Doncaster
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JAZZ AT THE 'CON' CLUB Doncaster
Conservative Club
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| Bob Ludlam | Doncaster Youth Jazz Orchestra |
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'Jazz Scene' ( submitted 28.11.12 ) from C.J.Worsdale. As 2012 draws to a close, with Christmas and New Year looming on the
horizon, two more 'Jazz into Doncaster' sessions are still to take place
at the 'Con Club (on 6th December with DYJO and 13th December with Eugene
Farrar's Swingin' Santas ), Throughout the past year, several gratifying successes clearly stood out ( noteably the merging of three generations of saxophonistsDoncaster's Nadim Teimoori (who has also since furthered his career by working with Stan Traceys Quartet / Mark Nightingale/ Tim Garland/Mike Lovett and other major jazz stars)/ Bobby Wellins/ Alan Barnes with The Nicola Farnon Quartet and leading trombone stylist Roy Williams again with The Nicola Farnon Quartet plus Roy Norton on trumpet and Jon Taylor on saxes and flute) with many other varied and musically pleasing attractions also taking place at the 'Con' Club venue. Frustratingly, some recent presentations failed to draw sufficiently
large enough audiences to ensure 'break-even' financially and clearly
highlighted the necessary Recently,Traditionalists were treated to to an earthy and authentically
styled session of 'Delta Jazz' from the band New Orleans Wiggle--led by
trumpeter John Hummerstone-- who delighted the audience with two vibrant
sets of Crescent City jazz sounds ( see two video clips on You Tubeplus
many others filmed at 'Con' Club sessions!!) , drawing many favourable
comments at the end of the gig ( including the town's elected mayor Peter
Davies-an ardent 'purist' New Orleans jazz loverwho thoroughly enjoyed
the evening, even though he would have liked to hear the clarinet The mighty Doncaster Youth Jazz Orchestra are in live concert at the
Con Club on Thursday 6th December-starting at 8.30pm / admission
£5 at door ( a bumper audience is anticipated, so advice is to be
early to ensure seats!! )
And on Thursday 13th December its
Christmas Jazz Party Night with Eugene Farrars Swingin Santas!!
Stomp-off is at 8.30pm / admission £5 at the door/ free buffet included!!
. Also, dont miss the Christmas bash by guitarist / vocalist Dickie Emmerson & Co on Monday 10th December at the Con Club with Sue Fisher / Bob Quinn / Eddie Kell / and John Noble expected to contribute several swingin renditions also!! The music kicks-off at 8.30pm / Admission £3-50 at the door. Barnsley Jazz presents Frank Brookers Happy Chappies on Monday
10th December Jazz Scene ( submitted 31.10.12 ) From C.J.Worsdale. Has predicted, The Yorkshire Stomperswith their vigorous and infectious brand of toe-tapping Traditional Jazzattracted a sizeable crowd at their recent 'Con' club appearance...which will hopefully be repeated at the venue next Thursday ( 8th November ) for the contrasting-though equally attractive and swingin' debut by The MPR 'Hammond Organ' Quartet. The gifted foursome comprise of Matt Ratcliffe (keyboards) / Aubin Vanns
(guitar)/ Before moving on, 'Con' Club Jazz regulars may wish to view trumpeter Greg Wadman's impressive 'take' on Humph's famed 'Bad Penny Blues' filmed at the recent Yorkshire Stompers sessiontogether with 'clips' from other gigs ( including Nadim Teimoori / Bobby Wellins/ Alan Barnes and Nicola Farnon Quartet / Matt Palmer's 'Bee Keeper Five' / Terry Allonby Trio / Steel City Bones / Winston's Pennine Jazz/ Nicki Allan Sextet ) on You Tube....Check 'em out!! It's 'Back to the Delta' again at the 'Con' Club on Thursday 22nd November
with the Crescent City style sounds of New Orleans Wiggle ( fronted by
trumpeter John Hummerstone ) and with local 'Jazz Diva' Fiona Sergison
'dipping her musical toes' December at the 'Con' Club heralds a Jazz into Doncaster 'first' on Thursday 6th, when the might of the internationally renowned Doncaster Youth Jazz Orchestra take to the stage ( and take up some of the dance floor space also, no doubt!!) in a spectacular concert of swingin' Big Band Jazz!! ( Which reminds that The Glenn Miller Orchestra UKled by Ray McVay-- 'Swing into Christmas' at Doncaster Civic Theatre on Thursday 29th November ( info / tickets: 01302-342349 )...And on Thursday 13th December it's Jazz into Doncaster's Christmas 'Bash with trombonist Eugene Farrar's Swingin' Santas' supplying generous helpings of Hot Jazz and festive fun!! ( Meanwhile, don't forget 'local treasure' guitar maestro/ vocalist Dickie Emmerson & Friends hold their Monday 'Con' Club dates on 12th November and 10th December ( with a Festive flavour too, of course!!). Well worth trips to Wakefield on Sundays are afternoon sessions by The
White Eagles Jazzband at The Grey Horse ( 2pm to 4.30pm ) : 01924-215291...free
train fares for 'Seniors' don't forget on Northern Rail Service!!---And
Seven Jazz also Happy jazzin'!! 'Jazz Scene' ( submitted 22.10.12) . From C.J.Worsdale. The good ship 'Jazz into Doncaster' appears to have temporally struck
an unwelcome Hopefully however, HMS YORKSHIRE STOMPERS will catch the trade winds on Thursday 25th October and make full sail to the 'Con' Club to be greeted by a full house of eager swashbuckling jazz fans to enjoy a swingin' evening of vibrant toe-tapping 'Trad' from the talented all-star band, under the captaincy of banjo / guitar man Richard Speight, assisted by his happy crew of musical brigands!! On trumpet is relative 'new boy' Greg Wadmanwatch out for his spectacular
show-stopping simultaneous excursions on trumpet and flugelhorn!!-- Another
'new boy' Its all change on Thursday 8th November at the Con Club venue, when THE MPR HAMMOND ORGAN QUARTET make their swingingly sophisticated debut, blending the grooving Hammond organ sounds associated with the likes of Jimmy Smith / Richard Groove Holmes / Wild Bill Davis and Britains Alan Haven with intricate guitar patterns, rhythmic drumming and soulful vocals also!! On Thursday 22nd November, its Back to the Delta with NEW ORLEANS WIGGLEfronted by trumpeter JOHN HUMMERSTONE-- plus Donnys very own jazz singer FIONA SERGISON featuring on several numbers in earlier styles of traditional / blues / and gospel songs than she normally includes in her repertoire, and is looking forward to the challenging experience!! Looking forward to December, Big Band fans are in for a treat when the
mighty internationally famed DYJO ( Doncaster Youth Jazz Orchestra ) take
the stageand no doubt some of the dance floor space!!to thrill
as only they can at the Con Club The Terry Allonby Trio and probable guest musos will be in action at
the White Swan (Frenchgate) on Saturday 3rd November ( 12noon to 3pm/
Admission free)
Dynamic Blues men Frank Carline and harmonica maestro
Alex Robinson sat in splendidly at the November session and
possibly may appear with the Allonby Trio at a New Year Con
Club gig ( fingers crossed!!)
