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The Mystery of Benny Goodman’s Missing Clarinet
Clarinetists and non-clarinetists alike are undoubtedly familiar with the name and fame of Benny Goodman (1909-1986). As the “King of Swing,” he was known for hits such as “Sing, Sing, Sing,” and his musical influence was an inspiration for future generations of musicians. We all know I love a good clarinet mystery, so I was intrigued when I came across a newspaper article from 1955 mentioning a clarinet Benny Goodman was trying to track down. From the Star-News, July 21, 1955: “Missing Clarinet” Paul Marshburn, who has brought some musical shows to Wilmington, has a new ‘musical’ job at present. He is trying to locate a clarinet. Seems that Benny…