The sad news that cornet player Ian Brown passed away came through yesterday. Ian died after a prolonged battle with prostate cancer, which meant he was unable to play for the past couple of years.Ian was an absolute gentleman in every sense - a gentle, caring person liked by all who knew him. He took up trumpet in the early 50s and I believe had connections with local players such as Clem Avery, Trevor Johnson, and John Saxelby. He was inspired by Ken Colyer (Crane River Jazz Band) and became involved in the local New Orleans jazz circuit, well loved for his tasteful, lyrical style.
For many years he played with Brian Carrick’s Heritage Hall Stompers, in fact running the band when Brian was away eg. working abroad. I think it would be during that time he got to know Keith Stephen very well. Ian had a lot of time for Keith and vice versa – they were very close. Ian and Winifred managed to get to Keith and Caroline’s wedding last May – I know they were so pleased he was well enough to come.
In 1995 Ian met Dave Rae who invited him to guest with them at their Springwell session. The one-off get together went so well that this was the birth of Rae Brothers New Orleans Jazz Band. It is well documented how popular this band became (and still is) playing at fests all over the UK and working abroad too. Ian left the Rae Bros amicably in 1998 occasionally coming back to play the odd gig, his last tour with the band being to Bude in 2003.
Ian leaves his wife Winifred, daughters Lesley and Helen, and four grandchildren.
Roly.
Acknowledgement - Thanks to Dave Rae and Brian Bennett for help with the above information.
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