And Fiona Sergison also delighted with
several impressive vocals
Next Monday Date session by
Dickie Emmerson & Co plus guest vocalistsis set for 12th
November at the Con Club ( 8.30pm / admission £3-50
at the door )
.Sheffield Jazz presents The Ben Clatworthy Quartet
(Fri 9th Nov) and The Tim Lapthorn Trio & Bobby Wellins ( Fri 16th
Nov ) at The Millennium Hall, Happy jazzin!! ;Jazz Scene' (submitted 15.10.12) From C.J.Worsdale. Glimpsing briefly back to recent live 'Jazz into Doncaster' live sessions at the 'Con' Club, a pleasing 'knock-on-effect' from the exhilarating concert by multi-reed player Matt Palmer's Bee Keeper Five (wittingly announced to the audience by MC Malcolm Silverwood as 'nectar'!!) of renewing acquaintances with trumpeter Dave Leithead, who also instigated his 'old band boss' reed man Johnny Johnstone to make email contact. As many long-term jazz fans will recall, Johnny's fine mainstream/ Dixie band was a popular attraction at the now defunct NCB Lodge Jazz Club and chances are that Johnny will be bringing his current band to the 'Con Club in the New Yearwith Dave on trumpet of course!! Another exhilarating Con Club session was provided by the 40s styled band Swingamathingfronted by vocalist Suzanne Tomlinson (Now Suzanne James, after marrying the bands trumpet man Simon congratulations to both!!)making their welcome second visit to the venue and fielding a line-up with two changes since their debut, with the versatile Pete Moxon on saxes and clarinet and dynamic new young drummer Sam Turner laying down the rhythmic impetus!! (Suzanne reports that the bands growing reputation is rapidly reaching all corners of the UK, with Swingamathing recently playing a prestigious gig in far flung Cardiffand making the long journey home directly afterwards!!). Inexplicably, both the last gigs were somewhat under-attended and deserving of much larger crowds, despite impressive swingin performances which hopefully will be rectified at forthcoming sessionsstarting on Thursday 18th October with a Boogie & Blues Special featuring premier British Boogie-woogie pianist BOB HALL, with guitarist / vocalist/ harmonica man DAVE PEABODY (also an accomplished photographer who has captured many fascinating studies of famed US blues performers on camera during visits to Chicago and other American cities), plus HILARY BLYTHE on bass guitar and vocals. The session kicks off at 8.30pm / admission £6 at the door .Not to be missed by Blues n Boogie avids!! Trad fans will be well catered for on Thursday 25th October by the ever popular YORKSHIRE STOMPERS with new trumpet man Greg Wadman / Frank Brooker (reeds/vocals) / Alan Bramley (trombone) / Annie Hawkins (double bass)/ Richard Speight (banjo/vocals) / Terry Binns (drums) .And in keeping with the policy of offering varied styles to suit differing tastes, on Thursday 8th November the attraction will be newcomers The MPR Hammond Organ Quartetwith an evening of swingin sophistication and superbly delivered standards!!Followed on 22nd November by NEW ORLEANS WIGGLE plus Donnys very own Fiona Sergison on vocals, who is looking forward to the experience of switching to earlier traditional material in the process!! On Thursday 6th December, the mighty sounds of DONCASTER YOUTH JAZZ OCHESTRA will raise the rafters and closing the year with a Christmas Jazz Party Bash on 13th December will be trombonist EUGENE FARRARS SWINGIN SANTAS!! (With generous helpings of Hot Jazz and festive fun for all). Barnsley Jazz at The Fairfield Hotel (S75 4LS) presents Jeff Milners
Delta Friends (22nd Oct) / Mart Rogers Manchester Jazz ( 29th Oct):
01226-281805 / 290105
. Happy jazzin!!
