Beach, Robert K. "Bob"
Date of Interview: 03/16/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Harmonica player.
Topics Covered:

  • Harmonica Playing
  • Loaves and Fishes Coffee House
  • Fitzgerald, D.C.
  • D.C. Band
  • Harps Band
  • American Music (musical group)
  • Blues Café
  • Bob Beach Blues Band
  • Graffiti Showcase Café


Number: OHMP 135
Name: Martin, Michael "Mick"
Date of Interview: 03/21/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Guitarist.
Topics Covered:

  • Florida, Patty
  • Folk Music
  • Jug Band Music
  • Walsh's Restaurant and Bar
  • Martin, Mac (William Colleran)
  • Frankie Gustine's Restaurant
  • Bluefield Boys
  • Smoky City Folk Festival
  • Bluegrass vs. Country Music
  • Acousticados
  • Cohen, Stuart


Number: OHMP 136
Name: Harris, Joseph "Joe"
Date of Interview: 03/22/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Jazz drummer and teacher.
Topics Covered:

  • Jazz Drumming
  • Roosevelt Theater
  • Segregation and Music
  • Pittsburgh Jazz Musicians
  • Davis, Nathan
  • University of Pittsburgh Music Department
  • Three Rivers Arts Festival


Number: OHMP 137
Name: Schafer, Joe
Date of Interview: 05/02/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Pianist and band leader.
Topics Covered:

  • Peyton, Eddie
  • Nirella, Danny
  • Schafer-Englert Orchestra
  • Conforti, Tony
  • Syria Shrine Big Band
  • Morrone, Joe
  • Walton, Harry
  • Fort Pitt Hotel
  • Benack, Benny
  • Purcell, Jack
  • Kaye, Sammy
  • Bill Green's (nightclub)
  • Pittsburgh Musicians Union (Local 471)


Number: OHMP 138
Name: Negri, Robert "Bob"
Date of Interview: 05/04/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Jazz pianist.
Topics Covered:

  • Stanley Theater
  • Duffy's Tavern
  • Joe Negri Trio
  • Deuces Wild
  • Musicians Club
  • Bob Negri Trio
  • Christopher's Restaurant
  • Gateway To Music
  • Pittsburgh Steelers
  • Copa (nightclub)
  • Carousel (nightclub)


Number: OHMP 139
Name: Yagello, Leo (Lee Kelton)
Date of Interview: 05/11/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Band leader.
Topics Covered:

  • Elliott, Baron
  • Lee Kelton Orchestra
  • WJAS Radio
  • Vogue Terrace (nightclub)
  • Ballrooms
  • Kennywood Park
  • West View Park
  • Big Bands


Number: OHMP 140
Name: Brantana, William (Bill Brant)
Date of Interview: 06/01/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Band leader and disc jockey.
Topics Covered:

  • WWSW Radio
  • Disk Jockeys
  • KDKA Radio
  • KDKA TV
  • Tonight Show
  • Bill Brant Big Band
  • Rock Music
  • Garner, Errol
  • Stanley Theater
  • Big Bands
  • Costa, Johnny
  • Bryant, Slim
  • Paul, Les


Number: OHMP 141
Name: Granneman, Kate M.
Date of Interview: 06/05/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: WYEP radio.
Topics Covered:

  • WYEP Radio
  • Feminism on Radio


Number: OHMP 142
Name: Pasquarelli, Anthony L.
Date of Interview: 05/06/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Trumpeter with various bands.
Topics Covered:

  • Ice Capades
  • Nixon Theater
  • WCAE Radio
  • Pittsburgh Sinfonietta
  • Civic Light Opera (CLO)
  • Morrone, Joe
  • Schafer, Joe


Number: OHMP 143
Name: Novich, Mija
Date of Interview: 06/07/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Opera singer. Faculty at Duquesne University.
Date of Death: 10/13/2003
Topics Covered:

  • Pittsburgh Opera
  • Syria Mosque
  • Karp, Richard
  • Ponselle, Rosa
  • Sheffey, Denise
  • Opera Singing
  • Duquesne University Opera Workshop
  • Duquesne University School of Music


