John Critchinson obit

RIP John Critchinson (1934-2017)

 

He was not on the list.

The sad news is just out of the passing of pianist John Critchinson earlier today at the age of 82. It was less than 48 hours after a benefit night was held for him at the 606, in advance of which Jacqui Hicks wrote this appreciation, which now serves as a tribute to a universally liked, gentle man and a superbly melodic pianist who graced bands from being a fixture at Ronnie Scott's to Morrissey Mullen. Biography. In sadness.

Critchinson was born in London in 1934. He worked as a part-time musician with Ronnie Scott, Tubby Hayes, and Jimmy Deuchar, among others. In 1979, at the recommendation of his mentor, Bill Le Sage, he was a member of Ronnie Scott's Quartet until it folded in 1995. During that time, he worked with many visiting American artists, including Chet Baker, George Coleman, James Moody, Joe Henderson and Johnny Griffin.

In the early 1980s, he was associated with the British jazz fusion duo Morrissey–Mullen, appearing on two of their albums. He recorded with Dick Morrissey and was a member of Martin Drew's Our Band, with Ron Mathewson, Jim Mullen, and Dick Morrissey.

In 1995, Critchinson formed a quartet with Art Themen on saxophone, Dave Green on bass and Dave Barry on drums. When Scott died in 1996, Critchinson formed the Ronnie Scott Legacy with Pat Crumly on saxophone and flute. Later in his life, he played and recorded with saxophonist Simon Spillett.