Blog
Getting to know Quattro Macjazz
October 19, 2021
Founded in 2006, Forrie Cairns the great Scottish clarinet player from the Clyde Valley Stompers era of the 1950's and 60's had the idea for the band with a four man line-up. With the right four guys, it produces a very clean swinging sound, ideal for traditional jazz classics.
He discussed the idea with entertainer and banjoman Alastair McDonald and Lennie Herd the hottest dixieland trumpeter in the country, both of whom started together in the George Penman Jazzmen in the late 1950’s. Finally, over lunch in a Glasgow Italian restaurant and a couple (???) of glasses of wine later, Quattro MacJazz was born!
The addition of Roy Percy, the most percussionistic bass player on the planet, completed the original line-up.
In 2016, Forrie retired, with his place in the quartet being taken up by the renowned clarinettist, Hamish McGregor.
Listen to some of their music here:
From the Arran Sessions Chimes Blues
From Live at Whitecraigs Jazz Me Blues