Stratford Jazz, Sun 12 Dec
Sara Colman Quintet.
at No. 1 Shakespeare St
Stratford Upon Avon 
Ian Shaw said of Sara, “A naturally soulful and emotionally true voice, connecting you and driving you in and that’s surely the most important thing about great singing.”
The Midlands leading songstress
Line up: Sara Colman (v) Chris Taylor (p) Ben Markland (b) Carl Hemmingsly (d) TBA (hornplayer)
Venue: Stratford Jazz,
12 Dec 2010, 8pm, £8 (Photo: Garry Corbett)
CHRISTMAS LETTER
FROM OUR EDITOR
Hello everyone;
Welcome to the December/January issue of Jazzwestmids! Best wishes for the Christmas season! I am reliably informed that some of Birmingham’s musicians are going to be on TV!
Ray Butcher’s (photographed below by Paul Broadrick) band is going to be the featured band in a comedy sketch programme “The Morgana Show” to be shown at 10pm on Tuesday, 7th December at 10.35pm on Channel 4. It’ll be good to see Brummie boys on TV (even adopted Brummies!) with Hamish Livingstone on bass, Edgar Macias keys, Chris Bowden alto and Ray Butcher on trumpet.
We have local Dec/Jan gigs for Tipitina and King Pleasure, see Band listings. Calling all musicians to join Peter Carlton at the Malthouse on Sunday, 19th December for a big Christmas party jam from 1pm to 6pm.
Don’t forget also the Oxfam Stomp at The New Billesley, Brook Lane, Kings Heath B13 0AB, on Friday, January 7th. Steve King Big Band 40th Anniversary The Steve King Big Band’s 40th Anniversary celebrations continue with a Christmas Concert at Halesowen Members Club on Sunday 12th December.The band’s Christmas concerts are always one of the highlights of the year with big band versions of everyone’s favourite Christmas numbers. Top USA singer Lynn Dawes will be joining the band on vocals to add her inimitable style to the proceedings. The fun starts at 8pm and tickets are available on the door at just £6.00 each. (For more information please contact steve@stevekingbigband.co.uk or on: 07977564904)
Once again a big thankyou to all our subscribers who help to fund our Jazz guide.
Merry Christmas and a Jazzin’ New Year!
Stella
 SUMMERSAULT XMAS 
Celebrate, Christmas and new year with good food and Jazz at Summersault
Friday 17th December.
This is the time for our special 4 course Christmas dinner accompanied by an evening of 3 hours of live exciting jazz. The menu for the evening will be posted on the website, or you can request it by email or call into the restaurant. The music will be provided by Jazz not Jazz Quintet. This is one of our most upbeat and entertaining of jazz bands featuring, saxophone electric bass, guitar and percussion with some of the most wonderful vocals around. A great evening is guaranteed.
All in price of £35.00 per customer (children under 14 half price) Drinks extra.
Friday 31st December.
Following the runaway success of last years we are holding another New Year’s Eve party with a 20s and 30s theme. There will be a non stop Summersault hot and cold buffet to which guests may come and go all evening picking from whatever they fancy, and there will be plenty to fancy; this will be Summersault food and as much as you want. The band will be the delightful Nick Gill Oxford Jazz Quintet. Nick is one of the most popular of musicians that we have at Summersault and we are invariably packed out when he is on. He specialises in boogey woogey, Fats Waller, Scott Joplin and novelty songs of the 20s and 30s.
The all in price (excluding drinks) for this fabulous evening is £35.00. Admission by ticket.
BLOWING THE TRUMPET
FOR JAZZ IN BILSTON
Bilston High Street may not be the the first place you would expect to find a more than forty year old unique institution. Nevertheless, The Trumpet continues to fly the flag for free entry seven nights a week jazz. I believe this venerable old boozer with its selection of Holden’s Cask ales and free music to be the last of its kind in the UK.
The atmosphere is friendly, the beer’s good and the music is even better with Midland favourites like Andy Hamilton, Alan Barnes, national figures like Simon Spillett and international figures like Oleg Kireyev . Its come a long way in 40 years having started with the then landlord playing music on his record player to pass the time along.
“Come on to Bilston – What’s keeping you away?” Mike Hardacre, presenter of “Milestones” at WCRFM, 101.8 (or on the internet at WCRFM.com from 10 to Midnight every Saturday.
Embrace arts Thursday Jazz at the Richard Attenborough Centre.
The future 2011
Over the last two jazz seasons, following the sad demise of the jazz events at the Piazza restaurant Leics University, we have been successfully improving the facilities for good-quality life Jazz at the Richard Attenborough Centre, with the support of key staff within this department of Leicester University, on a regular monthly basis.
The excellent facilities of the concert room, which is partially laid out with club style tables and chairs, has lovely acoustics and the use of Bosendorfer grand piano and a 3 microphone PA system, with comfortable chairs and good lighting,
The catering of the Arts Bar which is managed as completely separate entity to the rest of the RACentre, offers an ever changing range of hot and cold food, drinks and light refreshments.
There is also good parking in the private car park next door to the building
With the recent extra staff at the RAC there is now improved marketing and publicity, which is both available internally and is being distributed, together with my support.
Following the recent wonderful evening with the great Alan Skidmore, inspiring Nick Hislam’s backing quartet Meantime to great heights of jazz playing to the delight of the whole audience, there is still the problem of audience numbers. Notwithstanding the weather, we continue to fail to achieve an audience of 50 as required for the RAC to break even to cover the cost of paying bands and allowing for VAT. Ticket prices are to be held at only £6. The fees paid are £250 per band, plus 1 free drink for every musician
This would mean that at the end of the current season in April there is every chance that Thursday Live Jazz is likely to come to an end if no change can be brought to the above situation..
We do need more people to support these events, and for you the jazz audience and supporters to make your feelings clear to the RAC senior management as to what you would like to see be presented and organised.
Unfortunately the Rac does not have the same jazz grants as Leicester Jazz House who also presents events at the RAC as well as the Y Theatre so we cannot afford national bands in the same. If there is anybody that has influence or contacts with the Arts Regional Council or Leicester CC and who would be prepared to help raise money jazz promotions could be maintained.
The use of leading named jazz soloists playing with local bands has worked well as has been noted also Mark Nightingale and Tony Carter with the Mike Branney quartet, and there are a number of very good regional bands looking for opportunities who will play under the current terms so we need to continue supporting Embrace Arts Thursday Jazz.
By the beginning of April the 2011 summer season will start with a new selection of Midlands bands required, and we hope booked to play. It will be necessary for those bandleaders and musicians who wish obtain a band booking to do so directly with the Director and senior management at the RAC without my detailed involvement. It has become difficult for me to be the man in the middle for booking and promoting bands who I have only listened to, but do not play with.
It will need fresh input and some imaginative promotion and further marketing by the bands concerned, and I am led to believe the management at the RAC is already planning dates for 2011, so may I suggest if you are interested you write in as soon as possible, with your proposals.
By all means send copies to me for publicity and once the dates are confirmed, I can also support your gigs from my e-mailing.
