Birmingham Jazz Festival

Festival Programme

2011-05-20T03:54:00.000-07:00

Here is the complete gig programme for the Birmingham International Jazz Festival.

Sun Sets On Successful Jazz Festival

2010-08-05T07:01:00.000-07:00

The 26^th Birmingham International Jazz & Blues Festival draw to a close on Sunday 25^th July with the last of the 218 scheduled performances – although two jam sessions did go on until well into the night.

The festival was a great success, both musically and in audience, with a record attendance figure and an increase in numbers off jazz tourists from UK and abroad.

The international artists numbered thirteen from the USA, Canada, Spain, Hungary, France, Czech Republic, Italy and Germany.

The blues programme was headlined by Chick Willis, the 76 year-old guitarist and singer from Macon, Georgia who delivered 10 high-powered performances to delighted and capacity audiences.

The 40-strong volunteer force were an International Brigade with festival workers from China, Italy, Poland, Brazil, Mexico and France.

Festival Director Jim Simpson said: “This is the best festival we have had in years. It’s also the first in seven years when we didn’t get rained on, it is very noticeable how much more numerous and good-humoured the crowds are when the sun is out. In the wake of the disappointing UK City of Culture announcement, this is just the event to replace the gloom with optimism and the knowledge that, regardless of any formal announcement, Birmingham is undoubtedly a significant and important home of culture.”

The 27^th Birmingham International Jazz & Blues Festival is set for July 1^st to 10^th 2011.

Star City - Guitar City

2010-07-29T06:28:00.000-07:00

The Star City district is proud to be a part of the Birmingham International Jazz & Blues Festival and presented three high-quality concerts on the opening day of the festival.

On Friday 16^th July Star City presenting “Guitar Day”, where Professional Music Technology displayed their range of professional valve amplifiers and their wide spectrum of classic and modern guitars in a series of talks and workshops.

The evening brought about a performance from one of Britain’s finest guitarists Martin Taylor, who wowed the audience with his high octane solos.

Other performances included Bob Kerr and his Whoopee Band on Saturday 17^th, which was a highly entertaining performance as he lead the musical hilarity with a variety of instruments.

The US bluesman Chick Willis topped off the weekend on Sunday 18^th, with his mixture of blues and contemporary R&B; a show stopper of a performance for sure.

Jazz, Blues and Heritage

2010-07-29T05:41:00.000-07:00

The Birmingham International Jazz & Blues Festival has always sought to find unusual venues for jazz and this year there was a special emphasis on heritage sites and tourist destinations, which play a big part in making Birmingham what it is.

The Barber's Institute of Fine Arts will aired a lunch-time concert on Friday 16^th July, where award-winning American Drake University Big Band shook the stands with their big band styling.

Birmingham's historic Botancial Gardens will played host to two concerts on Sunday 18th: Carol Sudhalter in the morning and Britain's Got Talent runner up Julian Smith with the Monday Sessions in the evening.

Warwick Castle enjoyed the royal treatment on Friday 23^rd July, when Chicago-style band Judy Eames and The Kaminsky Connection - who have an impressive repertoire of songs including jazz standards, blues, ballads and “boogie woogie” piano – performed well into the summer evening.

Visitors at Dudley Zoo enjoyed a swinging jazz session on Sunday 25th July, as the Midlands-based Millennium Eagle Jazz Band treated the audience and the animals alike to classic jazz compositions from the 1920s to the 1940s, as well as New Orleans blues, stomps and marches.

The Black Country Living Museum in Dudley was paid a visit from the high-octane jump and jive band King Pleasure and The Biscuit Boys on Saturday 24^th July. Saturday also saw Cadbury World getting plenty of the sweet stuff from the Martinique Jazz Band on, who supplied the crowds with a wide variety of jazz styles.

Welcome back to the land of jazz - with added blues

2010-07-29T04:01:00.000-07:00

Birmingham’s annual Jazz celebration came back with a bang this year; taking on a new Blues element as it entered its second quarter of a century.

In 10 jazz and blues packed days from July 16^th to 25^th, Birmingham and its legions of jazz visitors enjoyed more than 200 performances and events, in 60 venues across the city and beyond, and over 90% of events were absolutely free to the public.

After 25 years, the festival had taken on a significant new blues element this year with performances by internationally renowned blues artists from the USA, Canada, Italy and Germany, as well as a strong UK contingent. Boss of the Blues Chick Willis [Macon, Georgia] headlined, appearing in no less than 10 shows during the festival – as well as holding the sway in a Q&A session in Waterstones Bookstore.

Naturally the jazz fans were not neglected, and welcomed first-time UK appearances from The Village Lizards from Budapest, Drake University Big Band from the USA and Jazz band Velke Losiny from the Czech Republic, as well as many other returning acts.

The swing contingent was headed by King Pleasure & The Biscuit Boys, and included The Fabulous Lounge Swingers (pictured above at the Watersedge bandstand), The Dirty Robbers and The Jive Romeros.

Britain’s Got Talent runner up Julian Smithplayed a special open air concert in the Botanical Gardens, which made a nice footnote to his first Birmingham Jazz Festival performance some 10 years ago, when he played in shopping areas.

Other outdoor events were held at leading tourist destinations throughout the region including visiting Dudley Zoo & Castle, The Black Country Living Museum and Warwick Castle and many more.

More than ever the festival went out onto the streets this year, with performances throughout the City Centre; in bars, cafes, restaurants, stores, hotels, museums and art galleries, and most importantly on the streets of the city. The festival was also set on the move with performances on canals boats, buses and train stations.

Jazz and blues fans also enjoyed a series of talks and interviews called “Hear Me Talking To You”, which will be hosted in Waterstones Bookstore and PMT music store. This was complimented by an interactive photography project, two photographic exhibitions, a daily photo seminar and a vocal workshop – free and open to all – entitled “Everybody Has A Voice”. All of this, combined with a brand new vinyl album release, helped to bring Birmingham to life with the sound of jazz and blues music.

Sunday 12th July

2009-07-12T04:07:00.000-07:00

The smooth, mellow sounds of Petra Ernyei brought out the sun and welcomed the crowds to yesterday's Taste of Birmingham at Cannon Hill Park. You couldn't move in the Slug and Lettuce at lunchtime as Art Themen played to a wonderfully appreciative audience.

The Black Country Living Museum hosted a wonderful Jazz Party yesterday evening, featuring the talents of three very different bands. The Nomy Rosenberg Trio (pictured above at Waters Edge Bandstand on Friday) played two knockout sets of Dutch gypsy swing in the Workers' Institute. Dave Moorwood's Rascals of Rhythm brought along their straight-ahead jazz, and Brown's Brass Band provided the perfect musical accompaniment to a Charleston Dance workshop!

Highly recommended today is Petra Ernyei (pictured, left, at Taste of Birmingham). She brings her high-class delivery to Hotel du Vin at 1pm, with her final show at the Slug and Lettuce at 6pm. Also recommended are Katya Gorrie, playing the Round Room, Museum and Art Gallery at 2pm, and Tipitina at Living Room 4pm.

Finally if you haven't yet caught up with the sensational Nomy Rosenberg Trio, then don't miss them today. They play The Public, West Bromwich, at 1pm before closing the festival at the Garden House at 8pm. You'll find us there!

Saturday 11th July

2009-07-11T02:51:00.000-07:00

Two hugely accomplished sets from the Nomy Rosenberg Trio, at the Brindley Place Bandstand, yesterday evening. A large, enthusiastic crowd was treated to some of the finest Gypsy swing around, effortlessly played by three world class performers who seem to have this music in their blood. Passers by who stumbled across the show couldn't help hanging around to listen and many of them were clearly in awe of Nomy's technical prowess on the fretboard. The trio ran through many of the tracks from their debut Big Bear release, including 'Swing 48', 'My Bossa' and 'Claire de Lune'. And did I mention that like almost every event at this festival the show was completely free?

If you missed it, or can't wait to hear more, then the Trio are playing at the Mailbox at 12.30pm today and at the Garden House at 8pm on Sunday.

Other highlights today include the singer Petra Ernyei, who will be performing at Taste at 12pm (£10/£12) and at the Bohemia Restaurant at 7.30pm (free). And don't miss the wonderfully original saxophonist Art Themen who'll be playing for free at the Brindley Place Bandstand at 1pm and at the Garden House at 7.30pm.

Check out the website for full listings or pick up a free programme, available from all the usual outlets.

N.B. I bumped into the indefatigable Becky Brine at the City Inn hotel yesterday afternoon. She's performed to early morning commuters at Snow Hill Station, to the nighthawks at the Stageside Bar and to appreciative audiences in between, as well.....and she's still full of energy and clearly loving every minute of this fantastic festival!

Friday 10th July

2009-07-10T02:52:00.000-07:00

Now that's what I call a jam session! Eleven of the finest British jazz musicians playing in a beautiful garden setting.... An appreciative, jazz loving crowd and a balmy summer's evening.... Well it was a little cold, but what the heck, the music was sensational and the band and audience had a great time. Too many highlights to really do justice, but Val Wiseman was on fine form with 'All of Me' and standout songs from the Digby Fairweather-led band included 'Avalon', 'Robbin's Nest' and 'The Hucklebuck'.

Today is your last chance to catch the Grammy award nominated saxophonist Greg Abate. He'll be playing with the John Patrick Trio at Touchwood in Solihull, at 5pm, and at Birmingham's Wine Republic, at 8pm.

Also, make sure you check out the incredible Dutch swing guitarist Nomy Rosenberg, who's playing two shows today. A direct descendent of the legendary Django Reinhardt, Nomy has been overshadowed until recently by his older brother, Jimmy. As a member of his teenage band, Nomy performed at Carnegie Hall and shared stages with the likes of George Benson, Stevie Wonder and Eric Clapton. The Jazz Festival, however, sees the Nomy Rosenberg Trio performing in the UK for the very first time. They'll be playing Taste of Birmingham at 12pm today (£10/£12) and for free at the Water's Edge Bandstand, Brindley Place, at 5pm.

