Alan Phillips - Banjo and Vocals
Alan was with Black Swan between 1990 and 1995 and rejoined the ensemble from 1998 into 2006.
Originally a french horn major at the University of Oregon, Alan realized the day was fast approaching when his parents would stop paying his bills. After 5 years of college and playing his degree recital he left (just two 100 level courses short of completing his degree - "oh happy parents!") to study piano tuning and restoration in Boston. This combined his love of music with a more practical approach to making a living.
Piano tuning has given Alan the flexibility to also be a part-time musician. The french horn has become a guitar or a banjo. He has performed with the Eugene Symphony and the Oregon Festival of American Music. He was a member of the Misty Water Drifters, the Drag Kings, the Hackers and the Emerald City Jazz Kings. Alan currently is leader of the Eugene based string/swing band SWANG.
Discography
Alan Phillips plays and sings on the following Black Swan recordings:
- Dance Hall Favorites
- Feel the Spirit
- This Joint is Jumpin'
- Ragtime Revelry
- A Joyful Noise
- Mama's Gone Goodbye
- Spreadin' Rhythm Around
- Sweet Substitute
- Sweet Lotus Blossom
- Woodsheddin'
In addition, Alan can be heard on:
- A 1988 recording, the Misty Water Drifters (no longer available)
- A 2002 recording, Swang (available by emailing Alan Phillips)
Other Links
- Snapshots of Alan Phillips in performance
- Read or print a copy of the Band Biography in .PDF Format