Cy Laurie

Cy Laurie (1926-2002) was a prominent British jazz clarinetist and bandleader, known for his traditional or "trad" jazz style. He was a key figure in the British trad jazz revival of the 1950s and 1960s.

Laurie began playing clarinet as a teenager and formed his first band in the late 1940s. He gained a strong following with his energetic performances and dedication to the New Orleans jazz tradition. His band became a regular fixture at venues such as the London Jazz Club and the Marquee Club.

Laurie's band featured a rotating lineup of talented musicians, many of whom went on to have successful careers in their own right. He was admired for his showmanship and his ability to connect with audiences.

He recorded extensively and toured throughout the UK and Europe. While the trad jazz scene faded somewhat in the late 1960s, Laurie continued to perform and remained a respected figure in British jazz circles until his death. His contributions helped popularize traditional jazz in Britain and influenced a generation of musicians.