The Rac does not have the same jazz grants as LJH so cannot afford national bands but there are plenty of good regional bands looking for opportunities who will play under the current terms so spread the word and keep supporting Embrace Arts Jazz.
During the course of this year, I have been working with the RAC to provide a standard contract for all bands to fill in, and this can be obtained from myself or from the RAC direct to help get you a booking.
Some of the officials who you should know about are as follows:
RACentre Embrace Arts Thursday Jazz
Richard Attenborough Centre,
Lancaster Road, Leics City LE1 7HA
0116 252 2455. Email: arts-centre@le.ac.uk.
Jazz Contacts
Louisa Millburn – director 0116 252 2455 email: lm128@leicester.ac.uk
Fax: 0116 252 5165 Minicom: 0116 223 1520
2. Michaela.Butter - assistant director email: mgkb1@le.ac.uk
Gillian Garratt – Marketing & publicity 0116 223 1542 mob 07973 188898
– email gg81@le.ac.uk
Julie Cockcroft - Operational Director, accounts and equipment
Email: jc285@leicester.ac.uk Dir line 0116 223 1526
Lucy Stephens - Marketing Communications Assistant
Email: LS229@leicester.ac.uk Tuesday 9.30am - 3.30pm and Wed - Fri 9.30am - 2.30pm Direct line: 0116 233 1525
Andrew C M Sime FCA
6 The Court Yard
The Outwoods
Burbage
Leicestershire LE10 2UD
Tel: 01455 890483
Mobile: 0797 6573777
Fax: 01455 635693
Gig Updates...
Ray Butcher photo (below) by by Paul Broadrick
• Tipitina are appearing at various venues, in Birmingham, during December, see listings for details.
• RAY BUTCHER on Channel 4 (7th Dec @ 10.35pm on the Morgana Show - NOT the 14th as mentioned in the magazine)
 • JAZZ RETURNS TO BEARWOOD CORKS THIS THURSDAY (16th Dec) WITH PETER KING - Yes, going back to the Bear Tavern was a great nostalgia trip last week, but this week Bearwood Jazz are back at the Corks Club with one of the very biggest names in UK Jazz, Peter King.
Peter King really is the king of British Bebop and famously played at the opening night of Ronnie Scotts aged just 18. He plays with the Tony Richards Trio. Admission £5(£4 concession). Starts 9pm (Doors 8.30)
558 Bearwood Road, B66 4BT
More Jazz Venues...
-
A new Jazz Club is opening at The Mitre Inn, Lower Green, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton WV6 9AH. This Wednesday (1st December) it’s ‘The Goodfellas’. starts 8pm. Bands on every week.
Jazz returns to the Bear Tavern in Bearwood on Thursday 9th December with Huw & Chris Morgan. The gig was originally scheduled for Bearwood Corks Club, but was moved due to a clash of events. The Bear Tavern has a brand new PA installed and is keen to host more such events in their upstairs function room which used to host Andy Hamilton's Jazz nights and comedy nights hosted by Frank Skinner.
-
NEW SUNDY NIGHT JAZZ VENUE @ CHARNWOOD GOLF RANGE nr. Loughborough from 7th November Full details in Features
-
JAZZ CLUB AT LEICESTER UNI’S RICHARD ATTENBOROUGH CENTRE BRINGS NEW OPPORTUNITIES FOR MUSIANS AS WELL AS SOME GREAT GIGS TO GO TO!! - READ THEIR PRESS RELEASE IN FEATURES
• LISTINGS now include January dates for Stafford Jazz Soc, which missed the December/January magazine print run.
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BRUBECKS play BRUBECK
At the Town Hall Birmingham, 29th. November 2010.
Birmingham Town Hall are putting on a concert featuring Dave Brubeck’s legendary music and original compositions by his sons.
Darius, the eldest Brubeck son, is a jazz pianist, composer, educator and band-leader. Chris is a multi-instrumentalist and award-winning composer, who tours the world performing his exciting trombone concertos. Dan is a renowned, Grammy-nominated percussionist, acclaimed for his exciting drum solos, whose own group, The Dolphins, played to critical success at Ronnie Scott’s.
In the 70s and 80s the three brothers recorded and toured worldwide with Dave. Now, in their father’s ninetieth year, they have come together to play the music that made him a revered icon of modern jazz. With special guest saxophonist Dave O’Higgins, this concert will include famous Brubeck originals, standard tunes associated with Dave and a few of their own.
For over fifty years, Dave Brubeck has been a giant of American jazz. In December 2009, he received the Kennedy Center Award for a lifetime contribution to American culture. Watch an extract from the ceremony here, including Dave watching his sons perform. The Dave Brubeck Quartet has been one of the most popular and influential groups in the last half century and this concert underscores its relevance today.
Visit the Brubeck Music website.
or book tickets (£20, £22.50) from the Town Hall Website
NOVEMBER LETTER
FROM OUR EDITOR
Hello everyone;
Welcome to the November issue of Jazzwestmids. First I must apologies for all my spelling and grammatical errors in the last issue. Several readers and friends have pointed them out to me, sorry but I am disalectric!! I am trying.
JWM Exclusive CD offer
 I expect you are busy with your Christmas shopping. Talking of shopping, we have an Exclusive offer for you, from long-time collaborators Sara Colman (pictured below) and Al Gurr, a CD (left), of traditional carols written by Al Gurr with arrangements and original pieces by Sara Colman, this limited edition 12 track CD celebrates the music of Christmas, A Cappella! (left) Enjoy this festive collection.
I will be at the Autumn Gift Fair at the NEC, selling gifts with a music theme from 18th to 22nd November, row C No 10, come and say hello. Many of you have asked me about local gigs for Tipitna and King Pleasure. We have the Dec/Jan listings for them next month.
Brubeck Play Brubeck plays Town Hall Birmingham on 29th November. In celebration, of their fathers 90th birthday, on December 6th three of Dave Brubeck’s Sons, Darius, Chris, and Dan have come together, with Dave O’Higgins, to play the music that made their father a revered icon of modern Jazz. Concert will include famous Brubeck originals as well as standard tunes associated with Dave and a few of their own popular compositions.
Spats Langham’s Hot Fingers are playing at Old House at Home, Harborne, on Sunday 7th November 7pm. Always a favorite. Once again, a big thank-you, to all our subscribers, who help to fund our Jazz guide.
Stella
Tipitina “I Wish I Was In New Orleans” (Bear CD 47)
 Suddenly everyone is talking about Tipitina and their new CD. “Debbie Jones sings superbly on this sizzling collection of blues-tinged songs.
A tipped jazz outfit, Jools Holland will love them” [What’s On]. “Debbie Jones is as sultry as a night downtown, Justin boogies like there’s no tomorrow. An album with its heart and soul deep in New Orleans. Glorious” [The Mail] “Instantly recognisable, Tipitina are really on to something” [Paul, Jones, BBC Radio 2].
“New Orleans music is like an underground stream that rises to the surface every now and then. It happened for Fats Domino in the 50s, Dr John in the 70s, The Neville Brothers and The Meters in the 70s and 80s and for our own Jools Holland. I bet that Tipitina will be the next”. [The Guardian]. “A remarkable CD which conveys the steam-heat of a New Orleans night, a Bourbon Street bar. An exceptional singer, a tremendous blues, boogie and rhythm & blues pianist. A spectacular achievement.” [The Jazz Rag].