Thursday 9th July

2009-07-09T03:13:00.000-07:00

The Kings Bruton Big Band went down a treat yesterday at the Waters Edge Bandstand. Digby Fairweather was scintillating at Hotel du Vin last night, even singing! Becky Brine pulled in the diners at Lychee Garden, Bruce Adams was great at the Brasshouse, and dancing broke out at the first song of the King Pleasure & The Biscuit Boys show at the Jam House.

Highlights today are the Digby Fairweather talk on '25 Years of the Jazz Festival', illustrated with exerpts of recorded music. This takes place on the ground floor of Borders book store in the Bullring this lunchtime at 12.30pm.

Not to be missed tonight is the Festival highlight, the All Star Jam Session, featuring eleven of the finest British jazz musicians. Taking place from 7.00-9.30pm (doors 6.30pm), tickets are only £10 and available on 0121 454 7020/1860. The weather forecast is good so feel free to bring picnic rugs/chairs. See an earlier post for more information on who's playing.

Festival footage of Hot Djazz, Greg Abate, Simon Spillett and Tipitina is now available for viewing on http://www.birminghamjazzfestivaltv.com/

Please note that all Play Jazz UK radio broadcasts will be taking place at City Inn due to technical difficulties connecting to their home station.

We'd love to have your online gig reviews from shows you've particularly enjoyed. Please follow the links on the web site http://www.birminghamjazzfestival.com/

Wednesday 8th July

2009-07-08T06:48:00.000-07:00

Tonight is your last chance to see Digby Fairweather playing his solo set, backed up by the Craig Milverton trio, this time taking place at the tres chic Hotel du Vin at 7.30pm.

Other highlights today include the last session at the tremendously popular Lord Clifden. They conclude their involvement this year by showcasing the mighty sound of trumpeter Bruce Adams, playing tonight with the John Patrick Trio, at 8pm. If you haven't yet checked out this venue, and sampled their specially-brewed Festival Ale "Digby's Dilemma", then tonight is your last chance.

Val Wiseman, of Lady Sings The Blues fame, warms up for tomorrow's All Star Jam Session at the Botanical Gardens by taking her quartet to the Living Room at 8pm. She was recognised as one of the country's top singers with her first British Jazz Award in 2008.

Also recommended today are the Kings Bruton Big Band, a collection of talented young musicians playing a broad repertoire encompassing most jazz styles. Find them at Waters Edge Bandstand at 6pm. Please note that both their performances tomorrow (Thursday) will take place at City Inn.

Tomorrow Digby Fairweather will be giving an informal talk, illustrated with recordings, on '25 Years of the Jazz Festival' at Borders book store in the Bullring, before concluding his Jazz Festival involvement this year by fronting the All Star Jam Session.

Tickets for the All Star Jam Session, taking place from 7.00-9.30pm tomorrow evening at the Botanical Gardens (doors 6.30pm) are £10, and available on 0121 454 7020. Please feel free to bring picnic rugs/chairs. See an earlier post below for more details on the artists playing.

Jazz Festival Hotel Deals

2009-07-07T05:55:00.000-07:00

Several hotels are offering very special rates for Jazz Festival visitors. Please contact the hotel directly and ask for the Jazz Festival Rate.

City Inn - Bed and Breakfast £69 single, £79 double. Brunswick Square, Brindley Place, 0121 643 1003

Hotel du Vin - Bed and breakfast £99.25. Church Street, 0121 200 0600

Ibis Birmingham Centre - Room only £50, breakfast £5.50. 21 Ladywell Walk, 0121 622 6010

Blueberry Hotel - Room only from £39. Star City, Heartlands Parkway 0121 327 1183

All-Star Jam Session

2009-07-07T05:51:00.000-07:00

The Birmingham International Jazz Festival is set to celebrate its first quarter of a century in the same way it started, with an All Star Jam Session.

Back in 1984 Birmingham-based independent record company Big Bear Records organised a jam session, in Cannon Hill Park, featuring the dozen top UK jazz musicians of the day. It was a sell-out, the recorded album won "Jazz Album of the Year" and before the sun went down, Big Bear and the City Council had agreed to launch the Jazz Festival the subsequent year.

So it is only to be expected that the main feature event of the 25th Birmingham International Jazz Festival will see another amazing array of the top British jazz talent, eleven of them, onstage together at The Botanical Gardens on Thursday 9th July at 7pm.

It has been many a year since such Jazz Galacticos, poll winners to a man, have been on one stage together. Digby Fairweather, Festival Patron and the only one of the Team of 1984 to play in this year's version, will lead affairs on trumpet, alongside Enrico Tomasso, also on trumpet, Robert Fowler and Art Themen, tenor saxophones, Mark Nightingale and Ian Batemen, trombones, Jim Hart, vibes, David Newton, piano, Dave Green, double bass, Ralph Salmins, drums and Val Wiseman, vocals.

Between them they have clocked up appearances alongside the biggest names in the music biz. Tickets are priced at £10 and available from 0121 454 7020 or 0121 454 1860.

Tuesday 7th July

2009-07-07T02:37:00.000-07:00

Festival Patron Digby Fairweather played his first two shows of the festival yesterday. He opened in good form at the pleasantly full Brasshouse, accompanied by the Craig Milverton Trio. His evening performance was at the Ibis Hotel, this time accompanied by versatile Craig Milverton on piano and ever popular singer Becky Brine. Both shows, featuring well known songs done with style and humour, were very well received by the audience.

If you missed Digby he plays two shows both today and tomorrow. You can find him today at the Plough and Harrow 12.30pm followed by a Musician's Union presentation (with Dave O'Higgins, Chris Walker and the John Patrick Trio) at Wine Republic 7pm. He also gives a talk at Borders bookshop 12.30pm Thursday, before concluding with the All Star Jam Session at Botanical Gardens on Thursday at 7pm (tickets are only £10 and are available from 0121 454 7020/1860).

Greg Abate played a stormer last night at a busy Lord Clifden. If you haven't yet seen him, you can catch this Grammy award nominee either today or on Friday. He takes his extended bebop style to the Brasshouse at 12.30pm this lunchtime followed by an early evening performance at 5.30pm at Waters Edge Bandstand (which, in the event of rain, will be switched to the adjacent Slug & Lettuce. Please note, this is a time and venue change to the printed programme). Like Charlie Parker? You'll love Greg Abate.

If you fancy some quirky, witty, edgy jazz songs, be sure to check out excellent songwriter Suzahn Fiering, all the way from Nashville USA, playing today at the Ibis hotel 6pm.

Late Programme Change

2009-07-06T05:25:00.000-07:00

Due to technical problems, today's Play Jazz UK live radio broadcast will now take place at City Inn 3-6pm instead of the Lord Clifden.

A reminder that tomorrow (Tuesday) the second show by Greg Abate will now take place at Waters Edge Bandstand 5.30pm instead of Old Contemptibles 6pm as advertised.

Monday 6th July

2009-07-05T14:54:00.001-07:00

Hi Festival Goers

Sunday's sensations were The Night Trippers at the Brasshouse. They were raucous and they socked it to 'em, getting the crowd, both inside and out, on its feet dancing.

If you missed Pee Wee Ellis at Star City (pictured above) then you missed out. The delighted crowd was treated not only to the incredible Pee Wee, a saxophonist with an awesome musical pedigree - it also got to witness a fantastic backing trio, which included the hugely talented drummer Mark Mondesir. A class act indeed.

Also of note were Tipitina, who played two shows yesterday. At the Ha Ha Bar & Grill the band's lovely version of 'I Wish I Knew How It Feels To Be Free' together with the Tom Waits song 'I wish I was in New Orleans' were real crowd pleasers.

Festival Patron Digby Fairweather arrives in town today with performances at the Brasshouse (12.30pm) and the Ibis Hotel (6pm). Commuters are sure to have a smile put on their faces with performances by Becky Brine, The Shuffling Hungarians and The Jazz Ramblers, all presented by the Colmore Business District - see the programme for times and locations.

Richard Cartridge of Play Jazz UK, part of the Play Radio Network, makes the first of five daily live broadcasts between 3pm and 6pm. Appearing at a different Festival venue each day from Monday through to Friday, you can catch him today at the Lord Clifden.

There is a slight programme change tomorrow (Tuesday): Greg Abate's performance will now be at 5.30pm at the Waters Edge Bandstand, instead of 6pm at the Old Contemptibles. Also both Thursday performances by the Kings Bruton Big Band will take place at City Inn.

As always, we welcome your feedback. Post your comments and gig reviews here or on our web site http://www.birminghamjazzfestival.com

Sunday 5th July

2009-07-05T03:07:00.000-07:00

Hi Festival Goers

A gloriously sunny afternoon yesterday provided the perfect setting for classic Jazz Festival 'strolling around town'. The city centre was the scene of several great acts, all within walking distance of each other.

Last night the Alan Price Set were by all accounts "phenomenal", revelling in the unusual setting of Star City. Gypsy swing combo Hot Djazz of Cracow played a storming gig at Garden House, and once again the Lord Clifden was packed, this time to the driving bebop sounds of Simon Spillett (pictured above playing an afternoon session at Water's Edge Bandstand).

If you haven't yet sampled Becky Brine's jazz with a zany twist then I suggest you check her out and today is your last chance to catch Hot Djazz who play Hotel du Vin 1pm and Bar Risa at 7.30pm. No doubt a full house will be at the Lord Clifden for Tipitina.

Pee Wee Ellis was James Brown's MD in the 1960s before moving on to work with many of the great names of blues, soul and world music including a long association with Van Morrison. He will be playing Star City tonight at 7pm, admission and car parking are free.

A late addition to the Festival: on Wednesday the Kings Bruton Jazz Quintet will be playing on the steps of the Council House in Victoria Square 12.00 - 12.30pm. Don't forget that Indigo Blues Band at the British Oak 3pm today has been cancelled.

Have a good day.

Saturday 4th July

2009-07-04T02:19:00.000-07:00

Hi Festival Goers

The sun is out and the jazz is sizzling. Reports are coming in of yesterday's events and I can confirm that the Festival has kicked off in style.

