'About The Band'

Born in Stockport, where until the 1960’s a principal industry was hat making, his first band, which he joined at the age of 18, was appropriately The Jazz Hatters led by clarinettist Roy Rogers.

National service in the RAF was followed by periods with the Dallas Jazz Band and the Mike Pembroke Hot Seven. During the mid 1960’s he was involved with big band and dance band work but returned to the traditional jazz scene in 1969 with the Manchester based Smoky City Jazz. He became leader of the band in the 80’s and for years the band has enjoyed great popularity within the Northern Jazz scene and Holland and Germany.

Bill, who lives in Romiley, is the perfect lead for any band and he plays well as part of the team or on solos.

His humour on the ‘mike’ and his way of involving the audience ensures everyone enjoys a good night’s jazz.

Bill mainly plays the cornet but is just as adept on the trumpet, flugelhorn, trombone, and harmonica and his vocals are always enthusiastically received.

His excellent technique and versatility means that he is in great demand for dep. work with various styles of band. He lists Humphrey Lyttelton, Harry James, Wild Bill Davison, Muggsy Spanier, Pat Halcox and Alex Welsh as main influences on his style.

Bill’s main work load is playing with the Savannah but he still has regular work with several local bands.