Biography
A Belgian arranger and composer whose originals have been interpreted by numerous jazz ensembles and soloists across decades, David Bee also performs with equal facility on saxophone, clarinet, piano, and harp. He entered The Bistrouille A.D.O. in 1925 and, the following year, co-founded The Red Beans alongside Peter Packay; the pair jointly shaped both compositions and arrangements for the group. Their itinerary carried them through Italy, Spain, France, and the Netherlands until the ensemble dissolved in 1929. Bee next undertook arranging duties and studio work in Berlin and Italy, then settled back in Belgium in 1930 to become a member of Robert De Kers’ orchestra. While traveling in the United States he encountered Benny Goodman and Stuff Smith, and later shared stages in Paris with Benny Carter and Willie Smith at Chez Florence. After World War II he worked with Chas Dolne and periodically directed his own ensembles throughout the 1950s and 1960s. Among the artists who have recorded his material are Luis Russell, Ted Heath, and Reg Owen.
Singles
