Stratford Jazz, White Swan, Sundays, 8.00pm. Live Jazz

Stratford Jazz has been running since at least 1986.
That is more than 21 years of Stratford Jazz at the WHite Swan this year.

In recent years musicians have included:
Steve Tayton & Keith Bill Trio, Otra-Vez, Franny Verney & The Big Idea, Andy McClaine Collective, Pete Harris Qrt, Martin Williams Qrt, Stacey Kent, Alan Barnes, Jim Tomlinson, Christian Brewer & Pete King and chronilogically ...

2003 (listing from 20 April 2003 right up to today)
Apr 20 – Phil Shapiro Quartet
Apr 27 – Pat Crumley Quintet
May 4 – The Graham Dent/ Andy Shillingford Quartet
May 11 – Claridade ( Brazilian influenced tones!)
May 18 – Malcolm Gibbons Quartet
May 25 - Sarah Colman and Quartet
Jun 1 – The Chris Bowden Quartet
Jun 8 – Juliet Kerry and Quartet
Jun 15 – The Street, Green, Tromans Trio
Jun 22 – The Dunstan Coulber Quartet
Jun 29 – The Andrew Colman Quartet
Jul 6 – Steve Kershaw with Sketpana & Russian friends
Jul 13 –The Ewan Baird Quartet
Jul 20 – Dave Betts Quintet
Jul 27– The Eddie Severn Quartet
Aug 3 – Colin Willetts Quintet
Aug 10 – Erika Lyons/Brian Waite Qrt
Aug 17 – Ian Palmer Quintet
24 Aug – Pete Lay Quartet
31 Aug – Steve Street Quartet
07 Sept – Roy Forbes and Quartet
14 Sept – Karen Sharp and Trio
21 Sept – Tom Hill and The Straight Jackets ...
... kindly sponsored by: Country Artists
28 Sept – Esther Millar and Quartet - More Info
05 Oct – Denise Gordon with Graham Dent Quartet
12 Oct – ***Martin Speake Trio 'Exploring Standards'***
*** in ass'n with The Stratford on Avon Music Festival
19 Oct – Al Gurr Quartet with Roger Inness
26 Oct – Sue McCreeth and Trio info
02 Nov – Zoltan Dekany Quartet
09 Nov – Dent /Shillingford Quartet
16 Nov – The Pete Harris Quartet
23 Nov – Jeremy Fish with the Trout Quartet
30 Nov – Brenda Scott and Quartet
07 Dec – Colin Willets Quartet
14 Dec – Luis D'Agostino and Pete Oxley
21 Dec – Ian Palmer Quintet
-------------------- 2004 Past Gigs ---------------------
11 Jan – Ewen Baird Quartet
18 Jan – Paul Sawtell's Jazzfantastique
25 Jan – Gilad Atzmon Quartet info or Listen
01 Feb – Dave O'Higgins info & John Patrick Trio
08 Feb – Luca Luciano info or Listen
15 Feb – John-paul Gard - Pedalmania info
22 Feb – Eddie Severn Quartet info or Listen
29 Feb – Pete Lay Quartet
07 Mar - Denise Gordon & Graham Dent Qrt
14 Mar - The Erica Lyons Qrt
21 Mar - Bill Colman, Trefor Owen & Cory Christenson
28 Mar - The Bryan Corbett Trio info & Listen
04 Apr - Jean Grunfeld and Trio info -> Listen
11 Apr - The Malcolm Gibbons Quartet, with:-
(Brian Waite -p, Erika Lyons -b)
18 Apr - Roy Forbes (vocals) & Quartet info
25 Apr - The Andrew Fawcett Quartet info
02 May - Zoltan Dekany Quartet
09 May - Esther Millar info & Quartet
(Bryan Corbett -t Gerry Spencer –p, Zoltan Dekaney –b, Neil Bullock -d)
16 May - USA's Modesto Briseno (trumpet) Touring with
(Brian Waite -p, Erika Lyons -b, John Gibbon -d)
23 May - Graham Dent/ Andy Shillingford Quartet
30 May - Rosie Brown (vocals) info with
(Richard Wetherall -p, Matt Owens -d bass, Alejandro Sancho -guitar)
06 June - Brenda Scott-v John Gibbons-d John Smith-g
13 June - Ewen Baird Quartet
20 June - Tom Hill & Straitjackets
27 June - Chris Bowden Quintet info with John Ruddick -t -fh
04 July - Luis d'Agostino + Pete Oxley listen
11 July - Brenda Scott & Paul Sawtell Trio
18 July - Steve Kershaw info Stekpanna new info & Cuban guests Click: 'Cuban Meltdown' flyer - in new window
25 July - Sue McReeth info+ Paul Sawtell Trio
01 Aug - Steve Street info Mike Green, Steve Tromans
08 Aug - Tim Ward Quartet info & listen with Clive Morton -bass,
Paul Buck -keyboards, Pete Tantrum -sax/flute, Tim Ward -drums.
15 Aug - Pete Hurt with Erica Lyons Trio
22 Aug - Dave Betts Quintet
