Red Hot Harp - Robert Maxwell

Second Avenue Scene

Red Hot Harp
Robert Maxwell
His Harp And Orchestra
Cover Photographs by Robert Randall
MGM Records E3676
1958

From the back cover: The extensive listing of theaters, night clubs, hotels and television shows which have hosted harpist Robert Maxwell gives more than a hint of his popularity with the American Public. Yet, to all intents and purposes, this enormous success of a harpist defies the usual convention. After a few moments o listening to this youthful entertainer performing on his chosen instrument, all doubt to the reason for his popular following will disappear. First and foremost, Robert Maxwell is a musically showman; the harp is merely his channel to entertaining an audience. Bob turns his harp into true theatrical property. Specially fitted with a system of colored lights which he operates with his feet to dramatic effect, the harp takes on a brilliant new role in the Maxwell hands. His repertoire is enormous, including classical selections, show tunes, current novelties and "pop numbers". He can produce mood music or he can, as in this album, "swing". His ability to use his instrument for comic effect as well as straight performance has endeared him to thousands of his fans. Bob's study of the harp has been both comprehensive and unique. While a student in a New York grammar school, he entered a competition with fellow students in a musical aptitude test. He won and was awarded a scholarship to Juilliard School of Music. A choice of instruments was offered to him, but he was so smitten at the sight of a harp that he chose it. His eventual engagement in orchestras in the New York area led to his becoming a member of the National Symphony Orchestra. He was seventeen at the time and the youngest member of that stellar group. Solo recitals in New York and Los Angeles and engagements with such great symphonic conductors as Arturo Toscanini and Serge Koussevitsky followed. But, it was not until Bob became a member of the Coast Guard during the war that he got the chance to show his individuality on the harp. His C.O. was Rudy Vallee, who might be said to have given Bob his first real break. Valley arranged for him to tour the United States and the South Pacific as a soloist entertaining servicemen. This gave the experience and the composure to go on to becoming a solo star in later civilian life. He began modestly in radio, passing quite quickly from there to his present position of fame and demand. He has appeared in motion pictures, on the biggest TV show, and the success of his recording career has been phenomenal. He is the father of two girls, both of who he hopes will become harpists.

Bing Bang Boomerang
Johnson Rag
Runnin' Wild
Just Foolin' Around
Happiness Is A Thing Called Joe
Sing, Sing, Sing (With A Swing)
Don't Get Around Much Anymore
Second Avenue Scene
Tarantula
Lullaby In Rhythm
One O'Clock Jump
Good Night, Sweetheart