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Donald's Encyclopedia of Popular MusicA B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y ZPEARSON, Johnny(b 18 June '25, Plaistow, London) UK pianist, arranger, bandleader. Child prodigy on piano, winning scholarship to London Academy of Music at age nine, playing recital at 12; formed group the Rhythm Makers, played drums and piano in Royal Artillary Band, after military service worked in TV audition studios, was founder member of Malcolm Mitchell Trio '48-54; radio and session work incl. touring and recording with Lena Horne, Shirley Bassey, Connie Francis, Cilla Black, many others. Led Sounds Orchestral on popular instrumental LPs and transatlantic top 10 hit single '64-5 with Vince Guaraldi's "Cast You Fate To The Winds' (also top 10 UK hit "Sleepy Shores' '71 under his own name). TV work incl. music for series All Things Great And Small, about a veterinarian. |