Rico Marcelli

Ulderico Marcelli, better known as Rico Marcelli, was a versatile Italian-American composer, conductor, and musical innovator who played a pivotal role in the early days of film and theatrical music. Born on October 3, 1882, Marcelli's remarkable career spanned multiple artistic domains, from classical music to silent film accompaniment and radio performances.

Early Life and Musical Foundations

Marcelli's musical journey began in Italy, where he was educated at a conservatory in the capital. In 1900, he ventured to a new location to teach at a conservatory, though his initial teaching experience was challenging. Despite facing difficulties with students, Marcelli's reputation as a skilled violin player began to grow. His early professional life was marked by personal milestones, including his first marriage to Clementina (1879-1956), with whom he had two daughters, Aida and Gloria Emma. By January 26, 1910, Marcelli and his family, accompanied by his sister Julia, arrived in a new destination that would become crucial to his artistic development.

Rise in Musical Performance and Film Accompaniment

By 1913, Marcelli had established himself as a significant musical figure, becoming a member of an orchestra section and serving as concert master for "Demetrio's Venetian Orchestra of Soloists," a highly regarded cafe orchestra. His career took significant strides in the 1910s and 1920s, particularly in film and theatrical music. In 1915, Marcelli conducted the Exposition Orchestra, and by 1918, he was conducting at the T& Theater, earning widespread admiration. His collaboration with friend Brescia led to notable performances, including a concert at the Tivoli Theatre featuring selections from his Water Colors composition.

Pioneering Musical Accompaniment in Silent Cinema

Marcelli's most innovative work came during the silent film era. In 1923, he arranged the official musical accompaniment for the silent film Salome, working with legendary showman Sid Grauman. He continued to work in various Grauman theaters until the advent of sound films in the late 1920s dramatically changed the musical landscape. His versatility was evident in his ability to transition between different musical contexts. From 1935-1936, he worked as the first bandleader of a show, and in the late 1930s and 1940s, he directed the Rico Marcelli Symphony Orchestra, performing outdoor concerts that attracted massive audiences. A notable 1940 performance featured his orchestra backing a prominent singer, drawing up to 165,000 people.

Personal Life and Artistic Pursuits

Beyond music, Marcelli was a Renaissance man with diverse interests. In his leisure time, he pursued painting, exhibiting oil landscapes at the Bohemian Club in 1922. His works, including "Cabeza de Estudio" and "A Bit of Old California," showcased his artistic range. Marcelli's personal life continued to evolve. On Christmas Day in 1937, he married his second wife, a violin soloist from the Fibber McGee band. They had a son, Victor Ottavio Marcelli, who would later join the Bohemian Club.

Legacy and Final Years

Throughout his career, Marcelli composed numerous works, including operas, symphonic sketches, and Grove Plays. His compositions ranged from Maimundis in 1914 to A Soldier and Mr. Lincoln in 1961, demonstrating his enduring creativity. Marcelli passed away on August 17, 1962, in California, leaving behind a rich musical legacy. His second wife, Audrey Call Marcelli, established a memorial music scholarship in his honor, ensuring his contribution to music would be remembered.

Works and Appearances

Radio and Musical Performances

• Conductor, Exposition Orchestra (1915)
• Conductor, T& Theater (1918)
• Bandleader (1935-1936)
• Director, Rico Marcelli Symphony Orchestra (Late 1930s-1940s)

Compositions

• Maimundis (1914, one-act opera)
• Marseillaise (1914, musical accompaniment)
• Water Colors: Four Symphonic Sketches (1918)
• Ilya of Murom (1920, Grove Play)
• Lifkronen (1937, Grove Play)
• Tandem Triumphans (1952, Grove Play)
• Don Quijote (1955, Grove Play)
• Aloha Oe: a Legend of Hawaii (1958, Grove Play)
• A Soldier and Mr. Lincoln (1961, Grove Play)

Film

• Musical Accompaniment, Salome (1923)

Other Artistic Pursuits

• Oil Painting (Landscapes exhibited at Bohemian Club in 1922)