The Life and Legacy of Frank Traynor
Frank Traynor: The Trombonist Who Shaped Australian Jazz
Introduction
Born Thomas Francis Traynor on August 8, 1927, Frank Traynor was an Australian jazz musician, trombonist, and entrepreneur based in Melbourne. His passion for music was evident from a young age, and his journey in the world of music began when he formed his first band, the Black Bottom Stompers, in 1949.
Early Life and Career
Traynor’s talent as a trombonist was undeniable. In 1951, he joined the Len Barnard Band and was voted the best trombonist in the “Make Way for the Bands” poll. His early career was marked by his dedication to music and his exceptional skills as a trombonist.
The Jazz Preachers and Melbourne Jazz Club
In 1956, Traynor established the Jazz Preachers, which would go on to become Australia’s longest continuously running jazz band. He led this band until his death in 1985. In addition to this, he founded the Melbourne Jazz Club in 1958, which played a significant role in promoting jazz music in Australia.
Frank Traynor’s Folk and Jazz Club
In 1963, Traynor founded and ran Frank Traynor’s Folk and Jazz Club, which operated until 1975. This club played a central role in the Australian folk revival and was a platform for many performers. Artists such as Martyn Wyndham-Read, Danny Spooner, Brian Mooney, David Lumsden, Trevor Lucas, and Margret RoadKnight graced the stage of this club, making it a significant part of Australia’s music history.
Later Life and Legacy
Traynor continued to make significant contributions to the music industry throughout his career. In 1972, he was part of the Fable Singers recording session, which saw the theme songs for the 12 then-VFL clubs recorded. Most of these recordings are still played at AFL matches today. Traynor’s trombone playing can be prominently heard at the start of the Carlton football club song “We Are the Navy Blues”.
Frank Traynor passed away in 1985, but his legacy lives on
- The Jazz Preachers: Traynor led this band from 1956 until his death in 1985. They were Australia’s longest continuously running jazz band. Their performances were a regular feature at Athol’s Abbey, an underground bar and grill on the corner of St Kilda Road and Park Street.
- Fable Singers Recording Session: In 1972, Traynor was part of this recording session, which saw the theme songs for the 12 then-VFL clubs recorded. Most of these recordings are still played at AFL matches today. Traynor’s trombone playing can be prominently heard at the start of the Carlton football club song “We Are the Navy Blues”.
- W&G Extended Play: In 1964, Traynor recorded an EP with his band, the Jazz Preachers. This was one of the first jazz discs to be issued by W&G.
- Judy Durham EP: In 1963, Traynor recorded an EP with Judith Durham titled, “Judy Durham”.