Number: OHMP 144
Name: Davis, Nathan
Date of Interview: 06/16/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Jazz saxophonist. Head of jazz department at the University of Pittsburgh.
Topics Covered:

  • Clarke, Kenny
  • Jazz Saxophone
  • Jazz Drumming
  • University of Pittsburgh Music Department
  • Ethnomusicology at University of Pittsburgh
  • Jazz Seminars at University of Pittsburgh


Number: OHMP 145
Name: Vecchiola, Charles, Jr.
Date of Interview: 06/27/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Discusses Charles Vecchiola Sr. and Antonio Modarelli.
Topics Covered:

  • Vecchiola, Charles, Sr.
  • Modarelli, Antonio
  • Pittsburgh Symphony
  • Perrilla, Nicholas


Number: OHMP 146
Name: Staley, Sandra "Sandy"
Date of Interview: 06/29/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Jazz singer.
Topics Covered:

  • Buddy Lee Orchestra
  • "Mickey Mouse" Bands
  • Jazz Singing
  • New Era Sportsmen's Club
  • Crossover (Jazz to Rock)
  • Classical Music vs. Jazz
  • Pittsburgh Jazz Audiences
  • Jazz Performance and Repertoire
  • Duquesne University School of Music


Number: OHMP 147
Name: Lewis, Virginia
Date of Interview: 06/06/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Public school music educator, pianist, organist.
Date of Death: 07/15/2000
Topics Covered:

  • Carnegie Tech
  • Blow, Jewel
  • Warren United Methodist Church
  • Pittsburgh Public Schools
  • Evanson, Jacob
  • Allderdice High School
  • Levin, Stanley
  • Ilson, Aaron B.
  • Sacred Music in Public Schools
  • Sounds of Heritage Choir
  • African-American Spirituals
  • Gospel Music in Church
  • Nuns Choir of the Pittsburgh Diocese


Number: OHMP 148
Name: Arter, Carl
Date of Interview: 07/11/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Musician and clubowner.
Date of Death: 01/11/2006
Topics Covered:

  • Miller, James
  • Jamal, Ahmad
  • Pittsburgh Jazz
  • Clarke, Kenny
  • Pittsburgh Musicians Union (Local 471)
  • Kohler, Roy
  • Illery, Alma
  • Lewis, Virginia
  • Jazz Improvisation


Number: OHMP 149
Name: Richman, Hyman
Date of Interview: 06/16/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Folk Arts Leadership Council.
Topics Covered:

  • Perlow, Anna
  • Irene Kaufmann Settlement Music School
  • Lando Theater
  • Steinfeld, Eddie
  • Richman, Vivien
  • Pittsburgh Folk Music Group
  • Davidson, Eero
  • Pennsylvania Folklore Society


Number: OHMP 150
Name: Shapiro, Anne
Date of Interview: 07/18/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Sang with Robert Schmertz and Friends.
Topics Covered:

  • Robert Schmertz and Friends (musical group)
  • Elmers, Myra
  • Richman, Vivien
  • Davidson, Warren


Number: OHMP 151
Name: Dugan, Betty (Gawlas)
Date of Interview: 07/22/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Musician, entrepeneur, director of radio programs.
Date of Death: 12/03/2005
Topics Covered:

  • KQV Radio -- Uncle Henry's Radio Rascals
  • WWSW Radio -- The Juvenile Roundup
  • KDKA Radio -- Starlets on Parade
  • Teen Time (radio program)
  • Enright Theater
  • Tap Dancing, Radio Broadcasts of
  • C.C. Mellor Music Store
  • Betty Dugan Singers


Number: OHMP 152
Name: Hinds, William "Bill"
Date of Interview: 08/01/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Radio announcer and performer.
Date of Death: 02/25/2001
Topics Covered:

  • WCAE Radio
  • KDKA Radio
  • Tap Time (radio program)
  • Garroway, Dave
  • Flood of 1936
  • Buzz and Bill Show (radio and TV)
  • Aston, Buzz
  • Brunch with Bill (radio program)
  • Bill Hinds Band
  • King, Ed
  • Armstrong, Bernie
  • Spitalny, Maurice
  • Allegheny County Fair


