Ivy Benson

Ivy Benson (1913-1993) led an all female big band was one of the most popular British jazz orchestras in post-war Britain. She was born in Leeds and was playing piano at an early age. Her first professional appearances were on alto saxophone with Edna Croudson’s Rhythm Girls, a Yorkshire-based sextet with whom she stayed from 1929 until 1935. By the late 1930s, Benson was leading her own bands in London. World War II would present opportunities – in 1943, Benson’s band became the BBC’s resident dance band with their own series ‘Ladies’ Night’. In the same year, they headlined at the London Palladium for six months.

From 1945 until 1950, Gracie Cole was lead trumpet and frequently featured soloist. Other stand-out players included saxophonist Carol McBean and bass player Claudia Lang-Colmer, who continue to perform together today. Throughout the 1950s, 60s and 70s Benson would lead bands in shows for overseas servicemen. In 1976 she received the honour of an episode of This Is Your Life. Benson retired the group in 1982 shortly before turning 70 and retired to Clacton-on-Sea where she continued to perform on vocals, organ and piano until her death just short of her 80th birthday.

Key Recordings:

Ivy Benson and Her All Girls Band 1943-1949