Role

:

Composer

Birth

:

December 26, 1891 in Columbus, KS

Death

:

December 31, 1987 in Sarasota, FL

 

Merle Evans was an American composer and conductor who is best known for his contributions to the world of circus music. Born on February 5, 1891, in Peru, Indiana, Evans grew up in a musical family. His father was a bandmaster, and his mother was a pianist. From a young age, Evans showed a natural talent for music, and he began playing the cornet when he was just six years old. Evans' musical education began in earnest when he enrolled at the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music in 1908. There, he studied under the renowned cornetist Jules Levy, who was known for his virtuosic performances and innovative techniques. Under Levy's tutelage, Evans honed his skills as a cornet player and began to develop his own unique style. After completing his studies at the conservatory, Evans joined the Barnum and Bailey Circus as a cornet player. He quickly rose through the ranks and was eventually appointed as the circus's bandmaster. In this role, Evans was responsible for composing and arranging music for the circus's performances, as well as conducting the band during shows. Over the course of his career, Evans composed hundreds of pieces of music for the circus, many of which have become classics of the genre. Some of his most famous works include "Barnum and Bailey's Favorite," "The Big Cage," and "The Billboard March." These pieces are characterized by their lively rhythms, catchy melodies, and intricate arrangements, which showcase Evans' skill as a composer and arranger. In addition to his work with the circus, Evans was also a prolific composer of concert music. He wrote several symphonies, as well as numerous works for brass band and wind ensemble. His concert music is characterized by its lush harmonies, soaring melodies, and intricate counterpoint, which demonstrate his mastery of classical composition techniques. Throughout his career, Evans was recognized as one of the leading figures in the world of circus music. He was a frequent guest conductor of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum and Bailey Circus, and he also conducted the bands of several other circuses, including the Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus and the Cole Brothers Circus. In addition, he was a sought-after guest conductor for symphony orchestras and wind ensembles, and he conducted several recordings of his own music. Despite his success as a composer and conductor, Evans remained humble and dedicated to his craft throughout his life. He was known for his tireless work ethic and his commitment to excellence, and he inspired countless musicians with his passion for music. He died on December 14, 1957, at the age of 66, leaving behind a legacy of music that continues to inspire and delight audiences to this day.

More....