'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 17th May 2012. From C.J.Worsdale. Jazz music comes in numerous hues and shades and is influenced by many varying musical sources, adding to it's wide global appeal, so it should be no surprise that youthful Leeds area based colourfully named band Alligator Gumbo include strong elements of Cajun music from the Louisiana swamp lands (which derives from French speaking Arcadian Canadians ) in their own spicy brand of jazz!! Fronting the band is trumpeter/vocalist Jon Scully-- who brings the six-piece
outfit to the 'Con' Club for their 'Donny' début on Thursday 17th
Maytogether with other talented young players Chris Lloyd (accordion)
/ Mike Simpson ( guitar)/ Greg Further to last week's 'Jazz Scene'--reports were pleasingly more than favourable for the recent New Jazz Messengers gig at the 'Con' Club, with Mick Taylor , Geoff Patterson and all band members in fine form and Jazz / Blues diva Shirley Patterson also in impressive vigorous 'fettle' !! Unfortunately, I missed out on the sessionbeing away on a family visitbut hope to catch 'em next time in 'Donny'!! Closing the month at the Conservative Club venue on Thursday 31st May
will be The Peter Franks' Dixieland All-stars ( plus Skiffle Group!!)--who
also play Barnsley Jazz Club at The Fairway Hotel S75 4LS on 21st May:
01226-281805 / 290105and at the 'Con' Club on Thursday 14th June
is a truly spectacular event in the local jazz calendar Jazz hits the town of Newark in big style on Saturday and Sunday 19th
/ 20th May, with many varied sessions to please most tastes...including
The Good Guys Orchestra Jazz also hits 'Donny' Market in equally big style on Saturday 26th May
between 11am to 3pm, launched with a Jazz Parade by TRADTASTIC starting
from Priory Walk at approx 11am and marching to the Market area via High
Street & Baxtergate Sheffield Jazz presents 'Le Boeuf sur le Toit'--The Musical Life of 20's
Paris at The Crucible Studio on Friday 18th May, with THE TINA MAY QUARTET
( Box Office 0114- 249-6000)...Tina May (vocals ) / Nikki Iles (piano
) / Karen Street (accordion)/ Clarinettist / Band leader of The Silver Leaf Jazz BandDAVID HEPWORTH-- now also presents 'WASHINGTON WHIRLIGIG' fortnightly at THE BLACK LION, Firbeck/Worksop S81 8JY...Next gigs on 24th May and 7th June. Contact Dave on 01226-751989 for info of both bands. HAPPY JAZZIN'!! Jazz Scene for Thursday 10th May 2012. From C.J.Worsdale. Only those unfortunates who remain foreign to the imaginative improvisational skills of locally based internationally renowned jazz trombonist Dennis Rollins could have failed to be suitably impressed by his scintillating performance with his Velocity Trio at their recent Doncaster Civic Theatre concert. From the onset, Dennisempathically accompanied by Hammond organ virtuoso Ross Stanley and remarkably unique fiery young Portuguese drummer Pedro Segundoheld the audience mesmerised has they wove their magic on such pieces as Emergence (from their The 11th Gate CD), a Rollins original based on Reggae supremo Bob Marleys famed Jammin, and surprisingly to many, perhapsa soulful-hip swaying-finger-snapping take on Bette Middlers The Rose concluded an evening of truly ground-breaking new ideas and sounds from the remarkable threesome, underlining their rightful ranking amongst the higher echelon of the worlds great jazz musicians. News from Jazz into Doncaster treasurer Peter Robinson, notes
that The New Jazz Messengersfronted by Dronfield based
trombonist Mike Tayloralso proved a great success recently at The
Con Club ( more in next article ) Doncaster Market Jazz Day takes place on Saturday 26th May between 11am to 3pmwith TRADTASTIC / SWINGAMATHING / WINSTONS PENNINE JAZZ / BLUES CONNECTION / SHE KOYKH / Blues Harmonica man JOHN McKEVITT / and a blues set at The Masons Arms. Barnsley Jazz at The Fairway Hotel ( (S75 4LS) have The Reunion jazz
Band ( Mon 14th May ) and Peter Franks Dixieland All-stars ( Mon
21st May ) : 01226-281805 / 290105
.Sheffield Jazz at The Greystones
(S11 7BS ) have The Chris Allard Band ( Fri 11th May ) and at The Crucible
Studio on Fri 18th May is The Tina May Quartet. 'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 3rd May 2012. From C.J.Worsdale. Apollo may well have been the 'Messenger of the Gods' according to Greek
mythology, though throughout Yorkshire and often far beyond, trombonist
Mick Taylor, clarinettist Geoff Patterson and jazz & blues singer
Shirley Pattersontogether with more recent additions Colin Wood
(piano) / Dave Green (double bass)/ And good news is that the talented half-dozen are set to make another
more than welcome return to the 'Con' Club on Thursday 3rd May, when a
foot-tapping and varied evening of infectiously swinging Traditional Jazz
/ Mainstream / and Blues The action begins at 8.30pm / admission £5 at the door at the comfortable
and welcoming Conservative Club venue at the corner of South Parade and
Waterdale On Saturday 5th May, the eclectic sounds of The Terry Allonby Trio and
probable guest 'musos' with be reverberating from The Horse & Groom
( East Laithegate ) Liberty Bar & Grill ( on the corner of Wood Street and Cleveland
Street) presents 'Louis-Louis-Louis' -led by Sam Thornton on alto sax
and vocals-every second Wednesday of the month, with their bristling brand
of 'Jump-Jive' flavoured jazz associated with Louis Armstrong / Louis
Prima / Louis Jordon...Plus a few suprises also. The action starts around
8pm and admission is freewhat more can you ask? 'Local Treasure' Dickie Emmerson's Duo is set for their regular monthly
Monday For 'Something completely different' The 'Con' Club is also the place to be on Thursday 17th May, when trumpeter Jon Scully brings his Cajun influenced jazz group Alligator Gumbo to the venue for their debut session. In addition to Jon, the un-conventional line-up includes Greg Surmacsz (clarinet) / Matt Tiffany (violin)/ Chris Lloyd (accordion)--who also is pianist with 'Louis-Louis-Louis' at Liberty/ Mike Simpson (guitar)/ James Paylor (bass). Start time is 8.30pm / Admission £5 at the door. Saturday 26th May is DONCASTER MARKETS JAZZ DAY from 11am to approx 3pm....Featuring TRADTASTIC ( who congregate at Priory Walk for their parade along High Street and Baxtergate into the Market area at 11am) / 40's style Swing band SWINGAMATHING / WINSTON'S PENNINE JAZZ / THE BLUES CONNECTION/ guest Blues harmonica man JOHN McKEVITT and a Mason's Arms session by blues group THE NERVOUS TRIGGERMEN. Also performing a half hour set will be Balken/Yiddish style band She ' Koykh part of The Hothouse Festivalin advance of their Saturday evening Civic Theatre concert. Barnsley Jazz at Fairway Hotel (S75 4LS) present New Orleans Heat ( Monday 7th May ) / The Reunion Jazz Band ( Mon 14th May )....01226-281805 / 290105. Sheffield Jazz presents The Chris Allard Band at The Greystones (S11
