The Golden Era of Melbourne Jazz: A Tribute to Graham Coyle
Early Life and Introduction to Music
Graham Coyle, a renowned jazz pianist, was born on August 10, 1932, in Ormond, a suburb of Melbourne, Australia. His parents were both musicians, with his father playing in a dance band and his mother being a pianist. From a young age, Coyle showed a keen interest in music, starting to play the piano at the tender age of four.
Musical Education and Early Career
At six years old, Coyle began formal music education under the guidance of the Presentation nuns. His classical training lasted for three years, during which he honed his natural talent for jazz. Between 1946 and 1949, he played alongside his father in Dick Tillney’s Town Toppers Dance Band. The Coyle household was a hub of musical activity, with regular family sing-alongs and band rehearsals.
Entry into the Melbourne Jazz Scene
Coyle made his entry into the Melbourne jazz scene in 1950. His youthful enthusiasm, infectious smile, and exceptional piano skills quickly made him a notable figure in the community. He joined the Black Bottom Stompers in December 1949, playing alongside trombonist/pianist Frank Traynor and Peter Cleaver. When the band disbanded, Coyle began working with Tony Newstead’s South Side Gang.
The Flourishing Jazz Scene in Melbourne
The 1950s were a golden era for jazz in Melbourne, with groups led by Graeme Bell, Tony Newstead, Frank Johnson, and Len Barnard dominating the scene. Coyle was an active participant in this vibrant community, attending the annual Jazz Convention, participating in the Southern Jazz Society, and playing at numerous jazz venues, concerts, and house parties.
Exploration and Innovation in Jazz
Always an innovator, Coyle explored different facets of jazz music. In 1959, he teamed up with vibes player Alan Lee, and together they shocked jazz conservatives with modern renditions of Jelly Roll Morton compositions at the 1960 Jazz Convention in Melbourne. Coyle was also a founding member of the Melbourne Jazz Club house band in June 1958.
Overseas Adventures and Exposure to Global Jazz
In March 1961, Coyle embarked on an overseas trip with his musician mates. This seven-month journey took him to Greece, France, Britain, New York, New Orleans, and San Francisco. This trip exposed him to British trad jazz and the authentic jazz scene in the United States.
Later Career and Contributions to Jazz
Upon his return to Melbourne in September 1961, Coyle resumed his position with the Jazz Club band. He also worked with Max Collie’s Jazz Kings, the Alan Lee Quartet, Kenn Jones’ Powerhouse Crew, and Frank Traynor’s Jazz Preachers. Coyle continued to contribute to the jazz scene until his death on November 17, 2013.
- The Pearls by The Alan Lee Jazz Quartet, Graham Coyle – This is a 7″ EP released by Swaggie Records in 1961. It showcases the combined talents of The Alan Lee Jazz Quartet and Graham Coyle.
- 1954-56 by Frank Johnson And Friends, Frisco Joe’s Jazz Band, Frank Gow, Graham Coyle – This LP compilation, released by Swaggie Records in 1973, features a collection of performances from the mid-1950s.
- Graham Coyle Plays Piano 1955-1973 “For your approval” – This LP compilation, released by The Bill Haesler Collection in 1991, features a selection of Graham Coyle’s piano performances spanning nearly two decades.
