The Jazz Organ Scene

New Zealand

Claude Papesch Claude (* in New Plymouth) was a blind pianist, organist, and sax player. He played with many New Zealand outfits as well as well known Australian blues groups, Chain and Savage Rose. He also was a solo artist and released recordings of his own. He has an important place in New Zealand rock & roll history.   In the late 1950s, Claude was a member of Johnny Devlin's band Johnny Devlin & the Devils. He played both piano and saxophone. In 1964, he was the musical director for two of New Zealand's major record companies. Also in that year, he wrote a song for Wellington singer Maurice Cook which was recorded with an orchestral backing. In 1966, it was reported in The New Zealand Herald that he was the head tutor of the New Zealand College of Entertainers in Auckland. He was also its founder. Australia   Claude came over to Australia with Tim Piper and they both played in an early formation of Chain. He was with the group from August to October 1969. Then Claude along with Ace Follington and Tim Piper left Chain to form Savage Rose. In 1973, his album Hammond Spectacular was released. The following year Hammond Electrique was also released. Lyn Barnett helped with backing vocals on Hammond Electrique.   He was elected Deputy Mayor of the Blue Mountains City Council in 1984. He also represented the Blue Mountains, Lithgow and Rylstone districts. Due to illness, he left his public position. He was also an active member of the Labor Party. Claude died in 1987 at age 45.   from Wikipedia

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