7BS) on Friday 11th May ( Brandon Allen-sax/ Chris Allard (guitar)/ Ross
Stanley (piano)/ Happy jazzin'!! 'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 26th April 2012. From C.J.Worsdale. 'Louis Louis Louis!!' exclaims the title of recently formed Leeds based band led by alto saxist/ vocalist Sam Thornton ...and perhaps unsurprisingly you have already guessed that the energetic unit unashamedly base most of their repertoire on numbers associated with Louis Armstrong, Louis Prima and Louis Jordon of 'Timpani Five' and 'Five Guys Named Mo' fame!! Good news for fans of the high-octane brand of infectious brand of jazzwhich is defiantly NOT for 'the faint-hearted'!!--is that Sam and his zestful outfit are set to play every second Wednesday of each month at Liberty Bar & Grill ( at the corner of Wood Street and Cleveland Street ) --starting around 8pm / admission free...Which is where myself and local jazz aficionado pal Colin 'Pancho' Brett caught the band in action recently and where Stuart Garside, Damien Bell and other highly regarded 'Donny' musicians dropped in to offer their valuable support, which had the eager crowd demanding five encores at the session's close!! Included in the fast moving selection of tunes were 'Just a gigolo' /
'Mack the knife'/ Next live 'Jazz into Doncaster' session at the 'Con' Club is set for
Thursday 3rd May, when the popular attraction is The New Jazz Messengers
and Shirley Patterson... Following on at the 'Con' Club on Thursday 17th May is the début
of Cajun infused jazz group Alligator Gumbo fronted by trumpeter
Jon Scully with Greg Surmacsz Doncaster Markets Jazz Day is set for Saturday 26th May (11am to 3pm)
and commences with roving band Tradtastic, who gather in Priory Walk in
readiness for the parade along High Street and Baxtergate into the Market
area, where they will perform throughout the afternoon (why not fall into
the parade with your own design of 'Jazz Brolly'?). Other attraction include
Swingamathing / Winston's Pennine Jazz/ Happy jazzin'!! 'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 19th April 2012. From C.J.Worsdale. Gratifyingly, the recent Gerry Mulligan-Chet Baker 'Salute' by The Al
Wood/Trevor Vincent Band at the 'Con' Club proved a great success, clearly
illustrating that there Al and Trevor, ably supported by Vinnie Parker (piano)/ Ken Marley ( double bass)/Bob Howard (drums) who, as announcer Malcolm Silverwood jokingly reminded in his introduction- performed a similar 'salute' over twenty years ago at the NCB Lodge Jazz Club...and that It's great to have them back again!!-- not surprisinglyfeatured an array of daringly executed numbers, associated with Mulligan, Baker, Bob Brookmeyer and others, plus several compositions by the great Benny Carter, with the pair often skilfully switching from baritone sax and trumpet to various combinations of two trumpets / valve trombone and trumpet or saxes etc on Bernie's Tune / Makin Whoopee / Nights at the turntable / Black Nightgown ( from the Susan Hayward film 'I want to live' ) to the inevitable take on the most popular of all Mulligan Quartet hits-Walkin' shoes, rapidly followed by a scintillating dare-devil closing encore on Swinghouse sent the audience homewards in happy and satisfied fashion!! It was also pleasing to welcome John Ellis / DYJA secretary Brenda Proctor and a youthful contingent of DYJA musicians to the concert...and word is that the full Jazz Orchestra is expected to play a 'Con' Club concert in the near futurewatch out for news....and ( of course ) Al-Trevor and the boys will also be back pretty soon ( not twenty years this time!!). In keeping with Jazz into Doncaster's policy of presenting contrasting
attractions at the 'Con' Club venue, next up on Thursday 19th April will
be The Reunion Jazz Band The band's leader is drummer George Buckman, though the familiar 'front man' is popular trumpeter Alan Hippsley, who will be joined on stage by Dave Clews on trombone, Dave Hepworth ( clarinet ), Keith Goddard (banjo), and Dave Spink on the mighty double bass. Traditional Jazz 'purists' are certain to relish this sessionthough if you are not too familiar with the roots of the music, why not come along and hear how early jazz developed into the multi-faceted music of today!! Stomp-off is at 8.30pm / Admission £5 at the door. ( The Reunion Jazz Band also play regular monthly Sunday lunchtime gigs at Retford'd Elms Hotel: phone 01777-708957 for details). First 'Jazz into Doncaster' May gig takes place on Thursday 3rd, when
the attraction is The New Jazz Messengers & Shirley Patterson, followed
on Thursday 17th by Cajun influenced Jazz group Alligator Gumbo and on
Thursday 31st by Peter Franks' Holding their monthly Saturday lunchtime session at The Horse & Groom
( East Laithegate ) on 5th May is The Terry Allonby Trio + guests ( 12
noon -3pm / Admission free)...Sheffield Jazz Millennium Hall presents
Michael Janisch New York Standards Quartet ( Michael Janisch-bass / Tim
Armacost-sax / David Berkman Last-but not least.....DONCASTER MARKET'S JAZZ DAY is set for Saturday
26th May from 11am to 3pm and includes TRADTASTIC / WINSTON'S PENNINE
JAZZ Happy Jazzin'!! 'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 12th April 2012. From C.J.Worsdale. After several unavoidable absences from monthly 'Monday date' gigs at the 'Con' Club by The Dickie Emmerson Duo, I and my 'jazz pal' Colin Brett of Barnby Dun made amends by catching guitarist/vocalist Dickie and his recently introduced keyboards player Norman Williams in lively great form at the popular venue. From the opening number 'Exactly like you' it was patently apparent that the pair had 'hit it off' with the enthusiastic audience, who joyfully responded to the obvious vigorous empathy between the two gifted performers...drawing an overheard comment from a nearby table that new piano man Norman Plays with more thrust than a Harrier Jump Jet!! The pair offered up a pleasing mix of foot-tapping swinging standards, intermingled with bossas and ballads ( including an energetic version of my request 'You always hurt the one you love' and Dickie's show-stopping rendition of Neil Sedaks's 'The Hungary Years'), plus fine contributions from guest singers Sue Fisher and Eddie Kell, before ending the evening in rock n' roll fashion with Chuck Berry's 'Roll over Beethoven.' ( The duo are back in action at the 'Con' Club on Monday 14th May....though you can also regularly catch Norman in lively entertaining mood at The Grove on York Road on Wednesday and Friday evenings). Fans of Traditional New Orleans style jazz should also gravitate to the
