Biography
Born Mary Colston around 1900 in Denver, Colorado, she benefited during her school years from a local commitment to forward-thinking music instruction. Wilberforce Whiteman, father of Paul Whiteman, headed the district’s music program and guided numerous students who later entered the profession. She first approached the piano at home by imitating the lessons assigned to her sister; her rapid progress prompted her parents to offer active support. School studies broadened her training, which she supplemented with private instruction. The curriculum covered both classical works and the popular styles of the early twentieth century, giving her an unusually broad command of material.
In the early 1920s she joined George Morrison’s showband as one of its two pianists; the group enjoyed wide popularity throughout the Midwest. Andy Kirk, also a member, expressed strong admiration for her playing. They married in 1925 and for a period performed together in ensembles led by Morrison. Andy Kirk eventually departed to form his own orchestra, after which his wife reduced her public appearances in order to raise their child. Her professional work ended at that point, though she retained a lifelong interest in music and continued to perform in private settings and at church.
In the early 1920s she joined George Morrison’s showband as one of its two pianists; the group enjoyed wide popularity throughout the Midwest. Andy Kirk, also a member, expressed strong admiration for her playing. They married in 1925 and for a period performed together in ensembles led by Morrison. Andy Kirk eventually departed to form his own orchestra, after which his wife reduced her public appearances in order to raise their child. Her professional work ended at that point, though she retained a lifelong interest in music and continued to perform in private settings and at church.
Singles
