Jazz at the Rock

'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 4th March 2010. From C.J.Worsdale.

A busy month is ahead for jazz and blues avids, kicking-off this coming Saturday lunchtime (6th March) with the eclectic and always surprising talents of local guitar maestro Terry Allonby's Trio,who will once more be delighting ever loyal followers and newcomers alike at The Horse and Groom (East Laithegate) between noon and 3pm…and-as ever-admission remains free-what more can you ask? Be there!!

Hard on the Allonby Trio's heals, fellow expert guitarist (and superb vocalist in numerous varied styles) Dickie Emmerson will be in action at The Conservative Club on Monday evening 8th March along with twice monthly residents The Emmerson-Spragg Combo plus expected guest singers Sheila Peach (hopefully recovered from her recent fractured arm!!), Sue Fisher, Margaret Atkins (who travels all the way from 'Brid' by train especially for the gig), Eddie Kell-offering laid back renditions of Sinatra / Tony Bennett/ Jack Jones influenced numbers, and-of course- highly and fondly regarded local jazz n' blues singer, the ebullient 'Mighty' Bob Quinn!! The session begins at 8.30pm /admission £3-50 at the door. (The Combo's second March gig is set for Monday 22nd ).

Blues fans are anticipated to turn out in considerable force on Tuesday 16th March to catch in vibrant action, arguably the most successful blues outfit in Britain today-The Blues Band-fronted by the charismatic Paul Jones (of Manfred Mann fame)-who will be joined on stage at Doncasteer Civic Theatre by Dave Kelly; Rob Townsend; Gary Fletcher; and Tom McGuinness…in an exuberant concert of original songs, plus interpretations of numbers by the genre's finest-notably Muddy Waters/ Willie Dixon / Howlin' Wolf / and Sleepy John Estes….Also watch out for Paul's stunning harmonica and vocal show-stopping treatment of Work Song, which hopefully will be included!! (The show starts at 8pm--all tickets are £20 and can be obtained from The Box Office-01302 342349).

There's yet another 'un-missable' treat for blues fans on Thursday 25th March at The Conservative Club, when leading Blues n' Boogie piano 'great' and singer Bob Hall joins forces with first time 'Donny' visiting guitarist/ blues singer/ harmonica player Dave Peabody to present 'Meetings with the Remarkable Bluesmen' ( Which in addition to heartfelt interpretations-stories-and anecdotes of many of the great blues performers that they have worked with over several decades, is expected to include a stunning display of many of skilled photographer Dave's studies of those self-same Blues greats!!). The highlight event starts at 8.30pm and tickets-£5 advance / £6 at door can be obtained from Civic Theatre Box Office-01302-342349 / The Blue Building-High Street/ Electro Music-Copley Road / Club Secretary Chris Hayward at 'Con' Club/ or at 'Jazz into Doncaster' gigs at the 'Con' Club.

….Talking of which, the next being on Thursday 18th March and brings together for the first time in Doncaster the combined talents of multi-reed maestro Matt Palmer and former Wakefield Arms Jazzmen clarinettist Mike Bird with their band Reed-fusion….when the 'sparks are fully expected to fly between the two masterly reed men on dare-devil duets and impressive solo outings!! Joining in the action with Matt and Mike will be Mike Dexter (guitar/banjo) and big bass-man Alan Hill-Stomp-off is at 8.30pm /admission £5 at the door. (Also at the 'Con' Club on Sunday 28th March for a lunchtime session is the delightful and swingin' jazz songstress Karen Lake with her band Impressions. Karen is now an established and welcome visitor to 'Donny' -having previously 'guested' with Terry Allonby and Emmerson-Spragg Combo and appeared with her Quintet also at the Rockingham Arms. The show starts at 12.30pm / admission £5 at door/ and snacks & sandwiches will be available for the 'peckish'!!)

Plans for the forthcoming Doncaster Markets Jazz Day, on Saturday 29th May, are going apace…with attractions expected to include The Jubilee New Orleans Brass Band+ Jackie Everton Dance Troupe, Nicola Farnon Quartet, Winston's Pennine Jazz, and The Half-hand Hoodoo Blues Band + guest harmonica player John McKevitt….Watch out for further announcements !!

Sadly, the jazz world has locally recently lost the talents of 'Digger' Withall-who many will recall playing at the old Lodge Jazz Club-and certainly Doncaster area fans will join me in offering their sincere condolences to clarinettist Graham Galtrey and his daughters Jo and Sarah on the loss of their dear wife and mother Annette, who amongst her many talents was a gifted artist-capturing many jazz musician friends of Graham on impressive pen and ink portraits. Also recently lost to the jazz and literary world, was clarinettist/ critic /author Ian Christie (of Christie Brothers/ Alex Welsh fame etc).

On a cheerier note…Hearty congratulations to 'Con' Club and 'Jazz into Doncaster' stalwart doorman Ken Lanceley, who recently celebrated his 80th birthday and must surely rate as among the 'coolest and swinging' octogenarians around!!......There's live jazz at Rotherham Transport Club Mon 8th March with The Silver Leaf Jazzband and at Silkstone Lodge (Barnsley) on the same night The White Eagles Jazzband………Remember to support live music whenever able!!