Number: OHMP 153
Name: Nichols, Birdie
Date of Interview: 08/02/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Founder of Glorious Rebirth Singing Group and a teacher.
Topics Covered:

  • Velvet Voices of Pittsburgh
  • Davis, Ralph
  • Gospel Music
  • Westinghouse High School
  • McVicker, Carl, Sr.
  • Levin, Stanley
  • Lewis, Virginia
  • Glorious Rebirth (vocal ensemble)


Number: OHMP 154
Name: Costa, Johnny
Date of Interview: 08/16/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Jazz pianist. Appeared on Mr. Rogers television show.
Date of Death: 10/11/1996
Topics Covered:

  • Carnegie Tech
  • Mercur's Music Bar
  • Lopatnikoff, Nikolai
  • KDKA TV
  • WDTV
  • Rogers, Fred
  • Mr. Roger's Neighborhood
  • William Penn Hotel
  • Johnny Costa Trio
  • Nero, Peter


Number: OHMP 155
Name: Kirby, John "Tim"
Date of Interview: 08/17/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Singer on radio, in clubs, and stage shows.
Date of Death: 08/18/1997
Topics Covered:

  • Lewando, Frances
  • KDKA Radio
  • Gaul, Harvey
  • Pittsburgh Savoyards
  • Pittsburgh Playhouse
  • WIIC TV -- Luncheon at the Ones (program)
  • Pittsburgh Nightclubs
  • Armstrong, Bernie
  • Bodycombe, Aneurin
  • Calvary Episcopal Church Choir


Number: OHMP 156
Name: Krebs, Beatrice
Date of Interview: 08/22/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Opera singer. Faculty at Carnegie Mellon University.
Topics Covered:

  • Opera
  • Shaw, Robert
  • Carnegie Mellon University - Department of Music


Number: OHMP 157
Name: Gorham, Francis
Date of Interview: 08/25/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Founder of Ozanam Strings.
Date of Death: 02/08/2003
Topics Covered:

  • Gatto, Angelo
  • Pittsburgh Youth Symphony
  • Sisters of Charity
  • Ozanam Strings
  • Elizabeth Seton Center School of Music


Number: OHMP 158
Name: Imperatore, Attilio (Lee Barrett)
Date of Interview: 09/08/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Big band leader.
Topics Covered:

  • Lee Barrett Band
  • Shep Fields Rippling Rhythm
  • Ballrooms
  • New Penn (nightclub)
  • Como, Perry
  • Jefferson Room (Canonsburg)
  • Welk, Lawrence
  • Big Bands


Number: OHMP 159
Name: Vecchiola, Matthew
Date of Interview: 09/09/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Drummer.
Topics Covered:

  • Drumming
  • Marmarosa, Michael "Dodo"
  • Garner, Errol
  • Fielding, Jerry
  • Benack, Benny
  • Pirates Fight Song ("Beat 'em Bucs")
  • Baron Elliott Orchestra
  • WCAE Radio
  • Bertini, Dick
  • Rich, Buddy
  • Tough, Davy
  • Riley, Luke
  • Holiday House (nightclub)


Number: OHMP 160
Name: Briney, Mary Martha
Date of Interview: 09/13/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Singer.
Date of Death: 11/07/2004
Topics Covered:

  • Lewando, Frances
  • Spitalny, Maurice
  • Tap Time (radio program)
  • Pittsburgh Symphony
  • Pittsburgh Opera
  • Harrison, Max
  • Martin, Robert
  • Civic Light Opera (CLO)


Number: OHMP 161
Name: Harth, Sydney
Date of Interview: 09/23/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Violinist and conductor.
Topics Covered:

  • Louisville Orchestra
  • Wieniawski Competition
  • Reiner, Fritz
  • Enesco, Georges
  • Casals, Pablo
  • Steinberg, William
  • Pittsburgh Symphony
  • Mazer, Henry
  • Y- Music Society
  • Lopatnikoff, Nikolai
  • Surinach, Carlos
  • Thomas, Marilyn Taft
  • Contemporary Classical Music


Number: OHMP 162
Name: Anderson, Jack B.
Date of Interview: 11/29/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: University of Pittsburgh band.
Date of Death: 12/25/1998
Topics Covered:

  • Sharon (PA) Concert Band
  • River City Brass Band
  • University of Pittsburgh Band
  • Arthur, Robert A.


