Larry Shields: The Clarinet Maestro of Dixieland Jazz

Pioneering the Sound of Early Jazz

Larry Shields is renowned for being a founding member of the Original Dixieland Jazz Band, the first jazz band to record commercially. His clarinet virtuosity and innovative playing style not only propelled the band to national prominence but also influenced generations of jazz musicians to come.

A New Orleans Upbringing

Born on September 13, 1893, in Uptown New Orleans, Shields grew up in a musical Irish-American family. His brothers Harry, Pat, and Eddie were all professional musicians, and the family's musical inclinations rubbed off on Larry from an early age. At 14, he began playing the clarinet, eventually joining Papa Jack Laine's bands and honing his skills alongside other influential New Orleans musicians.

The Move to Chicago and the Birth of Dixieland Jazz

In 1915, Shields made the bold move to Chicago, where he joined Bert Kelly's band and later Tom Brown's band. This marked the beginning of his journey towards becoming a pioneer of Dixieland jazz. In November 1916, he became an integral part of the Original Dixieland Jass Band (ODJB), which would go on to make history by recording the first jazz phonograph records in 1917.

A Legacy of Influence

Shields' playing style, showcased through his work with the ODJB, had a profound impact on later jazz clarinetists. His influence can be seen in the playing of legendary musicians like Benny Goodman, and even inspired Dink Johnson to take up the clarinet. The ODJB's classic compositions, such as "Clarinet Marmalade" (co-written with Henry Ragas), "At the Jazz Band Ball," "Ostrich Walk," and more, remain timeless jazz standards to this day.

A Life of Performance and Travel

After leaving the ODJB in 1921, Shields continued to perform and tour with various bands in New York City, including a brief stint with Paul Whiteman. He later moved to Los Angeles, leading his own band and making appearances in Hollywood films. The 1930s saw him return to Chicago, where he rejoined the reformed ODJB. Shields' later years took him back to New Orleans and eventually California, where he passed away on November 21, 1953.

Personal Milestones and Key Life Events

• September 13, 1893: Born in Uptown New Orleans
• 1915: Moved to Chicago and joined Bert Kelly's band
• 1916: Joined the Original Dixieland Jass Band (ODJB)
• 1917: Recorded the first jazz phonograph records with the ODJB
• 1921: Left the ODJB and performed with various bands in New York City
• 1930s: Returned to Chicago and rejoined the reformed ODJB
• November 21, 1953: Passed away in Los Angeles

A Lasting Impact on Jazz

Larry Shields' remarkable journey as a clarinetist, composer, and performer has left an indelible mark on the world of jazz. His groundbreaking work with the Original Dixieland Jazz Band paved the way for future generations of musicians, ensuring that his legacy continues to swing to the rhythms of time.