Hot off the ethernet, here's the gen on some great Jazz happening in Leicster:
SWAZ at The Donkey Pub 203 Welford Road Leicester LE2 - 0116 270 5042 at the top end near Victoria Park.
Up-and-coming Mainstream/ Modern Jazz featuring Leicester leading Jazz musicians on 2nd Thursday of the month:
- November 11 Dave Speedy trumpet / flugel horn
- December 9 Richard Everitt tenor / baritone
- January 13 New year feature w Mulligan Stew Sextet
- February 10 Dave Williams guitar
- March 10 Don Blakeson Trumpet
- April 14 Easter special W Mulligan Stew Sextet
Other monthly Jazz events on Sunday evenings
- 1st Sunday of every month at the Donkey – 7.45 to 10.45. Swing Jazz Jam sessions with house band Ned Newitt’s Citizens of Swing
- 2nd Sunday of every month –KGB quartet with John Kenna drums, Kathy Grainger sax, Ian Smith bass, Mike Keenan guitar
- 3rd Sunday of every month –Richard Everitt Quartet Cool, musical swinging easy listening Jazz with Pete Houtman Piano
- Trad jazz every Tuesday Thursday & Friday lunch times
Any further information, adjustments or enquires re musicians activities or email changes please contact ANDREW SIME on Email - jazz@andrew-sime.com 6 The Courtyard, The Outwoods, Burbage, Leicestershire LE10 2UD Office phone : 01455 890483 Mobile : 07976 573777
The Donkey runs a very lively 7 day varied music programme with blues & soul. Further Programme details can be obtained by emailing gazbirtles@ntlworld.com
NEW JAZZ VENUE
CHARNWOOD GOLF RANGE,
DERBY ROAD,
LOUGHBOROUGH,
LE11 5AD
Owners PETE SPENCER and DALE WOOD – email dalewood@liberata.com Are promoting - NEW JAZZ VENUE - WEEKLY SUNDAY NIGHTS - WITH CHANGE OF BANDS PLAYING FROM 7PM TO 9.30 PM.
Peter and Dale in conjunction with Andy Kirkland [Swinging Bass band] have been working on a series of Sunday jazz events to be held in their Golf Range’s comfortable lounge bar. The musical aim is to make more accessible the sounds of swinging jazz using tunes by the compositions of Ellington, Gershwin, Porter, Basie, and Kern and played by the best of the Leicestershire jazz bands including singers with their individual style of the great American Song book.
The programme of bands for the first 7 events to Christmas 20011 starting in November are:
- 7. Well known Midland pianist Brian Humpherson and his Quartet
- 14. Singer Emily heath with her lovely warm singing style and the Maurice Moore Trio
- 21. Clarinet and sax player Alan Sanders’s regular band “Take 4 +1” featuring singer Michelle with a very broad ranging and entertaining jazz programme.
- 28. Multi saxophonist Nick Hislam with his band “Mean Time” and piano star Neil Hunter For December the bands will be repeated
- 5. Well known Midland pianist Brian Humpherson and his Quartet
- 12. Singer Emily heath with her own lovely warm singing style and the Maurice Moore Trio
- 19. Clarinet and sax player Alan Sanders’s regular band Take 4 +1 featuring singer
Michelle with a very broad ranging and entertaining jazz programme.
Your help in getting this project off the ground and enabling the programme of events to continue in 2011 with a growing variety of bands is ESSENTIAL. Without your support NOW the 7 weeks trial may fail.
There will be a small door charge for £2-£3 purely for band costs. Parking is plentiful and the Golf Range is easy to find on the Derby Road North of Loughborough. Local Jazz soloists are welcome to sit in. Bring your real books.
Andrew C M Sime FCA
6 The Court Yard
The Outwoods
Burbage
Leicestershire LE10 2UD
Tel: 01455 890483
Mobile: 0797 6573777
Fax: 01455 635693:
GORY GARISH HALLOWE’EN
ROCKS BRUMMAGEM
The undead were most definitely brought back to life on Halloween night. Music fans packed the Actress and Bishop (Ludgate Hill, B'ham) to celebrate the 40th birthday of Al ‘gory’ Gare.
Friends and Fans of all ages, coifs, costumes and make up were treated to a feast of Rhythm 'n' Blues, Skiffle and Rock and Roll as musicians from all over queued up to do a turn onstage backed up by slap happy himself (donning a coverall with suspicious palm prints at the back) and Dean Beresford on drums Al has been the big bottom of many a R&B, style band for over twenty years, being a stalwart of King Pleasure and the Biscuit boys for that time. He is currently playing with Imelda May who did her bit to make the whole event a real thriller!
 • TWO GREAT GIGS IN TWO WEEKS @ BEARWOOD CORKS
11th Nov - James Renford Band - Top saxophonist brings two guest vocalists including Carol Brewster
18th nov - Julie Dexter - US based Brummy born singer is back in town
9.00pm £5/4 Bearwood Corks Club 558 Bearwood Road, B66 4BT - 0121 429 2091 - www.bearwoodjazz.co.uk
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MIDLAND YOUTH JAZZ ORCHESTRA
- 40th ANNIVERSARY -
MYJO was formed by Mike Beaumont in the mid seventies, which proved so popular he later added a second junior band MYJO 2. By the late seventies it won the Youth Section of the BBC National Big Band Competition. Around 1981, it was taken over by John Ruddick, who established a third band, and in 1986 it again won the competition, and was to be unbeaten for the next twenty years; from 1991 onwards winning the senior section.
Because of this success MYJO appeared on BBC Radio on many occasions. Along the way, it has produced a steady stream of professional players, (e.g. Mark Nightingale, Julian Arguelles, and of course Chris Dagley ( who died so tragically a few weeks ago). Most West End Theatres now contain ex-MYJO players, and the BBC Big Band currently has three in its ranks.
It will shortly return to the newly refurbished mac, which had been its home since its inception. During the late 80’s and 90’s MYJO established an international reputation, appearing in Moscow, at the Montreux Jazz festival, and at IAJE Conferences in Miami, and later in Toronto. It has also appeared with many of the great names of jazz over that period.
Since 2000, it has twice won the Dutch National Big Band Competition. MYJO has produced 5 CD’s reflecting the breadth of the organisation’s output.
While it is not primarily a musical event (the clue is in the title!), Birmingham CAMRA's 2010 Beer Festival will present more live music than ever before. as well as a huge choice of real ales, ciders and perries, foreign beers, soft drinks and hot and cold food.
 A new venue, the Second City Suite (100 Sherlock Street, B5 6LT), allows the ground floor to be devoted to beer and food while remaining essentially "quiet", On the first floor there will be music, dancing - and, of course, beer as well! Visit the festival website http://www.birminghambeerfestival.co.uk or see posters in pubs around town for admission times, prices and other fine details.
