Argosy Lodge

Tony Kinsey, one of Britain's finest jazz drummers, received his 50 year Long Service Certificate from the Lodge and Chapter of Asaph 1319 on 3rd April 2023.

Tony was born Cyril Anthony Kinsey on 11 October 1927 in Sutton Coldfield. In his easrly life he worked on various trans-Atlantic ships and during his various visits to New York he learnt his 'trade' as a jazz musician.

He led his own ensemble at the Flamingo Club in London through the 1950s, and recorded on more than 80 sessions between 1950 and 1977, including with Ronnie Scott, Johnny Dankworth, Ella Fitzgerald and Billie Holiday to name but a very few and he was a founder member of the 'The John Dankworth Seven'. Tony was also an accomplished composer with a string quartet composition of his used in the short film On the Bridge, numerous arrangements for big bands, and music for over 100 commercials to his credit. His later work includes the music for a musical based on the life of George Eliot.

Tony was a member of the Lodge and Chapter of Asaph 1319 and was presented with his 50 year Long Service Certificates by Lt Col Stephen Braden PAGSwB on 3rd April 2023. Members of the Lodge and Chapter of Asaph, W. Bro David Hulley and Almoner W. Bro Peter Kosta are seen here flanking Tony with his certificates at his house in Sunbury.

Tony continues to play drums to this day,