Shrewsbury and Shropshire Jazz.


This is Tanners a Fine Wine Merchant
located in Shrewsbury on Wyle Cop
Do pay a visit, it's well worthwhile.

http://www.tanners-wines.co.uk/
click on picture to enlarge

 

 Shrewsbury Jazz

 

The place of honour on this page must go to The Severnside Jazz Band. This band was formed some 45 years ago. Griff Stevens formed this band and I am sorry to say retired last year. 2003. The band also formed the Shrewsbury Jazz Club and plays on alternate Sundays and the venue is at the Four Crosses Hotel, Bicton.
This band has been responsible for keeping the name of jazz alive in Shrewsbury for many years and much credit must go to Griff and the lads who have played and are playing now.
They are always available to play at other clubs and functions.
The Band plays Traditional Jazz in the New Orleans style and consists of keyboard, double bass, drums, banjo,trombone, trumpet and clarinet.
Hope you will join us at oneof the gigs.

Severnside Jazz Band Gigs
at
The Four Crosses Hotel .
Bicton
Shrewsbury

 

 This months Diary
Sunday Gigs from 8.30 pm to 10-30pm

The next Gig
The Severnside Jazz Band

Guests


July 13th Chris Carmel (tpt) Ken Binns (pno) Chris Jones (bass) Dave Wilkinson (clt)

July 27th Dave Sherwood (cornet) Jon Penn (pno) Chris Jones (bass)


Do come and join us.

Tickets at the door £4-00
For further information Tel Chris 01743 249248
 

 

 

 

The Raven Inn
Raven Square,
Welshpool,
Powys,
SY21 7LT,

Great News,
A New Location for

The Southern Sounds Jazzmen

Sunday Sept 14th 2008 12-30pm

Stan Williams Trumpet
Dave Margaroni - Trombone
Jeff Matthews- Clarinet
Matt Sanders - Banjo/Guitar
Stuart Tanner - Double Bass
Ken Binns - Piano
Len Davies Drums
Tickets £4.00 on the door

There is a very good bar here at club prices and also a very nice buffet lunch at £4.00

Please, if you can pay a visit to support Jazz in Wales,
your journey will not be wasted.
01938 5530070

 

 

 

 

  Bishops Castle Jazz
at
The Three Tuns Pub
Bishops Castle

TBA


New Web Page for John Williams

http://www.johnwilliamsjazzmusic.com/
 

 

 

 

 

 What a great evening Tom gave the jazz fans of Bishops Castle.
His quintet of very fine musicians gave a great performance throughout the evening which delighted the audience.
I just must mention Lea Jones guitar who's playing is far in advance of his years (20) I am told. I am sure Tom is delighted to have him aboard.
Many thanks to John Williams and B.C Jazz
for this gig of which in Shropshire we see far to few.
Tom Hill double bass.Paul Sawtell piano. Neal Bullock drums. Andy Shillingford sax. Lea Jones guitar.

Click on Picture to enlarge

 

 

 

 

Shrewsbury Music Hall
 

 This venue has for some time promoted excellent entertainment, and I am pleased to report that Jazz and Big Band music is quite well catered for.
Shrewsbury Council,who are the owners, are fortunate that they have a manager who is more than aware of the tastes of the local folks, and the fact that she includes jazz in many forms really is a great credit. Her name is Lezley Picton and long may she remain the manager.

The Council also give support to The Shrewsbury Jazz Network, which promotes Jazz in the main stream and contempory format and, as you will see from my photo's,we have had some great evenings of Jazz. Stuart Spiers has worked very hard to obtain this situation and, along with his supporters, has given us the opportunity of seeing and hearing some very fine musicians.

 Shrewsbury Music Hall


TBA

 

Box Office Tel 01743 281281


The Hive

( formely the Belmont Arts Centre)
5 Belmont , Shrewsbury SY1 1TE

Saturday 12 th

Casey Green
Quiver

QUIVER in Summer
8.00pm

presented by Shrewsbury Jazz Network
bar opens at 7.00pm
£8.00 under 16s free

Casey Greene - sax/flute
special guest - Cory Mwamba - vibraphone
Edgar Macias - Piano
Simon King - Bass
Eddie McGuire - Congas
Carl Hemmingsley - Drum
s

Tickets £8-00

Start 8pm

Belmont Arts Centre,
Shrewsbury
01743 234970

 

 

 

 The New Shrewsbury Jazz Network Web Site

www.shrewsburyjazznetwork.co.uk

Lots of good local info here.
 


The Mytton & Mermaid Hotel
Atcham

The Mytton & Mermaid

Hotel


Accommodation, Dinning, Bars
Tel 01743 761220
E Mail. reception@myttonandmermaid.co.uk

web www.myttonandmermaid.co.uk

SUNDAY NIGHT JAZZ SPECIAL
Live Jazz and overnight accommodation with Full English Breakfast at £44-95 per person. (Dinner inclusive)
This offer is based on two sharing a double or twin room and a table being booked for dinner. To qualify for this offer bookings should be made at least two days in advance and Sunday Jazz special should be quoted.
( Not available over Bank Holiday week-ends or through December )
If you would like to be put on our mailing list please see a member of staff.