The musical entertainment this year will feature professional acts at the three evening sessions. Birmingham-born Anne Duggan (right) has become a firm favourite at the beerfest in recent years as well as in the Midlands generally. The band – Annie, Rob Hines, Gordon Taylor and Callum Mullins - will be playing again this year on Thursday 28th Oct, from 8pm. Following the official opening at 5pm by Steve Dyson, we welcome to the festival the “Oompah” band, HornAlé.
On the Friday afternoon local pop covers band Funxions will perform from about 4pm, to be followed by a special appearance by touring “accordion ska” band from the USA, the Polkanauts. The main feature act for the evening is Derby-based cool funky blues band The Blue Shift, onstage from 8pm.
Sadly Mick the Tick and his skiffle band are unable to perform this year owing to Mick's ill health, but Saturday’s offerings will again include Jockey Morris (yes, the sticks & bells dancing stuff!) in the early afternoon. Saturday night’s (8pm) feature act is Sheffield acoustic folksy-jazz band Treebeard.
Entertainment at Birmingham Beer Festival 2010 is sponsored by
Hot off the ethernet, here's the gen on some great Jazz happening in Leicster:
SWAZ at The Donkey Pub 203 Welford Road Leicester LE2 - 0116 270 5042 at the top end near Victoria Park.
THURSDAY 14 OCTOBER
Dr Mike Branney playing his usual swinging individual style piano with his trio with the influences of Oscar Peterson Duke Ellington Dudley Moore and Bill Evans including Paula Robinson double bass & Andrew Sime drums with guest artist Leicster's popular Multi saxophonist NICK HISLAM. Jazz expert tutor and leader of “Meantime” Nick is well known for his playing on Sunday nights and this will be a welcome opportunity to hear him just with a trio playing his choice of tunes in a modern manner.
Admission free- donations at the bar welcome please, starting from 8pm -10.30
Future Special Mainstream/ Modern Jazz featuring Leicester leading Jazz musicians on 2nd Thursday of the month:
- November 11 Dave Speedy trumpet / flugel horn
- December 9 Richard Everitt tenor / baritone
- January 13 New year feature w Mulligan Stew Sextet
- February 10 Dave Williams guitar
- March 10 Don Blakeson Trumpet
- April 14 Easter special W Mulligan Stew Sextet
Other monthly Jazz events on Sunday evenings
- 1st Sunday of every month at the Donkey – 7.45 to 10.45. Swing Jazz Jam sessions with house band Ned Newitt’s Citizens of Swing
- 2nd Sunday of every month –KGB quartet with John Kenna drums, Kathy Grainger sax, Ian Smith bass, Mike Keenan guitar
- 3rd Sunday of every month –Richard Everitt Quartet Cool, musical swinging easy listening Jazz with Pete Houtman Piano
- Trad jazz every Tuesday Thursday & Friday lunch times
Any further information, adjustments or enquires re musicians activities or email changes please contact ANDREW SIME on Email - jazz@andrew-sime.com 6 The Courtyard, The Outwoods, Burbage, Leicestershire LE10 2UD Office phone : 01455 890483 Mobile : 07976 573777
The Donkey runs a very lively 7 day varied music programme with blues & soul. Further Programme details can be obtained by emailing gazbirtles@ntlworld.com
- STEVE TAYTON -
Surprise Appearance With Interplay
 One of Coventry’s favourite sons, saxophonist Steve Tayton, will be sitting in with Interplay for a couple of tunes at our gig on Thursday 14th October at the Biggin Hall.
Steve was a prominent player in this region for many years, initially coming to the fore with jazz-rock outfit Pzazz. In 1999 he was commissioned to write the suite ‘From Dark to Light’ for his jazz quartet and the Rolls Royce (Coventry) Band, a response to the changes in the mining industry and their effects on local communities.
Steve and Adrian Litvinoff worked together starting in the late 1980s when Adrian first arrived in Warwickshire. Their band ‘Intuition’ included Ben Parkinson on piano and Chris Dagley, (now sadly departed) on drums.
Now living in France Steve continues to play while also writing for a wide range of musical ensembles in different genres. Don’t miss this scarce opportunity to hear him again on home turf. The gig starts at 8.30pm, admission £6, £4 students.
LIVE IN BRUMMAGEM
The Prince of Wales Open Mic Sessions
The Prince of Wales, Cambridge St, Birmingham B1 2NP has started an open mic session every Thursday from 8.30pm. Musicians and singers or singer/songwriters who would like to build up their confidence in front of a live audience are all invited to perform for us. We provide the PA. If you’d like to book a spot call Linda on 0121-241 6751, or you can just turn up. The Prince of Wales is well known for its regular Sunday afternoon gigs, 4-7pm, normally Rock’n’Roll or Rock/Blues, and everyone is welcome to come down and join in the friendly atmosphere.
JAZZ AT THE MALTHOUSE
The Malthouse in Birmingham is situated on the canal side opposite the National Sea Life Centre. The venue has supported Jazz for the last decade and has hosted many well respected players.
Originally the resident band was John Burnett’s Jazz Bandits supported by Peter Carlton, reeds, Ron Hills,trombone, Ken Jones, piano, Allan Jones, drums and bass players Dave Margaroni, John Fellows and Bob Boucher After John’s death the Band continued until Peter Carlton took over leadership and re-named the band Jazzstrata.
The Band performs regularly each Sunday lunchtime, 1pm-3.30 pm,.playing mainstream and dixieland music.Admission is free. The Band consists of Tony Pipkin, Peter Carlton,Rod Kelly,John Smith,Allan Jones, Bob Boucher and Derrick Brown. It is a popular venue with a good following. A meal and a drink is also an added pleasure.
Look forward to seeing you.
Peter Carlton.
OCTOBER’S LETTER
FROM OUR EDITOR
Hello everyone;
Welcome to the October issue of Jazzwestmids. Doesn’t the time go quickly, it will soon be Christmas!!
Congratulation to MYJO, who are celebrating their 40th Anniversary this year. They will be returning to their original venue, Midland Arts Centre, Cannon Hill Park, Birmingham, B12 9QH on Sunday 31st October for a special 40th annivsery party.
Malthouse Jazz is now back every Sunday Lunch from 1 – 3.30, with Peter Carlton’s Jazzstrata. Had an unexpected “cracking” afternoon at The Actress & Bishop on 11 the September, went down to say good bye and good luck to “Shaggy”, Who is going off to Uni, the music was so good I had to stay for the full session. US. Blues duo, Diana Braithwaite and Chris Whiteley with Andy Wheeler Drums, Mike Hatton Base. Bob Hall pianio. They were joined at various intervals by Doc Jonny, Steve Adjo and Jim McCallister, singing the blues (not Sinatra) I even had a dance with one of our subscribers, Terry, from Chesterfield.
You can see Dr Jonny at Bearwood Corks Club on Oct 21st with his Dr Harps Medicine Band and Patsy Fuller.
Disappointing attendance for, JAZZ IN THE BIG TOP. I know the big top is a huge venue to fill, but there were only about 30 of us there. It was a wonderful show, a Varity of music styles, from the wonderful young saxophonist Benett Soundy, accompanied by Benet McLean piano and Blue Sax, to Verona Chard with her bubbly personality and lovely voice, the evening was topped off by the great and energetic King Pleasure and the Biscuit boy’s. The musicians played their hearts out, to our small but very appreciative audience.
