Leo Reisman

Leo F. Reisman (October 11, 1897 – December 18, 1961) was an American violinist and bandleader in the 1920s and 1930s. Inspired by the Russian-American violinist Jascha Heifetz, Reisman studied violin as a young man. After being rejected by the Boston Symphony Orchestra, he formed his own band in 1919. He became famous for having over 80 hits on the popular charts during his career. Jerome Kern called Reisman's orchestra "The String Quartet of Dance Bands".

Biography alt=Advertisement from the June 1929 issue of Variety magazine, inscribed: "Leo Reisman and His Orchestra / Victor Records / On the Vitaphone / Featured at Central Park Casino, New York City". Leo Reisman was born in Boston, Massachusetts, United States. thumb Leo Reisman and His Orchestra, "My Sweeter Than Sweet", by George Marion Jr. and Richard A. Whiting (Victor 22194-A) alt=A 78 rpm record, inscribed: "Victor 22194-A. My Sweeter Than Sweet–Fox Trot. From Paramount picture 'Sweetie'. (Mas Dulce que la Miel). George Marion Jr.–Richard A. Whiting. Leo Reisman and His Orchestra. With vocal refrain."Reisman recorded for Columbia exclusively from July 1923 through March 11, 1929, when he signed with Victor, whom he stayed with until October 1933.

Among his more popular hits were his recordings of Cole Porter's "Night and Day" (1932) and Con Conrad's "The Continental" (1934), plus Astaire's recording of Irving Berlin's "Cheek to Cheek" (1935).

Eddy Duchin was a member of Leo Reisman's orchestra; it was Reisman who gave Duchin his big break. The bandleader and TV personality Mitch Miller was also a member of Reisman's orchestra.

Reisman's work on radio included having the Nine o'Clock Revue, a 30-minute weekly program on the Mutual Broadcasting System in 1937.

Reisman died in New York City on December 18, 1961, at the age of 64.

Charting singles

1940: "Down Argentina Way" (U.S. No. 7) 1940: "Ferry-Boat Serenade" (U.S. No. 19)