Pasadena Roof Orchestra

Formed in November 1969 by Johnny Arthy, a British enthusiast of 1920s jazz intent on directing a dance-oriented big band steeped in jazz influences, the Pasadena Roof Orchestra specialized in repertoire from 1923 through 1937. Arthy chose the name after developing a fondness for the little-known song “Pasadena.” The ensemble delivered its debut performance in April 1970, and Arthy soon acquired an unexpected trove when an elderly woman—whose father had served as musical director for a 1920s dance band—offered him 1,500 original arrangements from that decade at a nominal cost. Initially the group convened just once weekly, yet the release of its debut album in 1974 brought sufficient success for the musicians to turn professional and increase their schedule dramatically. Momentum grew further with a European tour in 1975, after which the orchestra maintained a steady workload and recorded at regular intervals, issuing its earliest sides on Transatlantic before concentrating subsequent efforts on its own P.R.O. label. Because the Pasadena Roof Orchestra functions principally as a dance band, none of its alumni have become widely recognized soloists; instead the ensemble has consistently emphasized vivid section work, vocals in period style, and concise solo passages, all rendered in the pre-swing manner the musicians hold in high regard.