We invite you to enjoy the music of various groups we collectively refer to as the Novelaires. The membership and actual name changed over the years from the early 1950's through the 1980's, but was always built around Mel and Glenn Crocker. Their close harmony, with Mel singing lead and Glenn as tenor, was nurtured from childhood and formed the consistency and unity around which others could quickly adapt.
Most of the music on these pages is taken from old (often very old) reel-to-reel recordings of their practices. These were frequently made with their children as an audience. Due to the age of the tapes, the vintage of the equipment, as well as other factors, the quality is often poor. Modern software has helped with cleanup but there is only so much that can be done. Nevertheless, some came out very nice.
On March 15, 2024 Glenn Crocker's Celebration of Life service was held at Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Palm Springs. Click the links below to watch the entire service or the 5 and 12 minute video tributes to him.
Watch the Service - 5-min Tribute to Glenn Crocker - 12-min Tribute to Glenn Crocker
Please note that I am continuing to work on this site to bring it up to current standards. So far I think I've made it look a bit more appealing and useful. I've added some videos and hope to add photographs and stories. Thank you for your patience and please check back in often to see if I've added anything new.
With love,
Gary Crocker, March 2024