The Syd Lawrence Orchestra

The Syd Lawrence Orchestra

The Syd Lawrence Orchestra is a British big band associated with the swing-era sound of the 1940s, drawing on the style of Glenn Miller, Count Basie and other dance-band leaders. It begins in 1967, when Syd Lawrence brings together several colleagues from the BBC’s Northern Dance Orchestra to perform the music he most admires.

Origins and early years

Syd Lawrence is a trumpet player, arranger and bandleader from Chester, England. During the Second World War he is based in Cairo, where he plays and arranges for RAF service bands. After leaving the forces, he plays with leading British dance bands of the 1940s before joining the BBC’s Northern Dance Orchestra in 1953. He remains with that orchestra for 16 years, performing alongside trumpeter Stan Hibbert.

Formation and activity

The orchestra forms in 1967 and begins with concerts at the Mersey Hotel in Manchester, which prove successful enough to lead to larger venues as its reputation grows. The group tours widely around the UK and becomes known for its big band sound. Yorkshire Television gives the orchestra a regular spot on the comedy programme Sez Les. It also makes several records and appears on radio and television variety shows.

Later leadership

Syd Lawrence retires from touring in 1994 and dies in 1998. After his death, the band continues to perform and tour. The orchestra is led by Brian Pendleton and later by Chris Dean. The group’s current members listed are Steve Baker, Don Banks, Dale Gibson, Alan Ladds, Bryan Pendleton, Terry Reaney, Frank Slater, Andy Smith, Derek Southcott and Andy Taylor.