Ken Mathieson

Had piano lessons early but opted out at 9yo. Switched on to jazz by hearing traditional JB on radio which was probably Freddy Randell’s band. Self taught on drums at 14yo. First gig was at 16yo. Has played with many great names over the years. Request from the EIJF brought about the orgaisation of the first version of what became Ken Mathieson’s Classic Jazz Orchestra, this worked so well Ken kept it going. Mostly with arrangements by Tommy Smapson at first but also many by Ken himself. This band played and recorded with many noted players including Duke Heitger (tpt) and Evan Christopher (clt). Ken also played many gigs with Hamish McGregor’s Fat Sam’s Band. Favourite drummer was Big Sid Cattlet. Not to be confused with Ken Mathieson the journalist