Alain Bouchet, the French trumpeter and cornetist, passed away on August 4th, he was 81. He began his career in the 1960s with groups like Les Pieds de Poule, later joining Marc Laferrière’s orchestra. Joining the band in 1972, he was a key member of Maxim Saury’s orchestra, performing for over 20 years at the Caveau de la Huchette in Paris.
Like many in France, he was inspired by Sidney Bechet. The first touring American musician he accompanied was the clarinetist Albert Nicholas, then came the trumpeter Bill Coleman. Bouchet collaborated with many notable musicians, including Warren Vaché, who became a close friend. He also appeared in a quartet with Rossano Sportiello, Nicki Parrott, and Bobby Worth. He participated in ensembles such as Trumpet Spectacular with Peter Ecklund, Irakli, and Michel “Boss” Quéraud. He co-led a quintet with Michel Pastre from 1997 on, and recorded several albums, including Introducing Alain Bouchet on Audiophile and Tribute to Buck Clayton on Jazz Aux Remparts. He received the Prix Sidney Bechet in 1979.
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