 
Great Style

The hotel is situated by the River Severn.
It offers all facilities of a quality hotel and on every Sunday Evening has a local Jazz group playing in the Restaurant

""SUNDAY NIGHT JAZZ"
AT THE
MYTTON AND MERMAID

Menu available until 10.00pm
Music from 7-30pm onwards


Sunday13 July

The Jazz Alphabet. Jenny Miller & Eddie Matthews play a wide selection of jazz numbers all beginning with the letter “J”. (That’s where they'd got to before their sons Will and Ben arrived on the scene).

Sunday 20 July

A delightful mix of well known classics from Maria Vincent on vocals and Stuart Goodhew on keyboard.

Sunday 27 July

The Jazz Alphabet. Jenny on piano and vocals, with Eddie on bass and brass take their cue from the letter “K”.

Sunday 3 August

A welcome return visit from vocalist Irene Martin and pianist Malcolm Hogarth.

Sunday 10 August

It’s the letter “L” in the Jazz Alphabet for Jenny Miller and Eddie Matthews tonight.

 

 Welcome to Wales.

The Hand Hotel, Llangollen.

Jazz with Sunday lunch.

The Deeside Dixies.

Next Gig

SUNDAY July 6th

Guest Dave Thomas reeds

12-30 to 3pm

The music is free just buy the beer, or better still enjoy a Carvery Lunch

see their website www.deesidedixies.com

 

 



It was my pleasure to visit The Hand Hotel on Sunday 5th December to hear, for the first time, The Deeside Dixies.
The Band has not been formed very long but with John Hallam reeds, and Billy Edwards trumpet I was assured of some good Jazz.
The rooom is ideal for this session with a bar (if you can get served) and a very good carvery in the room adjacent. I did not partake but noted some folks who were, I would say £6-00 was wonderful value, and the jazz was free.
There was a good atmosphere and a nice programme of music well played as I expected. The band wore some rather nice waistcoats, and how much nicer it is to see a band well presented for their audience. Cliff Crockett from the Severnside was their guest drummer.I was not able to stay until the end but it was well worth a visit.
The Deeside Dixies.
click on pictures to enlarge

 

 

 

 



 

 

The Unicorn

 Jazz in Ludlow
at
The Unicorn Pub and the Feathers Hotel
presented by
James Hunt.

The Unicorn Pub.
is now open for business after the flooding, and what a great job Graham and team have done to the place, it looks amazing !

Fridays 8.30pm Start.
  

TBA

   
*******************************
The Feathers Hotel

Sunday Lunch Time 12-30pm

TBA

01584875261

 

The Feathers

 

 

 

 

click on picture
Brian Jones Big Band

The Gig List for 2007
Cheshire View, Cristleton, Chester
First Tuesday - February, April, June, August,
October and December

Next Gig. Tuesday 5th August

Vagrants Club, Nantwich

Second Tuesday - February to December inclusive.

Next Gig. Tuesday 8th July


St. Georges Club, Telford

Third Tuesday - February to December inclusive.

Next Gig. Tuesday 15th July




Casey Green's Gigs


Gigs

6th July 8.00pm QUIVER -
White Swan, Stratford-Upon-Avon

12th July 8.00pm
QUIVER - The Hive, Shrewsbury

Tickets £8.00

 

Casey Green
A great Jazzman from Aus





 

 

 

 

 

 Ludlow Assembley Rooms

Saturday 19 July, 7.30pm

The Temperance Seven

Jazz band

‘Humour and rhythm combine to make The Temperance Seven a unique experience in upbeat nostalgia’ The Stage

This band has enjoyed five decades of fun-filled jazzing, starting with their glory days in the 60s. The current orchestra faithfully recreates the old hits, and has also taken the repertoire into a new dimension, performing arrangements and compositions that would have made the original line-up’s hair stand on end! The orchestra love what they are doing and convey this sense of enjoyment to their audiences all over the world - music like theirs is timeless and universal, and can be enjoyed by anyone, anywhere.

Auditorium
£15 (£14 concessions)
A limited number of £5 tickets available for students/under 18s

Box Office 01584 878141

www.ludlowassemblyrooms.co.uk


 

 

 


 

 

 

Jazz in Craven Arms

   Toots Sweet   

A Happy Band of Amatures
at
Methodist Hall
On Corvedale Road,
Craven Arms.
That’s beside the bank almost opposite the chip shop

We are an amateur group of enthusiastic musicians just starting up a 'little big band' as a non profit making club, the name Toot Sweet is a long term aspiration

On Wednesdays evenings at 7:30pm

Admission £2-00

Our primary aim is to enjoy playing, whatever...

Jazz Standards
Favourite Ballads & Swing numbers
Well known Big Band arrangements
Modern hits from the Charts, Films or TV arranged for a large ensemble.

Jazz Musicians. Please contact if you have an interest

Contact Dave Griffin, 01588 672640
Web
http://www.toot-sweet.org.uk/

 

 

 The Badgers
New Lads on The Block.
A talented Duo playing accoustic guitars.

Folk, Western, Swing & Jazz.

www.the-badgers.co. uk

 
 
Guest. Tommy Mills

 
The quartet at The Music Hall
click on this picture.
 
