Good to hear from Alf Stone. How are you Alf? I didn't see you a couple of years ago at the Ushaw Jazz Festival. I approached this chap and said, "Hi Alf, long time no see." He replied, "My name is James!"
However, I digress. The photo (posted to me by Alf) is from a gig in 1952 at the Magnolia Club? I'm trying to recall the venue. I'm sure some of our, phrase this carefully, older gadgies will have memories.
The personnel is given as - (l-r) Dennis Reay (age 18), Mighty Joe Young, Brian O'Byrne, Pete Welsh, Clem Avery and Brian Richardson.
Let's hear from you.
Lance
5 comments :
Dennis Reay was my father. By all accounts he was a fantastic jazz pianist.
The Magnolia Club was in the old Central Arcade in Pilgrim Street, now demolished of course. I knew Dennis well, on the occasions when we played together we often used to go off night clubbing after the gig and have a good natter into the small hours. He was one of the jazz scene's characters and a very good pianist. I remember sometime in the 1960's my band (Phoenix Jazzmen) was booked to play the Milvain Club on the West Road. I had a call at 7pm from banjo player Terry Harvey to tell me that he could'nt make the gig. I knew that Dennis lived just down the road so I quickly drove there. Dennis answered the door in his pyjamas, and informed me that he'd just been married that afternoon and this was his honeymoon night. He then hesitated and said "How much is it worth"! Needless to say his new wife was most annoyed when he asked her so he had to refuse the gig. Sadly missed.
Gordon Solomon
Gordon - many many thanks for your wonderful memory.
I’m currently doing some family research and have very little / nothing of note left of my father.
My aunty has been very good at saving family heirlooms and history but Dennis didn’t leave anything behind.
Are there others that I can contact in order to get a better sense of what Dennis was really like?
Many thanks & regards
Chris Reay
Chris, I don't think I can be of much help. Nearly all the musicians from that period are either gone or have dropped out of view. Perhaps someone will see these posts and respond.
Morning Gordon, many thanks for your prompt response and I understand the situation as it was a long time ago - but worth a shot all the same!
Thanks for your wonderful insights and take care.
Chris
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