Kenny Ball & His Jazzmen were enjoyed enormously by the audience at Star City, playing all the old favourites such as Midnight In Moscow as well as newer material. The Alan Barnes Quartet played to a packed-out Wine Republic and the crowd loved it. Hot Djazz of Cracow went down a storm to a capacity crowd at the Lord Clifden, where the night was so good they ran out of the Festival Ale "Digby's Dilemma"!

Yes, Kenny Ball, one of the most enduringly popular of British jazzmen, really did play at Star City for free. That's right there is NO ADMISSION CHARGE for events at Star City this weekend, even the parking is free. Tonight you can catch Rock'n'Roll Hall of Fame member Alan Price, formerly of The Animals, free at Star City at 7pm. I've already booked my table at La Tasca for legendary U.S. funkster Pee Wee Ellis, former bandleader for James Brown, who plays Star City tomorrow. I suggest you do the same!

If you missed Hot Djazz, featured on Central News yesterday, you're in luck. They play two shows today and another two tomorrow, all free of charge. Check the programme for details.

I have been assured the Lord Clifden will be restocked with Festival Ale for tonight's show with the stonking Simon Spillett, one of the most distinctive and dynamic tenor saxophonists around, playing tonight with the Craig Milverton Trio.

Unfortunately, due to reasons beyond our control, the Indigo Blues Band's 3pm performance at the British Oak tomorrow (Sunday 5th July) has been cancelled.

Just a quick reminder of the Festival highlight, the All Star Jam Session featuring eleven of the UK's best jazz musicians. This takes place next Thursday 9th July at the Botanical Gardens and tickets are a bargain at only £10, available from 0121 454 7020/1860

We'd love to hear from you. Please post your gig reviews/comments either here on the Blog or on the website http://www.birminghamjazzfestival.com

Jazz Festival Launches!

2009-07-03T03:06:00.001-07:00

We're off! The 25th Birmingham International Jazz Festival 2009 was officially launched this morning at the magnificent Hotel Du Vin.

Invited guests were greeted on arrival by West Country 'Jazzeoke Queen' Becky Brine. Inside they were served up a generous breakfast of jazz courtesy of Brian Mellor on banjo in the foyer, and the Alan Barnes Quartet in the glamorous setting of the hotel courtyard. A sophisticated breakfast, complete with champagne and Festival ale "Digby's Dilemma", was laid on by Hotel du Vin.

Speeches were provided by Martin Mullaney, Birmingham City Council Cabinet Member for Leisure, Sport and Culture; Steve Dyson, editor of the Birmingham Evening Mail; Philip Parkin, Birmingham City Councillor and Jazz Festival Board member; not forgetting our Festival Director, the charismatic Jim Simpson.

Events were captured by Chamber TV and are expected to be available for viewing via the new Jazz Festival tv station next week http://www.birminghamjazzfestivaltv.com

Festival highlights today include Kenny Ball and His Jazzmen at Star City 7pm, Alan Barnes Quartet at Wine Republic 8pm, and Hot Djazz of Cracow playing both at the Slug and Lettuce 3pm and the Lord Clifden 9pm.

Please note, due to the inclement weather the venue for Hot Djazz at 3pm has been switched to the Slug & Lettuce, as mentioned above, from the Brindley Place bandstand.

Please see the website for full details of the next 10 days of sizzling jazz, and check the Blog or sign up to Twitter for regular updates and any late programme changes. Enjoy!
http://www.birminghamjazzfestival.com

Birmingham Jazz Festival 2009 Launches Tomorrow

2009-07-02T06:08:00.000-07:00

The wait is almost over. The Birmingham International Jazz Festival 2009, Europe's biggest free jazz party, launches tomorrow Friday 3 July. Celebrating its milestone 25th anniversary, it comprises 180 performances across 70 venues over 10 days, 90% of which are free to the public.

In celebration of its quarter century milestone the festival goes back to its roots this year with a star studded jam session to be held at the city's Botanical Gardens on Thursday 9th July. Digby Fairweather will head a line up of some of the biggest talents in jazz. See the Blog post below for more information. Tickets £10 available on 0121 454 7020/1860.

Not to be missed are the three shows at Star City this weekend, as they offer unique opportunities to enjoy three jazz bill-toppers for free! That's right, there's no ticket charge for Kenny Ball's Jazzmen (3rd), Alan Price Set (4th) and leading US funkster Pee Wee Ellis and his Band (5th), which all kick off at 7pm - even the parking is free. On Saturday, preceding the Alan Price show, songstress Becky Brine will be holding sway at La Tasca from 5pm.

Sensational gypsy guitarist Nomy Rosenberg, a direct descendent of Django Reinhardt, will be making his Festival debut this year. Check the Blog next week for more information or see the Festival web site.

We're reviving an old festival tradition this year by commissioning a special Festival Brew. Produced by the Urban Arts Bar and weighing in a sprightly 4.2% it will be a light ale sailing under the name of Digby's Dilemma in honour of our esteemed Festival Patron. Its home will be the Lord Clifden at 34 Great Hampton St, Birmingham B18 6EL but it will also be available at some other festival venues.

For more information on our great line-up this year see the Festival website http://www.birminghamjazzfestival.com

All-Star Jam Session

2009-06-24T02:41:00.000-07:00

Jazz Festival Hotel Deals

2009-06-11T04:30:00.000-07:00

The Jazz Festival's partner hotels are offering very special rates to festival-goers. Just call the hotels direct and ask for the Festival rate.

The City Inn offer rooms with breakfast from £69 for single occupancy and from £79 for double. They are just off Broad Street by Brindley Place - at the heart of the festival. Phone 0121 643 1003

The Ibis Hotel is an active festival venue right by the city centre in Chinatown. They offer room only for £50 with breakfast £5.50. Phone 0121 622 6010

There's a lot of Jazz Festival activity in the city centre Hotel Du Vin, just off Colmore Row. Their offer for room and breakfast is £99. Phone 0121 200 0600

Blueberry Hotel Birmingham Star City (formerly known as the Purple Hotel Birmingham Star City) is located just 2 miles from the city centre of Birmingham. They offer room only from £39 Friday to Sunday. Phone 0121 327 1183

Don't forget to ask for the Jazz Festival rate. If you need any further information or advice - give the Festival Office a call on 0121 454 7020

FOLKS & VOLUNTEERS

2009-06-10T04:50:00.000-07:00

Hi Folks and Volunteers,

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If you contacted us and have heard nothing back, please try again.

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25TH BIRMINGHAM INTERNATIONAL JAZZ FESTIVAL - JULY 3RD TO 12TH

2009-06-01T10:28:00.000-07:00

Here’s some Festival news hot off the press - and there will be more to come from now on every week.

It’s no secret that most UK jazz festivals, in common with many other events, have taken a particularly hard beating from the recession, with several important and high profile jazz festivals biting the dust. Birmingham’s is not immune from the cutbacks, but it only really shows in a slightly reduced number of events and in a reduced number of foreign attractions. Blame the weak pound for that one!

There will be at least 160 performances, with as many as possible free admission - around 90% we estimate.

The initial list of confirmed artists is: Alan Barnes, Alan Price Set, Art Themen, Becky Brine, Bruce Adams, Dave Green, Dave Newton, Dave Shepherd Quintet, Digby Fairweather, Enrico Tomasso, Eric Delaney, Europa Jazz Band, Fabulous Boogie Boys, Garry Allcock All-Stars Big Band, Greg Abate [USA], Hot Djazz of Krakow [Poland], Ian Bateman, Indigo Blues Band, Kenny Ball & His Jazzmen, King Pleasure & the Biscuit Boys, Kings Bruton Big Band, Mark Nightingale, MJHQ, MYJO, Nearly Dan, Pee Wee Ellis [USA], Petra Ernyei [Czech Republic], Ralph Salmins, Simon Spillett, Tipitina, Val Wiseman - and there are a lot more awaiting confirmation!

Star City is hosting a trio of big name artists over the first weekend: Kenny Ball & His Jazzmen [July 3rd], Alan Price Set [4th] and ex James Brown bandleader Pee Wee Ellis [5th]. It is free admission, free parking and each show kicks off at 7pm.

The Jazz Festival is set to go back to its roots on Thursday 8th July with the All Star Jam Session Volume 2. Back in 1984, Humphrey Lyttelton and Digby Fairweather headed such a Jam Session in Cannon Hill Park, featuring jazz luminaries Dick Morrissey and Peter King among the 12 man line-up. The success of that Jam Session directly inspired the creation of the Birmingham International Jazz Festival the following year, with Humph its guiding light and Patron for the next 23 years. Now Digby has taken up that banner. The Jam Session tradition as part of the festival continued for many years until the sponsorship wound down to such a level as to make it financially unfeasible. But to celebrate the first 25 years landmark, the City Council’s Culture & Environment Directorate are supporting its revival! The date is Thursday 9th July at 7PM in Birmingham’s splendid Botanical Gardens. Headed by the inspirational Digby Fairweather the musicians will line up in the classic Eddie Condon format with two hot front lines swapping choruses and exchanges over the same rhythm section. It will be hotter than hot with the classiest of mainstream and swing musicians in the frame.

New venues added this year include: The Barber Institute of Fine Arts, Old Contemptibles, The Mint, Rose Villa Tavern, The Vine in Ladywood, The Lord Clifden, Bohemia, Vertu, The Wellington, The Varsity in Harborne and Lee Longlands.

PHESTIVAL PHOCUS NUMBER ONE
From Prague, Czech Republic PETRA ERNYEI

Petra, born 1975, is a Czech citizen, growing up in a jazz-conscious family. She made her debut in America in the Sacramento Jazz Festival when she was 18. Back in Prague she immediately joined the Original Prague Syncopated Orchestra led by Jan Matousek, with whom she still performs.

She also works with smaller groups, including the quartet of Jakub Šafr with whom she is currently recording a CD.