Guest. Aaron Catlow

 Stuart Spiers who presented this gig for the Jazz Network , said, Geoff, you will enjoy these guys, and I am pleased to say he was right. The programme was a mix of Western, Folk, Jazz & Swing and although I prefer the latter two, I was very impressed with their programme, presentation and fine professional playing.What great guests Tommy and Aaron were.The Duo are very active in the area and invite many guests to join them.

 

I wish them every success.
Geoff Inwood

July
Friday 11th - The Coel Castle, Birmingham

Saturday 12th - The Old Copper's Malthouse, Church Stretton

 

Most gigs start 9pm

The Lads are very busy, do not delay booking them.

  The Ludlow Jazz Festival
The Bull Hotel
Ludlow

June 29th to July 1st

I have been informed by Tim Lord that the Festival was a great success.

We attended the Carole Westwood gig with Archie Cotterell Trio and Charlie Wright. It was a great evening and well attended.
Carole was a delight !

There has been a hint that Tim may reconsider one more year

 

 

 

Click pics to enlarge

 
John Williams. baritone
Geoff Grimes. hammond organ
Gareth. Jones tmb
Casey Green. reeds

click on picture to enlarge

 The John William's Band
Way Out West

It has been my pleasure to hear this band on a number of occasions and I was delighted that they also were choosen to perform in the Shrewsbury Square on Sunday 29th July.
Their leader, such a fine musician, is so enthusiastic gave, as always, a great perfomance playing baritone.

Many will know, of course, that jazzman from Aus', Casey Green, who is quite often in the Birmingham area with his band Quiver.

The band included many Jazz standards but also play a piece written by Eddie Harvey called Bishops Castle Conclamation, which represents that town on the borders of Wales.

The Sun Shone The Bands played and it was a very happy time.

 
Charlie Mason. guitar
Ben Thomas. trumpet
Clive Rainbow. bass guitar
Greg Evans. drums

click on picture to enlarge

 

 
Jamie. trumpet
Joe Northwood alto.
Mike Waters guitar
Dan Morgan piano
Lydia Glanville drums

 

 

 

 

 

Jazz Youth
and
The Jamie Brownfield Quintet

The Shrewsbury Summer Music Festival

 

It is most unusual for me to place a review on my opening page, but in this case I make no excuses.
On Sunday 29th July I visited the above festival in the Square at Shrewsbury. The main reason being that I had only listened to Jamie as a solo guest at several trad gigs, but I knew his style was really mainstream.
What a delightful surprise I had with his Quintet . He is fifteen and the eldest in the group is the drummer who is 19.
They have a real feel for the music with a rich quality sound and some very good solo work throughout: Miles Davies, Herbie Hancock, Horace Silver etc and their guitar player, Mike Waters, had written a couple of special numbers which were a credit to him and the band when played.
This was such a treat to see and hear young folks with such talent. I am hoping that I can interest a couple of parties, who will remain nameless, to give them an opportunity of a a couple of gigs. We just cannot allow such talent to disappear.

I would like to compliment The Arts Council and Shrewsbury Council for giving these young talented people the opportunity to play Jazz in such a fine setting on a sunny afternoon. At the same time give much credit to the sound engineer who produced such a well balanced and clear sound.


Man this Jazz is Cool !

 

Web Address
www.jbquintet.co.uk

 


 

 

 

 


Jeff,Len, Matt, Stan,& Harry

 

 


Jeff Matthews

 

click on pictures to enlarge

 Southern Sounds Jazzmen Sunday 4th March
at
The Monty Club Newtown

My friends and I had promised to go to this gig if for no other reason than to support Jeff Matthews, the leader of this band.We left Shrewsbury in pouring rain which continued even on our return.
We could have said the journey was not necessary, but it proved so worthwhile to hear a band that played with great feeling, being led by the fine trumpet playing of Stan Williams with the remaining front line of Jeff clarinet and Harry Price trombone. This trio produced such a fine quality sound it really was a treat.The supporting rhythm section of Matt Sanders banjo and Chris Jones double bass supported so very well throughout, assisted by Len Davies drums and John James piano.
But this was not all as Jeff had a very nice surprise for us with his guests-Mike Unthank on baritone sax gave a fine performance.Jeff invited another banjo player to the stand, so we had a banjo duo playing adding the much needed drive for the band.
Later than I would have liked the very young Jamie Brownfield trumpet was invited to the stand. I have heard this young man before and his playing just gets better. Stan was giving much encouragement to him and when I see this I must give credit, for I feel this young man will do so well as he matures, However that was not all, Jeff then invited a young lady singer,Marilyn, to join them from the audience and although there was only time for two numbers, I shall look forward to hearing more of her next time.
This really was a great lunch time session and, without doubt, we will return on the 1st April.
How great it is to see jazz in such good form in a place not really known to be a jazz town.
I must also compliment the Landlady for her quality of beer, and in particular the Guiness, plus a very good and varied lunch buffet. The prices here are club prices. You will not believe how little a round costs.
Well done Jeff and the band. I will do all I can to support you.
Geoff Inwood

Stan Williams

 


Mike Jeff

 


Jeff,Jamie,Stan,& Matt.