Number: OHMP 163
Name: Stein, Gladys
Date of Interview: 12/03/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Pianist and faculty at Duquesne University.
Topics Covered:

  • Lhevinne, Rosina
  • Maazel, Loren
  • Maselos, William
  • Duquesne University School of Music
  • Chung, Myung Wha
  • Cliburn, Van


Number: OHMP 164
Name: Nicolette, Jack
Date of Interview: 12/06/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Jazz pianist.
Topics Covered:

  • Adkins, Max
  • Wally Ginger Orchestra
  • Tender Trap Camp
  • Benack, Benny, Sr.
  • Pittsburgh Steelers Jazz Group
  • Marmarosa, Michael "Dodo"
  • McKinley, Thomas
  • Pittsburgh Jazz


Number: OHMP 165
Name: Aloe, Eugene
Date of Interview: 12/09/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Fellows Club.
Topics Covered:

  • Fellows Club
  • Benack, Benny
  • Schmertz, Robert
  • Vocal Quartets -- Men About Town
  • Vocal Quartets -- Steel City Four


Number: OHMP 166
Name: Phillips, Eugene
Date of Interview: 12/15/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Violinist, teacher, composer.
Topics Covered:

  • Phillips, Benjamin
  • Mazer, Henry
  • Kolberg, Hugo
  • Reiner, Fritz
  • Lopatnikoff, Nikolai
  • Leich, Roland
  • Phillips, Natalie Barnet
  • Pittsburgh Symphony
  • Steinberg, William
  • Orion Quartet


Number: OHMP 167
Name: Phillips, Natalie
Date of Interview: 12/16/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Pianist and teacher.
Topics Covered:

  • Norton, Eunice
  • Chatham College Music Preparatory School
  • Chamber Music
  • University of Pittsburgh Music Department
  • Pittsburgh Concert Society
  • Y- Music Society
  • Pittsburgh Chamber Music Society
  • Serkin, Peter
  • New Friends of Music
  • Pierrot Lunaire, Pittsburgh Performance of
  • Glass, Philip
  • Piano -- Teaching


Number: OHMP 168
Name: Flecker, George
Date of Interview: 12/21/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Singer with Tom Fallon Singers & Slim Bryant.
Topics Covered:

  • Tom Fallon Singers
  • Beck's Charter Oaks
  • Strange, Bob
  • Slim Bryant and the Wildcats
  • Flecker and Strange


Number: OHMP 169
Name: Hawkins, Ernest "Ernie"
Date of Interview: 12/27/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Guitarist. Founder of Pittsburgh Blues Festival.
Topics Covered:

  • Shady Grove Coffee House
  • Pittsburgh Blues Festival
  • Music Emporium
  • Cohen, Stuart
  • Pettey Music Store
  • Carnegie Tech
  • Ceilidh Folk Music Society ("The Ceilidhs")
  • Hughes, Richard
  • Guitar -- Piedmont Style Playing
  • Gary Belloma and the Blue Bombers


Number: OHMP 170
Name: Sallinger, David
Date of Interview: 12/28/1994
Occupation/Affiliation: Entertainment editor for McKeesport Daily News.
Topics Covered:

  • Pittsburgh Music -- History
  • Classical Music
  • McKeesport Symphony
  • McKeesport Little Theater
  • Big Bands
  • Ethnic Music
  • Country Music
  • Rock Music


Number: OHMP 171
Name: Brenkus, Emil
Date of Interview: 01/03/1995
Occupation/Affiliation: Bass player.
Topics Covered:

  • WPA Orchestra
  • Eddie Peyton's (nightclub)
  • Mercur's Music Bar
  • Spitalny, Maurice
  • Saudek, Victor
  • Carousel (nightclub)
  • Casino Burlesque Theater
  • WCAE Radio
  • Elliott, Baron
  • Benack, Benny
  • Pittsburgh Steelers Jazz Group
  • Beneke, Tex
  • Riverboat Room (William Penn Hotel)


