Frank Christian Westphal (June 15, 1889 – November 23, 1948) was an American pianist, dance band leader and composer who recorded in the 1920s, following the end of his marriage to singer Sophie Tucker.
[citation needed] In 1916, though their personal relationship continued, Westphal withdrew from the act, and was instead installed as proprietor of the Sophie Tucker Garage.
"[5] His musicians included, at various times, Charles Burns and Austyn Edwards (trumpets), Herb Winfield (trombone), Bill and Jack Richards (saxophones), John Jensen (tuba) and Earl Roberts (banjo).
", as well as novelty piano pieces played by Westphal in the style of Zez Confrey and Edward Claypoole such as "Pianola" and "Dusting The Keys",[3] which are "testimonies to his immense skill at the keyboard".
He formed a new band, the All American Pioneers, and became the studio director of radio station WENR in Chicago, where he performed regularly and remained until the 1930s.