 

 
Shrewsbury Jazz Network
Pete Harris Quartet

Saturday Feb 10th.
Belmont Arts Centre
Belmont St
Shrewsbury

click to enlarge

 

 

 

Pete Harris guitar. Simon King bass. Roy Adams drums. Dan Nicholls keyboard.

This was the first presentation of the network this year and I am sorry to report it was very poorly attended. Network members where were you ?

Pete was unknown to me, so I was unsure of the kind of music to expect, but with Simon there, I was sure it would be worthwhile. From the start it was jazz from well known standards, a delight to listen to being well presented and played. The support from the trio was all Pete could ask, together with the fine drumming from Roy, the excellent bass work of Simon, and the natural solos from Dan ensured a good evening.
The Arts Centre is a new location for the Network and I consider is ideal. There is a bar and it is located in the centre of Shrewsbury. Parking at night is OK.

The next gig is on April 21st with Dick Pearce. Details to follow. Please Support

 

 



 

 

 The Shrewsbury Big Band

A celebration of Ten years with their leader Ken King.

Wednesday 6th December
At The Four Crosses Pub
Bicton

Shrewsbury.


Ken

click on pictures to enlarge

This celebration was worthy of Ken and the band was in fine form under the direction of Ken's son Simon.

This is a very rich and strong sounding band playing numbers of Pat Metheny The Duke, Quincy Jones,Thad Jones and Simon King etc

Great credit to Ken for getting such good musicians together both amateur and professional

I regret to say that the audience attendance could have been better and I am at a total loss to understand why the Shrewsbury, so called, jazz fans are missing at these events.

Geoff Inwood

This was the launch of their new CD also

 

 

 


 
Way Out West!!
Cool Jazz with a Fiery Soul

A cool 'west coast' horn section combines with the fiery, soulful Hammond Organ and a groovin' rhythm section to produce a scintillating new jazz sound. Way Out West has developed it's own, highly original, jazz approach. As the eight musicians in Way Out West come from both sides of Offa's Dyke it is appropriate that group's new commission should celebrate the 'frontier' town that is the band's base. BISHOP'S CASTLE CONCLAMATION composed by Eddie Harvey has been commissioned by Bishopscastlejazz with funds provided by Arts Council West Midlands, South Shropshire District Council & Bishop's Castle Community Chest.

 

PERSONEL

Ben Thomas Trumpet / Flugelhorn [Hereford]
            Gareth Jones Trombone [Newtown, Powys]
Casey Greene Alto Saxophone [Shrewsbury]
John Williams Baritone Saxophone / M.D. [Ratlinghope]
      Geoff Grimes Hammond Organ [Bishops Castle]
        Charlie Mason Guitar / M.C. [Meifod, Powys]
Clive Rainbow Bass Guitar [Shrewsbury]
           Greg Evans Drums [Newport, Gwent]

It was my pleasure to attend this gig and what a great evening it turned out to be.
The first set was played with well known standards but gained added interest by the fact that John Williams had written many of the arrangements. They played a delightful piece which he had composed when his daughter was born in 1984.
The second set was the important Bishops Castle Conclamation written and directed by Eddie Harvey. What a fine piece this turned out to be and the band rose to the occasion, which I am sure Eddie must have been very happy with. Casey Green alto and Gareth Jones, tmb gave very good accounts of themselves as they were required to play strong solos in some of the pieces.

The band finished the evening in an, upbeat mood and, once again, Bishops Castle Jazz can take a bow for giving us a great evening. Congratulations to The Three Tuns for hosting this concert.
The gig I am pleased to say was well attended. Please do not miss their next one

 

The front line with Eddie Harvey.

click to enlarge


 click on picture

 

Jamie Brownfield trumpet and flugel horn.

Jamie's web site.

www.jbquintet.co.uk

 Bishops Castle Jazz.
Jazz is back at the Three Tuns and the refurbishment next to the Hall is complete and ideal for a lunch.
Sunday, 2nd April, the club presented two sesssions of jazz, one with The Southern Sounds Jazzmen (Trad Style), and one in the Mainstream Jazz led by John Williams.
It was my pleasure to attend the latter. The band was John Williams baritone, .Geoff Grimes organ, Charlie Mason Guitar, Clive Rainbow bass guitar, Ben Thomas trumpet and Greg Evans drums.
Once again a good programme was played, with a couple of specials written by John.
Then came two surprises - the first being a young man of 14 years, invited to join the the band, his name Jamie Brownfield who plays trumpet and flugel horn. Song for my Father was his first choice played with feeling and thought. I am pleased to say he was invited back on stage during the sets and demonstrated his ability to play the flugel horn. Much credit to the band to give such encouragement to this budding young man. During the second set a further invite was made to a guest to step on the stage. His name, Stan Williams, I was informed that he had been playing trumpet with the Southern Sounds in the earlier session. He said he would play Water Melon Man. ( I thought that would be great) little did I know how this man blew. It was fantastic and took us out of our seats. What a great musician he is, I cannot wait to hear him again. Please B/C Jazz bring him back.
This was a very good start to the new season and deserves your support, so make a note in your diary please.

