Well-known as a leading provider of new and used books on jazz, Arthur Newman has been collecting jazz recordings since 1946. He has concentrated on books since around 1978, turning a hobby into a business. He remains active in a number of jazz organizations, including Record Research in New York (since 1972), IAJRC (since 1964), and the Duke Ellington Society (since 1988). He writes "My interest in jazz started with the Swing Era. I favored the swing bands and danced to many of them during that period. A few highlights -- I was at the Savoy Ballroom the night Benny Goodman "battled" Chick Webb. I attended Benny Goodman's Carnegie Hall Concert as well as the 40th reunion concert. I spent my summers at Manhattan Beach in Brooklyn. A different band appeared each week for afternoon concerts, two hours each day. Dancing at night for four hours. No black bands. I heard them at the theaters and danced to them in hotels. I think that covers my life -- in a very brief summary. It took 78 years to get where I am. Still a New Yorker at heart!" His book service can be reached: Arthur L. Newman 10325 Elk River Ct. Fountain Valley, CA 92708 714 968 3706, All Music Guide