[1] He started out his career as a flügelhorn player in the early 1950s, although adapted his playing skills to the clarinet, an instrument he favoured.
[1] After leaving Welsh, he worked as co-leader, with trombonist Roy Williams, of the Midnite Follies Orchestra which included many American jazz artists.
[2] Barnes also worked with many notable artists, including Janet Jackson, Leo Sayer, Humphrey Lyttelton, Gerry Mulligan, Spike Robinson, Bobby Wellins and Keith Nichols.
[3] In May 1964, after a bad car crash Barnes as a member of Alex Welsh band was replaced by Al Gay, until his full rehabilitation.
As a result of his stroke, on 9 February 2012, a benefit concert was held for Barnes at the 100 Club in Oxford Street, London.