Geoff Inwood

 
The New Bar Next to The Hall

click on picture




 

 
Kingsland Schools Big Band.


The Shrewsbury Big Band

 Shrewsbury Jazz Network
At The Alkington Hall
Shrewsbury

5. 10. 06

The presentation by Shrewsbury Jazz Network at Kingsland Schools of three big bands was a new experience for this area.
The programme started with the Shrewsbury School's Big band directed by John Moore the musical director of the Schools .
I did not list the programme but was very impressed that so many young people were taking an interest and playing jazz so well. I do have to mention their drummer who gave a real fine account of himself and produced such a great backing for the band, plus an impressive solo.
They were followed by the Shropshire Youth Big band under the direction of Ken King, who gave good account of themselves throughout the whole programme.
Finally The Shrewsbury Big band took the stand under the direction of Simon King, with Ken now leading the trumpet section. We were very impressed with the programme and delighted to hear this band which has been absent far too long.
The audience were most appreciative of all the bands and the organisation which had to take place at each changeover.
I was pleased that John Moore was the MC for the evening and kept contact with the audience.
Well done Shrewsbury Jazz Network.and please can we have some more
Geoff Inwood


John Moore

 


The Shrewsbury Youth Big Band


 

 

 The Ludlow Jazz Festival
The Bull Hotel
Ludlow


Alan Barnes & Roy Williams with
The Craig Milverton Trio.
Dave Green double bass, Bobby Worth drums.

I was delighted to see that Tim Lord had invited Alan Barnes to the Festival along with Roy Williams and the Craig Milverton Trio. It was my pleasure to attend the lunch time gig and, although Alan was delayed by road problems, on arrival little time was wasted before the first number. As expected it was soon evident what a great quintet this is with Dave Green on bass and Bobby Worth drums. A programme was presented which I am sure was ideal for all those present resulting in music we could all understand and enjoy.
Compliments to Tim Lord for bringing them all together.
I was unable to attend the other gigs but I am sure this festival as ever was a great success.
We all look forward to Tim's next festival in Bridgnorth.

Click on pictures to enlarge

 


 

 

 

 

 

 The Tim Amann Quartet
At
The Music Centre
Kingsland
Shrewsbury

Tim Amann piano. Sam Rogers alto
Dick Pearce trumpet. Adam Gilcrist bass guitar.
Oleg Kireyev tenor. Carl Hemmingsley drums

I was very pleased to see the Network had obtained permission to use this purpose built music centre, which I consider a good venue for Jazz, well located with easy access.
I arrived quite early, as I had hoped that we may well, see a full house but I am sorry to say once again the audience consisted of around 40 folks.
Tim had prepared and played a thoughtful programme keeping with the more well known jazz standards such as All Blue and Body and Soul etc. Oleg came to the stand quite early and soon proved what a fine tenor player he is. Dick Pearce, trumpet, came as a nice surprise and was a welcome addition to the quartet and gave a very good solo in the second set. Sam Rogers was indeed a very active player on alto and the fact he had no need of the mic made his work, and sound, very attractive.
I am sorry to say Carl, drums, was far too loud for me, and much of the time I could hear very little of Tim and, in some instances, the other members of the quartet as well.
This was a good first at the centre and I understand there will be more.
Please note Network, a little more organisation is required, particularly if we are to get more folks to attend.

 

 

 

 

 


 

 Shrewsbury Jazz Network and Shrewsbury Music Hall
The Simon King Octet.
Composer. Arranger, Guitarist
Big Band competition winner 2003----05

Wednesday 18th January 2006

Simon King guitar. Stuart Goodhew keyboard . Mike Clowes drums.
Gary Jackson bass guitar. Ken King (dad) trumpet.Geraint Davies trombone.
Casey Green alto. Ed Rees tenor. Special guest Ed's son, reeds !!

It was nearly a full house with an appreciative audience, there to enjoy some very good Jazz... Simon had given much thought to this evenings presentation and with seven very good musicians in the line up we were assured of a good evening. This was modern jazz at it's best and Simon had written or arranged most of the music. What a talented man he is ! Throughout the evening we had the pleasure of his trio, and also his quartet and I thought this gave a rather nice balance. For the second set Simon played keyboard for the first number and,, through out the evening, there were some fine solos from all the band. I would like to mention the bass guitar of Gary Jackson who drove the rhythm section along at a great pace and produced some fine solo work.
It was great to see so many young and talented musicians and this, surely, has to be the way we see jazz develop now.
I hope Shrewsbury jazz network will book them again later in the year as they deserve a return booking. If they are at a venue near you do book your ticket straightaway

Simon also has a Web site and you can visit by clicking here


www.simonkingmusic.co.uk

 
Simon

 

 
Simon. Mike.Garry.

 
Ken.Geraint.Casey.Ed.