 I was chatting to Verona, she is starting a new radio programme “woman in Jazz” on ukjazzradio and would welcome any woman who fit the bill to contact her on contact@veronachard.com
In my neck of the woods, Leam Jazz is starting its autumn programme at the Leamington Rugby Club, middle Wednesday of each month. Verve Bar, Rugby, Jazz Jam every 3rd Sunday of the month Once again big thank you to all our subscribers, who help to fund our Jazz guide.
Stella
Memories in Music IN THE MIDLANDS Charity Event Gaining Momentum as Support Swells The Midlands Re-Awakens its Rich Musical Heritage to Benefit Macmillan Cancer Support and Task Brasil.
From 18th September until 17th October this year, Memories in Music C.I.C. (Community Interest Company) is staging an event of nostalgic memories and memorabilia representing and celebrating a history of popular, rock and blues based music in the Midlands area.
For full information visit the St Pauls Gallery website on the Event website. Press Release near bottom of page
STRATFORD JAZZ’S
OCTOBER LINE UP
 03 Oct - The Chris Biscoe Quartet plays tribute to the music of Eric Dolphy. £10 by ticket
Chris Biscoe - alto sax, alto clarinet, alto flute, Tony Kofi - alto sax, Larry Bartley - double bass, Stu Butterfield - drums
During 2008 this outstanding quartet produced the much-acclaimed album "Gone in the Air" a tribute to Eric Dolphy. Dolphy, whose early death at the age of 36 from complications brought on by an undiagnosed diabetes in 1964, left his rich legacy to be developed by other musicians. He was a multi-instrumentalist, a composer of considerable originality but perhaps his greatest impact was as an explosive and often humorous improviser. Four gifted musicians play their tribute to one of the greatest innovators in the world of jazz. Admission by ticket £10. T: 01789 264787
‘DUKE ELLINGTON REVISITED’
Wednesday 6 October @ Civic Hall 7.30pm - The Alan Barnes Octet, with Alec Dankworth
Alan Barnes - alto sax, clarinet, bass clarinet, Bruce Adams - trumpet, flugel horn, Mark Nightingale - trombone, Andy Panayi - baritone sax, clarinet, flute, Tony Coe - tenor sax, clarinet, John Horler - piano, Alec Dankworth - double bass, Bobby Worth - drums
This all-star octet plays the music of Ellington and Strayhorn with new arrangements from internationally acknowledged expert, Tony Faulkner. The musicians, all major names, are united in their love of and ability to interpret Ellington’s music, and wield the power and dynamics of a much bigger band. An evening of swinging and accessible jazz is guaranteed!
Miles Davis once commented, "Everybody ought to get down on their knees one day and thank Duke". Many jazz enthusiasts will concur with Miles for we were introduced to the wonderful world of jazz by Duke Ellington's music. This all-star octet plays the music of Ellington and Strayhorn with new arrangements from the internationally acknowledged expert, Tony Faulkner. Eight excellent musicians united in their love of and their ability to interpret Ellington's music. This will be an evening of swinging and accessible jazz with the superb writing and playing enabling this small group to wield the power and dynamics of a big band.
TICKETS: £18, £16, £14; student concessions £10 - In association with Stratford Jazz - BOX OFFICE: 01789 207100, online at www.civichall.co.uk or in person (Monday - Friday only) from Civic Hall, Rother St, Stratford on Avon CV37 6LU.
10 Oct - Roy Forbes Quintet. £8
Roy Forbes (v) Luke Shringler (s) Edgar Macias (p) Tom Hill (b) Miles Levin (d)
Roy Forbes is one of the leading jazz vocalists in the UK. His enthusiasm for the music has led him into numerous jam sessions exploring the various genres of reggae, soul blues etc . He has performed at many jazz festivals including Brecon, Cork, Milan and St LuciaStratford Jazzand also at Ronnie Scott’s club. His warm personality and cool swinging style will ensure a very hip evening.
17 Oct - Christian Brewer Quartet. £8
Christian Brewer (as) Andrea Pozza (p) Tom Farmer (b) Shane Forbes (d)
Christian Brewer is a stalwart of the London jazz scene and many international clubs/festivals and is always a popular visitor to Stratford Jaz. This fluent improviser and composer is accompanied by Italian pianist Andrea Pozza an important figure on the international jazz scene for over 20 years, having appeared with Chet Baker, Scott Hamilton, Lee Konitz et al. Good to see “Empirical” drummer Shane Forbes in the line-up.
24 Oct - The Rabbit Project. £8
Dave Kane (b) Matthew Bourne (fender rhodes) Simon Kaylor (ts) Simon Beddoe (t) Joost Hendrickx (d)
When Dave Kane released his Rabbit Project album it created quite a stir with the critics – Jazzwise mag said, “It’s simply first-rate, intelligent 21st century jazz”. Thought by many to be the finest bass player on the planet, Dave Kane is proving to be an innovative and accomplished composer. He has gathered a stellar group of musicians to produce bold and confident modern jazz of the highest quality. Not for the faint hearted but if you are prepared to wave goodbye to conformity and conservatism you will be rewarded.
31 Oct - Magic Hat Ensemble Qnt. £8
Steve Chadwick (t) Andrzej Baranek (p) Nick Blackla (b) Tommy Ormesher (g) Rob Turner (d)
Craig Milverton
(Digby Fairweathers pianist)
Craig Milverton has recently been diagnosed with a serious debilitating illness. Happily it has not yet affected his brilliant piano playing. Tim Lord is hosting a very special Jazz evening at his home, for Craig, who will perform a tribute to all great Jazz pianists from Joplin to Oscar Peterson.
The gig is on Saturday Oct 2nd at 7.30pm. It will be at 4 Whitbrook Mews, Bridgnorth, Shropshire WV15 5AG. £25 and will include a 3 course dinner. Contact Tim Lord 01746 765737 for tickets - limited to 30.
Callander Jazz & Blues Festival
JAZZIN’ UP THE TROSSACHS
The 5th annual Callander Jazz and Blues Festival will take place over the weekend of 1st / 2nd / 3rd October 2010. The Festival Event is centred in the Trossachs town of Callander which is the eastern gateway to the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park an area of outstanding scenic beauty and historical interest.
This years musical event stages over 50 live performances spread over 22 venues and features a host of local, national, and international musicians playing live for you entertainment and appreciation every style of jazz and blues music with just a hint of soul thrown in. The Callander Jazz and Blues Festival is now firmly established on the UK Festival map and is one of the largest rural music festival events in Scotland. Visit the Heart of Scotland and experience a weekend of first class entertainment amongst the early Autumn splendor of the Trossachs.
