Biography of Dave Cliff

Dave was born in Newcastle upon Tyne where he became involved in the local rock scene during his early teens. Jazz became his prime musical passion after attending Leeds College of Music during which time he studied with Bernie Cash and Peter Ind. Less than ten years later destiny inevitably found him touring Europe with Lee Konitz/Warne Marsh quintet.

Charlie Christian and Wes Montgomery figure high on Dave's list of favoured guitarists and he hold a high respect for the Tristano school much exposure to which he encountered when working and studying with an assortment of Peter Ind groups - some of which included the elusive pianist Joe Albany. Less obscure American artists he has accompanied include Slide Hampton, Nina Simone, Kenny Davern, George Masso, Spike Robinson and Herb Geller. Much involved in jazz education summer schools throughout the UK Dave Cliff also teaches at Christians and jazz course in Norway