Conservative Club on Thursday 19th April, when the attraction will be
The Reunion Jazz Bandwho often attract crowds of a hundred or so
at their monthly Sunday lunchtime Retford Elms Hotel sessions!!--led by
drummer George Buckman and 'fronted' by trumpeter Allan Hippsley with
Dave Clews (trombone) / Dave Haepworth ( clarinet / tenor sax )/ Dave
Spink (double bass)/ Doncaster Markets Jazz Day is set to take place on Saturday 26th May-from 11am to 3pm, with attractions including Tradtastic ( who will parade from Priory Walk along High Street and Baxtergate before performing at regular intervals around the Market area )/ Winston's Pennine Jazz / Swingamathing/ The Blues Connection / guest blues harmonica player John McKevitt / Balken-Yiddish Band She 'Koyokh ( part of Doncaster Hot House Festival )...Also expected is a Blues session at The Mason's Armswatch out for further announcements!! Barnsley Jazz at The Fairway Hotel ( S75 4LS ) presents The New Orleans
Z'Hulus ( 16th April ) / Rydale Jazz Band ( 23rd April ) / Worth Valley
Stompers Happy Jazzin'!! 'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 12th April 2012. From C.J.Worsdale. After several unavoidable absences from monthly 'Monday date' gigs at the 'Con' Club by The Dickie Emmerson Duo, I and my 'jazz pal' Colin Brett of Barnby Dun made amends by catching guitarist/vocalist Dickie and his recently introduced keyboards player Norman Williams in lively great form at the popular venue. From the opening number 'Exactly like you' it was patently apparent that the pair had 'hit it off' with the enthusiastic audience, who joyfully responded to the obvious vigorous empathy between the two gifted performers...drawing an overheard comment from a nearby table that new piano man Norman Plays with more thrust than a Harrier Jump Jet!! The pair offered up a pleasing mix of foot-tapping swinging standards, intermingled with bossas and ballads ( including an energetic version of my request 'You always hurt the one you love' and Dickie's show-stopping rendition of Neil Sedaks's 'The Hungary Years'), plus fine contributions from guest singers Sue Fisher and Eddie Kell, before ending the evening in rock n' roll fashion with Chuck Berry's 'Roll over Beethoven.' ( The duo are back in action at the 'Con' Club on Monday 14th May....though you can also regularly catch Norman in lively entertaining mood at The Grove on York Road on Wednesday and Friday evenings). Fans of Traditional New Orleans style jazz should also gravitate to the
Conservative Club on Thursday 19th April, when the attraction will be
The Reunion Jazz Bandwho often attract crowds of a hundred or so
at their monthly Sunday lunchtime Retford Elms Hotel sessions!!--led by
drummer George Buckman and 'fronted' by trumpeter Allan Hippsley with
Dave Clews (trombone) / Dave Haepworth ( clarinet / tenor sax )/ Dave
Spink (double bass)/ Doncaster Markets Jazz Day is set to take place on Saturday 26th May-from 11am to 3pm, with attractions including Tradtastic ( who will parade from Priory Walk along High Street and Baxtergate before performing at regular intervals around the Market area )/ Winston's Pennine Jazz / Swingamathing/ The Blues Connection / guest blues harmonica player John McKevitt / Balken-Yiddish Band She 'Koyokh ( part of Doncaster Hot House Festival )...Also expected is a Blues session at The Mason's Armswatch out for further announcements!! Barnsley Jazz at The Fairway Hotel ( S75 4LS ) presents The New Orleans
Z'Hulus ( 16th April ) / Rydale Jazz Band ( 23rd April ) / Worth Valley
Stompers Happy Jazzin'!! Jazz Scene for Thursday 5th April 2012 . From C.J.Worsdale. The undisputed premier baritone sax player spanning several decades was famed musician Harry Carney of the Duke Ellington Orchestra, whos muscular tone and rhapsodic phrasing was generally considered the norm throughout the jazz fraternity Until the arrival on the scene in the late 1940s of Gerry Mulligan, who greatly expanded the instruments horizons with nimble airy approach to ensemble and solo performances. Also a highly gifted composer and arranger with Gene Krupa ( eg Disc jockey jump), Gil Evans, Miles Davis and other iconic luminaries, Gerrys talents were soon in ever increasing demandleading to the groundbreaking Birth of the cool album with Miles Davis, on which he penned five of the dozen recorded numbersand sudden international fame in 1952 with the launch of his first piano-less Quartet, featuring co-star trumpeter Chet Baker, marked by the runaway success of the groups first 10inch album, containing attractive tunes that were appealing not only to jazz fans but to casual listeners too With many similar quartets following including Bob Brookmeyer / Art Farmer etc, the formation of The Concert Jazz Band, guest appearances with Dave Brubeck and recordings with Ben Webster, Paul Desmond and other major jazz stars, plus movie fame by way of appearances and scores for the Susan Hayward film I want to live. The rest as they say is historyand although Gerry and Chet are sadly no longer with us, the good news is that highly regarded musicians AL WOOD (saxes), TREVOR VINCENT (trumpet/flugelhorn/valve trombone) have affectionately re-created the sounds of various Mulligan-Baker combos together with pianist Vinnie Parker/ Ken Marley (double bass)/Bob howard (drums) and will be in action on Thursday 5th April at Doncaster Conservative Club (DN1 2DJ). The music kicks-off at 8.30pm /admission £5 at the door .A definite MUST for fans of cool West Coast Jazzdont miss it!! Traditionalists need not despair however, as the Con Club attraction on Thursday 19th April is THE REUNION JAZZ BAND, featuring Alan Hipsley (trumpet)/ Dave Hepworth (clarinet)/ Dave Clews (trombone)/Keith Goddard (banjo/guitar)/ Dave Spink (double bass)/ and boss-man George Buckman leading from the rear on drums!! George and the boys promise a musical journey back to the Louisiana Delta!! The Terry Allonby Trio and guests will be in lunchtime action at The
Horse & Groom (East Laithegate) on Saturday 7th April from 12noon
to 3pm (admission free)
Sheffield Jazz presents Simcock/Klaus(piano)
and Gesing (sax & bass clarinet) at Crucible Studio (Fri 13th April)
and Michael Janish New York Standards Quartet at Millennium Hall (Fri
20th April).0114-273-8678 / www.sheffieldjazz.org.uk
Barnsley Jazz
at The Fairway Hotel (S75 4LS) presents Café Society on Monday
9th April Happy jazzin !!
