Firehouse Five Plus Two

Firehouse Five Plus Two was a Dixieland jazz band formed by members of the Walt Disney Studios animation department in the late 1940s. Here are some key facts about the group:

1. Formation and Origins: Firehouse Five Plus Two was formed in 1949 by a group of Disney employees who shared a passion for traditional jazz music. The band's lineup initially included members such as trombonist Ward Kimball, clarinetist and band leader George Bruns, drummer Danny Alguire, and trumpeter Harper Goff. The name "Firehouse Five Plus Two" was chosen as a nod to the original members' association with the animation department at Disney, which was housed in a former firehouse.

2. Musical Style and Influences: Firehouse Five Plus Two specialized in Dixieland jazz, a style of jazz music that originated in New Orleans in the early 20th century. Their repertoire consisted of lively and upbeat interpretations of classic jazz standards, as well as original compositions written by band members. The band's musical style was characterized by its energetic rhythms, intricate improvisation, and spirited ensemble playing.

3. Commercial Success and Recognition: Firehouse Five Plus Two quickly gained popularity in the Southern California jazz scene and attracted a devoted following of fans. The band's recordings, featuring spirited renditions of Dixieland favorites, became bestsellers and received extensive airplay on radio stations across the country. Firehouse Five Plus Two's albums, including "The Firehouse Five Plus Two Story" and "At Disneyland", helped introduce Dixieland jazz to a wider audience and contributed to a revival of interest in traditional jazz music during the 1950s and 1960s.

4. Unique Image and Stage Persona: In addition to their musical talent, Firehouse Five Plus Two was known for their colorful stage attire and entertaining stage antics. The band members often performed in vintage firefighter uniforms, complete with helmets and suspenders, adding a playful and nostalgic touch to their performances. Their lively stage presence and sense of humor endeared them to audiences and contributed to the band's appeal as entertainers.

5. Legacy and Influence: Firehouse Five Plus Two left a lasting legacy as one of the most popular and influential Dixieland jazz bands of the mid-20th century. Their recordings continue to be celebrated by jazz enthusiasts around the world, and the band's music remains a cherished part of the Dixieland jazz tradition. Firehouse Five Plus Two's contributions to the preservation and popularization of traditional jazz music have earned them a place in jazz history, ensuring that their music will be enjoyed by future generations of listeners.