These 26 selections, recorded from 1904 to 1922, document the work of an important American player and band composer. Despite the trivial nature of most of the music, one can't help listening to Herbert Clarke's playing with respect and growing affection. He was a most elegant player, with a beautiful tone that comes across even in the earliest of these recordings. The showiest pieces, which can be quite dazzling, are still performed with taste and musicianship. This disc is an important sound document, and the transfers from even the earliest of the recordings are surprisingly listenable. Highly recommended to all brass and nostalgia lovers. --Leslie Gerber