Karl King

Full biography Karl King

Karl Lawrence King was an American composer and bandmaster who was born on February 21 , 1891, in Ohio. He dropped out of school in eighth grade and began playing in local bands as a teenager. Despite his lack of formal musical training, he went on to become one of the most celebrated composers of circus marches in the United States.

King's career as a bandmaster began in 1910 when he enlisted in the U.S. Army and played the cornet in the 27th Infantry Band. After his discharge, he joined the famous Barnum and Bailey Circus Band, where he played for several years before becoming the bandmaster. He continued to write music while working for the circus, and in 1913, he wrote what would become his most famous composition, "Barnum and Bailey's Favorite."

King left the circus in 1920 to become a freelance composer and bandmaster. He continued to write circus marches, but he also expanded his repertoire to include waltzes, overtures, and other types of music. He also served as the director of several bands, including the Fort Dodge, Iowa Municipal Band, which he led from 1920 to 1966.

Over the course of his career, King composed over 300 works, including more than 180 circus marches. His music was known for its lively, upbeat rhythms and catchy melodies, which often reflected the themes and events of circus performances. Some of his most famous works include "Mikado March," "Barnum and Bailey's Favorite," and "The Melody Shop."

King was inducted into the American Bandmasters Association in 1943, and he received numerous other honors and awards throughout his career. He died on March 31, 1971, but his music continues to be played and enjoyed by bands and music lovers around the world.