 
Geriant.Casey.Ed

 
Guest. Son of Ed

 

 

 

 The Shrewsbury Jazz network
presented
Carole Westwood for her final award gig at The Shrewsbury Music Hall and I was delighted she was allowed to bring her own trio with whom she regularly sings .
A good stage set up and a warm room made for a pleasant atmosphere.
A fine selection of her repertoire was performed which shows what a worthy winner she is.
Archie Cotterell, her pianist, was also featured in several solo items and, as ever, showed what a fine Jazzman he is. Derek Brown bass and Barry Watts drums gave their full support throughout .It was a most enjoyable evening
Carole has also recently won The Birmingham Music awards with her trio for best Jazz Blues Band.
I wish them all every success
Finally I do have to ask why, after all the efforts of the Network, we cannot get a better attendance in a town the size of Shrewsbury
Please tell your friends and keep jazz alive

 

Shrewsbury Jazz Network
presents
A Memorial Concert to Clive Burrows
featuring
The Jazz Company
The Shrewsbury Big Band
with
Compere Chris Eldon Lee
To Celebrate the life and music of the late Clive Burrows

I have looked forward to this concert for the past two months as I had previous attendance at The Jazz Company gigs at the Lion Tap from their very first Sunday night and I only ever missed one evening.
It was good to hear the unique sound again which Clive created for this group together with musicians who were very much part of it... John Williams, baritone sax. Ken King, flugel horn/trumpet. Simon King, drums. James Taylor, piano John Dover, bass guitar. Roy Johnson tenor sax and Mike Penny who took Clive's part, alto sax.

The music played brought back some good memories of Clive, and the music he wrote and played for our Sunday evenings much of which is on their record.
Chris Eldon Lee, the compere, played an important part in the presentation reading out some most interesting excerpts from Clive'book which he tried to complete before his death. Like so many musicians his early life was not easy, and it was surprising how he had rubbed shoulders with so many people who are famous today, Rod Stewart to name but one plus the many fine Jazzmen that he played with.

The second part of this concert was presented by The Shrewsbury Big Band and continued with many of Clive's pieces written and arranged for big bands.
The band was in great form and, in my view, has become very good indeed, but I just wish the leader would stay out front so that he has complete control. I will look forward to hearing them again. Chris continued to detail Clive's life whilst also presenting the band.
The final number was by Buddy Rich, Dancing Men, and gave Andy Richards, drums, a great opportunity for a very fine solo. The band rose to the occasion and really showed how good they are.
Congratulations to Carl Sanders for presenting this band in such fine form.
The Jazz network must be congratulated for promoting this concert and I am sure Clive's widow and family were delighted. I have no doubt a nice sum of money will go to The Blood Trust Fund.
I understand the Music hall was free for this evening thank you to the Manager and the Council

The Jazz Company

 

 
Ken King

 

 

 

 

The Shrewsbury Big Band

 

 
Chris Eldon Lee

 

 

 
Stewart Goodhew

 

 


 A weekend festival was held by Bishops Castle Jazz on Oct 9th -11th Oct and it was my pleasure to visit for two of their gigs.
This was an ambitious presentation for a group so recently formed and it was obvious that much hard work by the committee had been put in to make the event a success
The Landlord of The Three Tuns must be congratulated for improvements to the hall and also the bar, where, the gigs were held, and it is a pleasure to visit such a place.
The two gigs I attended were The Casey Green trio with Casey Green, Simon King Guitar and Edgar Marcias piano. Casey and Simon are well known to me but this was the first time I had heard Edgar. The trio gave a fine performance throughout and I look forward to hearing them again.

The second group, who I have followed since their early days, was the Jazz Company. Just a few weeks ago they performed at the Music Hall after a long break and the sad loss of their leader Clive Burrrows. Most of the music played was from the pen of Clive and it was good to hear the work of this fine musician. One surprise was that his son, Julian, was invited to the stand for a couple of numbers playing the bass guitar, which proved that he, also, is a very capable musician.On drums at this session was Simon King, the original drummer with the group, and what a talent this man has with a fine solo at the end of the set.
Throughout the two sets we were treated to fine solos from all of the guys and, once again, brought good memories from their days in Shrewsbury.

An added bonus to the jazz played throughout was that the committee had invested in a sound engineeer and what a difference that made! for us all.
I must congratulate all who put so much hard work in to make this a success and I trust this was the case. Do make a note to visit at their regular gigs which will be covered on this page.

Here are a few photos which you can click on to enlarge. Sorry to James Taylor. piano. for lack of a photo.


 

Casey. Edgar. Simon

 
John. Roy.Mike. Ken. Julian
James Taylor not in picture

 

 
Simon on drums

 
A view of the fine hall

 
John Williams. Roy. Mike.Ken.
John Dover.


 
Dave Sherwood


Pete Fryer

 Shrewsbury Jazz Club
at
The Four Crosses Hotel


Chris Etherington

The Sunday night gigs at The Four Crosses have been building a good audience for sometime, and this has been due to the leadership of Chris Etherington who has worked so hard to bring some fine guest musicians to the club, all ably supported by the resident band.This night was expected to have a poor attendance due to Bude, but this proved not to be the case. Dave Sherwood led on cornet, Pete Fryer (from Merseysippi) trombone, Ken Binns piano and Stuart bass guitar, along with the residents Chris, Bill and Cliff who gave us a fine evenings trad jazz.

