Born in 1905, Bill Russell demonstrated diverse musical interests from an early age. His significance as a percussion composer is well known among aficionados and his work as a musicologist of New Orleans jazz music is equally acclaimed. He was a major figure in the revival of interest in the music of that city.

Ray Smith is a jazz and ragtime pianist/composer and co-author, with Mike Pointon, of the award-winning Goin' Home - The Uncompromising Life and Music of Ken Colyer. Mike Pointon is a jazz musician, writer and broadcaster. He presented the acclaimed BBC Radio 3 series Bunk & Bill.