Happy jazzin' !!

'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 25th February 2010. From C.J.Worsdale.

'Yonder comes the Blues!!' -suitably heralds several forthcoming tempting live sessions of Blues and related genres , set to take place in Doncaster over coming weeks and months…With the first set for this coming Sunday lunchtime at The Conservative Club-featuring popular Lincoln based trio The Blues Connection.

The band are no strangers to 'Donny'-having performed on many occasions at various venues, including The Salutation, Rockingham Arms, Doncaster Markets Jazz Day and notably at The Little Theatre with their memorable and highly enjoyable 'History of the Blues' concert. The threesome offer a varied programme of sultry Blues songs (many inspired by 'greats' such as Big Bill Broonzy, Muddy Waters, Sonny Terry and Brownie McGhee, Bessie Smith, Memphis Minnie and Jo Ann Kelly), along with fleet fingered guitar picking , wailing harmonica features and up-beat original numbers-all proving that the Blues need not be downhearted….with the Blues performers 'glass' always 'half-full' and not 'half-empty!!' The Blues Connection are Helen Wray (vocals) / Pete Wray (guitar)/ and Bob Lightnin' Lips Reid (harmonica)-The show begins at 12.30pm (doors open 12noon) / admission is £5 at the door/ Snacks & sandwiches available / non-members all welcome….Don't miss it!!

Also in the Blues 'pipeline' is the welcome 'must-see' concert appearance at Doncaster Civic Theatre-as part of The Hothouse Festival-of Paul Jones and The Blues Band on Tuesday 16th March at 8pm. All tickets are £20 and are available from the Box Office-01302-342349….Rapidly followed on Thursday 25th March by a special presentation of 'Meeting with the Remarkable Bluesmen'-featuring Boogie n' Blues piano maestro Bob Hall and singer/guitarist/ harmonica player Dave Peabody (who is also expected to display many of his superb studies of great Blues artists that he and Bob have worked with across several decades). The high-light event takes place at The Conservative Club(8.30 to 11pm) and tickets (£5 advance/£6 door) are available from The Civic Theatre Box Office / The Blue Building-High Street / Electro Music-Copley Road/ or from secretary Chris at the 'Con' Club…..Also with irresistible appeal to Blues and Rn'B fans will surely be The Half-hand Hoodoo Blues band from York at Doncaster Markets Jazz Day on 29th May and King Pleasure & The Biscuit Boys at The Civic Theatre on 24th June---Make a note of the dates!!

For more traditionally and mainstream jazz fans, 'Jazz into Doncaster' presents 'Reedfusion'on Thursday 18th March at the 'Con' Club-bringing together for the first time in Doncaster-two superb reedmen, Matt Palmer (clarinet/saxes/vocals) and clarinettist Mike Bird ( of Wakefield Arms Jazzband fame)…..Karen Lake's Impressions Quintet (Sun 28th March-12.30 to 3pm at 'Con' Club)….The Old Marina Jazzmen (& 'Skiffle' Group!!) at 'Con'Club on Thursday 8th April and at the same venue on Sunday 2nd May are the fantastic The Dizzy Club (12.30 to 3pm)….And still in traditional vein, the 20's and 30's style Pasadena Roof Orchestra are set for The Civic Theatre on Tuesday 11th May….Also fantastic advance breaking news is that multi-award winning musicians Alan Barnes and Bruce Adams are fully expected to appear in concert at the 'Con' Club on 7th October-thanks to collaboration between John Sheppard of The Lodge Club and Jazz into Doncaster-we'll keep you posted!!

March sessions by 'local treasure' Dickie Emmerson with resident Emmerson-Spragg Combo at set for Monday 8th and 22nd-starting at 8.30pm /admission £3-50. (Usually also featuring guest singers Sheila Peach/ Sue Fisher/ Margaret Atkins/ Eddie Kell and Bob Quinn). What better way to start the week??
---Not forgetting the regular monthly lunchtime treat by The Terry Allonby Trio at The Horse & Groom (East Laithegate) on Saturday 6th March-12 noon to 3pm / admission free…..Set for Silkstone Lodge gigs (Barnsley) are Peter Franks' Dixieland All-stars (1st March) & White Eagles Jazzband (8th March)…At Rotherham Transport Club are Misto's Hot Lips -from Sweden-(1st March) and Silver Leaf Jazzband (8th March)…..Sheffield Jazz at Millennium Hall presents The Pete Churchill Trio (Fri 26th March -0114-273-8678 / for email list, contact sheffield.jazz@blueyonder.co.uk ( Please do your utmost to support live jazz whenever able-as many events have recently been poorly attended-- or risk loosing forever, your cherished live swingin' music!!)

Last-but certainly not least!!-Hearty congratulations to teenage saxist/clarinettist/flautist Amy Roberts, who has on several occasions mightily impressed right here in Doncaster…and as spotted by 'Jazz into Doncaster' committee member Malcolm Silverwood , has won the 'Rising Star' award in The 2009 Jazz Awards Ceremony ….Can't wait for Amy to appear again in our town!!