Do come and join us and it is only £3-00



click on pictures to enlarge

 

 


Ken Binns


Bill Basey

 

Carole at The Mytton
Following Carole's success as Shrewsbury Jazz Singer of the Year, her visit to The Mytton & Mermaid
was part of the prize package, so I looked forward to attending this evening. I was not to be disappointed and, in the company of
two true professionals Eddie & Jenny Matthews, she gave a delightful performance. Careful thought had been given to the arrangements
and the result was well worth while.
Carole is making regular appearances throughout the Midlands. Carole also has two regular spots at The Trumpet Bilston on one Sunday night a month and at the Fox at Shipley nr Bridgnorth.one Thursday night a month.
I wish her much success for the future.
My Wolverhampton web page has one of her numbers playing from their most recent record
Geoff Inwood
Click on pictures to enlarge

 
Carole

 

Eddie

 
Jenny

 
A fine Trio

 
Jenny in full support

 
The Man and his Music


Atcham Bridge
Photo by Frank Meeson.

 

Simon guitar, Stuart Goodhew piano, Mike Green bass.
click to enlarge

 Good news      
Simon King has been awarded
The Musicians Union Outstanding Musician prize last week in Birmingham.
you can hear it on the BBC's 'Listen Again' service
http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio2/events/bigbandcomp/
Which includes The M.Y.J.O.award for the best Big Band

Congratulation Simon. .Very well done.


 


 

 

 Casey Greene
at
Owens' Bar Butcher Row Shrewsbury.

Welcome to a new man in town all the way from Australia.

On the last day but one of the year I thought I would drop into Owens' for a spot of Jazz. Little did I realize what a nice surprise I would have, as I had not had the pleasure of hearing Casey before. The Quintet was made up of some very talented musicians, who I did know,Simon King guitar, Stuart Goodhew keyboard, Mike Green double bass, Andy Richards drums and Casey on reeds. (baritone ,tenor, alto.soprano.clarinet, and flute)! The programme was varied with some standards, and a rather interesting composition by Stuart Goodhew.  From the very start it was quite obvious that Casey is a talented musician, but for me his baritone and flute playing was special, and solos from each man was of fine quality .A little surprise was a guest lady vocalist, Marie, who really got things swinging with a boogie number and the band rose to the occasion.
I must mention Andy's new drum set which is quite wonderful and a sight to behold, apart from the fact he knows how to play it.

Without doubt we will see a lot more of Casey around town and I look forward to seeing and hearing him again with his Quintet.

Credit must be given also to Owens' Bar for promoting jazz. Please support them and take a friend

Casey's web site       http://casey_greene.tripod.com


Casey Greene at Owens Bar. click on pictures to enlarge.
           

 

click to enlarge


John Williams baritone sax

 Bishops Castle Jazz.

Paid my first visit here the W/E 10th April and what a treat it was. To my surprise Casey Greene reeds was fronting the band due to John Williams being poorly.
Geoff Grimes hammond organ.Charlie Mason guitar.
John Dover bass guitar and Andy Stephens drums.
Charlie Mason leads the group and quite often there are more musicians playing than on this day.
This is a good venue with some good jazzmen. Please do pay a visit. Geoff Inwood.

Another visit 8th May
John Williams returns and all is well, we also had Andy Richards on drums this time. Then we had a nice surprise. A young man of 12years!! was introduced to join the group and playing trumpet, what a talented young man he is, and to stand in with all these old hands never gave him a problem.

Not only could he play the music but had a great feeling for it and without doubt he will become a fine musician in the next few years.


A young man with a horn

John Willams recorder

 


Charlie Mason

 
 

 

 

More Jazz at Bishops Castle
Friday 13th May
The Casey Greene Jazz Sextet
Casey Greene - Flute and saxes
John Williams - Baritone and tenor Saxes
Ken King - trumpet Stuart Goodhew - Piano
Mike Green - Bass Andy Richards - Drums

I was looking forward to this gig as I noted the musicians Casey had gathered around him and, knowing each one, I knew this could only result in a great evening of Jazz,and so it was to be.
Casey, John and Stuart presented some of their own work which was a treat to hear. Their compositions and arrangements were so well presented and played. Included in the programme were some well known standards and the audience enjoyed every note I am sure.
For me this is Jazz at it's best producing a quality of sound which is so often lacking in many groups

Casey has made quite an impresssion since his arrival here and I can only say I look forward to more gigs of this quality.
Bishops Castle is really on the jazz map and I urge you to go at the the earliest opportunity to support them.

click on picture to enlarge

Photos by Paul Heath (badgers web site)

 
 

 

 




Another visit to The Mytton & Mermaid Sunday 5th Oct with just Jenny and Eddie
providing the music. It really is a pleasure to hear their programme
presented in great style to a mixed audience.
It is a nice way to spend a Sunday evening.

 

 The Jenny Miller Duo
click on pictures to enlarge


 
 

 
Jenny, Eddie, Becky,& Stuart

 

 

 click on pictures
 

Roy Sainsbury and Zoltan Dekany. Two fine instrumentalists playing some nice dinner jazz at The Mytton & Mermaid.


