Emil Chaquette was a violinist and leader of a 'society orchestra' in the early 1900s. Chaquette and well-known pianist Eddie Kuhn joined forces to create the seven-piece Kuhn-Chaquette Orchestra in 1918. Loren McMurray, a star saxophonist in the scene, joined them and their individual fame set the young group up for success. The Kuhn-Chaquette Orchestra became a very popular band in the Midwest that even incorporated dancers into their performances. Their fame spread, granting them national recognition and attention from major showbusiness corporations such as the American Entertainment Industry in New York City. Chaquette is pictured here likely in his early to mid-twenties, wearing an orchestra tuxedo and a slicked-down hairstyle popular for the time. He is seated with crossed arms and a genuine smile conveys the friendliness and approachability of his young age.