Phil Sparling was a well known and highly regarded musician who led a full musical life in London Ontario. What is lesser known is his role in one of the best swing bands in World War 2 - the RCAF Streamliners, a Canadian Air Force band that entertained armed forces all over Europe, winning the admiration and respect of the legendary American bandleader Glenn Miller. Phil played reed instruments with the Streamliners from when it was first formed in 1941 until it disbanded in 1946.
Phil's son, Andy Sparling, wanted to know more about this group and over the years has assembled a very detailed account of its history, personnel and contribution to armed forces morale. All this was accomplished from input from his father and then filling the gaps with interviews with descendants, from archives, museums, newspapers, and a survivor of the original band.
The complete book titled "Dance Through Darkness" is a "must" for everyone with a passion for the big band era.