JAZZ IN THE BACK ROOM
The Back Room Jazz Festival
George IV, Bore street, Lichfield WS13 6LU
Following the success of Lichfield Festival’s Sundown Jazz Festival, the hosts George IV, 34 Bore Street Lichfield, will be launching The Back Room Jazz Club with their own festival, from the 17th to 21st October. The festival is in conjunction with Lichfield’s Nick Dewhurst, a student at the Birmingham Conservatoire, the festival aims to bring the vibrant modern jazz scene currently taking over Birmingham to the George IV and the people of Lichfield. With an eclectic mix of the regions finest jazz musicians, from sax to guitar, from classic to original contemporary composition. The festival includes Tim Amann, Sam Rogers, Alicia Gardener, Callum Roxburgh, Freddie Pirotta, Andy Derrick, Funktional and Doug McMillan.
Tickets are available to purchase over the phone or from the venue for 5 pounds per night or a 20 pounds festival ticket. Book now to avoid disappointment, as the venue is authentically intimate. Call 01543 416596 for further details.
Gig listings for George IV, The Back Room Jazz Club Festival
- Sunday evening will be with the superb Tim Amann X-tet.
- Monday Alicia Gardener-Trejo and her band Callum Roxburgh quartet.
- Tuesday Chloe and the Tomcats and Freddie Pirotta and his ‘Hip Operation’.
- Wednesday Andy Derrick and his Trio Latino
- Thursday Funk, jazz and blues with Funktional
PRESS RELEASE
St Paul’s Gallery in Birmingham are proud to be chosen as the first venue for The Memories In Music Launch
The event will be held from 18th September until 17th October this year. Memories In Music focuses on the collection of stories and memorabilia, all relating to bands of the past and present.
In addition to the items on display, there will be rarities like Steve Winwood’s personal photographs collection, Fairport Convention’s instruments and Deb Bonham’s stage clothes and photos. Bev Bevan is loaning a drum head, his Out of The Blue tour jacket and Gold Albums, Blaze Bayley is loaning some of his stage clothes and Mike Sanchez is loaning his first electric piano, together with photos of him playing with the likes of Paul McCartney.
Trevor Burton is loaning stage clothes from The Move, together with photographs and Judas Priest is loaning Gold/Platinum Albums to the event. Toyah Wilcox has donated a signed CD and backstage pass for display and subsequent use in a competition for the charity fundraising. And as a neat bonus, the representatives of London’s The Marquee Club are to allow items from their archive to be on display at Memories in Music IN THE MIDLANDS.
UPDATES, AMMENDMENTS & CORRECTIONS TO PROGRAMMES:
BIG CHARITY BASH @ BEARWOOD CORKS ON THURSDAY 7th
 Bearwood Jazz are hosting a big Charity Bash in aid of the Pakistan Floods Appeal being run by the Disasters Emergency Committee. It will feature Andy Hamilton & The Blue Notes with a galaxy of guests. The Notebenders will be there and Steve Ajao is also on the cards. Pete Beresford will be coming from out of town to play piano for The Bluenotes and he'll be bringing Satch Dixon who'll play Congas and sing a couple of numbers, giving the evening an added Jamaican vibe.We're also hoping for an all to rare public performanceby vocalist Gwen King who is planning to do a number with Pete Beresford.
Internationally renowned saxophonist James Renford was one of the first to confirm. He is in London earlier in the day, but he still plans to make it! Now saxophonist Alvin Davis (right) and blues harpist Dr Johnny are the latest to confirm. It's all building up nicely.
Not only that but you never can tell who'll turn up on the night, so just come along and be surprised.
Bearwood Corks Club, Bearwood Road, B66 4BT - Doors 8.30pm Starts 9pm - 0121-429 2091
LEAM JAZZ – Concerts
Autumn-Winter Season 2010
Wednesday October 13th – 8.00PM
JUCAMAYA (tickets £5)
Comtemporary Jazz Quintet playing mainly original compositions by leader Graham Dent.
Featuring Ian Hill (saxes) and Richard Baker (trombone) in the front line
Graham Dent…………piano, keyboard Ian Hill………tenor and soprano saxophones, Richard Baker………trombone, Dave Jenkins………. bass, Steve Laffy……… drums
Pianist Graham Dent is a well established midlands-based musician, both as a performer and a composer. He has worked extensively accompanying vocalists, and supporting visiting musicians such as Dave O’Higgins and Alan Barnes. Jucamaya, which about 5 years ago grew from the close musical collaboration between Graham and saxophonist Ian Hill, successfully unites Graham’s writing talents with a fine quintet. Jucamaya’s music, ranging from the energetic to the introspective, is fresh, stylish, and in tune with the jazz tradition, mixing originals and standards into memorable live performances. The band has two CDs to its credit, both well received by jazz audiences and the musician community alike. Check out the band at www.jucamaya.com
“Jucamaya’s performance and Graham’s original compositions were like a breath of fresh air”.. Mill Hill Jazz Club
Event is held at LEAMINGTON RUGBY CLUB, MOOREFIELDS, KENILWORTH ROAD, CV32 6RG, LEAMINGTON SPA. Contact : Stewart - 07780 954 909, John - 07919 210 510
Website – www.myspace.com/leamjazz |
VERONA CHARD IS COOKIN’
at the OLD JOINT STOCK THEATRE, BIRMINGMHAM
Saturday 18 September at 8pm
 As part of an Autumn Tour schedule Verona stops off at the Old Joint Stock Theatre for an evening of exquisite Jazz.
Verona was born in Bristol and raised in Bath, Somerset. Her first really lucky jazz break came in 2005 when Humphrey Lyttelton asked her to record a track perhaps aptly entitled ‘Jail Break’ for his ‘Sad Sweet Songs and Crazy Rhythms’ album.
Verona met Humph through jazz pianist Ted Beament who years before had introduced her to Claire Martin with whom she still collaborates.
Verona’s jazz album FEVER was released on Wednesday 21st July 2010 and features an arrangement of ‘Jail Break’ as a tribute and ‘thank you’ to the late Humphrey Lyttelton. Humph invited Verona to ‘sit-in’ at The Bull in Barnes and this experience inspired her to set up live jazz at Monty’s in The Mall W5 and subsequently Vamp Jazz, Blues and Live at Café Chai W5, which re-launched in October 2009. The ‘Fever’ album concept was inspired by Sir John Dankworth and the meteorically talented Dame Cleo Laine’s 1964 recording ‘Shakespeare and All That Jazz’. Music includes arrangements of songs by Elton John, Stephen Sondheim, Galt MacDermot, Cole Porter, Rogers and Hart and a very original treatment of the iconic ‘Fever’ track.
In addition to residencies at the Holiday Inn, Brentford and the Duke of Kent W13, Verona has performed at the Ealing Jazz Festival, The National Theatre; The Purcell Room – South Bank; Café Royal; The Green Room; The Spice of Life; Hugo’s and for Chelsea and Westminster Hospital Arts.
Touring and Festivals include Pizza Express, Norwich; The Brazz, Brighton; The Jazz Bar, Edinburgh; Sedbergh Literary Festival; The Bear, Devizes; Brighton Festival and the Edinburgh and Bath Festivals.
Tickets: £10 from the Old Joint Stock Theatre on 0121 200 0946
Steve King Big Band 40th Anniversary
The Steve King Big Band celebrates its fortieth anniversary in 2010 and is undertaking a tour starting in September 2010. From its early beginnings as a youth band, the passage of time has, after forty years turned the band into one of the Midlands leading exponents of big band music. The current line-up is an eclectic mix of seasoned pros and semi-pros including some of the brightest sparks in the jazz scene today which helps keep the band at the forefront of the burgeoning big band movement.
