He learned violin and piano as a child, taught himself music theory and harmony, and played reeds in his teens as a member of his brother's European band.

He served in the Royal Air Force during the Second World War, then put together his own quartet in 1946 and (under the name Simon Phillips) wrote several pieces for the BBC Symphony Orchestra, including the Overture Russe in 1946, which was conducted by Adrian Boult.

He led a quintet of his own formation from 1949, and his sidemen variously included George Shearing, Colin Bailey, Tommy Whittle and Kenny Ball.

[4] This basic instrumentation set the style of his work through extensive touring, appearances at social functions, many broadcasts and recordings.

His son, Simon, is a drummer, songwriter and record producer and started his career in his father's big band.