Happy jazzin'!!

'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 18th February 2010. From C.J.Worsdale.

"I don't have to believe it if I don't want to" stated Yorkshire Post Arts reviewer Duncan Hamilton in his poignant farewell to 'Humph' Lyttelton, back in 2008, a sentiment that surely echoes the feelings of legions of admiring international music fans of all persuasions on hearing of the recent passing of Sir John Dankworth.

John's sparkling highly influential career is of course well documented -with highlights including appearances at the Proms, New York's famed Birdland, Newport Jazz Festival; establishment of the renowned Wavenden Allmusic Workshops, receiving Ivor Norvello Awards for the 'What the Dickens' album and 'The Avengers' TV theme and achieving rare popular chart success for jazz discs 'Experiments with mice' and 'African Waltz.'

John also had a strong Doncaster connection-notably performing with NYJO at The Dome back in 1990, along with budding 'Donny' pro-musicians Dennis and Winston Rollins and trumpeter Mark White…An event that I personally fondly recall with many a giggle, as I was sent to photograph the great man in his dressing room-which at that time was a rather low roofed caravan-and as John posed for the picture, he rapped his head on the lamp standard-to which I jokingly retorted " Can you put your head up a shade!!" John sportingly saw the funny side and laughed good naturedly at the pun-happy memories indeed !! Also he has offered invaluable support and encouragement to Warmsworth based rising young tenor sax star Nadim Teimoori ( who-akin his famed mentor's early career- currently studies at The Royal Academy of Music) and numerous other gifted musicians. John's influence and inspiration will certainly continue to encourage future generations to great heights of musical achievement!! Adieu to a truly great jazzman- Sir John Dankworth CBE.

Blues fans will be well catered for over coming months, with several live gigs in the pipeline locally…
The first set for a Sunday lunchtime session (12.30pm to 3pm) on Sunday 28th February, featuring popular Lincoln based threesome 'The Blues Connection' -comprising of the sonorous blues inflicted tones of lead vocalist Helen Wray (who also pens many intriguing original songs), her husband Pete supplying nimble-fingered Rag-time style and emotionally charged guitar accompaniment and solos-plus vocals; and with Bob 'Lightning lips' Reid on harmonica and vocals using his natural 'wailing' mouth-harp to great effect….Shades of Sonny Terry and Sonny Boy Williamson!! Admission is £5 at the door. Next up is Paul Jones' Blues Band (featuring Dave Kelly/ Bob Townsend/ Gary Fletcher/ Tom McGuiness) at Doncaster Civic Theatre on Tues 16th March-as part of The Hothouse Festival-8pm / all tickets £20 (Box Office 01302-342349)…….Rapidly followed on Thursday 25th March with a special staging by 'Jazz into Doncaster' of Bob Hall and Dave Peabody's 'Meetings with Remarkable Bluesmen' at Doncaster Conservative Club (8.30pm)-The enviable reputation of Blues n' Boogie piano great Bob Hall should not require introduction to 'Donny' fans ("Surely the finest of British Blues and Boogie pianists, with a flair for imaginative lyrics" states Blues & Rhythm magazine) and first-time Doncaster performer guitarist/singer-songwriter/harmonica player/ and photographer Dave Peabody's blues pedigree is also mightily impressive….having worked with such icons as Peter Green and Mick Fleetwood, Jo-Ann Kelly, Charlie Musselwhite,Big Joe Duskin, Sonny Terry, Memphis Slim and many more major Blues artists. (Tickets for this un-missable show are available at £5 advance/£6 at door from Civic Theatre Box Office-01302-342349/ The Blue Building-High Street/ Electro Music-Copley Road/ & from Chris Hayward at the 'Con'Club -01302-810005 / 812872….And The Half-Hand Hoodoo Blues Band from York are set for Doncaster Markets Jazz Day on Sat 29th May.

Other 'Donny' live jazz gigs include Emmerson-Spragg Combo + guest singers at 'Con' Club (Mon 22nd Feb)….Also at 'Con' Club are ' Reedfusion ' (with Matt Palmer & Mike Bird)-Thurs 18th March @ 8.30pm / Karen Lake Impressions Quintet (Sunday 28th March-12.30pm to 3pm)…And The Terry Allonby Trio are in action at The Horse & Groom (Sat 6th March / 12noon to 3pm)…..Coming up at The Sands-Gainsborough on Fri 26th Feb is 'Swingin' Down Memory Lane' with ace drummer John Petters' All-star line up of Martin Litton (piano) / Joan Viskant (vocals)/ Trevor Whiting (clarinet/tenor sax) / Keith Donald-double bass. Tickets-including sumptuous three course meal-are £30 each. (Bookable on-line at www.the-sands.co.uk )……At Sheffield Lyceum Theatre 2nd-6th March is Spike Milligan's 'Adolf Hitler: My part in his downfall' -including terrific jazz numbers!! (0114-249-6000 for details / tickets etc)….. At Silkstone Lodge (Barnsley) are The Yorkshire Stompers (22nd Feb / 01226-281805 )…..Rotherham Transport Club have The Old Fashioned Love Band (22nd Feb/ 01709-523499)….At Sheffield Millennium Hall is The Pete Churchill Trio (Fri 26th Feb / 0114-273-8678…And there is foot-stompin' Trad Jazz at The Strafford Arms-Stainborough,Nr Barnsley, every Wednesday night!! (Give Dave a call on 01226-751989 or visit www.silverleafjazzband.co.uk ) .

