For those living in the Bay of Quinte region of Southern Ontario prior to 1990, few can forget the charming (tropical) nightspot known simply as "Club Cedars" — the quintessential ‘place to be’ to enjoy live music and dancing every Friday/Saturday evening for more than forty years. Residing along the Moira River, just north of Cannifton dam, Club Cedars immerged quietly in the 1930’s as a simple ‘open-air’ venue, hosting seasonal dances for local residents and summertime travellers. With popularity growing into the 1940’s, the weather-prone facility was soon enclosed, offering ‘year-round’ enjoyment to patrons of the Big Band Swing Era. In 1957, the Club experienced its final incarnation, when owner John Skurka recontructed the hall, revealing the starlit tropical oasis that contemporary enthusiasts fondly recall.
— Saturday, June 24, 1978 —
Renowned for its classic ‘Big Band’ sound, the [often ten-piece] Frank Howard Orchestra was a Saturday night staple at Cedars for nearly two decades, offering so-called ‘older’ audiences a welcomed journey back to yesteryear. Throughout the 1970’s, Frank’s pension for showcasing young talent nurtured support from many local musicians, culminating in the debut of four new regulars by September of 1977. Embracing the influence of youthful energy and an ever-changing musical climate, the Frank Howard Orchestra treated loyal followers to an eclectic mix of Big Band standards, Pop ballads, and Disco favourites for many of the Club’s remaining years. The live recording made on June 24, 1978 (presented here) is a nostalgic snapshot of that time ...
In their original context, these recordings were never intended to capture the ‘true’ sound of the band — say, from an audience perspective. Rather, their existence is purely clinical; a private ‘learning tool’ used to critique my typical performance. [Thus, discriminating listeners will likely find the rhythm guitar overpowering at times.] Though the recordings served their intended purpose well, I find myself now — some thirty years on — somewhat regretful, reminiscing instead a more authentic listening experience. Nevertheless, I am pleased to share this memorable evening of music ‘as is’, knowing that the recordings herein are perhaps the sole survivors of that magical era.
I feel extremely fortunate to have shared with Frank his passion for this marvellous experience, and so, wish to thank him (indeed all the band members) for our many years together. — Glen Edwards, 1975-1980, (1985, 1986)