She released her debut CD in 1999- “Who Loves You”-in an authentic 1930s style while her second CD [2003] “Blue And Sentimental” was more classic 1940s-resonant of her main influence, Peggy Lee.

She featured at the 2003 Birmingham International Jazz Festival with the J.J. Jazzmen of Prague.

She now regularly appears in Prague at jazzclubs Zelezna, U Stare Pani and the Be Bop Bar of The Radisson Hotel.

Petra will play The Birmingham International Jazz Festival on July 10th, 11th and 12th.

For further information, details of hotel deals etc, please call Sarah Yang at 0121 454 7020

BIG BEAR NEWS MARCH 2009

2009-03-05T01:14:00.001-08:00

BIG BEAR NEWS MARCH 2009
Big Bear Music Group Based In Birmingham Since 1968

Birmingham Home To U.K’s Longest Established Independent Recording Company
Birmingham’s recording company Big Bear Records are currently celebrating their 40th anniversary. Probably the longest established independent record label in the U.K, Big Bear has been at the forefront of Jazz, Swing and Blues since 1968. The Company was named by the legendary radio presenter, John Peel, who thought the gait of the label’s founder, Jim Simpson, resembled that of a bear. The label grew out of Simpson’s production company, which had steered Black Sabbath through the first three- and best- albums of their career. Initially recording U.S. bluesmen, the repertoire expanded to include British and American jazz and swing musicians and an impressive portfolio of Birmingham bands

Big Bear Artists on the Road
Brand leaders in Jump, Jive and Swing, King Pleasure and The Biscuit Boys can be seen and heard at Keele University[March 6], Mill at Sonning [8], The Robin, Bilston [19] Fire Station, Windsor[21], Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury [27] and at Judges in Yarm [28]. Suddenly everyone is talking about Preston-based Tipitina who continue dispensing their own brand of New Orleans Blues, Boogie and Barrelhouse at Seven Artspace, Leeds [March 13] and at the Platform, Morecambe [28] . Hot Sinti Gypsy combo Nomy Rosenberg Trio feature at De Zevensprong, Rotterdam [March 13] and at the Turku Jazz Festival [14]. While Big Bear stablemates, purveyors of New Breed swing, The Doctor Teeth Big Band play The Jam House, Birmingham[March 19] and the Gala Theatre Durham [21] . Big Bear bookings at The Public in West Bromwich line up as The Fabulous Boogie Boys [7], Tom Hill Trio[8], Sandwell Youth Jazz Orchestra[15], The Toy Hearts[21], Steve Pacitto Band[22] and Judith Haustein from Germany [29].

Birmingham’s Record Company Inks Distribution Deal for France-and Extends In Six Other Territories

As a result of a successful Midem 2009, Big Bear Records have signed exclusive CD distribution for France with Codaex Distribution of Medan. Ten CD Titles have shipped for the initial wave of French releases on the Birmingham label, including albums by big-selling local swing, rhythm and blues combo King Pleasure & the Biscuit Boys and the latest recordings by Tipitina, Django’s Castle with Bruce Adams and The Nomy Rosenberg Trio. At the same time, Big Bear Records confirm that their exclusive distribution deals have been extended for Holland, Belgium and Luxembourg with Dee2 Records of Weese, Holland and for Germany, Austria and Switzerland with H’art Musik of Marl, Germany.

Dates Announced For Birmingham International Jazz Festival
The Birmingham International Jazz Festival will celebrate its 25th anniversary from July 3rd to 12th 2009. Europe’s biggest free Jazz party is expected to attract over 115,000 jazz fans to this city, creating a considerable spend in the city’s retail and leisure sectors. The Credit Squeeze will positively affect the event, with more British holidaymakers deterred by the weak pound and seeking interesting U.K alternatives, and the increase of inbound foreign tourism to the U.K, taking advantage of the increased value of their Dollars and Euros. 200 events are planned over the ten days with 90% of them free to the public.

Spanish and Dutch Gypsy Attractions Sign to Birmingham’s Label
Bucking the general trend to cutback on CD releases, Big Bear Records have pulled off what is widely considered a to be a coup in international jazz terms with the signing of leading Gypsy attractions from Holland and Spain. The Nomy Rosenberg Trio are arguably the most important gypsy combo of the last decade and seem to carry the musical hopes of the entire Sinti Gypsy nation. Eindhoven-based Nomy Rosenberg, a direct descendant from Django Reinhardt, has been playing major concerts and festivals since he was eleven as rhythm guitarist in brother Jimmy’s band. He played a sell-out Carnegie Hall concert in New York with George Benson when he was 15, and has since performed with Stevie Wonder, Les Paul and Eric Clapton. This will be the first CD under his name. Django’s Castle from Barcelona have been at the forefront of Spanish Gypsy Swing for a decade, with leader Pere Soto in demand worldwide, featuring in Mexico and the U.S.A and as a soloist with The Bolivian Symphony Orchestra, performing his own compositions. Their new CD release on Big Bear Records “Swing Hotel Du Vin” was recorded live during the 2008 Birmingham International Jazz Festival and sees them teamed with top U.K trumpet star, Bruce Adams. Bruce won the 2008 British Jazz Award for Best Trumpet

Musical Chairs-Staff Movement at Big Bear Towers
Head of International Lea Rodoz has returned to her native France, after a successful term at Big Bear where she set up and managed distribution and agency across six European territories. Her replacement, Pierre-Henri Loupias, takes up post on March 16. Dale Grinsell has settled in to the newly created role as Head of Digital since his arrival in early February.

For further information please contact Jim Simpson at Big Bear Music, PO Box 944, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B16 8UT. Tel: 0121 454 7020 Fax: 0121 454 9996 Email: admin@bigbearmusic.com

2008-11-12T06:46:00.001-08:00

THE BULLETIN OF THE BIRMINGHAM INTERNATIONAL JAZZ FESTIVAL

LAST CHANCE TO VOTE IN BRITISH JAZZ AWARDS

Just a few days to cut-off date in the voting for the 2008 British Jazz Awards.

Cast your vote by filling in and returning the attached form by post or email, or visiting www.on-line-voting.co.uk/awards.html to vote online for your favourite British Jazz Musicians - but do so by Monday 17th November. 2008 sees the 20th year of the Jazz Oscars, as they are fondly-known, the most important awards available to this country’s jazz fraternity. If you have enjoyed some fine British Jazz Musicians over the last 12 months, then here’s your opportunity to acknowledge our homegrown, but world class, talent.

Live gigs are a bit thin on the ground right now, but its well worth tripping out to that Arts-Centre-of-ill-repute, The Public, in the Town Centre of West Bromwich for their free shows, well-presented in a good atmosphere with a great soundsystem. Look out for California’s Tom Hill Band (November 14th), rock star Trevor Burton Band (15th), the utterly stunningly quirky Steve Pacitto with his all-star combo - don’t miss this!! (16th), a blues jam session (22nd), The New Orleans Hotshots (23rd) Doctor Harp Blues Band (29th) and Martinique Jazz Band (30th). Fridays and Saturdays are from 8pm. Sundays are 1pm - all these sessions are free.

The ubiquitous Tipitina, in between visits to Denmark, Sweden and Norway can be seen in Birmingham at Waters Edge in Brindley Place (12noon on 29th) and Ha Ha Bar & Grill (2pm on 30th). Admission free to both.

The irrepressible King Pleasure & the Biscuit Boys appear at their home-from-home, the 100 Club in Oxford Street, London (29th at 8pm).

First bookings for the 2009 Birmingham International Jazz Festival will be announced in December, but we can tell you in advance that comeback kids from 2008 The Bourbon Street Stompers from Germany and Cornwall’s Jazz Karaoke Queen Becky Brine have already inked contracts. The surprise announcement is that the heavily tipped emergent gypsy guitar talent Nomy Rosenberg Trio will make their first UK performances at the Festival. Nomy is a direct relative of Django Reinhardt, performed with George Benson at a sold-out Carnegie Hall in New York when he was only 14. Younger brother of the ill-starred but wondrous Jimmy Rosenberg, in whose band he featured during his formative years, Nomy plays in the traditional Django Reinhardt style and is reputably the jazz guitar star of the Sinti Gypsy Community.

Nomy Rosenberg

The 25th Birmingham International Jazz Festival takes place from July 3rd to 12th.

For more information, contact
Big Bear Records, PO Box 944, Birmingham B16 8UT
Tel: 0121 454 7020 Fax: 0121 454 9996
Email: agency@bigbearmusic.com www.bigbearmusic.com

JazzFest Bulletin – 7th October 2008

2008-10-07T07:42:00.000-07:00

JazzFest Bulletin – 7th October 2008

Our good news this week is that the Birmingham International Jazz Festival has been nominated for awards in two categories in the 2008 Festival Awards.

The categories are BEST LINE - UP AWARD and FAMILY FESTIVAL AWARD, but as we are against such heavyweights as Bestival, Reading Festival, Glastonbury, Bloodstock, Download, Guilfest and more, we are not overly optimistic of our chances. On the other hand, we would like to make a good fist of it, so if you wouldn’t mind giving us your support and casting a vote for the festival at www.festivalawards.com we would appreciate that. Everyone who votes goes into a prize draw to win a pair of tickets to every winning festival - and there are 15 categories! If you could vote now that would be great, the festivals with least votes get lopped off on October 13th.

We reckon that the Big Gig for October is the unmissable Festival New Orleans, free (yes, free!) at the 02 in London on October 24th and 25th. Dr. John, Allen Toussaint, Buckwheat Zydeco head a magnificent line-up of the Crescent City’s finest including Rebirth Brass Band, Beau Soleil, Marcia Ball, Big Chief Monk Boudreaux, The Anointed Jackson Singers, Apache Hunters, assorted Mardi Gras Indians and much more. Go to www.theo2.co.uk.

The new edition (number 103) of The Jazz Rag is hot off the press, with a Johnny Griffin tribute by Simon Spillett, Alan Barnes and Art Themen, an interview with Pat Halcox, a good look at Ray’s Jazz (now in Foyles), a visit to The Istanbul Jazz Festival, some great photographs from the Birmingham International Jazz Festival, plus news, upcoming events, CD, book and live reviews and competitions. £15.50 (cheque payable to Big Bear Music, sent to Big Bear Music, P.O. Box 944, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B16 8UT) buys you a year’s subscription, that’s 6 editions, or send £2 for a sample copy - includes postage.