Happy jazzin'!!

'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 11th February 2010. From C.J.Worsdale.

Calling all 'Trad' and small group Swing fans!! Another great night of stimulating foot-stomping sounds are in prospect tonight at the 'Con' Club featuring the popular six-piece outfit The Southside Jazzband-led by hot trumpet man Wil Robinson-and who have previously delighted audiences locally at The Rockingham Arms, Doncaster Market pre-Christmas 'bash' and at the 'Just one more time' Re-union gig and fully deserve a large enthusiastic reception this evening!!

Sharing the action will be the aforementioned Wil Robinson (trumpet/flugelhorn/ vocals); Pete Moxon (clarinet / saxes); Keith Randall (trombone); Barry Binch (banjo/guitar/vocals)-who brings The Old Marina Jazzmen + Skiffle Group to the venue on 8th April!!-Cliff Hodgkinson (drums/vocals), plus the steadfast double bass man Dave Green….Who will collectively delight with varied numbers from 'fun' tunes such as Bring me sunshine and Yakkity Sax to more familiar jazz favourites and-no doubt- several surprise gems also!! Stomp-off time is 8.30pm / admission £5 at the door / and there is ample dancing space for prospective jivers-or those wishing to 'Trip the light fantastic'!! Don't miss it!!

High praise indeed from an un-expected quarter was fervently expressed by traditional style trumpeter Alan Hippsley recently, after catching Leeds based jazz diva Nicki Allan and Her All-star Sextet in action at the first of Jazz into Doncaster's Sunday lunchtime sessions at the 'Con' Club. Alan was most impressed by Nicki's superb vocal control and diction-clear delivery of her varied and pleasing selection of bristling swingin' standards, emotionally charged ballads and finely crafted original compositions, plus swaying Latin flavoured numbers-all expertly accompanied by her top-drawer musicians ( with Alan particularly impressed by the drumming and arranging skills of Ronnie Bottomley and likewise pianist/arranger Graham Hearn, plus the contribution of bassist Jeremy Ashby).

On the 'down' side, Alan was disturbed by the comparatively meagre turn-out for such highly professional artists, and sincerely urges patrons to do their utmost to support the live jazz scene whenever possible….Also remaking that the room was ' A little on the cool side for the audience' and suggested that sandwiches and other snacks should be made available for the next Sunday lunchtime session ( with Lincoln based The Blues Connection ) on 28th February….The good news answer to Alan's 'beefs' (no pun intended!!) by committee members Janet and Brian is that both matters are being attended to and they hope to welcome a far greater influx of happy jazz avids at future events!!

Mention of future 'Con' Club events reminds that regular twice monthly sessions by resident band The Emmerson-Spragg Combo-featuring Dickie on guitar and vocals and Tony Spragg on keyboards-are a great way to banish those 'Monday Blues' ( the next gig set for 22nd February, followed by March 8th and 22nd), and are usually further enhanced by impressive vocal spots by Sheila Peach, Sue Fisher, Margaret Atkins, Eddie Kell and 'The Mighty' Bob Quiinn of course!! ( Bob's recent hilarious re-vamp of St.James Infirmary 'had the audience in stitches' and will hopefully be soon repeated). Admission at Emmerson-Spragg concerts is a 'snip' for such fine entertainment at £3-50, so why not add the events to your regular jazz itinerary and brighten up your Mondays in fine style?

Jazz enthusiast Colin Brown hopes to establish a Jazz Appreciation Society in Doncaster (covering the early to mid periods -and perhaps beyond) and invites those who may wish to become involved-or simply attend and enjoy the musically illustrated talks-to contact him on 01302-368437 .

For those Big-Band fans fortunate enough to pick up the Entertainer a day early, there's chance to catch The Colin Yates Big Band + special guest star vocalist Nicola Farnon in concert at Phoenix Sports & Social Club (Pavillion Lane, Brinsworth, Rotherham on Wednesday at 8pm. (Admission £5 / 01709-363788/ ample parking space)…….Rotherham Transport Club have Thames Valley Stompers (15th Feb) and Old Fashioned Love Band (22nd Feb)-01709-551478 / 523499….. Silkstone Lodge (Barnsley) have Old Fashioned Love Band (15th Feb) and Yorkshire Stompers (22nd Feb)-01226-281805/ 290105 ….. Sheffield Jazz at Millennium Hall presents Pete Churchill Trio ( Fri 28th Feb)/
Anita Wardell Quartet (Fri 28th March):0114 -2738678 / www.sheffieldjazz.org.uk …..If you fancy an early 'Jazz Break' why not consider The 14th 'Now You Has Jazz Festival' at Pontins Holiday Village,London Road, Kessingland, Suffolk NR33 7PF ? It takes place from Fri 5th to Mon 8th March and features a plethora of attractions….For further details / bookings etc phone 0844-576 5927 or 01502-502900.

