Pee Wee Erwin was an excellent trumpeter, who spent most his career on the fringes of fame. He made many great records throughout his career. When he was just four years old, he began playing the trumpet. Stints in territory bands were followed up by gigs with Joe Haymes (1931-1933), and Isham Jones (1933-1934). Erwin moved to New York, where he became a busy studio musician. He worked often on radio during 1934-1935, including with Benny Goodman. After playing with Ray Noble, Erwin became a successful studio musician in New York. He was also a member of the Benny Goodman (1936), and Tommy Dorsey (37-1939). Erwin formed a failed big band from 1941-1942, and tried again in 1946 with no luck. He continued to play Dixieland at Nick’s in the 1950s and ran a trumpet school in the 1960s with Chris Griffin (Warren Vache was also one of his students). He played steady until the end. Pee Wee Erwin was a session leader in the 1950s, with a few sessions for United Artists. He made six albums between 1980-1981, three for Qualtro, and one for Jazzology. His sound is still quite strong that late in his career. Allmusic