Upcoming live gigs include The Toy Hearts (8pm October 10th), Steve Ajao Quartet (8pm 11th), Bank Street Syncopators (1pm 12th), Roy Forbes Trio (8pm 17th), and New Orleans Hotshots (1pm 18th) all at The Public in West Bromwich Town Centre and all free.

The Sunday series at The Kings Head has come to an end - for upcoming information or to exhort them to continue with live jazz call 0121 277 4130.

The ubiquitous Tipitina continue their quest to conquer the known universe with great Nawlins music, appear at Handsworth Golf Club, Birmingham (October 11th), Tamworth Assembly Rooms (17th), Broadway Casino, Five Ways, Birmingham (18th), Old Tramshed, Shipley (23rd), Trustees Hall, Boston Spa (25th) before zooming off to Denmark and Sweden. Enquiries to Carly at 0121 454 7020.

Those Kings of Swing, King Pleasure & the Biscuit Boys are set to hold sway at Met Arms, Bury (October 10th), Maltings Arts Centre, St Albans (17th), Bewdley Festival at Ramada Hotel (18th), Pigalle, London (25th), and Marine Theatre, Lyme Regis (31st). Enquiries to Tim at 0121 454 7020.

The 2008 British Jazz Awards are upon us. The nominations are in, and anybody wishing to vote should request a voting form from admin@bigbearmusic.com or phone 0121 454 7020.

Nothing to do with Jazz, but venerated Jazz Festival venue The Garden House, Hagley Road, Birmingham is holding what promises to be a memorable Beer Festival from Thursday 9th October to Sunday 13th. Dr. Teeth Big Band singer, Steve Steinhaus will launch the event with his exceedingly cool blues and booze poetry and no doubt a tasting of the majority of the 18 beers on offer. £5 ticket includes your first pint. Information from 0121 454 8315.

Have fun.

The Bulletin of the Birmingham International Jazz Festival
info@bigbearmusic.com Phone: 0121 454 7020

JAZZ FANS UPDATE

2008-09-11T01:12:00.000-07:00

HUMPH

Here’s an unmissable date for your diary - Friday 9th September at 9pm on BBC4,
‘Legend - Humphrey Lyttelton: The Jazz Musicians’ Musician’.

Programme link: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b00ddwcy

JAZZ & BLUES IN WEST BROMWICH

The somewhat controversial Public in West Bromwich Town Centre is proving to be an extremely popular Friday and Saturday destination venue for jazz and blues. All performances are free to the public, there is adjacent, plentiful and free car parking, it’s easy to find (smack dab in the Town Centre) and there is a bar with food available. The Public have just announced their October programme, so here are the upcoming dates in their entirety. The Richard Hughes Trio (12th September), Kel Elliott (13th), Tom Hill Trio (19th), Lexie Stobie Band (20th), Djangology (26th), Adam Phillips Trio (27th), Tipitina (3rd October), The T-Bones (4th), Toy Hearts (10th), Steve Ajao (11th), Roy Forbes Trio (17th), Rhythm & Blues Legends (18th), Steve Steinhaus Swing Quartet (24th), David Moore Blues Band (25th), Mike Burney Quartet (31st).

FREE SUNDAY JAZZ

The Kings Head stands on The Hagley Road in Bearwood. Newly refurbished, and returned to its original name, The Kings Head is one of Birmingham’s great pubs - spacious, big car park, good beers and food - and now a series of free Sunday music performances. Look out for Kel Elliott Band (September 14th) Becky Brine Rhythm Boys (21st) Tipitina (28th) Steve Steinhaus Swing Quartet (October 5th). It’s a 5pm start.

HA HA HOSTS JAZZ

Django Reinhardt-styled Swing Museum are new to Birmingham, but already building a good following with their two guitars, violin and double bass line-up. They are set to feature on the monthly jazz presentation at The Ha Ha Bar & Grill in The Mailbox on Sunday 28th September. Starting time is 2pm and it is free.

JAZZ WELCOME FOR TORY PARTY

Set to coincide with the Conservative Party Conference taking place in Birmingham, The Bandstand on Brindleyplace, off Broad Street presents Steve Steinhaus Swing Quartet (Sunday 28th September 3pm) Kel Elliott Band (Monday 29th 5pm) and Roy Forbes Quartet (Tuesday 30th 5pm). Admission is free and there’s a grand selection of adjacent bars and cafes.

TIPTITINA

Here are a couple of West Midlands shows set for the ubiquitous New Orleans - styled, gospel-tinged, blues, jazz, boogie and barrelhouse outfit Tipitina. See them at The International Festival of Glass at Ruskin Glass Centre, Wollaston Road in Stourbridge (September 27th 6pm) The Kings Head, Hagley Road (28th 5pm) The Caz Bar in Stratford-Upon-Avon (29th 8pm). Other September dates include Rosehill Theatre, Whitehaven (18th) The Tollbooth, Stirling (19th) Wilmslow Conservative Club (22nd) Saracens Head, Ormskirk (24th) and Old Tramshed, Bingley (25th).

Ha Ha Bar & Grill Offer

2008-09-09T08:34:00.001-07:00

Dear Sir/Madam

We at haha understand the complexity of organising a Christmas party for a large group of people and the uncertainty that comes with making this important decision based on menu descriptions. Therefore we are taking the proverbial ‘bull by the horns’ and doing everything in our power to make this process easier for you.

So we are proud to announce our Christmas Taster sessions on 17th September and 15th October from 6pm onwards.

We are running two sessions where we will be showcasing all the food that we are offering on our Christmas Set and Buffet menus. We will also be showcasing the wines that we are offering on a ‘buy 5 get the 6th for free’ offer, as well as various sources of entertainment which may help to make this years Christmas do go down in the history books.

We can also offer various other services utilising our in house skilled team, such as tailor making a cocktail or list of cocktails to represent your company, producing awards certificates for your categories ( i.e. best dancer, biggest soap addict, best tea maker, best Monday morning story……..) or a full red carpet, champagne reception.

On hand throughout the sessions will be a team of staff with and extensive knowledge of the products we are offering, as well as our Christmas co-ordinators ready to take your bookings.

If you book before the 30th September then you will be entitled a free bottle of Fortant Cabernet Sauvignon or Sauvignon Blanc.

All that we ask for you to be able to take advantage of this great offer is to simply telephone or email to let us know you are coming. This way we can ensure that we have enough food prepared to cater for everyone.

We look forward to your RSVP and enabling you relieve the stress associated with this time of year.

All the best

Joseph Gallagher
(Christmas Co-ordinator)

£5.00 lunch offer now available
Monday to Friday 11am to 5pm

2 for 1 Cocktails Monday to Thursday
5pm to 7pm

Steven Bould General Manager
Joseph Gallagher Deputy Manager
Steve Perrin Head Chef
Penny Wakeman Restaurant Supervisor
Matt Burke Bar Supervisor

Ha Ha Bar & Grill
178-180 Wharfside street
The Mailbox
Birmingham
B1 1RN
0121 632 1250

Email: haha.birmingham@bayrestaurantgroup.com
Website: www.hahaonline.co.uk

DIARY NOTE FOR JAZZ GIG - GOERS

2008-09-04T08:25:00.000-07:00

DIARY NOTE FOR JAZZ GIG - GOERS

This Friday, September 5th, 8pm at Artrix, School Drive, Bromsgrove, Worcs, B60 1AX,
Digby Fairweather and Val Wiseman present their entertaining Jazz Goes To The Movies concert where they perform some great tunes from jazz biopics in the company of Julian Marc Stringle, Geoff Gower, Craig Milverton, Len Skeat and Bobby Worth.
Box Office: 01527 577330

Over at The Public in West Bromwich Town Centre, The Delta Diva, Suzahn Fiering from Nashville, Tennessee plays from 8pm to 11pm on Friday 5th and rockabilly specialists The Toy Hearts do similarly on Saturday 6th - admission is free. Looking ahead at The Public, you can hear Richard Hughes Trio (12th) Kel Elliott Band (13th) Tom Hill Trio (19th), Lexie Stobie Band (20th) Djangology (26th), Adam Phillips Trio (27th).

Free 5pm Sunday sessions at The Kings Head on the Hagley Road in Bearwood kick off with Kel Elliott Band (14th), Becky Brine Rhythm Boys (21st), Tipitina (28th), and Steve Steinhaus Swing Quartet (October 5th). If these are successful, then the management promise a regular Sunday slot for live music.

The very interesting Caz Bar in Union Street in Stratford-Upon-Avon had such a good time with Tipitina in August, that they have decided to do it again on Monday 29th September from 8pm to 11pm and admission is free.

The October edition of The Jazz Rag magazine will be issued on September 25th and include a piece on the Birmingham International Jazz Festival. The Jazz Rag is a 36 page A4 magazine and a great read. Normally priced at £2.75 a copy, you can have a sample copy just by sending an A4 size self addressed envelope with a 69 pence stamp to:

THE JAZZ RAG
P.O. BOX 944
EDGBASTON
B16 8UT

Upcoming Jazz, Blues and Swing dates.

2008-08-21T02:58:00.000-07:00

Upcoming Jazz, Blues and Swing dates.

AS ONE DOOR CLOSE: ANOTHER SLAMS IN YOUR FACE.

But not this time.

As the regular Sunday 7pm free session at Bar Risa on Broad Street approach the end of their run, news is breaking of an almost direct replacement which is set to run initially, on a four week trial period.

So if you want to help preserve regular live Sunday Jazz & Blues in this City, then show your support by getting out and going there.

The last two Sundays at Bar Risa feature Leamington Spa-based Adam Phillips Trio (August 24th) and the Steve Steinhaus Swing Quartet (31st).