Happy jazzin'!!

'Jazz into Doncaster' presents.....

THE SOUTHSIDE JAZZBAND at Doncaster Conservative Club-South Parade DN1 2DJ: THURS 11th Feb @ 8.30pm.
Admission £5 at the door.

THE BLUES CONNECTION at Doncaster Conservative Club-South Parade DN1 2DJ: SUNDAY 28th Feb--12.30pm to 3pm.
Admission £5 at the door (snacks available).

'REEDFUSION' featuring Matt Palmer & Mike Bird (reeds) at Doncaster Conservative Club DN1 2DJ : THURS 18th March @ 8.30pm.
Admission £5 at the door.


Blues 'Special'---'MEETINGS WITH REMARKABLE BLUESMEN' with Bob Hall & Dave Peabody: THURS 25th March @ 8.30pm.
Doncaster Conservative Club-South Parade DN1 2DJ. Tickets £5 in advance/ £6 at door available from Doncaster Civic Theatre Box
Office (01302-342349) / The Blue Building-High Steet / Electro Music-Copley Road.

KAREN LAKE'S IMPESSIONS QUINTET at Doncaster Conservative Club DN1 2DJ: SUNDAY 28th March--12.30pm to 3pm.
Admission £5 at door (snacks available).

THE OLD MARINA JAZZMEN & SKIFFLE GROUP at Doncaster Conservative Club-South Parade DN1 2DJ--THURS 8th April @ 8.30pm.
Admision £5 At door.

THE DIZZY CLUB at Doncaster Conservative Club-South Parade DN1 2DJ--SUNDAY 2nd May--12.30pm to 3pm. Admission £5 at
door (snacks available).

Enquiries for above gigs--01302-349898 / 789257 / 780574 / 810005 / 812872.

'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 4th February 2010. From C.J.Worsdale.

First the bad news… Local organiser John Shillito regrets to inform eager patrons of previous hugely popular 'Just one more time' Re-union concerts, that due to insufficient response from voluntary performers (many of whom travel long distances-from home and abroad-and have to make tough decisions before committing to hotel and flight bookings etc), that this years intended April event at the Conservative Club has been unfortunately cancelled.

Better news is that-despite their January session falling short of the customary strong support, no doubt due to post Hogmanay hangovers in many cases!!-local guitar maestro Terry Allonby's superb Trio will be back in lunchtime action at The Horse & Groom (East Laithegate) this coming Saturday from 12noon to 3pm, with the satisfying and intriguing variety of musical styles for which they are renowned. Whether your tastes are for contemporary jazz / be-bop/ swing/ blues or rock (or even touches of the Baroque!!), the Horse & Groom is a great way to enjoy the afternoon-and it's also free!!

Jazz into Doncaster's first New Year gig at the 'Con' Club got off to a promising start to the robust sounds of The New Jazz Messengers with Shirley Patterson and guest jazz/blues singer Bob Quinn-though, even with such a usually guaranteed 'crowd-puller' fell just short of financial 'break-even' point, probably due to most of the audience comprised of relative new-comers, with many usual followers noticeably 'conspicuous by their absence'!! Perhaps regular fans still need to adapt to the new pattern of alternating Thursday evenings and Sunday lunchtime gigs and also the new venue-though-rest assured-the comfortable venue welcomes all (including non-members!!)…So to help jazz music to thrive locally, patronise jazz events at the 'Con' Club and elsewhere whenever able!!

Musically speaking, the afore mentioned gig was enthusiastically received by the discerning crowd and found leader and trombonist Mike Taylor, clarinettist Geoff Patterson, piano man Colin Wood (who may surprise many 'jazzers' to discover that his foremost musical love is for the Classics-particularly Chopin-and his route to more traditional and mainstream jazz was via the influence of be-bop pianist Bud Powell and other great modernists), bassist Doug White and drummer Roy Walker in sparkling collective form…and Shirley Patterson in great voice (despite recent bouts of ill-health) and relishing every moment of her Billie Holiday inspired vocals and superbly timed crowd pleasing duet romps with her 'old partner in crime' Bob Quinn on such favourites as Dr.Jazz and Bill Bailey!!

Also at the 'Con' Club on the following Monday was resident attraction The Emmerson-Spragg Combo
--where guitarist/ vocalist Dickie Emmerson was on even more ebullient form than usual, delighting the audience with his rib-tickling version of Let's fall in love (with totally ad-lib 'send-up' of pianist Tony!!), a sumptuous ballad rendition of But Beautiful, a break-neck up-tempo version of Lover come back to me (from which severely tested drummer Joe Hertzberg emerged with flying colours!!), a jovial crowd responding Manana, and with his rockin' gritty rendition of She's a woman among the numerous gems (not forgetting Dickie's laughter-rousing Les Dawson like one-liners!!). Also offering several well-delivered impressive renditions were guest singers Sue Fisher/ Margaret Atkins/ Eddie Kell and Bob Quinn. (Catch the Combo & co in action again at the 'Con' Club on 8th & 22nd Feb ).

