An appreciation of the career of British composer and jazz pianist Michael Garrick, from his early days at Enfield Grammar, National Service in the RAF, the Met Office, university, and early forays in the jazz world of 1950s London. Becoming a full-time musician in 1965, Garrick has remained steadfast to his cause, and we read of the dedication required to maintain this lifestyle. Highlights along the way include Jazz Praises, Poetry and Jazz In Concert recitals and commissioned work such as Mr Smith's Apocalypse and Judas Kiss. Venues have included St Paul's Cathedral, the Royal Festival Hall, jazz clubs, and a lunchtime 'singalong' gig - after returning from a spell in the United States in the mid-1970s - for two hundred pensioners at Windsor's Blazers Club: renumeration included "gammon steak, apple tart and twenty quid."

TREVOR BANNISTER is a retired head teacher and long time jazz fan. He has written for Jazz Journal, including an appreciation of bassist Dave Green.

back to previous page

back to previous page

read our interview with Michael Garrick