Prolific composer (between 100 and 200 tunes), arranger, pianist, clarinettist and saxophonist. Active as band leader from 1925, performing across Europe and recording in three languages. Arranger and sideman with the Ambrose Orchestra from 1933 to 1937. Later also toured U.S. and recorded with Paul Whiteman and others. Served in the RAF during World War II and later fronted a Dixieland group, which included George Shearing and Kenny Ball.