Also set for Jazz into Doncaster dates at the 'Con' is The Southside Jazzband (11th Feb)/ The Blues Connection (28th Feb-12.30pm to 3pm)/ 'Reedfusion' with Matt Palmer & Mike Bird(reeds)-Mike Dexter (guitar/banjo)/ Alan Hill (bass)-18th March/ 'Meetings with the Remarkable Bluesmen' (25th March): Tickets available from Civic Theatre Box Office-01302-342349/ The Blue Building-High Street/ and Electro Music-Copley Road/ Karen Lake's Impressions (28th March-12.30pm to 3pm)/ Old Maria Jazzmen (8th April)/ The Dizzy Club (2nd May-12.30pm to 3pm).
Doncaster Civic Theatre presentations include Paul Jones & The Blues Band (16th March)/ The Pasadena Roof Orchestra (11th May)/ Gordon Giltrap in Concert (12th May)/ King Pleasure & The Biscuit Boys (24th June)….For tickets / info etc phone 01302-342349.

Barnsley Jazz at Silkstone Lodge have: New Orleans Strollers (8th Feb ) / Old Fashioned Love Band (15th Feb)-01226-281805…Rotherham Transport Club have Heart of England Jazzband (8th Feb) and Thames Valley Stompers (15th Feb): 01709-523499.

Happy jazzin' !!

'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 28th January 2010. From C.J.Worsdale.

'Jazz into Doncaster' launch their new venture in the form of Sunday lunchtime live sessions at Doncaster Conservative this coming Sunday (31st Jan), when the inaugural attraction will be vibrant and vivacious Leeds based jazz singer Nicki Allan and Her All-star Sextet of 'top-drawer' musicians.

Nicki is no stranger to 'Donny' audiences-having first been introduced to enthusiastically welcoming audiences at 'Con' Club as star guest of The Emmerson-Spragg Combo, followed by sensational appearances with her own band at The Rockingham Arms and last October's Doncaster Markets Jazz Day and expects to again 'field' her team of superb accompanists and gifted soloists, comprising of Joel Purnell-tenor sax; Mark Chandler-trumpet/flugel; Graham Hearn-piano; Jeremy Ashby-double bass and the 'one and only' Ronnie Bottomley (also a skilled arranger) on drums. The swingin' action is set to take place between approximately 12.30pm to 3pm / Admission £5 at the door….And available
as a fine memento of the occasion will be Nicki's acclaimed CD 'People will say we're in love.'

February 'Jazz into Doncaster' gigs at the 'Con' Club are scheduled for THURSDAY 11th with trumpeter Wil Robinson and the infectious sounds of The Southside Jazzband (who hardy jazz avids will recall having bravely enlivened the freezing conditions for chilled Market shoppers on the Saturday before Christmas!!)….With Lincoln based threesome (and also Market favourites) The Blues Connection filling the Sunday lunchtime slot on 28th February….And-of course-there are regular Monday evening sessions at the venue by the resident Emmerson-Spragg Combo (featuring Dickie Emmerson-guitar/vocals and Tony Spragg-keyboards), plus anticipated contributions by the Emmerson 'stable' of worthy guest singers Sheila Peach / Sue Fisher/ Margaret Atkins/ Eddie Kell /and Bob Quinn adding to the variety on offer, on 8th and 22nd February…At the 'snip' entry of £3-50, why not make the gig a regular 'Monday date'!!

In the pipeline for March at the 'Con' Club are gigs by Matt Palmer/Mike Bird Band (18th) and Karen Lake's Impressions (28th)……With an extra-special event to thrill and delight Blues fans set for Thursday 25th March, entitled 'Meetings with The Remarkable Bluesmen'-featuring the dazzling two-fisted blues n' boogie piano and vocals of Bob Hall and introducing to 'Donny' the earthy talents of guitarist/vocalist Dave Peabody, who has thrice been voted 'Acoustic Blue Artist of the Year' by the British Blues Connection and Blues in Britain Magazine. Over the years, Dave has shared the stage with a plethora of great blues artists-including such stars as Sonny Terry, Memphis Slim, Big Joe Duskin, Louisiana Red, John Hammond, David 'Honeyboy' Edwards and Grammy Award winning Charlie Musselwhite on British and European tours…And the rare opportunity to catch Dave and Bob together locally should not be missed!!-Tickets will shortly be available at £5 advance/ £6 door from the Civic Theatre Box Office and other outlets. ( Mention of Blues reminds that UK Blues 'great' Paul Jones-of Manfred Mann fame and presenter of Monday evening's exalted BBC Radio Two Rn'B Show-will be in concert with The Blues Band on Tuesday March 16th at the Civic Theatre as part of The Hothouse Festival / For tickets-info etc phone the Box Office on 01302-342349 or visit www.doncasterhothouse.co.uk).

