1. Band Master and Composer Extraordinaire
Karl King
Band Master and Composer Extraordinaire

2. General Biography Born 21 February 1891 in Paintersville, Ohio
First instrument was the cornet
First published at age 17
First professional engagements with the Thayer Military Band and the Neddermeyer Band at age 18
26 years old became the director of the Barnum and Bailey Band

3. Education King had little formal education 4 piano lessons
Taught himself composition by studying the scores of over pieces of music.

4. Employment At 22 joined the Barnum and Bailey Circus Band
Age 26 Director of the Sells-Floto/Buffalo Bill Circus Band
Age 29 Director of the Fort Dodge Municipal Band, remained for 52 years
The Karl L. King Music House

5. Accolades President of the American Bandmasters Association
Honorary Ph.D. in music from Phillips University in Oklahoma
Director of the world record holding largest band, 13252, for the University of Michigan Halftime show on National TV

6. Compositions Composed over 300 pieces
Composed a variety of different types of pieces
Almost 200 of these works are marches
Other types of his works include galops, waltzes, overtures, rags, and serenades

7. Marches
His most famous piece was written in 1913 called Barnum and Bailey’s favorite
Other well known marches The Big Cage, Pride of the Illini, and Voice of America

8. Influence
Instrumental in passing a law that allowed a city to levy a tax to support the municipal band
Pushed to grow the high school band movement

9. Character Known for his integrity, and amiability
Never said anything bad about anybody
Worked hard and expected the same from his band
Didn’t think himself above those in the band

10. Sources http://karlking.us/ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karl_King