With a career that spanned the 20th century, a natural ability to swing, and a great sense of humour, it’s no wonder that trumpeter Jim Warren was one of the most popular and respected musicians in the Auckland jazz scene.
At his 80th birthday – 18 years ago – his wife Madeline gave him a new trumpet. In the years that followed, Warren gave his “lip” a rest, and preferred to play Duke Ellington standards on his upright piano.