Local organiser John Shiletto informs that ever popular jazz singer-bassist Nicola Farnon has been added to the growing list of sparkling guests set to appear at 'Just One More Time' Re-union Concert at the 'Con' Club (set for 25th April)….Keep watching for up-dates in the Entertainer!!....And ever more likely to take place later in the year is an extra-special concert by leading jazz stars Alan Barnes and Bruce Adams (hopefully plus Nicola Farnon & Co forming the strerling rhythm section!!), and also a possible 'workshop' also, which are currently being planned by former NCB Lodge Jazz Club presenter John Sheppard / 'Jazz into Doncaster' / and DYJA….We'll keep you posted of progress!!
Meanwhile don't miss the lunchtime action at The Horse & Groom (East Laithegate) by the superlative Terry Allonby Trio plus probable guest 'musos' -on Saturday 6th February (12noon-3pm/free entry)….
And 'Trad' fans can choose between The Savannah Jazzband (1st Feb) / Heart of England Jazzband (8th Feb) at Rotherham Transport Club-01709-523499 or The Old Marina Jazzband (1st Feb) / New Orleans Strollers (8th Feb) at Silkstone Lodge (S75 4LY)-01226-281805 / 290105 / 383135….And regular Monday night sessions by The Knights of Jazz (usually featuring Pete Moxon & Gerry Nugent on saxes/clarinets) at The Butcher's Arms-Braithwell /admission free.

Happy jazzin'!!

'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 21st January 2010. From C.J.Worsdale.

Weather permitting-tonight is the night for Jazz into Doncaster's first session of their New Year series of live concerts at the luxurious Conservative Club venue-at the corner of South Parade adjoining the Civic Theatre--when the crowd pulling attraction will be The New Jazz Messengers and Shirley Patterson….plus special guest Bob Quinn also!!

Should travelling conditions remain poor, it's advisable to check with the venue on 01302-810005 / 812872 before setting out….though optimistically, the session will take place as intended and attract the customary packed audience that the 'Messengers' normally enjoy performing their unique brand of robust and pleasingly varied stimulating jazz music to!!

Leading the band will be trombonist Mike Taylor (renowned for his lusty-though articulate-solos and ensemble playing and soulful plunger muted blues renditions), who will share 'front-line' duties with Geoff Patterson-who's attacking approach no doubt owes much to the influence of Sandy Brown, Acker, Edmund Hall, Pee Wee Russell and other jazz greats….And forming the sterling rhythm section will be the dazzling pianist Colin Wood, steadfast double bass man Doug White, with Roy Walker pushing along the infectious beat from his drum kit!! Not forgetting 'our beloved Shirl' of course-who is expected to delight with her interpretations of several Billie Holiday and Bessie Smith gems, along with show-stopping duets with guest vocalist Bob Quinn!! Stomp-off is at 8.30pm / admission £5 pay at the door/ Non members are welcome and there is ample dancing space……..Be there-even if you have to come on skis!!

Jazz into Doncaster also present Leeds based jazz diva Nicki Allan and Her All-star Sextet at the 'Con' Club on Sunday 31st January (12.30pm to 3pm)…Followed by The Southside Jazzband (Thurs 11th Feb); The Blues Connection (Sunday lunchtime 28th Feb); Matt Palmer-Mike Bird Band (Thurs 18th March); 'Meetings with the Remarkable Blues Men' Special with Bob Hall & Dave Peabody (Thurs 25th March)-tickets @ £5 advance/ £6 door will soon be available from Civic Theatre Box Office & The Blue Building etc; Karen Lake's Impressions (Sunday lunchtime 28th March)…and just confirmed
--The Old Marina Jazzband & Skiffle Group (Thurs 8th April). Get the dates in your diaries!!

Also appearing at the 'Con' Club venue is regular Monday evening attraction The Emmerson-Spragg Combo-featuring Dickie Emmerson on guitar and vocals and Tony Spragg (keyboards)…and usually also with guest singers Sheila Peach/ Sue Nixon/ Margaret Atkins/ Eddie Kell / Bob Quinn contributing
many a finely rendered and swingin' number…. Catch 'em in action on 25th Jan / 8th & 22nd Feb / 8th & 22nd March. Admission is £3-50 at the door / start time is 8.30pm. ( What great way to kick-start your weeks!!).

In addition to announcements of forthcoming Civic Theatre dates by The Pasadena Roof Orchestra (11th May) and King Pleasure & The Biscuit Boys (24th June), comes new from Manager Kevin Johnson that the dynamic The Blues Band-featuring Paul Jones on vocals & harmonica (who I-and local jazz avids Malcolm Silverwood & Ken Lanceley-- last heard in superlative action with Digby Fairweather's Band at Gainsborough's Sands Venue), Dave Kelly/ Rob Townsend/ Gary Fletcher/ Tom McGuiness, will be in action at the Civic on Tuesday 16th March-as part of the Hothouse Festival. For further details / tickets etc phone the Box Office on 01302-342349.

Further news of New Jersey jazz/ big-band/ cabaret singer namesake Maggie Worsdale is that her CD 'Joy' (available on itunes) contains the following tracks: Sunny side of the street/ How little we know/ Miss Celie's Blues/ Dream/ I won't dance/ Embraceable you/ Goodnight/ Frankie & Johnny/ Moonlight becomes you/ The second time around/ Am I blue?/ Swinging on a star/ Blue Skies+ bonus track That's amore….And the top-drawer accompaniment is by pianist Barry Brake/ Greg Norris (bass)/ and Darren Kuper (drums). Check it out!!