 The British Kings of Swing
Digby Fairweather,trumpet Alan Barnes,reeds Roy Williams, trombone
  Tom Hill, bass Neal Bullock, drums Paul Sawtell, piano Roy Sainsbury, guitar
with surprise guest Lee Gibson, vocals.

Comment 27th Feb
Mike Powell, the promoter of Masonic jazz in Wolverhampton ,is responsible for bringing this group of fine jazzmen together and also to Shrewsbury Music Hall.
It has been my pleasure to see and hear these musicians on a number of occasions, so my expectations were high, and I was not to be disappointed.
Mike started the evening by introducing each man who then started to play a few bars, by which time the next man was on, until there was a complete assembly.This is a great way to start an evening and just got better from thereon.
The evening proceeded with Undecided, and Alan Barnes in great form on baritone. Digby took a solo spot with Loverman, and I have not heard him play better. This being followed soon after by Tea for Two with Roy Williams also playing a solo spot.
Throughout the evening this was to be the pattern. Lee then joined them towards the end of the first set, and all I can say is that throughout she was superb, and one item which I did enjoy in particular was her Love for Sale.
This rhythm section for me is just the best around, and, for the first time ever, I was able to listen to Paul Sawtell on grand piano instead of the usual keyboard. "What a treat"
he really is a fine pianist! Tom, Neal and Roy play with him on a regular basis and the result is excellent. Roy also had a solo spot with Skylark most enjoyable! The atmosphere on the stage, I felt, was very relaxed and I am sure the audience could sense this. As we neared the end of a great evening of Jazz, they played Sweet Georgia Brown and this, as one might expect, had the whole place swinging.
Mike has worked so hard to keep jazz alive throughout the West Midlands and deserves all the support we can give. Never come alone, please always bring a friend or two.
Geoff Inwood


Please click on pictures to enlarge

 
Barnes Beautiful Baritone

 
The Beautiful Lee Gibson
with Tom and Roy

 
Digby

 
Neal, Roy and Alan

 
Roy Digby and Tom

 
Paul Sawtell

           

 
Lee and Tom

 
Neal and Roy
 

 

The Phil Mason New Orleans All Stars at The Lord Hill Hotel
Comment 14th November
Phil Mason, for many years, has been responsible for keeping jazz alive throughout the British Isles, not for him the big stage and the glare of spot lights. He has taken trad jazz to clubs, pubs, village halls, large and small and, to this day, has never forgotton the fans who have supported him throughout the years by returning to these venues time and again. In the early days the attendance at some gigs was rather small to say the least and, having been there at times, I know that Phil and the band never failed to deliver and played as if there were 200 in the room. Now I am sure wherever he goes a good attendance is assured.
Shrewsbury, this night, had a good attendance of some 140 persons, and the room was well filled. From the moment the band hit the stage it was obvious that it was going to be an evening of some note, and we were not to be disappointed. After three sets and the finale nobody moved ( what a compliment to the band) so they just gave us a couple more to send us on our way. What a pleasure indeed! The band, of course, played some well known standards such as Shimme Sha Wabble, with good solo work included, but the first feature of the evening and, dare I say, one of the best was Jim Macintosh, banjo, with a skill which was quite remarkable and, without doubt, places him as one of the finest exponents of the instrument. I do not know of a finer player. The applause was terrific and well deserved. Trefor, d/bass, then partnered Phil in a nice duet. As always Trefor plays with great style and feeling and produces music which is a delight. Fine solo and front line work by  Roger Myerscough, clarinet, was a delight in what we thought was the style of George Lewis and I always enjoy a fine baritone sax. My thoughts always then turn to the great Joe Temperley who I had the pleasure of seeing at Brecon a few years ago. Laurie Chescoe, drums, was a nice surprise and here I must pay tribute to Ron Mc Kay who over the years has made a substantial contribution to the success of this band. Ron we all wish you well and trust your health will improve and not spoil your well deserved retirement. The new lad, Mike Cooke, is most welcome and made a good contribution to the evening. Finally Christine Tyrrell. What really can I say? The moment she steps on the stage we are delighted with her presentation and she never fails to leave the fans just wanting more. Cake Walking Babies was wonderful, she is always great fun and has such a happy smile. Now the boss himself. I enjoyed his playing and his singing too! His solo feature of Summer Time was a delight and a number I will remember for a long time.
Our own Jackie Huxley promoted this evening which without doubt was a complete success. I know she worked so hard to achieve this, and I am sure she will not mind if I mention Jenny also who never fails in her support to her or the cause of Jazz
Thanks Jackie, Phil and the band for such a great evening. We shall look forward to your return.
                                                                 click on pictures to enlarge

 

 A Happy note

Phil Masons New Orleans All Stars
at
The Lord Hill Hotel
Friday 18th February 2005
I already have a report about Phil and the lads further down the page from last year, but this was a most successful evening with the band in fine form and an attendance of nearly 200. Jackie Huxley who organise this gig must be congratulated, along with Jenny who never fails to support her.
If Phil Mason is playing a gig near you then do go along.

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 Jazz Workshops
Are you a Budding Musician or a Beginner

Workshops are held by Stuart Spiers for all instruments at all levels
For more information Tel 01743 363016

 

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