Number: OHMP 172
Name: Scott, Walter
Date of Interview: 01/06/1995
Occupation/Affiliation: Folk musician.
Topics Covered:

  • Hughes, Richard
  • Ceilidh Folk Music Society ("The Ceilidhs")
  • Folk Music
  • Cohen, Stuart
  • Music Emporium
  • Glasser, Howard
  • Balderose, George
  • Calliope House Folk Music Society


Number: OHMP 173
Name: Huot, Joseph
Date of Interview: 01/09/1995
Occupation/Affiliation: Discusses musical life in Pittsburgh.
Topics Covered:

  • Swissvale Eagles Band
  • Covato, Itzie
  • Nirella, Danny
  • Benack, Benny
  • Schmertz, Robert
  • Carnegie Tech
  • Civic Light Opera (CLO) -- Programs


Number: OHMP 174
Name: Harris, Ros
Date of Interview: 01/12/1995
Occupation/Affiliation: Jazz saxophonist with many groups including Syria Shrine Band.
Topics Covered:

  • Sousa, John Philip
  • Jazz
  • Dixieland
  • Carousel (nightclub)
  • Syria Shrine Band
  • Rodef Shalom Temple Summer Jazz
  • Silverman, Jerry


Number: OHMP 175
Name: Levine, Betty K.
Date of Interview: 01/16/1995
Occupation/Affiliation: Hornist and teacher.
Topics Covered:

  • Levin, Stanley
  • Pittsburgh Youth Symphony
  • Pittsburgh Musicians Club Contest
  • Karp, Richard
  • Carnegie Tech
  • Leich, Roland
  • Schmitt, Gladys
  • Reiner, Fritz
  • Nixon Theater Orchestra
  • Rodef Shalom Temple School Choir
  • Pittsburgh Public Schools -- Centers for the Musically Talented
  • Suzuki Method


Number: OHMP 176
Name: Cacase, Anthony "Pap"
Date of Interview: 01/21/1995
Occupation/Affiliation: Saxophonist and teacher.
Date of Death: 05/29/1996
Topics Covered:

  • Italian Boys Band of Lincoln Avenue
  • General Pershing's Band
  • Theater Orchestras -- Silent Films
  • Solfege
  • Vaudeville Theaters
  • Casino Burlesque Theater
  • Reiner, Fritz
  • KDKA Radio
  • Adkins, Max


Number: OHMP 177
Name: Spaulding, George H.
Date of Interview: 01/26/1995
Occupation/Affiliation: Pianist, organist, piano tuner.
Topics Covered:

  • Hollywood Show Bar
  • Garner, Errol
  • Stan Cebek Band
  • National Association of Negro Musicians
  • Gospel Music
  • Crawford Grill
  • Washington Club
  • Tatum, Art
  • Nightclubs -- Hill District
  • Savoy Ballroom
  • Piano and Organ Tuning
  • Orchestra Pitch


Number: OHMP 178
Name: Tole, William "Bill", Sr,
Date of Interview: 01/27/1995
Occupation/Affiliation: Musician and musical instrument salesman.
Topics Covered:

  • Chilcott Quartet
  • D'Ivernois, Philip
  • Polish Falcons Orchestra
  • Arthur, Robert A.
  • Shiner, Matty
  • Marching Bands
  • Pittsburgh Steelers Half-Time Show
  • Fleming, Stanley
  • West View High School Band and Orchestra
  • Babe Rhodes Band
  • Millvale Public Schools Music
  • Traveling Music Salesman
  • Music Stores


Number: OHMP 179
Name: McCully, Robert J. "Bob"
Date of Interview: 02/01/1995
Occupation/Affiliation: Writer for Rege Cordic and Joe Negri.
Topics Covered:

  • Rege Cordic Show
  • Negri, Joe
  • Beck's Charter Oaks
  • Brooks, Albert
  • Ballard, Kaye
  • Laugh In (TV show)
  • Holiday House (nightclub)
  • Hope, Bob