29 Aug - Chris Gumbley + Paul Sawtell, Bill Coleman & Neil Bullock
05 Sept - The Steve Tromans DeBop Band with Ryan Trebilcock (Bass) and Doug Hough (Drums)
12 Sept - Pat Crumley Quartet info & listen
19 Sept - Kevin Figes (sax) info
26 Sept - Gilad Atzmon Quartet info or Listen
03 Oct - Ralph Allin info & Trio
10 Oct - Erica Lyons & Guest
17 Oct - Luis d'Agostino Trio
*** in ass'n with The Stratford on Avon Music Festival
24 Oct - Pete Lay Quartet
31 Oct - Esther Millar info & Quartet
07 Nov - Denise Gordon with Graham Dent Qrt
14 Nov - Forster-Hammond Trio info & listen
21 Nov - Andy Derrick Quartet info
28 Nov - Brenda Scott with the Paul Sawtell Trio
5 Dec - Eddie Severn Quartet info & listen
Paul Sawtell -p, Tom Hill -b, Graham Dare -d
12 Dec - Sarah Colman & Friends
Neil Bullock -d, Levi French -p, Ben Markham -b
19 Dec - Tom Hill & The Straight Jackets info
Al Gurr -P, Andy Shillingford -s, Neil Bullock -d, Pete Harris -g
-------------------- 2005 Past Gigs ------------------
9 Jan - John Dankworth with The John Patrick -pTrio
Featuring: Alec Dankworth -b & Tony Richards -d
16 Jan - Ben Markham-b Quintet, featuring:-
Bryan Corbett-t Chris Bowden-s Pete Harris-g Neil Bullock -d
23 Jan - Tim Ward Trio, Edgar Marcias -p, Mike Green -b
30 Jan - Paul Sawtell's Jazzfantastique
Bill Coleman -b, Neil Bullock -d
06 Feb - Mark Nightingale (trombone) info & Trio
John Patrick -p, Zoltan Dekany -b info, Tony Richards -d13 Feb - Erica Lyons Trio with Mike Piggott
Including: - Brian Waite -p, Erica Lyons -b
20 Feb - At: Waterside Bar map or info (Not The White Swan)
Julie Edwards -v, info & Kevin Dearden -s info Quintet info
Alan Savage -d, Al Gurr -p, Bill Coleman -b
27 Feb - Edgar Marcias -p Latin Qnt (Back at The White Swan)
Miles Levin -d, Chris Bowden -s, Tom Hill -b, Wilmer Sifontes - percussion
06 March - Steve Tromans BeBop
13 March - Kevin Figes Qrt
20 March - John Patrick-p Trio
Zoltan Dekany -b info, Tony Richards -d
27 March - Ewan Baird Qrt
03 April - Zoltan Dekany
10 April - Ed Johnson Qrt
17 April - Esther Miller & Quartet - More Info
24 April - Martin Speake’s Constellation info- Charlie Parker Tribute. Mike Outram (g), Simon Thorpe (b), Dave Wickens (d)
01 May - Bryan Corbett (t) info with (probably) Levi French (p), Ben Markland (b), Neil Bullock (d)
08 May - Jucamaya - The Graham Dent (p) & Ian Hill (ts, ss) quartet under their new name
15 May - Andrew Coleman (t) - personnel tbc
22 May - Steve Kershaw and Stekpanna info
+ Steve Waterman (t)
29 May - Christian Brewer (as) with Leon Greening (p), Mick Coady (b), Triston Maillot (d), Jim Hart (vibes)
05 June - Gilad Atzmon and The Orient House Ensemble - Frank Harrison (p), Yaron Stavi (b), Asaf Sirkis (d) info
12 June - Denise Gordon with the Dent/Hill Quartet
19 June - Sebastiaan Cornelissen Trio - young Dutch drummer info with Lale Larson (p), Gary Willis (b)
26 June - Martin Pickett Quartet info - Oxford-based guitarist
03 July - thEROGINNISZONE info - Roger Innis (b) with his new band featuring Carlton Romillie (s), Chris Storr (t), Rod Youngs (d)
10 July - Stir, featuring Dave Stephen (g), James Evans (s, cl), Dave Thorogood (b), Gareth Hughes (d)
17 July - Ray Butcher (t) Quintet. Featuring Chris Bowden (s) Miles Levin (d) Mike Green (b) Tim Amann (p) Julie Dunn (v) info and Peter Gill (v-guest)
24 July - Pedal Mania - John-paul Gard’s Trio info
Pedal Mania - showcases the B3 Hammond Organ
31 July - Luis d’Agostino Trio - Argentinian guitar maestro
7 Aug - Sara Colman Quartet feat. Chris Bowden (s), Chris Taylor (p), Ben Markland (b) and Ian Palmer (d) Sara’s soulful, sophisticated vocals are a firm favourite with White Swan regulars, and another chance to see the stunning Chris Bowden with such a great band is a considerable bonus.