Locally, The Terry Allonby Trio+ probable guests are in session at The Horse & Groom (East Laithegate) on Saturday 6th Feb-12 noon to 3pm/ admission free….Rotherham Transport Club have Café Society (25th Jan) and Savannah Jazzband (1st Feb)-01709-523499…Barnsley Jazz at Silkstone Lodge have Peter Franks' Dixieland All-stars (25th Jan) and The Old Marina Jazzband (1st Feb)-01226-281805 / 290105 / 383135.

Finally-and at risk of a dawn raid by 'The Jazz Police'!!-What a pleasure it was to catch Elvis & Co's 'Black Leather' sessions and more on BBC 4 TV recently. What an up-lifting and apparently impromptu fun knock arout it was!! And jazzer's should perhaps remember that Elvis was much influenced by Big Mama Thornton (e.g. Hound Dog) and Mississippi Blues artists…and the great blues man Jimmy Witherspoon considered him 'The best white interpreter of the Blues.'!!

Happy jazzin'!!

'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 7th January 2010. From C.J.Worsdale.

Before to much water runs beneath the New Year bridge, following mention of my Stateside namesakes Tom and Maggie Worsdale (who reside in New Jersey) in last week's jazz column, in which they both conveyed their warm wishes to friends made during their visits to our town, jazz-cabaret-big band singer Maggie emailed to inform that her fine album 'Joy' is currently available for downloads on itunes-and hopes that many will give it a listen and enjoy the resulting joyful sounds within!!

To emphasise Maggie's high musical pedigree, she can proudly boast having worked with Les Brown's Band of Renown, Bob Hope, George Burns and a growing host of major stars…And recently was specially selected to perform with New York City musicians at the Frank Sinatra 'Birthday Bash' at The Count Basie Theatre in New Jersey-check her out!!

Further good wishes have been sent to the good folk of Doncaster from former Russian citizen and avid jazz fan Boris Feigin, who spent three weeks in 'Donny' during a visit from the former USSR back in 1989 (when he enjoyed the very first Doncaster Jazz Weekend-including a memorable concert by the great guitarist Barney Kessel at the Earl) and was also fortunate to take in much of the UK jazz scene-being specially impressed by the heated clarinet style of Geoff Patterson and the superb cornet playing of Digby Fairweather….who he preferred to trumpet great Winton Marsalis no less!! Boris has since emigrated to Sydney-Australia, where he lives with his wife Irena and sons Romka and Dimka and still maintains is enthusiasm for jazz-having attended the Montreal Jazz Festival in Canada and USA Festivals also, and also supporting the Sydney live jazz scene too!!

Mention of clarinettist Geoff Patterson, reminds that Geoff's attacking husky toned approach (echoing the influence of Pee Wee Russell/ Edmund Hall/ Sandy Brown etc) remains in great demand both locally and throughout the UK….And 'Donny' fans can catch Geoff in thrilling action alongside lusty toned trombonist Mike Taylor and other members of The New Jazz Messengers-plus Shirley Patterson and Bob Quinn!!-at The Conservative Club (South Parade) on Thursday 21st January at 8.30pm/ Admission £5 at the door.

Also set for 'Con' Club gigs is The Emmerson-Spragg Combo on Monday 25th January/ 8.30pm/ admission £3-50-featuring Dickie Emmerson on guitar and vocals & Tony Spragg-piano, plus guest singers Sheila Peach, Eddie Kell and Bob Quinn and perhaps Margaret Atkins also-who may make her third appearance at the venue all the way from 'sunny' Bridlington!! The Combo is also set for 'Con' Club gigs on Mondays 8th and 22nd February.

The first of several scheduled Sunday lunchtime jazz events (presented by 'Jazz into Doncaster') is set to take place on 31st January, when the worthy attraction is jazz diva Nicki Allan & Her All-star Sextet, who are-on the evidence of previous gigs in the town-- fully expected to once more delight the anticipated eager audience at the event with swingin' renditions of many favourite standards, ballads and bossas and much more besides!!

Barnsley Jazz at Silkstone Lodge presents Mart Rodger's Manchester Jazz (11th Jan) and The Silver Leaf Jazzband (18th Jan)-01226-281805 / 290105/ 383135….And for details of forthcoming jazz at Rotherham Transport Club phone Ernest on 01709-523499…….Last but not least, local jazz avid Colin Brett reports that the recent DYJA Big Band Bonanza at the Earl and the following evenings 'jazz-jam' (with Dennis Rollins & other guest artists) at Relish on East Laithegate were well deserved successes and promises an 'in depth' account in next week's Entertainer!! (I missed the sparkling sessions-and the snowy conditions--being away in distant Dorset over the Christmas period, visiting daughter Karen and her 'hubby' Michael….And thank Colin-our 'man in Barnby Dun'-- for 'deputising' in my absence!!).

Happy jazzin'!!