A few bus stops up the Hagley Road to Bearwood, the extremely comfortable Kings Head will present Kel Elliott Band (September 14th), Becky Brine Rhythm Boys (21st), Tipitina (28th), Steve Steinhaus Swing Quartet (October 5th). Again, show-time is 7pm and admission is free.

The Public, in the town centre of West Bromwich is much nearer than you may think, and they continue with their Friday and Saturday 8pm free admission sessions with Tipitina (22nd), Steve Ajao Band (23rd), Northampton’s Reinhardt devotees Swing Museum (29th) and the David Moore Blues Band (30th) just back from their debut shows in the Czech Republic.

Going into September at The Public, the attractions are the Nashville songbird, Dixie Diva Suzahn Fiering (September 5th), blue-grass specialists The Toy Hearts (6th) and Richard Hughes Trio (12th).

New Rock and Blues venue The Asylum (41 Hampton Street, Hockley, Birmingham, B19 3LS 0121 233 1109 for details) present one of the finest new Blues acts around, Matt Schofield, on Saturday 20th September.

The Touchwood Centre continues with its free Summer Series – despite the weather- on Wednesdays at 5.30pm and on Sundays at 2.30pm. When its fine, the shows take place in Jubilee Garden, when not they move to The Map Room. London based all girl blues band The Rogue Dolls feature (24th) followed by the classic jazz of Martinique Jazz Band (27th) and Tipitina (31st).

The Merry Hill Shopping Centre feature Tipitina at 7pm on Friday 24th August. Then the band then play La Tasca at Star City at 12:00 midday and at Arcadian Centre in Hurst Street on Saturday 30th and the Caz Bar in Stratford-Upon-Avon presents a free 8pm show on Bank Holiday Monday (August 31st).

Looking ahead, tickets have just gone on sale for the annual Birmingham Christmas performance for King Pleasure & the Biscuit Boys on Sunday 14th December at The Crescent Theatre in Brindley Place.

Upcoming Jazz

2008-08-12T03:42:00.000-07:00

Our upcoming local gigs for the rest of this month include:

Bar Risa: Bar Risa are finishing their weekly free Sunday sessions which have run for the past two years. The last bands to appear will be New Orleans Blues and boogie band Tipitina [August 17th], young girl blues singer Lexie Stobie with her Band [24th] and Chicagoan jive singer Steve Steinhaus with his Swing Quartet [31st]. The sessions start at 7pm and admission is free.

The Touchwood Centre in Solihull has presented jazz and blues attractions throughout what we laughingly refer to as The Summer. Upcomers are Leamington Spa-based jazz, blues and gospel Kel Elliott Band [Sunday August 17th], newest signings to the Acid Jazz label The Elements [Wednesday 20th August], all-girl, London-based blues band The Rogue Dolls [Sunday 24th August], traditional jazz band from Wolverhampton Martinique Jazz Band [Wednesday 27th August] and young New Orleans Jazz, blues and boogie band from Preston, Tipitina [Sunday 31st August]. Sunday shows start at 2:30 pm and Wednesday Performances at 5:30pm. Admission is free.

New West Bromwich arts centre The Public is hosting regular jazz and blues sessions through to Christmas. August continues with Tipitina [Friday 22nd], local blues and jazz guitarist, alto sax player and singer Steve Ajao [Saturday 23rd], young Django Reinhardt-inspired Rugby combo Swing Museum [Friday 29th] and David Moore Blues Band [Saturday 30th]. Sessions start at 8pm and are free admission.

Post Jazz Festival

2008-07-29T01:23:00.001-07:00

Just as it should, the Jazz Festival leaves an immediate legacy in the form of ongoing jazz and blues events. Some are new ventures, with venue owners inspired by the attendances at festival events; others are ongoing programmes, freshly rejuvenated by their jazz festival involvement.

We’ve all read the somewhat mixed reports on the multi-million pound arts project in West Bromwich, The Public. They have been running twice – weekly blues and jazz shows since the festival – look out for bluesers The T-Bones (Saturday 9th August, 8pm) and Chicago swing singer Bobby Woods (Sunday 10th, 1pm). If you haven’t been to The Public yet, this is a great opportunity to get a close-up of this extremely controversial operation. It is close to the West Bromwich Bus Station – just go to the Town Centre and look up. It’s un-missable. Massive, shoebox-shaped, black with pink edging. Don’t read anything into the bar’s name – The Pink Tank. Admission is free.

In Birmingham, Sunday evenings at Bar Risa on Broad Street continue apace. For no admission fee you can enjoy regular jazz and blues every Sunday from 7pm – 9.30pm.
Impressive newcomers to the jazz fest Kel Elliott Band play Sunday 3rd August with The T – Bones (10th), Tipitina (17th) and Lexie Stobie (24th). Showtime is 7pm.

Over in Solihull there’s a string of shows in the Touchwood Centre, Solihull:
Blues giant Ian Parker with his band (July 30th 5.30pm), King of Rhythm and Blues, Big Joe Pleasure (August 3rd 2.30pm), The regions finest David Moore Blues Band (6th 5.30pm), rockabilly special with Dirty Robbers (10th 2.30pm), hillbilly jive with The Toy Hearts (13th 5.30pm), sensational new Kel Elliott Band (17th 2.30pm), ace pub-rockers The Elements (20th 5.30pm), all-girl blues band with bite The Rogue Dolls (24th 2.30pm), the trad jazz of Martinique Jazz Band (27th 5.30pm), and Tipitina bringing the spirit and soul of New Orleans to Solihull (31st 2.30pm).

And again, all the Shows are free.

A Few More Programme Adjustments

2008-07-10T02:19:00.000-07:00

Hi All, I hope you've all managed to catch a little it of the jazz festival, which has just reached its midway point.
Below are a few adjustments and late additions to the programme:

THURSDAY 10TH JULY
12:00 Pitcher & Piano - Django's Castle (SPAIN)
16:00 House of Fraser - Suzahn Fiering (U.S.A.)
19:30 Old Orleans - Suzahn Fiering - (U.S.A.)
20:30 Wine Republic - Becky Brine Rhythm Boys

FRIDAY 11TH JULY
18:00 The Arcadian Centre - Tipitina
19:00 Old Orleans - Bobby Woods

SATURDAY 12TH
13:00 La Tasca, Star City - Tipitina

Make sure, if you haven't already, to check out a little of the jazz festival, it's the best yet!

Let the Jazz Begin

2008-07-04T02:53:00.000-07:00

The breakfast launch was today at 8am, the crowd was full of dignitaries such as the Lord Mayor, the venue - Wine Republic, was a wonderful place to start this year's festival.

Speeches came from City Leader Mike Whitby, new festival Patron Digby Fairweather and Lord Mayor Chauhdry Rashid, all of whom spoke passionately and were lovely to talk to over some orange juice and croissants.

Dixieland Crackerjacks played outside to the morning crowd at Centenary Square and Tipitina did a fantastic set inside. If you do get a chance to see the Crackerjacks or Tipitina in the small unique venues that this festival offers, don't pass on the opportunity.

Just a reminder, Debbie Jones, frontwoman of Tipitina is holding two choirworkshops tommorow.
12pm, St-Martin's-in-the-Bullring, free
5pm, Atrix, Bromsgrove, £4/£5

A World of Jazz in One Mile

2008-07-01T09:09:00.001-07:00

Imagine travelling over 6 countries in the space of one night. Tiring work, isn’t it? But it is possible, only at this year’s Birmingham International Jazz Festival.

Take, for instance, Wednesday 9 July where you could start your evening at 6.30pm in the Copthorne Hotel in Paradise Circus, have a drink in the bar and listen to Canada’s Katya Gorrie. Then hop in a cab and hot foot it over to The Duck on the Hagley Road where from 7pm Spanish band Django’s Castle takes the stand.

It takes just three minutes to walk to the opposite side of the road and into the Lychee Garden, where you might want to sample the delicious cuisine and catch up with our very own Becky Brine. Two minutes walk from the Lychee Garden and you’re in the USA, where Synthesis Big Band will be performing at the Strathallan Hotel.

When you have had your fill, jump on a bus and make your way back towards the City Centre to the Broad Street area where you will find Walkabout: the Australians are in town in the form of Michael McQuaid’s Red Hot Rhythmakers who are on from 8pm. Almost next door you will find The Living Room; here Suzahn Fiering from the USA will be providing entertainment also at 8pm.

The following evening you could do the same again, starting in the Slug and Lettuce, or should that be the Spider and Eucalyptus seeing as Australian band Michael McQuaid’s Red Hot Rhythmakers are playing once again, only this time at 7pm.

Jump on the bus heading towards the Hagley Road, getting off at The Garden House for an American feel with the Greg Abate Quartet who are performing there at 7.30pm. Back on that bus, or a taxi, if you’re feeling flash, head towards Broad Street and don those lederhosen because at 8pm German band, Bourbon Street Stompers are going to be in fine form at The Brasshouse.

Just down the road from The Brasshouse we enter Wine REPublic and a Hungarian feel where the Budapest Ragtime Band are entertaining that night at 8pm. Or if you fancy a bit more American Jazz, then Aaron Weinstein is playing at The Living Room.

So for trips that would take you between 15,000 and 20,000 miles, multiple time zones, a few days and a lot of money, you could do it in under a mile, on one or even two nights, and best of all, you only have to pay for your drinks!

Humph and Digby

2008-06-30T07:02:00.000-07:00

With the passing of Jazz Festival Patron of the last 23 years, Humphrey Lyttelton, the festival has appointed a new patron, cornet player, bandleader, broadcaster, journalist, author and all round jazz expert Digby Fairweather.

Throughout the Festival we will be remembering Humphrey Lyttelton. Many of the country’s finest musicians have passed through the Lyttelton band in its astonishing 60 year life and, of course, a number of those will be playing at this year’s festival. Respected Lyttelton alumni will be paying tribute in music and through interviews after their performances.