MOSTLY JAZZ is MOSELEY MAGIC
Your Web Editor, Dick Jones, took this photo of Craig Charles introducing the Sun Ra Arkestra at the Mostly Jazz Festival. This is just one of the many photos already up on the Flickr photo sharing site. The festival itself was a fabulous event with a near perfect blend of national, international and local acts, and of course the Sun Ra Arkestra was absolute magic, even though I have to say the £1 non-refundable deposit on the beer glasses was taking the biscuit somewhat.
Let's hope this years Festival the first of many more to come.
THIS GIG CAME IN TOO LATE FOR THE MAGAZINE!!!
Jim McAllister with the Southside Big Band at The Stadium in WheelersLane, Kings Heath.
Wed 15th Sept - £7 in
JAZZ JAMM AT THE VERVE BAR SUNDAY 19th SEPTEMBER 2010. North Street Rugby CV21 2AL 4-7pm.
This month`s featured Artists : The Gershwins and Duke Ellington
welcome back to the start of our 4th term of jazz jamm sessions at the Verve bar in Rugby. This month we start of with standards from the Ellington songbooks so plenty of tunes for musicians to plays and supporters to enjoy. Look forward to seeing you there!
The Trumpet in Bilson welcome back Keith Bill, after a year or two, who will be playing with Simon Spillett on Wednesday 22nd September.
Jazz in the Big Top September 16th at The Racecourse Stratford upon Avon
On the 16th of September, Uk Jazz Radio the pure jazz 24/7 radio station, makes jazz history when they take over Gerry Cottle's Circus Big Top for a day of Jazz.
Jazz in the Big Top will be in Gerry Cottle's Big Top on the Racecourse in Stratford upon Avon. The fun will start at 3pm with jazz workshops for schools, street entertainers, buskers and circus acts.
The jazz starts at 7pm with Bennett Soundy's Blue Sax. Bennett has been nominated for Best Blues Sax Player at this years British Jazz Awards. Bennett has also just released his debut CD; he is just 16. The rest of the bill includes Jazz Power House Benet McLean playing tracks from his new CD 'In The Land of OO-Bla-Dee, Verona Chard sings from her New CD Fever and topping the bill the fantastic King Pleasure and the Biscuit Boys.
Uk Jazz Radio is planning to present 10 more Jazz in the Big Top Jazz concerts in 10 different venues in 2011.... Brian Soundy, director of Uk Jazz Radio said
“ this is a very exciting time for us at Uk Jazz Radio, with listener numbers approaching 500000, plus our presence at major jazz festivals in 2010 and our successful Young Jazz Performers award, we have achieved all our goals for 2010; namely to create a jazz platform to promote live jazz especially for young and up and coming jazz artists. Jazz in the Big Top is a very special project that will fulfill another of our aims which is to bring jazz to a wider audience”.
Music in the Garden
Our Roving reporter Dr Derek Copland
Such a hedonistic afternoon on the 10th July at The Stables in Wavendon. “It’s A Family Affair” Dame Cleo Laine, son Alec, daughter Jacqui and granddaughter Emily playing a tribute to Sir John. A triumphant event on a perfect summer’s day in the elysian tranquility of The Rectory garden.
Noel Coward’s Mad about the Boy was particularly outstanding with magnificent performances in a very warming, polished family production but there were many glorious peaks in a programme that covered a wide range of content Jacqui was strikingly expressive and Emily was hauntingly pure in the apparent simplicity of Spanish folk songs. Alec is a consummate and brilliant master of the bass and of course the alluring dark velvet of Cleo’s voice threaded through it all.
A wonderful, happy and resounding occasion” Recommend paying a visit to “ Music In the Garden” 2011.
Letter From The Editor
Hello everyone.
Welcome to the September issue of Jazzwestmids. I hope you are all well and have enjoyed the summer. I certainly have, having visited Waverden, Music in the garden, Upton Jazz Festival, Upton Blues Festival and Birmingham Jazz festival.
A big thank you to all our subscribers, many of which have sent me messages of encouragement, and came to see me at the festivals. It’s very nice to know you find the magazine helpful, when planning your trips out. We are into the autumn season now, so enjoy all the local events advertised. Corks Club, September schedule features a wonderful variety with some of the best local talent, Birmingham Jazz Youth Group , hot off the heels of a slot at the Mostly Jazz Festival. Big Band sound of Out Of The Blue Jazz Orchestra, Edgar Macías Quintet featuring Venezuelan percussionist, Wilmer Sifontes and the excellent Chris Bowden on alto sax. and of course Resident Jazz legend Andy Hamilton & The Blue Notes. The Steve King Big band is celebrating its 40th Anniversary, at many local venues.
Congratulations to them.
The long awaited new CD from King Pleasure and The Biscuit Boys, Live at last, will take you right through the frenzy of a night of a night with King Pleasure and is now available from Big Bear Music.
Stella
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Memories in Music IN THE MIDLANDS Charity Event Gaining Momentum as Support Swells The Midlands Re-Awakens its Rich Musical Heritage to Benefit Macmillan Cancer Support and Task Brasil.
From 18th September until 17th October this year, Memories in Music C.I.C. (Community Interest Company) is staging an event of nostalgic memories and memorabilia representing and celebrating a history of popular, rock and blues based music in the Midlands area.
For full information visit the St Pauls Gallery website on the Event website
VERONA CHARD IS COOKIN’
at the OLD JOINT STOCK THEATRE, BIRMINGMHAM
Saturday 18 September at 8pm
As part of an Autumn Tour schedule Verona stops off at the Old Joint Stock Theatre for an evening of exquisite Jazz.
Verona was born in Bristol and raised in Bath, Somerset. Her first really lucky jazz break came in 2005 when Humphrey Lyttelton asked her to record a track perhaps aptly entitled ‘Jail Break’ for his ‘Sad Sweet Songs and Crazy Rhythms’ album.
Verona met Humph through jazz pianist Ted Beament who years before had introduced her to Claire Martin with whom she still collaborates.
Verona’s jazz album FEVER was released on Wednesday 21st July 2010 and features an arrangement of ‘Jail Break’ as a tribute and ‘thank you’ to the late Humphrey Lyttelton. Humph invited Verona to ‘sit-in’ at The Bull in Barnes and this experience inspired her to set up live jazz at Monty’s in The Mall W5 and subsequently Vamp Jazz, Blues and Live at Café Chai W5, which re-launched in October 2009. The ‘Fever’ album concept was inspired by Sir John Dankworth and the meteorically talented Dame Cleo Laine’s 1964 recording ‘Shakespeare and All That Jazz’. Music includes arrangements of songs by Elton John, Stephen Sondheim, Galt MacDermot, Cole Porter, Rogers and Hart and a very original treatment of the iconic ‘Fever’ track.
In addition to residencies at the Holiday Inn, Brentford and the Duke of Kent W13, Verona has performed at the Ealing Jazz Festival, The National Theatre; The Purcell Room – South Bank; Café Royal; The Green Room; The Spice of Life; Hugo’s and for Chelsea and Westminster Hospital Arts.
