Hello!
I'm an on-air volunteer at a public radio station. I'm currently the jazz show host and although I have always had a fondness for Fats Waller, my quest for new (old) music has led me to some great finds. However, I want to do the right thing and pronounce the names right.
I saw that you had a great many questions already answered so I was relieved to read I've been pronouncing "Beiderbecke" the way that was explained in this forum. Jean Goldkette was another, so thanks! However, here's one I'm stuck on: Muggsy Spanier.
Do I say "SPAN-yer" or "span-YAY?" Or something different?
Let me know your thoughts. Neat forum!
Pronunciation Help
6 posts
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Pronunciation Help
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Jennie Oh
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Joe Mosbrook
SPAN-yer.
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Fred
Pronunciation rules aren't as definitely applied to proper nouns, though... family names being one instance. The person with the name is the last word on how it's pronounced.
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Jennie Oh
...but I can't exactly ask Muggsy, unfortunately! Instead I have to rely on his fans and those who knew him.
In any case, I assume long-time aficionados of early jazz are a better bet than me
Thanks!
In any case, I assume long-time aficionados of early jazz are a better bet than me

Thanks!
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Jennie Oh
Thank you, Joe!SPAN-yer.
That was how I wanted to pronounce it. I appreciate the help!
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Fred
On the subject of jazz piano, albeit contemporary, possibly this is of interest. Saw her once onstage at the piano with Mingus Big Band....but I can't exactly ask Muggsy, unfortunately! Instead I have to rely on his fans and those who knew him.
In any case, I assume long-time aficionados of early jazz are a better bet than me
Thanks!
The following links to an episode of Piano Jazz radio program from 2012, and Sung speaking with Marian McPartland.
http://www.npr.org/2012/06/29/102648227 ... piano-jazz