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Ensemble

 

The Les Baxter Orchestra was a prominent classical music ensemble that was founded in the mid-20th century. The orchestra was named after its founder, Les Baxter, who was a renowned composer, arranger, and conductor. Baxter was born in 1922 in Texas and began his music career as a pianist and arranger for radio and film. He later became a prolific composer and arranger, working with some of the biggest names in the music industry. Baxter formed the Les Baxter Orchestra in the 1950s, and the ensemble quickly gained a reputation for its innovative and eclectic approach to classical music. The orchestra was known for its lush, sweeping arrangements, which blended elements of classical, jazz, and world music. Baxter's compositions were often inspired by exotic locales and cultures, and he was particularly interested in the music of the South Pacific. The Les Baxter Orchestra was comprised of some of the most talented musicians of the era, including saxophonist Plas Johnson, guitarist Howard Roberts, and drummer Earl Palmer. The ensemble also featured a number of vocalists, including the legendary Yma Sumac, who was known for her powerful and exotic singing style. One of the highlights of the Les Baxter Orchestra's career was their performance at the 1957 Academy Awards ceremony. The orchestra performed Baxter's composition "April Love," which was nominated for Best Original Song. The performance was a huge success, and the orchestra received widespread acclaim for their lush and romantic arrangement. The Les Baxter Orchestra also recorded a number of successful albums throughout the 1950s and 1960s. Their 1958 album "Jungle Jazz" was particularly popular, and featured a number of Baxter's compositions inspired by the music of Africa and the Caribbean. The album was a critical and commercial success, and helped to cement the orchestra's reputation as one of the most innovative and exciting ensembles in classical music. In addition to their recordings and performances, the Les Baxter Orchestra also received a number of awards and accolades throughout their career. Baxter himself was nominated for several Academy Awards for his film scores, and the orchestra was awarded a Grammy Award in 1960 for their album "The Colors of Brazil." Despite their success, the Les Baxter Orchestra disbanded in the late 1960s, as Baxter shifted his focus to other projects. However, the ensemble's legacy lives on, and their innovative and eclectic approach to classical music continues to inspire musicians and audiences around the world.

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