A last lullaby for jazz great George Shearing

British-born jazz great Sir George Shearing has died at the age of 91.

The pianist, who had been blind since birth, is noted for writing the standard Lullaby of Birdland, as well as leading his own quintet for decades.

His manager Dale Sheets said the musician, based in New York for more than 60 years, died yesterday from congestive heart failure.

Among the array of talents with whom he worked were Nat King Cole, Mel Torme, Peggy Lee and Sarah Vaughan.

The London-born star - the youngest of nine children - found his first professional work as a pub pianist collecting tips in a box on top of the piano.

Sir George built a name for himself, appearing on BBC broadcasts and backing Stephane Grapelli, before moving to the US in 1947 where his career went from strength to strength.