Atmosphere Music at the Theme Parks
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The Dapper Dans
They'll soon be celebrating 40 years at Disneyland.

In the Disney theme parks around the world there are so many things that catch your eye. The architecture, the grand landscaping, and the overall scenery all draw each visitor into the mystical world of each park. But there is one more thing, I believe, that makes the Disney experience different from other theme parks. That element is the atmosphere talent groups carefully placed throughout the park.

Not only do these groups provide an escape from the perils of those long queues; they also offer a chance for the guests to become part of the show. Disney has had a long tradition of atmosphere talent groups, especially musical groups. The original Disneyland Band was only hired for a two week run, but with the favorable crowd response the band attained Walt immediately gave them an extension, which has run almost 45 years now.

In the years to come atmosphere talent created many memories while entertaining the guests at Disneyland. The Make Believe Brass was a staple of Fantasyland in the late 80’s playing an irreverent mix of music. All decked out in medieval costumes, including a Viking hat, the Make Believe Brass was one of the more whimsical performing groups in the Kingdom. This whimsical approach made for a very humorous display of musical talents. This type of atmosphere talent is what separated Disneyland from the other local theme parks. The stage was set with the architecture, but the mood was brought to life with the music. Today you can still hear the Make Believe Brass through their CDs entitled 18 Wild Wacky & Winsome Works and The Make Believe Brass / Disneyland Brass Ensemble.

When you walk down Main Street, U.S.A. you hear the sounds of many classic melodies. But once you reach the end of Main Street you hear the sounds of ragtime. The sound you hear is actually live music played five days a week by Rod Miller. If you think Mr. Miller looks like the same guy who was playing the piano when you last visited, you're probably right. Rod has been playing at the park for over 30 years. In his many years, Mr. Miller has seen many changes. He recants stories told to him when he started there about the days of Walt himself, and oddly enough remembers people for years after they visit. Rod has two CD’s available for purchase,  both great additions to any Disney musical library. The second CD is a new release, which includes Rod and Alan Thompson Jr. playing favorites on four-hand piano.