The Clarinda-born bandleader whose “In the Mood” and “Moonlight Serenade” defined the Swing Era.
Alton Glenn Miller was born on March 1, 1904, in Clarinda, in southwest Iowa. A trombonist and arranger, he formed the Glenn Miller Orchestra, which became the most popular band in America at the height of the Swing Era.
Hits like “In the Mood,” “Moonlight Serenade,” “Chattanooga Choo Choo,” and “Pennsylvania 6-5000” topped the charts. During World War II he led the Army Air Forces Band, and in December 1944 his plane vanished over the English Channel.
Miller's sound still defines the big-band era for generations of listeners, and his mysterious wartime disappearance only deepened his legend. His Iowa hometown celebrates him each year with the Glenn Miller Festival and a dedicated birthplace museum.
His recordings remain among the best-selling of their time.
The Clarinda-born bandleader whose “In the Mood” and “Moonlight Serenade” defined the Swing Era.
Glenn Miller was from Clarinda, Iowa.
1904–1944.
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