'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 29th March 2012. From C.J.Worsdale. Along with 'Jazz into Doncaster' colleague and announcer Malcolm Silverwood, Barrie and tastefully rhythmic guitarist Nick's repertoire included relaxed
versions of 'Fever' (made famous by Peggy Lee) / 'Hallelujah,I love her
so'/ Gifted local folk singer/songwriter/guitarist Matthew Jones ( a former classical guitarist ) delivered several heartfelt and emotionally charged songs,drawing attention to the fruitlessness of war, closure of coal mines and even a 'short history lesson' relating the story of the famed ship USS 'Constitution' which earned the nickname of 'Old Ironside' in it's battle with HMS 'Guerriere' in the 1812 war with America!! Led by Jon Scully on trumpet and vocals, the jazz interest of the evening
was provided by talented young band The Leeds Jazz Quintet, who played
two impressive sets with Chris Lloyd (keyboards)/ Ben Pike (guitar) /
James Paylor Meanwhile 'Jazz into Doncaster' present a change from the 'norm' on Thursday
5th April, when fans of 'cool'jazz can enjoy the revolutionary jazz sounds
of Hot news is that local trombone 'super-star' DENNIS ROLLINS' band 'The
Velocity Trio' have added yet another accolade to their impressive list
after winning the 'Best Band' Award at the recent Jazz Yorkshire Awards
Ceremony. The Terry Allonby Trio and guests are in regular monthly Saturday lunchtime
action at The Horse & Groom (East Laithegate) on 7th April from 12
noon to 3pm (Free admission)...The Dickie Emmerson / Robert Baker duo
and guests hold their monthly 'Monday-date' at the 'Con' Club on 9th April...Barnsley
Jazz at the Fairway Hotel (S75 4LS) present KEVIN GRENFELL'S JAZZ GIANTS Happy jazzin'!! 'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 22nd March 2012. From C.J.Worsdale. It is always a sad task to mark the passing of well known and highly regarded performers from the world of jazz who have brought so much pleasure to our lives over the years through their musicianship and entertainment skills, but even more poignant when they are known personally to so many in our own locality. One such, is trumpeter / pianist /singer and former 'front-man' of The
Wakefield Arms Jazz Band, JOHN McANDREW , who numerous 'Donny' area fans
will fondly recall expertly regaling with his many talents at such venues
as the former Thorpe Marsh Club, NCB Lodge Club, Salutation, Rockingham
Arms, In addition to his musical abilities and plainly obvious love of jazz, John will be remembered by many for his impish sense of humour, anecdotes and rib-tickling joke telling and fund raiser for Third World charities such as the 'Suzy Fund.' My own particular favourite numberso often performed by John--was 'I thought about you', which surely serves as a fitting epitaph...as we 'Think about him' !! Adieu, John. Perhaps trumpeter WIL ROBINSON will include the aforementioned tune as
a tribute to John McAndrew, when he appears with his SOUTHSIDE JAZZ BAND
at The Conservative Club on Thursday 22nd March, how about it Wil? Set for April 'Con' Club gigs is the debut of THE AL WOOD / TREVOR VINCENT
BAND with their salute to the late-great Gerry Mulligan ( Thurs 5th) Happy jazzin' !!
'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 8th March 2012. From C.J.Worsdale. It wasas they say-- 'All right on the night'!! Following nervous
misgivings regarding sluggish advance ticket sales for the recent special
guest star appearance of Bruce and co were straight into attention grabbing business with the
opening Ellington number 'It don't mean a thingif it ain't got that
swing.' Which was followed by a varied programme of familiar swinging
standards, inter-spaced with Dixieland flag-wavers such as 'Struttin'
with some barbecue' and several lesser known There were also many fine solos by Eugene on trombone, pianist Tom Kincaidwho
dazzled with his impressive 'Garner-ish' contributions; Andy Wallis (
tenor sax/ clarinet)--his sumptuous blues drenched treatment in duet on
clarinet with Bruce on 'Mood Indigo' was delightful; with steadfast double
bass from Phil Kampon and with Thursday 8th March welcomes back to the 'Con' Club (DN1 2DJ) popular
Cleethorpes based trumpeter Roy Norton's Jazz Band, featuring Roy himself
on trumpet, flugelhorn and vocals ; Geoff Patterson on clarinet; Jim Wright-banjo
/ vocals; Graham Jones-double bass; 'Rim-shot' Rod McManara-drums....And
on Thursday 22nd March is another 'Trad' treat, when the attraction is
The Southside Jazz Band Sad news is that trumpeter and former leader of The Wakefield Arms Jazz
Band has passed away recently. In addition to his fine trumpet playing,
