Instruments: Double Bass, Vocals, Occasional Lambeg Drum

Jackie Flavelle

Born in North Belfast in 1938, Musician, Broadcaster and Journalist Jackie Flavelle is well known both in his native Northern Ireland and internationally.

Educated at Belfast “Inst” (RBAI), he played flute in the school orchestra and also in the Ulster Amateur Flute Band, World Champions several times in the 50,s under their conductor William Flavelle, (Jackie’s uncle).

He joined the Dave Glover Orchestra in 1959 on Double Bass and went on to play with several of Ireland’s leading Showbands before joining Chris Barber’s band in London in 1966.  While with Barber he toured the world and played and recorded with many leading jazz, blues and rock musicians during this period including, Rod Stewart, Paul McCartney, Ray Nance, Wild Bill Davis, Dr John, and even the legendary Doors.

He returned to N.I. in 1978 to take up a position as broadcaster and producer with Downtown Radio eventually becoming the station’s Press and Information Officer and continues to present the weekly jazz programme “Jackie’s Jazz’n’blues”.

For five years Jackie wrote the music page for the now defunct Sunday News and he still works as a contributor for various music papers and magazines.

Never to far away from his bass fiddle or bass guitar he has recently lead Blues Experience, and currently is a member of leading local jazz ensemble Giant Steps also, Blues Band The Essence and Country Band The Half Stoned Cowboys. He also regularly accompanies singer/songwriter Tim Cobain.

 Since 2002 Jackie has been a member of the Ulster Scots Folk Orchestra with Willie Drennan playing Double Bass and occasional Lambeg at concerts and cultural gatherings both here and in Scotland.

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