Oscar Rabin

Who was Oscar Rabin?

Oscar Rabin was a Latvian born English bandleader and musician. He was notable for being the musical director of the Oscar Rabin Band.

Of Jewish origin, he was born in Riga, Latvia and came to London, England as a child. A blind music teacher and violinist taught Rabin music in exchange for him acting as a guide. At 15 he became a professional musician, he then worked in theatre orchestras and attended the Guildhall School of Music.

His career was interrupted by service in World War I, then in 1922 he formed an ensemble with Harry Davis. He went on to form the Oscar Rabin Band but was not the leader on stage as he preferred to play the bass saxophone.

He died in London aged 59. His granddaughter, Rachel Rabin, is also a musician.