The Festival is also holding two special events to commemorate Humphrey;

Digby at Borders
Borders Bookshop in the Bull Ring will be holding a tribute to Humphrey Lyttelton, and George Melly, another Jazz Festival legend who passed recently. From 4.00 pm to 5.00 pm on Saturday July 5th Digby Fairweather will talk informally about Humph and George, illustrated by recordings of their music. Both Humph and George were highly entertaining and well regarded authors – and pretty prolific, too, considering their assorted other careers – and their books will be available at Borders, as well as Digby’s striking memoir of George’s last months ‘On the Road with George Melly’ which Digby will be signing.

Musicians’ Union Jam Session: Tribute to Humph
This year’s Musicians Union Jam Session at the Wine REPublic on Tuesday July 8th is headed by Digby Fairweather and Chris Walker. Dedicated to Humphrey Lyttelton, the Jam Session will not only feature a quintet fronted by Digby and Chris, but special guest musicians paying their own tribute.

7 days to go...

2008-06-27T03:19:00.000-07:00

The Festival is only a week away so we want to hear what you are most looking forward. Is there a band you can't wait to see again, a venue you've always wanted to try out or can you simply not wait for the atmosphere and great music the festival provides. Post your ideas as a comment here or drop us an email at admin@bigbearmusic subject 'blog' and we'll post the best ones on the web site during the festival.
Hope to hear from you soon.

More Jazz Per Square inch than New Orleans

2008-06-26T03:57:00.000-07:00

In order for visitors to the Birmingham Internation Jazz Festival to get a taste of the widest range of jazz, Marketing Birmingham has put together some suggestions for a fantastic evening of entertainment.

On Wednesday 9 July you could start your evening at 6.30pm in the Copthorne Hotel in Paradise Circus, where you can have a drink in the bar and listen to Canada’s Katya Gorrie. Then hop in a cab and hot foot it over to The Duck on Hagley Road where from 7pm Spain’s Django’s Castle takes the stand.

Just a three minute walk to the opposite side of the road and into the Lychee Garden, you might want to sample the delicious cuisine and catch up with the fabulous Becky Brine. Two minutes walk from the Lychee Garden, all the way from the USA, Synthesis Big Band will be performing at the Strathallan Hotel.

When you have had your fill, jump on a bus and make your way back towards the city centre to the Broad Street area where you will find The Living Room; here Suzahn Fiering from the USA will be providing entertainment from 8pm. Almost next door at Walkabout the Australians are in town in the form of Michael McQuaid’s Red Hot Rhythmakers. What an evening!

All but the first show take place in straight line - less than a kilometre in length, with each band playing for 2 hours, so it’s possible to hear them all, have a drink or two and a bite to eat.

Programme Changes

2008-06-25T09:19:00.000-07:00

Hi Jazz Fans

We’ve had to make some alterations to our festival programme. The downside is, of course, these are too late for the official programme.
However, they will be on the website programme very soon. The upside is that we have two great new venues, Old Orleans on Broad Street, La Tasca at Star City and Emirates Beach at Chamberlain Square.

You’ll also get to hear a lot more of Hungary’s Budapest Ragtime Band and USA’s Suzahn Fiering.

Here are the changes in full.

Saturday 5th July
DELETE 20.30 Queens Arms, Dixieland Crackerjacks (the Netherlands)
ADD 19.00 Old Orleans, Dixieland Crackerjacks (the Netherlands)

Sunday 6th July
ADD 15.00 The Bartons Arms, Indigo Blues Band

Thursday 10th July
TIME CHANGE, NOW 16.00 House of Fraser, Suzahn Fiering (USA)
ADD 19.30 Old Orleans, Suzahn Fiering (USA)

Friday 11th July
ADD 12.00 Emirates Beach, Becky Brine
ADD 18.00 The Arcadian, Budapest Ragtime Band (Hungary)
ADD 19.00 Old Orleans, Bobby Woods

Saturday 12th July
ADD 19.00 Old Orleans, Budapest Ragtime Band (Hungary)
DELETE 20.30 Queens Arms, Jonny Boston with Richard Hughes Trio
ADD 13.00 La Tasca, Star City, Budapest Ragtime Band (Hungary)

Sunday 13th July
DELETE 20.00 The Living Room, The Fabulous Boogie Boys

All the Best

Virtuoso says hello

2008-06-24T09:41:00.000-07:00

Hey Jazz Fans (I've always wanted to say that)

We've been gathering some performance videos for our upcoming artist biographies page, and Django's Castle, led by the wonderful Pere Soto, made us this lovely little video, completely dedicated to us entitled hello Birmingham.
Watch and Enjoy

If this aint the blues

2008-06-18T07:06:00.001-07:00

This year sees the presentation of a fully-fledged Blues Festival weekend at the Asylum in Hockley, the first specialised Blues event in 24 years of Festival history. The Headliners are Bill Sheffield from Atlanta, Georgia and Lightnin Willie and the Poorboys from Houston, Texas currently located in Los Angeles. The Festival will introduce the astonishing new blues guitar talent Oli Brown, alongside veteran blues stars the Cadillac Kings. There will be an intriguing evening of the best blues girls entitled ‘Wild Women Get The Blues’, an open mic free blues session organised by and featuring Poor Bob, who also appears as a guest with Bill Sheffield and Lightnin’ Willie. Produced in conjunction with leading UK blues magazine ‘Blues in Britain’.

If the BBC says it.....

2008-06-16T07:41:00.000-07:00

We've recently been featured by the BBC and thought you would want to take a peak.

follow the link below,
Follow me
Also, our programmes are now available at all our venues (as described in the venue list) and at Birmingham libraries but if you're further afield don't forget to send a stamped addressed A5 envelope to
Big Bear Music Group
PO Box 944
Edgbaston
Birmingham
B16 8UT
for a copy of our programme.

Singin' along

2008-06-13T09:07:00.000-07:00

At 12 noon and 5pm on July 5th we're asking for some audience participation. At St. Martin's in the Bullring and then later at Atrix Arts Centre in Bromsgrove, Debbie Jones from Tipitina is holding choir workshops. No singing experience is neccessary (although having some won't hinder you at all ;) and all ages are welcome. The workshop will be fun and informal, yet you can still learn lots about choral and vocal techniques including breathing, improvisation, gospel and jazz styles.

Debbie Jones not only fronts Tipitina but sings with the One Voice and Urban Voice gospel choirs and has appeared on BBC1's Christmas Voices singing lead vocals. Her general love of music and commitment to the art form means that you will be in great hands.

Jazz on film

2008-06-13T08:38:00.000-07:00

You could be forgiven that the 24th Birmingham International Jazz Festival was just about music but in fact, this year more than any other, it's about much more than that.

This year we have an inhouse photographer by the name of Merlin Daleman. He is based in North Brabant in the Netherlands and has worked at both the Birmingham and Marbella Jazz Festivals as a leader in jazz photography. He contributes regularly to Dutch Daily newspapers and we are delighted to have him back this year. To find out more visit http://www.merlindaleman.com/
A collection of photos from last year's event by Merlin are being displayed at City Inn from the start of the festival where they will remain for four months before going on tour to all the City Inns in the UK.

Showing at the wonderful Electric Cinema in Station Street, the oldest working cinema in the UK (first opened 1909) on the 11th, 12th and 13th at 18.30 is Let's Get Lost, Bruce Weber's Academy Award-nominated film about the great jazz trumpeter Chet Baker. This widely acclaimed film won the the prestigious Critic's prize at the Venice Film Festival.

We also have the mulitalented poet Stephen 'The Doctor' Baker who when he's not fronting two different Jazz bands, offers us some amazing jazz poetry. His show is called 'Poetry in Motion' as he will be literally flitting between gigs, keeping the audience entertained in between sets. Stephen's poetry takes you through all eras of jazz and blues, and from a man described as somewhere between a Jazz-crazed offspring of a Gospel Preacher and an Oxford academic, this chicago born 'blues shouter' promises an uncompromising and unforgettable experience.

Venues

2008-06-13T07:52:00.000-07:00

I'm sure you are all aware that the Birmingham International Jazz Festival 2008 takes place in some of the best venues in Birmingham city centre, including the Mailbox, the Bullring (indoor and outdoor), Brindleyplace, all around Broad Street and Hagley Road, the Town Hall, Symphony Hall, Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, Pavilions Shopping Centre, Moor Street Station, Hurst Street and many more.

There are however plenty of places to get involved for those who aren't based in and around Birmingham City Centre. We have events at Warwickshire Cricket Club and Taste of Birmingham at Cannon Hill Park, both in the Edgbaston area of of Birmingham. Other non central venues include; Halesowen County Cricket Club, the Big Peg and St. Paul's Square in the Jewellery Quarter, The Asylum in Hockley, The Pavilion in Perry Barr, Sutton Coldfield Traditional Jazz Club in Sutton Coldfield and the Barn in Witton.

Just outside of the city our venues includes Touchwood Centre, Sharman's Cross and Solihull Arts Complex in Solihull, Jubilee Bandstand, Bearwood Corks Club, the King's Head and Atrix in Bromsgrove, the Public in West Bromwich and The Black Country Living Museum in Dudley.

I've italicised the new venues mentioned above. Other venues we are playing for the first time include the Custard Factory, the Queen's Arms, the Crown, Copthorne Hotel, Walkabout on Broad Street, Ha Ha Bar and Grill at the Mailbox, the Plough and Harrow and the Duck Beefeater.

2008-06-13T03:11:00.000-07:00

The festival programmes have arrived at the office :)
This means we can start getting them out to the venues, tourist offices and all the people who ordered one.

Best Wishes

2008-06-13T01:37:00.001-07:00

I don't know how many of you like to stop on the streets and listen to buskers, maybe even give them a couple of spare coins you have lying in your pocket. If you see a person with a charity box at any of the Jazz Festival events, it won't be for the artist. For the past twenty years, the generosity of Birmingham International Jazz Festival has paid for the training of a guide dog by the 'Guide Dogs for the Blind' charity. The lucky dog then goes on to be named after a noted personality in that year's Jazz Festival. This year he or she is going to be called Whitby, after the head of Birmingham City Council - Mike Whitby. A good name for a dog if you ask me.
If you see a person with a blue charity bucket with a plastic dog on top (like a doggy bank) at any of our events, don't forget to give generously to a great cause.