John was also renowned At the risk of embarrassing the intrepid pair....I heard though the grapevine that the daughter of former local pianist Don Hudson in conversation with her Bawtry neighbour / trombone star Dennis Rollins ( who plays Doncaster Civic Theatre with his Velocity Trio on 25th April ) told of her Dad's recent illness....And the next thing, a dozen or so jazz CD's were delivered to Don, courtesy of Dennis....Restores faith in human nature, doesn't it?!! Mentioned in last week's article, Cliff Wilson's mémoire 'Love it or hate it'--telling of Cliff''s life in the amusements industry and in jazz music, can be purchased by sending cheque made payable to C.Wilson to Cliff Wilson, 95 Nottingham Road, Nuttall, Notts NG16 1DN. Barnsley Jazz ( now at Fairway Hotel S75 4LS ) have Spirit of New Orleans plus James Evans ( NOT Sammy Rimington as previously advised ) on Monday 12th March....Yorkshire Stompers (19th March )....And Frog Island Jazz Band (26th March). Happy jazzin'!! 'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 16th February 2012. From C.J.Worsdale. Set to take place next Thursday ( 23rd Feb) is the first of this year's special star guest concerts (presented by 'Jazz into Doncaster' in association with John Sheppard of the former Lodge Jazz Club) at Doncaster Conservative Club, when formidably talented trumpeter Bruce Adams joins forces with the muscular sounds of the highly regarded and 'in-demand quintet, The Eugene Farrar Band. Bruce-who's last appearance at the venue was with the unforgettable explosive pairing with his regular 'sparring partner' Alan Barnes plus The Nicola Farnon Quartet-was introduced to show business by his comedian/guitarist/vocalist father Bob and mother Helen-a dancer, and took up trumpet at age elevengaining valuable experience gigging around Glasgow before winning Opportunity Knocks at fourteen!! The rest-as they say-is history, with Bruce rapidly gaining an enviable reputation throughout the UK jazz scene, winning various awards and working with many of the world's finest jazz musiciansincluding Dick Hyman at the 1985 and 1996 Edinburgh Festival, Benny Carter, Bob Wilber and Alan Barneswith whom he formed a quintet in 1992as well as working with Kenny Baker's Dozen, Echoes of Ellington and with the accompanying band to zany comedian Freddie Starr!! Doncaster jazz followers are certainly privileged to once again have
the chance to the opportunity to catch the star trumpeter in action together
with trombonist Eugene's Band on their own 'doorsteps'!! (Advance tickets
are available at £7 from THE BLUE BUILDING, 38-40 HIGH STREET, DONCASTER
(01302-734309 ) or £8 at the Also in the pipeline are sessions by The Trevor Vincent/Al Wood BandA
Salute to the late/great Gerry Mulligan!!--5th April....The Reunion Jazz
Band (19th April)--A treat for 'purist' New Orleans fans!!.....The New
Jazz Messengers & Shirley Patterson 'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 9th February 2012. From C.J.Worsdale. Exciting news for the 'Jazz into Doncaster' voluntary committee is that their efforts in promoting 'live' jazz at the Conservative Club and over many years at various previous venues may possibly be recognised by an award from 'Yorkshire Jazz' in the promotion/club category, thanks to trombonist/band leader Eugene Farrar for his kind nomination!! The committee stalwarts aren't holding their breath...but 'one never knows, does one!!' Further exiting news comes from DYJA Stageband and Swing Orchestra Manager Brenda Proctor, who informs that a fund raising event recently took place in support of the Association at the world famous Ronnie Scott Club in Londonhosted by former DYJO pianist Andy Cato (now with Groove Armada), who arranged for a group of young Doncaster musicians to play the opening set...which-as you can imaginecaused great excitement for them!! Watch out for local Doncaster Youth Jazz Association concerts and give your valuable support whenever possible!! Stuart Currie of Barnsley Jazz informs that despite the loss of the Silkstone Lodge venue (under new management and discontinuing the live jazz policy!!), its business as usual on Mondays at their new venueThe Fairway Hotel (formerly The Bluebell Inn)-just up the road apiece from Silkstone Lodge. (Directions from Junction 37 of the M1: Take the A628 towards Manchester-go through 3 roundabouts-at the 4th take 3rd exit Elmhirst Lane, which leads to the Fairway Hotel (S75 4LS/ Phone 0871-200-2289) Call 01226-281805 / 290105 / 383135 for gig information. Paying a more than welcome return to the Con Club (DN1 2DJ)
tonight (9th Feb) is the sensational four-piece band The Djangonauts (Quartet
du Hot Club de Donny perhaps!!), who will magically conjure the
Parisian atmosphere originally created by the likes of the massively influential
guitar genius Django Reinhardt and jazz violin supremo Stephane Grappelli
with their own unique brand of Gypsy Swing!! Leading the group
is nimble-fingered and imaginative guitarist CHRIS WALKERwho may
contribute an odd vocal or two alsoCanadian born PIERO TUCCI on
accordion; PHIL JOHNSON (rhythm guitar); and KEVIN WALKER (double bass). Also coming up at the Con Club on Thursday 23rd February
is a special concert featuring the formidable trumpet talents of multi-award
winning BRUCE ADAMS along with the dynamic band of trombonist EUGENE FARRARa
popular regular visitor to the venue, who was recently in action with
Winstons Pennine Jazz at the opening session of the new season.
