Written by JS (12/2016), transcribed and reformatted by JS (12/2016)
Peter Albin
Professional musician with Big Brother and the Holding Company by Jay Smith
Jay Smith: How did you become involved with model aviation?
Peter Albin: My older brother was a major influence by letting me see how he built and flew a U-Control [Control Line] model, powered by a Fox .35 in the early 1950s. He also designed and built model boats out of balsa wood. I would go with him to the local hobby shop to buy supplies.
I built my first stick-and-tissue model when I was 12. I became interested in World War I biplanes when I was in my early 20s. I was also influenced by Ron “Pig Pen” McKernan when he showed me his completed Sinbad glider.
JS: How has model aviation impacted your life and/or career?
PA: When Big Brother and the Holding Company went on the road for extended periods of time, I would build small models in my hotel room. Sometimes I would fly them over the heads of the audience and let them become souvenirs of the show.
During the ‘70s, I worked part time at a local hobby shop, then worked full time at a wholesale distribution company that focused on dollhouse supplies and supplies and tools for architectural modelers. I also taught aeromodeling for a few years at local schools.
JS: What disciplines of modeling do you currently participate in?
PA: I’ve concentrated on small, stick-and-tissue Free Flight Scale models. I started with WWI biplanes, then branched out to all sorts of types: early flying machines, Golden Age, World War II, postwar designs. I build mostly from kits, although occasionally I’ll find a plan I like. I’ve dabbled in RC gliders and model rocketry, but I concentrate on flying Indoor Scale [models]. JS: What are your other hobbies?
PA: I collect various things - stamps, flattened pennies, spinning tops, T-shirts, and yo-yos - but mostly ‘60s rock posters. I also enjoy N Scale model railroading.
JS: Who (or what) has influenced you most?
PA: I was influenced and mentored by some great aeromodelers in the San Francisco Bay Area: Hal Mackinson, Tom Brennan, Mat Callahan, and Paul Stober. I’ve also been influenced by authors and designers such as Bill Hannan and Walt Mooney.
Model magazines also influenced me. I got some great hints and tips from articles in Model Builder magazine, Flying Models, Jr. American Modeler, and, of course, Model Aviation magazine.
JS: Looking back over your musical care what are you most proud of?
PA: I’m proud of Big Brother’s 1968 recording, Cheap Thrills, on Columbia Records, and proud of the many performances all over the world.
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