Author Description

Whether it was at President Reagan's Inaugural Ball in Washington, D.C., the Mark Hopkins Hotel in San Francisco, or the Royal Hawaiian Hotel in Honolulu, Del Courtney's Orchestra has been a favorite of dancing and listening America since the Big Band Era. Del Courtney has enjoyed one of the most rewarding careers that music has ever offered to anyone - as his musical life span has extended over the Big Band Era of the 30s, 40s and 50s, through the rock craze, to the current nostalgic Big Band Sounds. Success grew as he became a favorite of the airwaves and dancing America; wherever he appeared - night clubs, hotels, theatres and major ballrooms: such renown spots as Coconut Grove Ambassador Hotel (Los Angeles), Palmer House, Blackhawk Restaurant (Chicago) Aragon-Trianon Ballrooms, Paramount Theatre (New York), Glen Island Casino (Long Island). During this period Del established many lifelong professional relations with virtually every name entertainer from Frank Sinatra on down. He has been quite a Talent Scout as well. He discovered Johnny Mathis and signed him for his KPIX - TV Show. While on radio, he spotted an office girl with an unusual wit, and a $75 a week salary. After a few side- splitting interviews on Radio KSFO, Phyllis Diller rocketed into night club and television stardom. Dave Brubeck credits Del with first inspiring him to play jazz, emerging as one of the greats in jazz. The original Kingston Trio dominated top-selling album lists after getting their acclaim on Del's show. Del also gave Hollywood a whirl. He appeared in "It Came From Beneath The Sea," "Chicago at Night" and "John Loves Mary." Del was a successful producer of National Television Shows after starring in "San Francisco Beat" and" Harbor Command." Being married at one time to Yvonne King of The King Sisters, he produced and co-hosted "The King Family" TV Show on ABC. In the 1960s, Del served as Administration Director and Entertainment Director, producing all half-time shows for the O