Chris Pyne

b. 14 February 1939, Bridlington, Yorkshire, England, d. 12 April 1995, London, England. Pyne was a self-taught trombonist whose initial band experience was with a Royal Air Force band during his National Service (1960-61). He later appeared in a succession of units throughout the 60s, which included John Cox’s band, Alexis Korner’s Blues Incorporated, Humphrey Lyttelton, John Dankworth, Ronnie Scott, Tubby Hayes and Maynard Ferguson. Pyne was a consummately professional studio musician who recorded with Ella Fitzgerald and Tony Bennett and played on many of Frank Sinatra’s UK tours. Pyne had a polished, accurate playing style that reflected an early liking for J.J. Johnson. During the 70s and 80s he worked with, among others, Mike Gibbs, Kenny Wheeler, Gordon Beck, John Taylor and John Surman. Pyne’s brother, Mike Pyne, was also a jazz musician.