Number: OHMP 180
Name: Cacese, Frank
Date of Interview: 02/02/1995
Occupation/Affiliation: Saxophonist.
Date of Death: 10/12/1996
Topics Covered:

  • Haley, Harry
  • Loew's Penn Theater
  • Catholic Central High School Band
  • Tommy Carlin Band
  • Don Metz's Sky Vue Room
  • Burton, Benny
  • Werner Building
  • Mango, Tony
  • Music Stores


Number: OHMP 181
Name: Hardy, Ruby Young
Date of Interview: 02/07/1995
Occupation/Affiliation: Jazz pianist and organist.
Topics Covered:

  • Honey Boy and the Dancing Bees
  • Celebrity Club
  • Swan, Ruth
  • Two Twenty Club
  • Sherwood East Club
  • Wiegand's Restaurant
  • Black Musicians Union, Local 471
  • Kapphan, Eddie
  • Candy Kids
  • Avery Memorial A.M.E. Zion Church


Number: OHMP 182
Name: Hughes, Richard
Date of Interview: 02/21/1995
Occupation/Affiliation: Folk singer and instrumentalist.
Topics Covered:

  • Coony, Paddy
  • Irish Music -- Sligo Style
  • St. Moritz Hotel
  • Ceilidh Folk Music Society ("The Ceilidhs")
  • Glasser, Howard
  • Hoover, Peter
  • Gypsy Music
  • Seeger, Pete
  • Scott, Walter
  • Folk Festivals
  • Bloomsday Celebration


Number: OHMP 183
Name: Turner, Horace Lee
Date of Interview: 03/01/1995
Occupation/Affiliation: Jazz combo leader & Hill House music director.
Topics Covered:

  • Horace Lee Turner Combo
  • Loendi Club
  • Turner's Record Shop
  • Civic Arena Ticket Agency
  • Record Jobbers
  • Hill House -- Jam Sessions


Number: OHMP 184
Name: Sapienza, James "Jimmy"
Date of Interview: 03/05/1995
Occupation/Affiliation: Band leader and singer with Five Guys Named Moe.
Topics Covered:

  • Carousel (nightclub)
  • Duvall, Mitch
  • Boom Butz Boys Band
  • O'Donnell, Leo
  • Jimmy and the Dukes
  • Louis Jordan and the Tympany Five
  • Five Guys Named Moe (musical group)
  • Purcell, Jack


Number: OHMP 185
Name: Zinman, Isadore
Date of Interview: 03/09/1995
Occupation/Affiliation: Violinist.
Date of Death: 11/23/1999
Topics Covered:

  • Carnegie Tech Community Orchestra
  • Tuesday Musical Chamber Orchestra
  • Jewish Community Center Orchestra
  • Pittsburgh Savoyards Orchestra


Number: OHMP 186
Name: Homburg, Al
Date of Interview: 03/13/1995
Occupation/Affiliation: Music teacher, singer, guitarist, music store owner.
Date of Death: 09/21/1999
Topics Covered:

  • Pittsburgh Steelers
  • Bradshaw, Terry
  • Country Music
  • Brel, Jacques
  • Levin, Stanley
  • Carrick High School
  • McCully, Bob
  • Negri, Joe
  • Odd Chair Playhouse
  • Thomas, Thom
  • Pittsburgh Public Schools
  • School Band Instruments -- Rentals
  • Radio and TV Commercials


Number: OHMP 187
Name: Weiner, Bill
Date of Interview: 03/19/1995
Occupation/Affiliation: Country and blues performer and teacher.
Topics Covered:

  • Country Blues Music
  • Hawkins, Ernie
  • Frankie Gustine's Restaurant
  • Calliope - The Pittsburgh Folk Music Society
  • Blues (Music) -- Teaching
  • Wobbly Joe's Bar
  • Antonio's Bar
  • Pittsburgh Coffee Houses


Number: OHMP 188
Name: Matteo, Ernest
Date of Interview: 02/21/1995
Occupation/Affiliation: Saxophonist, clarinetist, teacher.
Topics Covered:

