Dear Jazz Friends
After an enjoyable summer of gigs (yes, the weather was even kind to some of them!) it's time to turn attention to the Autumn. So I'll start by mentioning two concerts that I'm doing with Trevor Whiting who - as most of you know - is the clarinet/saxophone player with the Sunset Cafe band. We're fortunate to have him here in Dorset because he is one of the UK's top reeds men and is first choice for a number of London-based ensembles. We shall duet together at Ilminster Arts Centre on 20 September and in the delightful little church at West Knighton (near Dorchester) on 21st. Our programme will be sprinkled with a few seasonal melodies.
The same weekend, Sunset Cafe visit Dalwood in East Devon. Their Sunday afternoon jazz club hosts a variety of good bands and we're looking forward to our visit.
The following week (25 September) I welcome another top man, trumpeter Ben Cummings, to Sherborne. World-renowned classic jazz authority Keith Nichols said "Ben is a genius". There's no doubt about that! Ben sings well too, and our duet concert last year in Dorchester received great reviews.
As you may know, Cheap Street Jazz promoter and friend Raymond Wood has relocated to the North East. CSJ is now firmly in the hands of the Rendezvous charity, who do great work for the youth of Somerset and Dorset. We have two more dates this year (including a visit by the wonderful Julia Titus with Sunset Cafe) and we're starting to work up the 2025 jazz programme.
There are more gigs listed below, so I will just mention two more opportunities to hear the acclaimed "Ragtime Meets Boogie" programme featuring boogie-woogie maestro Julian Phillips and myself. Four hands, one piano! We shall be at Bridgwater Arts Centre on 12 October and the following afternoon at St Swithin's Church, Bridport, which has a good grand piano. Tea and cakes will be served at St Swithin's - I might have to play a Cakewalk.
Looking forward to seeing you soon
Mike
Comentários