Touring and Festivals include Pizza Express, Norwich; The Brazz, Brighton; The Jazz Bar, Edinburgh; Sedbergh Literary Festival; The Bear, Devizes; Brighton Festival and the Edinburgh and Bath Festivals.
Tickets: £10 from the Old Joint Stock Theatre on 0121 200 0946
Jazz in the Big Top September 16th at The Racecourse Stratford upon Avon
On the 16th of September, Uk Jazz Radio the pure jazz 24/7 radio station, makes jazz history when they take over Gerry Cottle's Circus Big Top for a day of Jazz.
Jazz in the Big Top will be in Gerry Cottle's Big Top on the Racecourse in Stratford upon Avon. The fun will start at 3pm with jazz workshops for schools, street entertainers, buskers and circus acts.
The jazz starts at 7pm with Bennett Soundy's Blue Sax. Bennett has been nominated for Best Blues Sax Player at this years British Jazz Awards. Bennett has also just released his debut CD; he is just 16. The rest of the bill includes Jazz Power House Benet McLean playing tracks from his new CD 'In The Land of OO-Bla-Dee, Verona Chard sings from her New CD Fever and topping the bill the fantastic King Pleasure and the Biscuit Boys.
Uk Jazz Radio is planning to present 10 more Jazz in the Big Top Jazz concerts in 10 different venues in 2011.... Brian Soundy, director of Uk Jazz Radio said
“ this is a very exciting time for us at Uk Jazz Radio, with listener numbers approaching 500000, plus our presence at major jazz festivals in 2010 and our successful Young Jazz Performers award, we have achieved all our goals for 2010; namely to create a jazz platform to promote live jazz especially for young and up and coming jazz artists. Jazz in the Big Top is a very special project that will fulfill another of our aims which is to bring jazz to a wider audience”.
JAZZ @ THE PRINCE OF WALES
The Prince of Wales, Cambridge Street, in Birmingham City Centre, is putting on several jazz gigs to coincide with the Birmingham Jazz Festival. On Friday July 16th Funktional (above), Lichfield’s best up-and-coming young jazz/funk/blues combo, will be playing from 9pm. On Sunday July 18th Roger Hill Blues Band will be taking the regular afternoon slot, 4-7pm. On Friday July 23rd Teddy Dupont and the All Stars will be playing the sounds of Django Reinhardt from 9pm. On Sunday July 25th we welcome Smokin’ Ade (Ade Wakelin) and his band, 4-7pm. All gigs are free.
Birmingham International Jazz Festival, now in its 26th year, is taking to the streets more than ever this year. Enjoy 10 days of jazz and blues at bus and train stations, museums and art galleries, Zoos and castles, stores, hotels, canals, as well as bars, cafes and resturants. Over 60 venues 90% of which are free. July 16th to 25th.
Pershore Jazz Festival 2010
The ninth annual Pershore Jazz Festival, 13th-15th August, 2010 promises to be as good as ever. Still located in the delightful grounds of Pershore College Campus, this year sees the relocation of the very popular marquee to create an even more compact setting and the introduction of a bus service between the college and town for visitors wanting to sample Pershore’s many attractions in the two days before the festival.
Twenty eight sessions in four venues over the three days will provide an exciting mix of styles from New Orleans, Traditional, Mainstream and Gypsy Swing to Boogie and Big Band Jazz Hot, cool, swinging, bouncing, exuberant, sophisticated, humorous.
Details are on the website, www.pershorejazz.org.uk or ring 01386 554 235 / 01905 748124
JB Jazz & Blues Band of the Year
JB Jazz & Blues band are "Band of the year" at the Stafford Jazz Society awards, 2010!! Well done to the group who arw regulars at Harp, Summersaults, Upon Blues Festival, The Little Muggary and Anchor in Upton Upon Severn.
They also will provide an antidote to the Upton Blues Festival on Saturday 17 July by playing whilst afloat on The Conway Castle sailing from The Quay at Upton in the evening, at the Little Upton Muggery on Sunday 18th, July and later that day at the Malvern Jazz Club at Malvern Rugby Club. A 5 or 3 piece Band. JB3 trio, comprises John Beckingham keyboard Andy Wood guitar and Roger Manwaring reeds (all three also provide vocals on their eclectic mix of small band jazz from the 30's and 40's)
SPATS DOES SUMMERSAULTS...
...well, not literally
My friend’s Heather and Terry, treated me to a Friday night out at Summersaults Restaurant in Rugby, and what a great night out it was. The ambience, the food, the music, the company, faultless. Spatts Langham & his Hotfingers were playing their pre war Jazz, this trio is exciting, amusing and brilliantly skilled, and are regulars at Summersaults Friday Evening, Jazz Dinners (See listings or Summersaults web site for performers.).
You can also see Spatts with his hot fingers at The Birmingham International Jazz Festival, on July 19th, 12.30 at the Mailbox and 18.00 at Birmingham Ibis Hotel and with the Pasadena Roof Orchestra on Friday 16th July 2010, 7.30pm Civic Hall, Rother Street, Stratford on Avon Tickets available from the Civic Hall Box Office: 01789 207100, online at www.civichall.co.uk
Goodbye Shenstone Blues...
...but watch out for Carl Sinclair
It was with great regret, that Saturday 5th June saw the last gig organised by Nanette Allen at The Shenstone Blues Club: For the past 9 years and 100 gigs ,the first Saturday of the month became a must for music lovers for an evening of guaranteed great music.
“The venue became loved by audiences and musicians alike, the musicians too numerous to name, will always be very dear to my heart and I will never be able to thank them enough for supporting me. The monthly commitment to Shenstone has become a bit of a strain, but I do hope to continue with some live music near our new home - in fact January 1st, our not-to-be-missed New Year’s Day gig is already arranged in Tatenhill, with The Carl Sinclair Band!!
Thankyou one and all for your loyalty and support”
Love Nanette
Nanette can be contacted at home on 01283 535502 and on her e.mail address nanetteallen@hotmail.com if you want any information about things to come.
MIDSUMMER MUSIC IN STRATFORD ON FRIDAY 16 JULY 2010
PASADENA ROOF ORCHESTRA
Stratford on Avon Music Festival presents Midsummer Music with the PASADENA ROOF ORCHESTRA on Friday 16th July, Civic Hall, Stratford on Avon 7.30pm.Tickets £18, £16 and £14. Concessions £17, £15 and £13. Reserved seating. Tickets available from the Civic Hall Box Office: 01789 207100, online at www.civichall.co.uk or in person.
This gig came in just to late for July’s magazine.
GIG UPDATES:
There have been a couple of changes to the Trumpet, Bilston's August programme:
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Thursday 5th August - Sambuca Diaries Big Band (rt)
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Wednesday 11th August - Dancing Django
Ring (01902) 493723 for enquiries
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Just a message to keep you updated about some good music that's happening at The Three Horseshoes, Main Street, Barton Under Needwood. A really nice little pub where the landlord Brian is trying hard to keep music live, something very close to my heart so I am helping.
