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Max Abrams was born on August 11, 1907 in Glasgow, Scotland and began playing drums with dance bands in his teens, often in his hometown area. In the late Twenties, he headed to London, England and was soon active with a number of bands there.

Touring South Africa before returning to London, in 1932, he joined Jack Hylton’s orchestra. During the next few years, Max played with several leading UK dance bands, including Sydney Lipton’s and Carroll Gibbons’ Savoy Orpheans. He was in demand for numerous recording sessions with many leaders as well as recording with his own band in 1935. He also made a series of tuition records for aspiring drummers.

In the early 40s, Abrams drummed with Ambrose, Jack Payne, and Stéphane Grappelli, then, in 1945, joined Sid Phillips for an engagement that lasted well into the next decade. During this period he often worked with small bands, including Humphrey Lyttelton’s, and appeared regularly on the radio. Technically gifted as a percussionist, he played several instruments including vibraphone, xylophone, and timpani.

As an educator, he was much sought after and founded his own School for Drum Tuition. His admired ability drew many eager and gifted drummers to him, among them Jack Parnell. Drummer Max Abrams, who actively performed from the 1930s through the 1950s, passed away on November 5, 1995.

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