Arthur & George McFarland born 26 November 1906

Arthur & George C. McFarland  (born 26 November 1906) were twin saxophonists active during the late 20’s through to the mid 40’s.

Born in Long Island, New York, Art and George played with the Fred Waring Orchestra until 1929 when they did solo engagements. They were the first to play at the Cavalier Beach Club which opened on Memorial Day in 1929. George played alto sax and brother Arthur the tenor sax.

By the late 30’s they decided to expand into the dance band arena. 

Whether or not they were truly representative of this genre is debatable. Their stylized sound was widely described as ‘Mickey Mouse’ by critics, with its accent on novelty and irreverent fun. Nevertheless they persevered, and in the 40s switched their style to a more polished, musical standpoint. Engagements in this period saw them include pianist Geoff Clarkson in their ranks, alongside singers Betty Engells, Dick Merrick and the Norton Sisters.

                              

They recorded regularly for OKeh Records, including their theme song, ‘Darkness’, and proved a popular if light-hearted attraction at various ballrooms throughout America. The McFarland Twins band also did a single session with Bluebird in January 1942 that featured young Don Cornell on vocal singing "Hey Zeke. However, by the advent of World War II the novelty of their fraternal leadership had grown thin and they rarely performed again.

Arthur died July 17, 2008 in Carmel California and George apparently died during 1997.

(Info very scarce but edited mainly from AllMusic and  Stoddards Hale blog - Any more information about these two would be gladly received)