Room Service

2008-06-11T01:36:00.000-07:00

Hello to all the wonderful Jazz Festival goers coming to Birmingham from out of town this year.
Did you know that this year, some of the best hotels in the city centre are not only housing our artists and acting as performance venues, but offering great deals to the public too?
At venues including the Copthorne, Hotel Du Vin, Ibis Birmingham Centre, Menzies Strathallan Hotel, nitenite cityhotels and the official hotel for the Festival, The City Inn. You can be not only in the centre of Birmingham, close to the many shops and attractions the city has to offer, but in the centre of the Festival as well. Artists such as the John Patrick Trio, Becky Brine, Kel Elliott, Mellow Harmony Avstreich Baku, Sally Night, Django's Castle, Carol Sudhalter, Paul Sawtell, Alan Barnes Quartet, Tim Kliphuis, Bourbon Street Stompers, Bobby Woods, Misinterprotato and Craig Milverton could be playing in your hotel lobby, with some nifty collaborations taking place. The City Inn is also host to the wonderful exhibition of 'jazz photos of Birmingham 2007' by Merlin Daleman.

Here's an outline of the offers. Remember to ask for the special Jazz Festival Rate and contact the hotel directly on the numbers given below.

The City Inn - From £65 weekends, from £119 weekdays. Brunwick Square, Brindleyplace
0121 643 1003

The Copthorne - From £60 weekends, from £79 weekdays. Paradise Place
0121 200 0600

Hotel Du Vin - from £99. Upgrades available whenever possible. 25 Church Street
0121 200 0600

Ibis Birmingham Centre - £58.50, 21 Ladywell Walk
0121 622 6010

Menzies Strathallan Hotel - from £39 weekends, from £49 weekdays. 225 Hagley Road
0121 455 9777

nitenite cityhotels - £44.95, Centenary Plaza, 18 Holliday Street
0845 890 9099
To view a map of the location and get the full contact details please see out venue list.

If music be the food of love.....

2008-06-09T07:51:00.000-07:00

The 2008 Taste of Birmingham event is taking place on July 11-13, at Cannon Hill Park. The Jazz festival is going to be there in the afternoons, serenading your ears as your tastebuds get similar treatment. The midland's finest restaurants are taking part and music will be coming from the Swedish Jazz Kings, Mellow Harmony Austreih, Tiptina, the Hammond organ trio Pedalmania and Misinterprotato, who join us all the way from Australia.
This combination of music and food, arguably two of the best things in the world, should be a great experience for the lucky attendees.

For more information visit channel4.com/taste

Quick Festival Update

2008-06-06T02:58:00.000-07:00

The Jazz Festival is nearly upon us, so here's a quick update.

The printed programme is in the final stages of preparation, and to be sent to the printers today, and will be with us within a week or so. If you want to request a copy then head to www.birminghamjazzfestival.com send us your details and request a programme.

If you wish to volunteer and be a part of the Jazz Festival then visit www.birminghamjazzfestival.com, fill in the form and we'll get right back to you.

For all details regarding artists / performance times / venues and ticket prices visit: www.birminghamjazzfestival.com.

Birmingham Jazz Festival welcomes The Cobweb Collective

2008-06-03T00:46:00.000-07:00

The Cobweb Collective promotes some of the most enterprising young bands in Birmingham, with a strong link to the Conservatoire. Four bands due to be showcased are: Lydia Glandville Trio, Sam Wooster Trio, Jimmy Brewer Trio and Ben Kane Trio. See them on Thursday 10th July 2008 at The Yardbird Jazz Club (9pm).
www.cobwebcollective.com

Jazz Festival Comments

2008-06-02T08:36:00.000-07:00

It's always nice to hear people saying nice things about the festival.
Here's a nice post on Created In Birmingham: http://www.createdinbirmingham.com/2008/05/29/24th-birmingham-international-jazz-festival/

The programme is coming along nicely and is soon to hit the streets.
Visit www.birminghamjazzfestival.com to sign up for updates, to volunteer or just for more information on the festival, it's always nice to hear from you and to hear of your ideas to help us create the best kind of Jazz Festival.

More soon......

Jazz at The Mailbox

2008-05-30T10:42:00.000-07:00

As part of the Birmingham Jazz Festival you can experience Jazz whilst you shop in The Mailbox every day of the festival starting between 12-12.30pm. International artist include, Dixieland Crackerjacks, The Netherlands (4th), Djngo’s Castle, Spain (8th), Budpest Ragtime Band, Hungary (9th) and Bourbon Street Stompers, Germany (11th).
Please check the programme for more details.

Local star returns to festival

2008-05-30T02:21:00.000-07:00

Birmingham based trumpeter Bryan Corbett and his quartet, will be playing at the Ha Ha Bar & Grill at 3pm on Sunday 13th July. Bryan has been featured as a Jerwood Rising Star at Cheltenham International Jazz Festival and has performed with such notables of the international jazz scene as Jane Monheit, Curtis Steigers, Spike Robinson and Kenny Baker.

www.bryancorbett.co.uk

Birmingham Jazz Youth Ensemble play at the Symphony Hall

2008-05-29T08:27:00.000-07:00

Birmingham Jazz’s high-rated youth big band, Birmingham Jazz Youth Ensemble, is the product of Creative Big Band sessions at the CBSO Centre.
You can see them on Saturday 4th July at Symphony Hall, Level 3 Bar (5.30pm)

Aaron’s back for 2008

2008-05-29T07:08:00.000-07:00

We are delighted to confirm that Chicago violinist Aaron Weinstein is returning to the Birmingham Jazz Festival. Aaron’s previous appearances were in 2006, when he was recognised, at the age of 20, as being one of the most exciting emerging jazz talents. Aaron’s recent developments include a duo album with John Pizzarelli for Arbors and appearances with Frank Vignola and Jane Monheit.
Places/dates you can see Aaron include: Wednesday 9th July at Hotel Du Vin (1pm) and at the Copthorne Hotel (6.30pm) and on Thursday 10th July 2008 at the Pavilions (1.30pm) and The Living Room (8pm).

Jazz in the Jewellery Quarter

2008-05-28T08:54:00.000-07:00

On Saturday July 5th it’s your chance to enjoy the music of West Country singing star Becky Brine and her Rhythm Boys (the Big Peg – from 11.00 am) and trumpet star and new festival patron Digby Fairweather (St. Paul’s Square – from 12.30 pm) in the stunning surroundings of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter whilst browsing round the Jewellery Quarter Arts and Designer Craft Market.

Taste of Birmingham 2008

2008-05-28T08:52:00.000-07:00

The 2008 Taste of Birmingham event is scheduled for Cannon Hill Park on July 11-13. The Midlands’ finest restaurants will take part, including Michelin-starred Simpsons, award-winning Opus and top Indian establishments Lasan and Itihaas, plus Aria, Filini, Hotel du Vin, Malmaison, Thai Edge, The Oriental, plus Ludlow’s La Becasse. Chefs appearing at the event include Antony Worrall-Thompson and Andreas Antona. Visitors have the chance to taste and sample French wine, Italian coffee and English produce! The Birmingham International Jazz Festival is providing an international mix of music for the afternoons of July 11-13, with the Swedish Jazz Kings, Australia’s Misinterprotato and Hammond organ trio, Pedalmania.
Information on Taste of Birmingham: channel4.com/taste or telephone 0871 230 5581

Jazz at the Museum

2008-05-25T11:38:00.000-07:00

Last year for the first time the Jazz Festival included a special event at the Black Country Living Museum in Dudley. Jazz at the Museum added jazz to the many attractions at the Black Country site, from vintage tram to authentic local pub to non-conformist chapel. This highly successful event is to be repeated in 2008, with top-class jazz from the Bourbon Street Stompers and Val Wiseman. Tickets are available on 0121 520 8054.

New faces for Birmingham in 2008

2008-05-17T11:05:00.000-07:00

The 24th Birmingham International Jazz Festival (July 4-13) is based on the same principle that has worked so well for many a year: events (at least 150 this year) all across the city and its surrounds, nearly all of them free of charge, with locations ranging from the conventional to the downright unpredictable, with jazz musicians playing in a variety of settings in 3 or 4 day residencies.

This year’s Birmingham, as in many recent years, is particularly strong on European bands, with old favourites like the Budapest Ragtime Band, Germany’s Bourbon Street Stompers and the New Orleans Jump Band, Mike Izatt’s ever-popular multi-national force from the Costa del Sol, and some exciting new faces. Equally multi-national are the Swedish Jazz Kings, with Swedes like Tomas Ornberg and Olle Nyman joined by outstanding Australian trumpeter Bob Barnard and UK players Martin Litton and Spats Langham. The Netherlands’ Dixieland Crackerjacks have, since 1994, built a reputation as one of the foremost bands in the classical jazz field, laying stress on ‘the swinging and happy sounds stemming from the 20s and 30s’ while Les Zauto Stompers from France similarly insist that ‘the audience must be as happy in the hall as the musicians are on the stage’! For real youthful exuberance, though, Birmingham goes a bit further afield, to Melbourne, Australia, for the Red Hot Rhythmakers, a nine-piece led by multi-instrumentalist Michael McQuaid (trumpet and reeds), and to Utah, for the Brigham Young University big band, Synthesis.

Two of last year’s big successes return: American saxophonist Carol Sudhalter and Dutch violinist Tim Kliphuis. A new face to the festival is the outstanding American saxophonist Greg Abate with a CV that takes in Berklee College (in the 1970s), the Ray Charles Orchestra and a prolific recording career with Candid. Nashville-based singer-songwriter Suzahn Fiering brings her unique talents to the festival, as does Sally Night, British-born, Cannes-based where she works with many of the best French and Italian jazz musicians.

Add in a selection of Britain’s finest, deployed in all kinds of enterprising musical combinations and geographical locations, and it’s pretty obvious that Birmingham 2008 will, as usual, fill the city with the best of jazz.