Bruce is very much His own man
however dont be
surprised if his confident bravura performances bring to mind the likes
of jazz legends Roy Little Jazz Eldridge / Bunny Berrigan
and other trumpet luminaries!! Advance tickets are available at £7
from The Blue Building, 38-40 High Street, Doncaster DN1 1DE (01302-734309)
or £8 on the night
NOT TO BE MISSED!! Happy jazzin'!! Jazz Scene for Thursday 2nd February 2012. From C.J.Worsdale. Regular readers of Jazz Scene articles will surely excuse the absence of last weeks contribution, due to understandable preoccupation with the recent joyful arrival of a beautiful baby grandson Samuel Joseph, to our daughter Karen and husband Michael naturally taking precedence above music matters!! Whilst staying at their home however, I overheard chat at their local pub of the recent success of a pilot New Orleans Jazz Night which included Jambalaya and Cajun dishes in the £10 admission charge .Food for thought for Yorkshire jazz promoters, perhaps!! Forthcoming live events on the Donny scene include this Saturdays (4th Feb) lunchtime session by guitar maestro Terry Alllonbys Trio ( with Nigel Chapman-keyboards and Mark Kerrigan-drums) plus likely guest sitters-in. The gig takes place between 12noon to 3pm and admission is free A fine way to while away the afternoon and enjoy equally fine music, tasty food and drinks and the welcoming hospitality of landlord Francie and his friendly staff If youve not yet sampled the Allonby Experience, why not drop in to give it a try? On Thursday 9th February, fans of Django Reinhardt inspired Hot Club of France styled Gypsy Swing are expected to gravitate to the Con Club ( South Parade DN1 2DJ ) to thrill to the stimulating wizardry of The Djangonauts, who are making a most welcome return to the popular venue. Leading the group is nimble fingered guitarist Chris Walker (who may offer up the odd vocal or two also!!)ably abetted by the multi-talented Piero Tucci on accordion, Phil Johnson (rhythm guitar) and Kevin Walker on double bass, who will jointly transport the audience to Montmartre and the atmosphere of the Paris Left Bank nightlife by way of their breath taking instrumental acumen!! The session stomps-off at 8.30pm / Admission £5 at the door. Also at the Con Club on Monday 13th February will be the
duo of guitarist/vocalist Dickie Emmersonwith Robert Baker on keyboards
who is settling in nicely after replacing Tony Spragg. The pair will be
offering a varied mix of swingin standards / ballads / rock n
roll and much more, no doubt assisted by guest singers Eddie Kell / Bob
Quinn/ Happy jazzin!! 'Jazz Scene' for Thursday 12th January 2012. From C.J.Worsdale. Whilst recently attempting a long over-due 'tidy-up' of my extremely cluttered 'jazz den' that suffices for my 'office', I came across several photographs of the late-great British clarinettist Sandy Brown, which I took at The Daily Mail International Jazz Festival at Belle Vue-Manchester back in June 1963, where he was appearing with The Fairweather-Brown All-Stars and guest star Tony Coe. Shortly afterwards having spotted an 'ad' in Jazz JournalI
forwarded copies to The Sandy Brown Society, which is edited and produced
by John Latham at 2 Church Meadow, Reynoldston, Swansea SA3 1AF (www.sandybrownjazz.co.uk
) Jazz into Doncaster launch the 2012 season of live gigs at The Conservative Club on Thursday 26th January, with the more than welcome return of the boisterous Trad / Dixieland / Swing band Winstons Pennine Jazz, who are guaranteed to drive away the Winter Blues with their infectious brand of foot-tapping-swingin jazz!! Stomp-off time is 8.30pm / Admission £5 at the door. Following on at the Con Club venue are The Djangonauts featuring Chris Walker ( lead guitar )/ Phil Johnson ( rhythm guitar ) / Piero Tucci ( accordion )/ and Kevin Walker ( double bass ) on Thursday 9th February, who were rapturously received at their debut session at the club last year and are fully expected to be equally sensational this time also with their unique slant on the Gypsy Jazz Hot Club of France style of the great Django Reinhardt. Trumpet ace Bruce Adams is star guest of the dynamic Eugene Farrar Band at the Con Club on Thursday 23rd February in a special concert jointly presented by Jazz into Doncaster and John Sheppard of the former NCB Lodge Jazz Club. Tickets are available at £7 advance from The Blue Building, 38-40 High Street DN1 1DE ( Phone 01302-734309 ) or at £8 at the door. Also in the pipeline are gigs by The Roy Norton Jazz Band (8th March),
The Southside Jazz Band ( 22nd March ) plus sessions by The Reunion Jazzband, Jazz Scene for Thursday 5th January 2012. From C.J.Worsdale. Heres wishing a hearty Swinging New Year to all Donny area jazz followersand those who visit our town from further afield also!!with plenty of diverse and stimulating live gigs to attract all tastes over coming months. Laying claim to first off the New Year Blocks is the eclectic Terry Allonby Triofronted of course by boss man Terry on guitars and with Nigel Chapman (keyboards) plus Mark Kerrigan (drums), who will jointly be holding court at The Horse & Groom (East Laithegate) on Saturday 7th January between 12noon and 3pm, with various guest musicians also likely to sit-in on several numbers throughout the free admission session. On the musical menu will be contemporary jazz, blues, rock, swing, Latin, Allonby/Chapman originals, takes on popular songs by the likes of Simon & Garfunkel / The Beatles / Ray Charles / Dusty Springfield and many more surprises too!! A great way to brighten a dreary winters afternoon and launch 2012 in memorable fashion. Following closely on the Allonby heals will be the much loved and admired talents of guitarist / singer Dickie Emmersons Duo, who will be in action at the Con Club (South Parade DN1 2DJ) for their first monthly Monday Date session of the new season at the popular venue on Monday 9th January. The music kicks-off at 8.30pm / admission £3-50 at the door and will no-doubt also include welcome swingin contributions by Bob Quinn, Eddie Kell, Sue Fisher and Johnny Noble, who are regular vocal guests at the monthly gigs. The Jazz into Doncaster voluntary committee launch their
new seasons live events on Thursday 26th January at the Con
Club, when the popular attraction is the vibrant six piece band Winstons
Pennine Jazzled as ever (from the rear!!) by founder and double
bassist Keith Shone
with all-star support from trumpeter Dave Kendall,
Eugene Farrar ( trombone/harmonica/vocals), Andy Wallis (reeds), Brian
Herbert Set for February Con Club sessions in February is the sensational Hot Club du France styled group The Djangonauts (Thurs 9th)featuring Chris Walker (lead guitar) / Piero Tucci (accordion) / Phil Johnson (rhythm guitar) / and Kevin Walker ( double bass) ..Followed on Thurs 23rd by a Special featuring multi-award winning trumpet star BRUCE ADAMS with the dynamic EUGENE FARRAR BAND. ( Advance tickets £7 available from The Blue Building, 38-40 High Street, DN1 1DE / Phone 01302-734309 .or £8 at the door) .Watch out for news of Sunday afternoon sessions with trombone super-star Dennis Rollins and superlative sax man Mark Ellis etc at Bawtys Coco Ice venue (www.cocoice.co.uk ) 31 Market Place DN10 6JL / Phone 01302-711766 .and Sunday Jazz sessions at Doncasters Bistro venue. Happy jazzin!!
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