  • Monte Carlo (nightclub)
  • Bill Green's (nightclub)
  • Westinghouse Electric Band
  • Howdy Baum Orchestra
  • Homer Ochsenhirt Orchestra
  • Benny Benack and the Schoolteachers
  • Riverboat Room (William Penn Hotel)
  • Pittsburgh Pops Orchestra
  • Pirates Fight Song ("Beat 'em Bucs")
  • Liberto, Roy
  • Purcell, Jack
  • Spitalny, Maurice
  • Armstrong, Bernie


Number: OHMP 189
Name: Schreiber, Lou
Date of Interview: 03/24/1995
Occupation/Affiliation: Jazz pianist and instrumentalist, piano tuner.
Topics Covered:

  • Wedding Music
  • Crawford Grill
  • Hurricane Bar and Grill
  • Pittsburgh Press Club
  • Wendell Byrd Trio
  • Christopher's Restaurant
  • Breach, Joyce
  • Costa, Johnny
  • William Penn Hotel
  • Five Guys Named Moe (musical group)
  • Sapienza, Jimmy
  • New Era Sportsmen's Club
  • Rock Music


Number: OHMP 190
Name: Thorpe, Dwayne
Date of Interview: 04/09/1995
Occupation/Affiliation: Folk singer and guitarist.
Topics Covered:

  • Ceilidh Folk Music Society ("The Ceilidhs")
  • Glasser, Howard
  • Folk Singing
  • Balderose, George
  • Calliope - The Pittsburgh Folk Music Society
  • Jug Band Music
  • Smoky City Folk Festival


Number: OHMP 191
Name: Iola, Ida (Molinare)
Date of Interview: 04/25/1995
Occupation/Affiliation: Big band and radio singer.
Topics Covered:

  • Big Bands
  • Martin, Lenny
  • KDKA Radio
  • Ejitzi, Al
  • WWSW Radio
  • Musicians Club
  • Heller, Jackie


Number: OHMP 192
Name: Kloss, Alton G.
Date of Interview: 05/02/1995
Occupation/Affiliation: Western PA School for Blind Children. Eric Kloss.
Date of Death: 12/27/2000
Topics Covered:

  • Western Pennsylvania School for the Blind -- Music Program
  • Kloss, Eric
  • McKinley, Thomas
  • Shearing, George
  • Kuhlman, Katherine


Number: OHMP 193
Name: Franklin, Harry
Date of Interview: 05/11/1995
Occupation/Affiliation: Pianist, teacher, head of Carnegie Mellon University Music Department.
Date of Death: 09/20/2002
Topics Covered:

  • Pittsburgh Symphony
  • Musica Viva
  • Harth, Sidney
  • Siloti, Alexander
  • Carnegie Mellon University -- Department of Music
  • Leich, Roland
  • Fellner, Rudolph
  • Page, Robert
  • Thomas, Marilyn Taft
  • Three Rivers Piano Competition


Number: OHMP 194
Name: Spencer, Scipio
Date of Interview: 05/18/1995
Occupation/Affiliation: Jazz pianist.
Topics Covered:

  • Big Bands
  • Schmidt, Kloman
  • Fillion Music Studios
  • Royalist Jazz Quintet
  • Westray's Hall
  • Pittsburgh Musicians Union (Local 471)
  • Debonaires (musical group)
  • Postal Alliance Club
  • Afro-Americans (musical group)
  • Hill House -- Jam Sessions


Number: OHMP 195
Name: Ponder, Jimmy
Date of Interview: 05/22/1995
Occupation/Affiliation: Jazz guitarist.
Topics Covered:

  • Jazz Guitar
  • Zebra Room
  • Jazz, Pop, and Rap Music
  • Duquesne University School of Music
  • Balcony Shadyside
  • Jimmy Ponder Quartet
  • Pittsburgh Jazz


Number: OHMP 196
Name: Doreza, Mary
Date of Interview: 05/31/1995
Occupation/Affiliation: Director, Greek Odyssey Dancers.
Topics Covered:

  • Greek Folk Dancing
  • Grecian Odyssey Dancers
  • Pittsburgh Folk Festival
  • Greek Music in Pittsburgh


Number: OHMP 197
Name: