...Summer is now upon us and it’s finally time to embrace all the outdoor events on offer...
Jazz Festivals, Kirkcudbright, Uptonon-Severn and Lichfield Jazz & Blues are all taking place in June and beckon your attendance. You can listen to Out Of The Blue Jazz Orchestra for free while sitting in the park (see listings).
Birmingham Botanical Gardens are also putting on Jazz so check out their web site and enjoy the sunshine!
Quality live entertainment hosted by Dame Cleo Laine in her beautiful Old Rectory gardens, at Wavendon, Milton Keynes. Why not hire your own private gazebo and have a picnic? Ring 01908 583151 for details.
The Southside Big Band are playing their regular date on Wednesday 15th June at The Stadium Club on Wheelers Lane, Kings Heath, featuring winning guest vocalist, Matt Ford - always worth a visit.
Tamworth’s Mainstream & Modern Club have a special tribute night to Sir George Shearing at the Bolehall Manor, Amington Road B77 3LH on Monday 13th June and will feature Paul Sawtell on vibes, Craig Milverton keyboards, Roy Sainsbury on guitar, Tom Hill on double bass and Nick Millward on drums.
Chescoe’s Goodtime Jazz have recently reformed and will play North Cotswold Jazz Club.
Kevin Preece, who is Derek Bennett’s Stepson, is preparing to do a charity motorbike ride around Europe in order to raise funds for research and awareness of Leukaemia (see the article further down for more info). The website for you to do this can be found at http://www.justgiving.com/ kevin-preece/ and you can read more about the challenge at the Zenith Hot Stompers website: http://www.zenithhotstompers.co.uk/page8%20Charity.htm plus you can view the charity’s website: http://www.beatbloodcancers.org/research
Friday 17th June Birmingham Town Hall BBC Radio 2 Big Band Special GREAT SWING BATTLES – THE BBC BIG BAND MEETS MYJO The BBC Big Band joins forces with the acclaimed Midland Youth Jazz Orchestra. Together they recreate all the excitement of the great musical battles of the swing era. Join them as they feature classic scores from the great bands Box office: 01217803333
Edgar Marcias is back with a regular Sunday Lunch time venue Benjamins, Halesowen.
Stella
“Jazz Enthusiast Didn’t Chicken Out”
It's no secret that while downloads (both legal and illegal) have been causing CD sales to collapse sales of Vinyl (both new and second hand) have been enjoying something of a renaissance. Althoigh it's is very much a niche market theses days more titles are being issued on Vinyl than at any time in the last decade and a half. The article below has been sent in by Chris McGranaghan, a man who took a chance on opening a record shop in Rugeley and it paid off.
“If you live in and around the West Midlands you will no doubt remember those specialised record emporiums where you whiled away an hour. Many have long since gone but not all! - Those Old Records at the Brewery Street Shopping Centre in Rugeley specialises in jazz on vinyl and has been open since February 2010. Owner Chris McGranaghan decided to open the shop after a failed attempt to buy a chicken (you need to hear the whole story from him!) and realise a long held ambition. “My ideal job would have been to work in Dobell’s in London but that was never going to happen so when the opportunity came here I went for it.
We stock Jazz, Blues, Avant Garde, Folk, Rock, Sixties, Reggae, Soul and anything that moves the soul. The selection of jazz albums is extensive with everything from Ken Colyer through to Sun Ra and most points in between.
The shop is vinyl only and has expanded twice in the last 12 months. The demand for vinyl from all age groups is awesome, it truly is back to stay. We stock new (MINT) vinyl as well and many hard to find originals are becoming available once again. We also have lots of ever changing jazz bargain bins. So, if you are still collecting vinyl or have just started, take a run up to Rugeley, pull up a seat and Chris will get the kettle on. If you have a collection to sell please call Chris on 07795 548242 or drop an email to thoseoldrecords@btinternet.com.
Derek Bennett (highlighted above}, of Zenith Hot Stompers, sadly died on March 24th. One of the west midlands favourite musicians, He will be sadly missed.
The band has appeared with many other top British musicians - Chris Barber, Monty Sunshine, Wally Fawkes, Cy Laurie, Pat Halcox, John Crocker, Alan Elsdon, and the late Ray Foxley among them.
In the 39 years of the band’s existence, the Stompers have visited Holland, Germany, France, Switzerland, Sweden and (most recently) Finland. In the past few years they have concentrated on reaching an even wider public in the UK, with tours of Southern England and East Anglia and the South-West and visits to Cumbria and Yorkshire. One of the band’s achievements may be unique - playing in the basket of a hot air balloon as it travelled above the Worcestershire countryside at 1,000 feet!.
Kevin Preece, son of Derek Bennett, is preparing to do a charity motorbike ride around Europe in order to raise funds for research and awareness of Leukaemia. If you wish to donate online you can do so at www.justgiving.com/kevin-preece...
All of the funds raised will go direct to Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research. This charity is the only Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research in the UK and they only invest in the best research that brings the most benefit to patients. With 50 years of experience investing in quality research, they have built unparalleled expertise in the field of blood cancers here in Britain. However, for their life-saving work to continue, they need to raise over £20million every year. Kevin’s aim is to raise money for and awareness of the work they are doing.
If you do not want to donate electronically, then you can send cheques/postal orders through the family;C/O Carol Bennett
Brockwood,
Badgers Walk
Stourport on Severn,
Worcestershire DY13 8BW
Office: 01299 822751
Mobile: 07971 53619
Dates for your diary:
Jazz Jamm at Verve, Rugby (above), 3rd Sunday every month 4–7pm - Features a resident rhythm section
.
Edgar Macías has a new Sunday lunchtime gig at Benjamin’s in Halesowen. He's been looking for just such a gig ever since the Jazz at the Scarlet Pimpernell closed down. It's from 3-6 and it's £3 in. Different line up every week. 0121 606 0202
The 7th Ayr Jazz Festival will take place from 21st to 23rd October. This festival is a small, compact, friendly and you assured of a warm Scottish welcome, a varied programme of Jazz, coupled with beautiful scenery. So, don’t delay, book you tickets
Open Mike at Prince of Wales, Cambridge St. on Thursdays, is going from strength to strength come along and enjoy, a terrific, friendly evening, in the heart of Birmingham,all musicians welcome. 0121 643 9460
Returning for a second visit to Rush Hour Blues, expect another storming set from the talented Midland Youth Jazz Orchestra. Presented in association with Birmingham Jazz
The Hot Five Jazzmakers (all seven of ‘em!) are a versatile Canadian jazz group and play a happy mix of ragtime, blues, spirituals & classic jazz with all the fun, joy & flavour of the 1920’s/30’
...but we regret thast we start with saddest news...
We are truly sorry and deeply shocked to learn of the passing of Derek Bennett, percussionist with the Zenith Hot Stompers. A great favourite with audiences wherever he played, marvellous personality, excellent drummer and with a great sense of humour.
Oh how this man will be missed but we should be forever thankful that he was not only a wonderful part of the jazz scene but part of our lives, too.
Derek passed away peacefully on 25th March following a stroke after a year of sufferring leukaemia.
We have a NEW Jazz Venue in Coventry. Make a note and make a date:
Live In Your Living Room!
Every Thursday 8pm til midnight.
Bayleys Wine Bar, 24 Bayley Lane, Coventry, CV1 5RN.
Different jazz/soul/funk host band weekly, who open the night with a short set and also close the night.
Jam session open to all.
DJ Kris plays during the intervals.
FREE ENTRY!
It’s my great pleasure to inform you of the return of the ever popular Shenstone Blues Club, bringing great music for its many loyal devotees. The club is now under new and dedicated management and the music will timeslot on the first Saturday of the month.
The venue has taken a new title, ‘Shenstone Country Club’ and not the Pavilion as was formerly known.
To launch proceedings at the club, on July 2nd, will be the fantastic, rapturous Rhythm & Blues of Lancashire-based THE STUMBLE http://www.thestumble.com who have filled the venue to capacity on their two previous visits. For any enquiries please call Nanette 01283 535502.
Sunday 8th May : Ludlow Golf Club, Bromfield, 12 noon. £12.50 buys you a great carvery lunch topped off with the Simon Deeley Trio featuring Dutch Lewis (saxes, woodwinds, vocals). Very tasty !
Enjoy your jazz and blues, friends!
Stella
Dates for your diary:
THE GREAT SWING BATTLE -
- BBC BIG BAND MEETS MYJO
Friday 17th June - Concert to be recorded for BBC Radio 2’s Big Band Special.
The BBC Big Band joins forces with the acclaimed Midland Youth Jazz Orchestra. Together they recreate all the excitement of the great musical battles of the swing era.
Join them as they feature classic scores from the great bands of Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Chick Webb, Benny Goodman, Lionel Hampton and Woody Herman.
Get your tickets early, it's bound to be a sell out.
Spats Langham and His Hot fingers are playing at Summersaults, a unique and atmospheric restaurant, in Rugby, on June 3rd, bound to be a sell out, if you want to see them book your table early. www.hotfingers.co.uk
CLUB BEBOP IS BACK WITH STEVE AJAO
Now at the Prince of Wales, Cambridge Street (behind ICC), B'ham City Centre this is a new departure for the venue. Steve Ajao is bringing his Club Bebop there every Saturday beginning Feb 12th 9pm. Free admission, come along and have a friendly, terrific evening with great jazz. All enquiries to the Prince on 0121-643 9460.
Club Bebop has always been polpular with the punters and musicians alike, though it has changed venues several times. With a bit of luck this will be a more permanent home. If you can't wait till Saturday to see Steve you can always catch him at Bearwood Corks on Thursday 10th Feb or even check out this video of Steve playing Anthropology by his idol Charlie Parker on Youtube (recorded live at Corks).
Martinique Jazz Band
This lively and exciting jazz band has been on the Midlands scene for more than ten years. . They have been awarded ‘Honorary Citizens of New Orleans’ and have appeared with Humphrey Littleton, Ray Foxley, Campbell Burnap and Kenny Ball.
Other pics are JB Jazz & Blues (below) and Interplay (below JB)
Released from the contract with Simon Cowell which came with his “Britain’s Got Talent” success Julian Smith has now signed for Big Bear Records. With the new deal comes a new CD (on it’s way) and a nationwide tour starting in February. West Midlands dates on the tour include:
As part of our 3rd year University course we are hosting a Jazz event at the Wolverhampton Quadrant Lounge this Wednesday 6th April. I know it is really short notice but would you be able to list this event on the gig listing on your website? There are performances from a University Jazz band called 'Round Midnight' (featuring musicians on double bass, drums, keyboard and a singer) who will be playing 11 Jazz standards, there will be support from an acoustic act and there is also a Jazz DJ set.
The doors open at 7pm and we will charge £3.00 entry.
APRIL ’11 FEATURES
All the latest
news, views and developments in the jazz world:
Headlined by Grammy Award winning,groove jazz legend Booker T and many many others over three glorious dsays - see www.mostlyjazz.co.uk for full details
STACEY KENT
Tuesday 19th April at the Ludlow Assembly Rooms
Stacey Kent, a best-selling member of the Blue Note roster of recording artists, now boasts six best-selllng albums, a string of awards, including the British Jazz Award, The BBC Jazz Award for ‘Best Vocalist’, and Album of the year, as well as a fan base that enables her to sell-out concert halls around the world.
Upton Jazz Festival 24th - 26th June 2011
Down by the riverside,
Nestling beneath the Malvern Hills, you can be sure of a weekend of great music, fun and good company. Moor your boat, park your van, or pitch your tent on our campsite beside the River Severn in beautiful Worcestershire and walk to the Jazz!
100 YEARS OF JAZZ
Richard Pite leads this enterprising quintet which covers the history jazz from Maple Leaf Rag to Abdullah Ibrahim, ending with a Bb blues in styles from 1923 to 2010.
The band features Pete Long, Rico Tomasso and Nick Dawson
Welcome to the April issue of Jazzwestmids
It’s official! British Summertime has begun! People are mowing their lawns! Lots of Festivals to enjoy so let’s get planning!
Birmingham Jazz Festival is giving us a treat with one of its few paid concerts.
It’s Lady Sings The Blues, the critically acclaimed tribute to Billie Holiday featuring Val Wiseman, Digby Fairweather, Roy Williams, Robert Fowler, Brian Dee, Pat McCarthy, Len Skeat and Bobby Worth and it’s taking place at The Botanical Gardens on Sunday 10th July at 7pm. Tickets £12 from Ticketsellers or 0121 454 1860. Bound to be a sell out so get your tickets early.
Burton Jazz Club is in its 50th year and on April 14th they are celebrating with Mart Rodger Manchester Jazz .These days the media refers to “boy bands” or “girl bands” ...
... Well this is a great “old boy band” ( their words, not mine!) and moreover they all play instruments! These boys cut their teeth on the British “Trad” boom and they still play today with the same vitality as musicians one third their age. The band are famous for performances containing plenty of variety and their repertoire is drawn from the music of New Orleans, the early classic jazz of King Oliver and Jelly Roll Morton, Duke Ellington, Fats Waller, Louis Armstrong along with popular standard numbers, even the occasional Inkspots tune plus some exceptional band originals
Happy Easter everyone!
Stella
JJ Wheeler Quintet - Stratford Jazz on 17 April - JJ Wheeler Quintet, £6 (Students ½-price) JJ Wheeler (d) Chris Maddock (as) Charlie Portas (ts) Tom Moore (b) Ralph Brown (p)
A first appearance of this Midlands based band which is presentlymaking giant waves on the UK jazz scene. Performances so far, which include the Cheltenham Jazz Festival and airtime on BBC Radio 3, have led to high praise from world-renowned jazz musicians including Jeff Ballard and Dave Holland.
Described by http://thecitysound.co.uk as “Stunning”, The JJ Wheeler Quintet is rapidly making its mark on the UK Jazz Scene. Performances so far, which including the 2010 Cheltenham Jazz Festival and airplay on BBC Radio 3, have led to high praise from world-renowned jazz musicians including Jeff Ballard and Dave Holland. Bandleader/Composer JJ Wheeler has won several major awards for both performance and composition nationally, as well as being nominated for the prestigious Peter Whittingham Jazz Award (2009).
As a frequent performing and recording artist throughout the UK, he received the Birmingham Conservatoire “Most Prominent Contribution to the Jazz Scene” Award in 2010.
STAFFORD JAZZ SOCIETY
A 3 hour, New Orleans Jazz Special Concert: on April 3rd 1230 to 1530)
New Orleans Heat, A seven piece band playing the old style New Orleans jazz, recreating the music of the crescent city, be it a stomp, blues, hymn, spiritual or pop song of the day.In the style of the late great, Bunk Johnson, George Lewis and Kid Thomas bands. There motto is “helping to keep the real jazz alive”
Released from the contract with Simon Cowell which came with his “Britain’s Got Talent” success Julian Smith has now signed for Big Bear Records. With the new deal comes a new CD (on it’s way) and a nationwide tour starting in February. West Midlands dates on the tour include:
As part of our 3rd year University course we are hosting a Jazz event at the Wolverhampton Quadrant Lounge this Wednesday 6th April. I know it is really short notice but would you be able to list this event on the gig listing on your website? There are performances from a University Jazz band called 'Round Midnight' (featuring musicians on double bass, drums, keyboard and a singer) who will be playing 11 Jazz standards, there will be support from an acoustic act and there is also a Jazz DJ set.
The doors open at 7pm and we will charge £3.00 entry.
MARCH ’11 FEATURES
All the latest
news, views and developments in the jazz world:
In March Birmingham Jazz Legend, Andy Hamilton MBE celebrates his 93rd Birthday. Come and join in the celebrations at Bearwood Corks Club on Thursday 24th March.
A wonderful show is lined up featuring another British sax star in Art Themen (photographed below by Garry Corbett) along with Andy’s regular band, The Blue Notes and a top local rhythm section put together by Tony Richards. Admission is £7 (£6 concession) and the show starts at 9pm. Get there in good time to be sure of getting a seat!
Spring is just around the corner so let’s try and get out more and listen to some live music!
Steve Ajao’s Club Bebop at the Prince of Wales
Steve Ajao is bringing his Club Bebop every Saturday at 9pm. Free admission is the bonus so come along and have a friendly, terrific evening with great jazz!
All enquiries to the Prince on 0121-643 9460.
Leam-Jazz
A monthly Jazz jam session, 1st Sunday of every month, 4 till 7, organised by Leam Jazz, at the New Binswood Tavern, Rugby Road, Leamington Spa CV32 6DA. Great atmosphere, great resident rhythm section, talented musicians and singers eager to jam. A room full of vibrancy, lots of young people, just what we need! FULL STORY FURTHER DOWN THIS PAGE
The Wheatsheaf
Walsall, WS1 2NA. Monthly Jazz session with Rhythm & Swing. Last Friday of every month. 01922 628992
Tamworth’s Mainstream & Modern Jazz Club
at Bolehall Manor, Amington Road have guesting on Monday 14th March multi-saxophonist Derek Nash plus Bryan Corbett’s quartet. Well worth a visit!
Solihull Trad. Jazz Club
On the first Thursday of each month the Solihull British Legion Trad Jazz Club meets at 8pm (opposite Beatties).
The format is very relaxed and informal, a drink and a chat about music with free tea and coffee. They have a selection of music put together on CD from various members’ collections, or sometimes have live entertainment. If the former, it’s just £1.00, otherwise £3.00 - £5.00 depending upon the artist and something a little bit different... they have a fully working pianola and a wide selection of hot jazz piano rolls including, of course, Jelly Roll Morton. Finally there is a grand piano for those who like to play! All in all a night with plenty of variety and good company usually finishing about 10pm.
Smooth saxophone star Julian Smith, runner up to Susan Boyle in 2009 Britain’s Got Talent Final, has jumped off the Simon Cowell bandwagon - and landed on his feet!
He has signed to his hometown Birmingham company, Big Bear Music for
sole representation. See him perform at Garrick Theatre Lichfield on March 5th 01543 412 121 For further information please contact:Tim Jennings - 0121 454 7020
I never tire of seeing the JB Jazz & Blues Band (above), whether its the full Band or Trio JB3.
All the musicians have a common approach to their music and that’s to have fun. The amusing repartee with the audiences is a pleasure to watch as well as to listen to. Terrific musicians and they sing as well!
This month you can see them perform at Summersaults, Rugby on the 4th, Solihull British Legion on the 6th and The Waterworks, Birmingham on the 18th. They have also been booked to perform during the Upton Jazz Festival in June with 4 gigs and will also appear at the Pershore Jazz Festival in August.
So let’s put a Spring in our step and go out and enjoy!
Stella
Steve King Big Band 40th Anniversary
The 40th anniversary year gathers momentum for the Steve King Big Band with two theatre appearances in the next few weeks. Sunday March 6th sees the band at the Artrix Arts Centre in Bromsgrove with an appearance in Tamworth at the Assembly Rooms following on Sunday April 10th. Tickets are available now from the box offices for both concerts.
(For more information please contact steve@stevekingbigband.co.uk or on: 07977564904)
Steve Ajao’s Club Bebop at the Prince of Wales
A new departure for the Prince of Wales, Cambridge Street (behind ICC), B’ham City Centre, Steve Ajao is bringing his Club Bebop, every Saturday at 9pm.
Free admission, come along and have a friendly, terrific evening with great jazz. All enquiries to the Prince on 0121-643 9460. We are continuing with our Open Mic nights on Thursdays, all musicians welcome.
A NEW VENUE AT THE VeNEW
Leam Jazz have just announced a new monthly Jam session at The Venew in the New Binswood Tavern in Leamington Spa.
On Sunday 6th February from 4-7pm there is a new monthly Jazz Jam Session starting at The Venew in the Binswood Tavern, Rugby Road, Leamington Spa on the first Sunday of every month. Leam Jazz sent us the following message which tells you all you need to know:
Following the standing room only first jam session at the Venew the weeks ago, we are delighted to announce the second session of which we hope to have many, on SUNDAY FEBRUARY 6th, from 4 till 7. As before, this will be hosted by ‘the Venew’ at Tommy O’Reilly’s new Binswood Tavern (Rugby Road, Leamington, CV32 6DA). The Venew boasts an excellent performance room, newly refurbished and equipped with a stage, top quality sound and lighting systems and a well stocked bar. The musical foundation will again be provided by a rhythm section composed of three top rate local musicians, namely, Leo Steeds on Piano, Kelly Elliot on Bass and Steve Laffy on Drums. In addition, Onno van Winden (saxes) and Hugh Rashleigh (trumpet) will guide everyone through the heads and changes. Microphones will be set up for soloing and vocals along with a set of congas for some of the funkier numbers. Copies of the Real Books will be on hand for those wishing to play on a specific number.
We have listened to people’s feedback from the first session and we will have a sign-in list for musicians wishing to play where they can write down their instrument and preferred styles. We will try hard to give as many interested musicians as possible a chance to play. This is intended to be a performance-level jam session as opposed to an open-mic event but if some people want to set up an open-mic session on another day, I am sure Tommy will be interested in talking to you.
Here is a list of the intended numbers for the session......
Mr. PC - John Coltrane -
One Night In Tunisia - Dizzy Gillespie Favela Jobim
Blue Bossa - Kenny Dorham
Black Nile !! - Wayne Shorter
Caravan - Duke Ellington
Chameleon - Herbie Hancock
Little Sunflower - Freddie Hubbard
For singers.....
All of Me - Simone & Marks
Lullaby of Birdland - George Shearing
'round Midnight - Monk
Fly Me To The Moon - Bart Howard
Autumn Leaves - Johnny Mercer
We expect to perform most or all of the above numbers during this session.......
We plan to run this session on a monthly basis on the First Sunday of the Month.
Looking forward to seeing (and perhaps hearing?) you there!
Please pass this on to any jazz musician or fan who you think could be interested in coming along.......thanks.
Stewart Duthie and Onno van Winden
mobile: +44 (0) 7780 954 909
• PETER KING GIG BACK ON AT CORKS - Those of you who were disappointed to see the Peter King gig in December “weathered off” at Bearwood Corks Club will be delighted to see that it’s been rescheduled for Thursday 3rd March.
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 Tom Hill on bass, Tim Amann on keys and Miles Levin on drums. Admission £5(£4 concession). Starts 9pm (Doors 8.30).
Other gigs in the pipeline at Corks include Birminghm’s own Bebop legend, Steve Ajao (Feb 10), hotly topped Conservatoire graduate Lluis Mather (March 17) and Andy Hamilton’s 93rd Birthday Party with Art Themen on March 24th.
558 Bearwood Road, B66 4BT
Here's a last minute plug for the Will Collier Septet at Stratford Jazz
Sun 6 Mar, 8pm - Will Collier Septet, £8
Will Collier (b) Ben Somers (ts) Mike Lesirge (as) Joe Auckland (t) Bob Dowell (tb) Ed Sheldrake (p) Ben Reynolds (d)
Rarely does Stratford Jazz get the opportunity to present anything like a big-band sound but on Sunday 6th March we get pretty close with the four-horn front line. This septet created quite a storm when they visited Stratford Jazz in 2009 and their debut album ‘Everybody Loves The Will Collier Septet’ subsequently received four stars in Jazzwise magazine.
They return to Stratford Jazz to introduce their new album ‘Those Who Wait’ and advanced reports suggest that another rousing success is on the way. This is an exhilarating and punchy ensemble which delivers gutsy and melodic originals from a leader who is not only a fine bass player but an accomplished composer/arranger. The Will Collier Septet is an exhilarating and punchy ensemble delivering gutsy but tuneful originals from Will Collier. A septet with bright flair and a beguiling sound mix – not to be missed!
"Live, the Collier Septet's good humour and enthusiasm makes the band hugely enjoyable."all•about•jazz
" ... what Collier does best: writing arresting melodies with a twist of slightly melancholic lyricism ...its chief attraction, lies in what Seb Rochford terms its 'surprising structures' and 'people expressing together'. Indeed, what lingers in the mind after the septet's live performances is the rich, full-bodied sound of Collier's bass, which is at the heart of all the music performed on this promising album."(Refers to: Everybody Loves The Will Collier Septet)The Vortex
Big Band Sunday Lunch with Garry Allcock “All Stars” Big Band at the Barn in Witton
The Barn in Witton has started a new Sunday lunch session where you can listen to the great sound of the 16 piece Garry Allcock “all-stars” Big Band, directed by Paul Drakeley. You can enjoy the music of one of the best Big Bands around as you tuck into a succulent roast dinner. It runs from 12-30 to 3-00pm, admission is £5 with children under 12 free. Sunday lunch must be pre-booked on 0121 356 5706
The inaugural Mostly Jazz Festival took place in 2010. Now continuing for a second year, it is an open air, one site festival, exclusively dedicated to contemporary jazz, funk and soul music.
Moseley Park Less than 2 miles from the centre of Birmingham and unaltered for hundreds of years, the eleven acres that constitute Moseley Park are a uniquely urban yet beautifully green space it is now 112 years old and is a natural Park with a small lake and a profusion of indigenous trees. The abundance of wild areas attracts all kinds of wildlife which give it a unique character. As a charitable trust the Park is secure in perpetuity for the benefit of the local community. It used to be part of the Moseley Hall estate. Near the end of the 19th century the grounds of this large manor house were cut in two by Salisbury Road, which was built to link Moseley and Edgbaston.
The green, tree-covered area which is now the park was being eyed by developers but luckily a group of local businessmen stepped in to buy the land, and resolved to keep Moseley Park as a quiet and unspoilt place, forever.
Set to surpass the success of 2010’s inaugural event, Mostly Jazz Festival 2011 will be headlined by Grammy Award winning, groove jazz legend Booker T Jones (above). Bringing the festivities to a close on Sunday 3rd July, the Hammond alchemist will be filling the park with the iconic sounds of household hits like ‘Green Onions’, ‘Melting Pot’ and the cricket theme tune ‘Soul Limbo’.
Headlining on Saturday 2nd July will be the Matthew Herbert Big Band. A consummate experimenter and a man of endless talents Matthew Herbert entered the realms of big band jazz and brought it well and truly up to date utilising electronic equipment and sampling everyday objects.
Extending the festival with the addition of a third day, from Friday afternoon to Sunday night there will be even more on offer, encompassing everything from the jazz influenced to avant-garde modern jazz to jazz-fusion. Further acts will be announced very soon.
Tickets will be on sale in early February 2011. For more information about The Mostly Jazz Festival and the full line-up please visit www.mostlyjazz.co.uk
Happy New Year everyone and welcome to the February issue of Jazzwestmids!!
Now more than ever its vital that we support our jazz venues to keep Jazz live. Sutton Coldfield Library had been hosting live jazz for a number of years with anin-house rhythm section - Alan Garwood, guitar and Bob Bradley on bass - and each session featured a special guest soloist. but regrettably since May 2010 the Library’s jazz events have been closed. However, these popular sessions have now happily found a new home in Sutton Coldfield Fellowship Hall, South Parade. Admission is just £1.00 and there is a coffee bar. The music starts at 11.00 am and the performances run for 60 minutes.
New for 2011 we have a Jazz Lunch at The Barn, Brookvale Road, Witton B6 7AJ with Gary Allcock ‘s All Stars Big Band. Come hungry on February 6th! 1st Bromyard Music Festival, 19th to 21st August is being organised in conjunction with “ Sir” Alan Buckley it will include “ Carnival of Jazz “ held at Falcon Hotel Complex.
Second City Jazz Quartet play at Hill Social Club on the second Monday in the month. The club is situated at 33a Dugdale Crescent, Four Oaks, Sutton Coldfield B75 5EY, phone 0121-308-2688.
Hear some of the best music in the country and enjoy fine food at The K2 Restaurant, 107 Alcester Road, Moseley B13 8DD. The premises have undergone extensive refurbishment and they’re now presenting live jazz 3 times a week,Wednesday and Thursday evenings from 8:00pm onwards and Sunday afternoons from 1:00 pm onwards,.
If you like the Big Band era of the 40s and 50s, then the Twinwood Festival is THE event for you! It takes place over the August Bank holiday, see centre pages plus their website.
Once again thank you for the support of our subscribers andfor all the encouraging messages I have received,. I hope you all have a happy, healthy and great 2011!!
Stella
The 22nd year of the British Jazz Oscars brings the usual mix of shocks, close run things and clear favourites clocking up multiple awards.
No real surprise in Mark Nightingale and Martin Taylor dominating the trombone and guitar categories or Alan Barnes picking up four awards. Unlike Alan’s hold on the other reeds, the tenor sax slot is always liable to change, with a particularly strong field each year, and this year it was Karen Sharp who deservedly triumphed.
The two photo-finishes for top spot came in the piano category, with Craig Milverton edging out John Pearce for his first British Jazz Award, and, as always, in the double bass section, with the neck-and-neck struggle this time being between Dave Green and Alec Dankworth.
In the Best Reissue the late Humphrey Lyttelton, who has dominated the CD awards for the last two years, relinquished his hold by the narrowest of margins to Tubby Hayes who was represented by two CDs in the final four.
Pictures of Mark Nightingale, Alan Barnes, Digby Fairweather
and Dave Greenby Merlin Daleman
Article coutesy of The Jazz Rag
TRUMPET
1. GUY BARKER
2. Enrico Tomasso
3. Steve Waterman
4. Bruce Adams
5. Dick Pearce
TROMBONE
1. MARK NIGHTINGALE
2. Roy Williams
3. Ian Bateman
4. Annie Whitehead
5. Alistair White
CLARINET
1. ALAN BARNES
2. Julian Marc Stringle
3. Tony Coe
4. James Evans
5. Adrian Cox
ALTO SAX
1. ALAN BARNES
2. Peter King
3. Derek Nash
4. Jason Yarde
5. Geoff Simpkins
TENOR SAX
1. KAREN SHARP
2. Simon Spillett
3. Bobby Wellins
4. Mornington Lockett
5. Dave O’ Higgins
PIANO
1. CRAIG MILVERTON
2. John Pearce
3. Kit Downes
4. David Newton
5. James Pearson
GUITAR
1. MARTIN TAYLOR
2. Jim Mullen
3. John Etheridge
4. Dave Cliff
5. Dominic Ashworth
BASS
1. DAVE GREEN
2. Alec Dankworth
3. Len Skeat
4. Paul Morgan
5. Andy Cleyndert
DRUMS
1. STEVE BROWN
2. Bobby Worth
3. Ralph Salmins
4. Sebastiaan de Krom
5. Clark Tracey
MISC INSTRUMENT
1. ALAN BARNES [BARITONE SAX]
2. Jim Hart [Vibes]
3. Andy Panayi [Baritone Sax]
4. Christian Garrick [Violin]
5. Roger Nobes [Vibes]
VOCALS
1. CLAIRE MARTIN
2. Val Wiseman
3. Norma Winstone
4. Liane Carroll
5. Tina May
RISING STAR
1. KIT DOWNES
2. Amy Roberts
3. Henry Armburg Jennings
4. Lewis Wright
5. Alistair White
BIG BAND
1. BACK TO BASIE
2. NYJO
3. Peter Cater Big Band
4. Michael Garrick Big Band
1. SCOTT HAMILTON & ALAN BARNES – HI-YA [WOODVILLE]
2. Stan Tracey Quartet Senior Moment [Resteamed]
3. Kit Downes Trio – Golden [Basho]
4. Norma Winstone – Stories Yet To Tell [ECM]
RE-ISSUE CD
1. TUBBY HAYES – JAZZ GENIUS [FANTASTIC VOYAGE]
2. Humphrey Lyttelton – 1959 [Lake]
3. Tubby Hayes – Inventivity [Candid]
4. British Jazz Artists – Vol 3: Street Of Dreams [Vocalion]
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
...or less
Thanks to a change in Management the proposed Wednesday Jazz nights at The Mitre in Tattenhall now won’t be happening.
Jazz Artist of the Year 2011
A brand new talent project for the Jazz world
This is a brand new competition and opportunity for Jazz musicians. The Winner will receive the title of ‘Jazz Artist of the Year 2011', a management offer, recording opportunity, £1000 cash and exclusive gig and concert opportunities.
The project is launched on 17th January 2011.
Auditions start in February 2011 in London, Birmingham, Southampton and Manchester
Live Heats start in March 2011.
The Grand Final is on Sat 30th April 2011 in London.
• PETER KING GIG BACK ON AT CORKS - Those of you who were disappointed to see the Peter King gig in December “weathered off” at Bearwood Corks Club will be delighted to see that it’s been rescheduled for Thursday 3rd March.
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 Tom Hill on bass, Tim Amann on keys and Miles Levin on drums. Admission £5(£4 concession). Starts 9pm (Doors 8.30).
Other gigs in the pipeline at Corks include Birminghm’s own Bebop legend, Steve Ajao (Feb 10), hotly topped Conservatoire graduate Lluis Mather (March 17) and Andy Hamilton’s 93rd Birthday Party with Art Themen on March 24th.
• PETER KING GIG BACK ON AT CORKS - Those of you who were disappointed to see the Peter King gig in December “weathered off” at Bearwood Corks Club will be delighted to see that it’s been rescheduled for Thursday 3rd March.
JWM Home
Martinique Jazz Band
Mothers Day Lunch @ K2 Restaurant, Mosley
Richard Pite leads this enterprising quintet which covers the history jazz from Maple Leaf Rag to Abdullah Ibrahim, ending with a Bb blues in styles from 1923 to 2010.
JJ Wheeler (d) Chris Maddock (as) Charlie Portas (ts) Tom Moore (b) Ralph Brown (p)
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A new departure for the Prince of Wales, Cambridge Street (behind ICC), B’ham City Centre, Steve Ajao is bringing his Club Bebop, every Saturday at 9pm.
