The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

I just put up a version of the American Fantasie by Victor Herbert as done by the New York Military band. Its a rather loud but interesting piece. The ending is over the top in its complicated repetitive horns and instruments. Over done might be the word.. After I listened to it I noticed on the list of records You Tube put up it had another early victor 78 of the same title so I checked it out. This time its conducted by the Composer him self. What a difference. It has a lot of very introspective type sounds in it, most of which is totally missing in the Edison version. I really would prefer the Victor version had Edison recorded it. I have never really checked out comparisons of the same selection on You tube to see what various companies did with what they say is the same piece. It might make for some interesting comparisons.

I know that in my many orchestral 78's I have Victor Herbert conducting on Victor. I don't recall if I still have that version or not.

Larry

Indeed, the Victor Herbert Victor is terrific. I have the DD and I'm sure I've played it at least once, but it must not have left much of an impression on me or it would be in one of my machines rather than shelved downstairs.

Sean

I've not heard either version but I'm sure you are right.

Conversely, I've got the "US Field Artillery March" on Edison disc by NY Military band and on Victor by the Victor Military band. The Victor version is pale and flat sounding compared to the really Excellent sound of the Edison etched disc. Both discs are in excellent condition and recorded about the same time.

Same with "Stars and Stripes Forever" I've got it on Edison Blue Amberol by Sousa's band and that recording will knock your socks off. Also have it on Edison Disc by Sodero's band, (terrible) and on a 12 inch Victor (mediocre).

I think Victor Herbert's version on Victor is played by an orchestra while the Edison version is by a band. Big difference! I think the only records I have of Victor Herbert conducting is on his record of Babes in Toyland where he portrays the sound of the toys in Santa's workshop. I also have it on Edison BA. It is one of the great recordings.