14 Aug - Stan Sulzmann (s) with Brian Waite (p), Erica Lyons (b) and John (d) As a player, composer and bandleader, Stan is one of the giants of British jazz. His career goes back to the sixties, since when he has played with virtually all the biggest names on the scene. "... it simply doesn't get any better than this" - John Kelman, All About Jazz
21 Aug - Chris Gumbley (s) and Andy Derrick (trom) with Dave Storer (b) and Malcolm Garrett (d) A group specially formed by Chris on baritone and Andy on valve trombone to celebrate the music of Gerry Mulligan and his famous piano-less quartets. "Thinking man's Jazz" - Don Lusher. What about thinking women??
28 Aug - Brenda Scott Quartet feat. Paul Sawtell (p), Bill Coleman (b) A welcome return for the ever-popular singer and her regular band: open-hearted, no-nonsense, swinging jazz.
04 Sept - Malcolm Gibbons Quartet A subtle, understated guitar technician.
11 Sept - Pete Lay Quartet - Pete, long-time pillar of the Banbury Jazz Club and regular visitor to the White Swan, is a versatile and entertaining tenor player (and occasional vocalist).
18 Sept - Dylan Howe’s Five Corners info feat. Quentin Collins (t), Brandon Allen (s), Andrew McCormack (p) and Mike Janisch (b) - Equally at home with rock (long-time member of the late Ian Dury’s Blockheads) and jazz (specialising in the classic fifties/sixties Blue Note style) drummer Dylan is currently touring with his latest quintet to rave reviews up and down the country. This promises to be one of the gigs of the year.
25 Sept - Tom Hill & the Straitjackets feat. Andy Shillingford (s), Paul Sawtell (p), Pete Harris (g) and Neil Bullock (d) - What can you say? One of the best live bands in the country, led by the irrepressible Mr Hill. In fact they’re all bandleaders in their own right, bar one (Neil doesn’t need to do anything but drum). Straight bebop to funk/fusion, maybe some sleazy and/or satirical blues vocals from Tom - they can do the lot.
02 Oct - Bryan Corbett (t) info and Levi French (p) We in the Midlands have been lucky to have him to ourselves for some years, but surely Bryan is overdue for national recognition. Levi is the equally talented pianist in his regular quintet, and this is a chance to hear material they’ve developed for the duo format.
09 Oct - Patrick Naylor’s Soundial info feat. Ian East (s) Another keenly anticipated debut at the White Swan, guitarist Naylor’s band have a growing reputation and a wide-ranging repertoire, from Brazil to the Balkans via bop. www.soundial.co.uk

16 Oct - Sid Jacobs Trio info (in association with Stratford Music Festival) Sid, a widely respected player in his native USA, is in the UK on a short tour. As well as performing with the likes of Harold Land, Eddie Harris, Buddy Montgomery and Brad Mehldau, he is heavily involved in education; at just 18 he was guitar instructor at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas and now teaches at the Musicians Institute in Los Angeles. "...a fine and unsung player & I cannot praise this work too highly..." - Adrian Ingram, Just Jazz Guitar www.sidjacobs.com

23 Oct - Martin Pickett Quartet
Stepping in at short notice, this will be good news for those who remember the last visit by pianist/composer Martin's excellent band a few months back. Martin's style is sophisticated and thoughtful, but liable to cut loose when the mood is right. www.martinpickettjazz.co.uk

30 Oct - Alan Barnes (s) with Paul Sawtell (p), Tom Hill (b) and Neil Bullock (d) A real treat this week: Alan is widely recognised as one of the best improvisers in the country on clarinet alto, tenor or the huge baritone. His between-numbers wit and repartee is equally renowned. Although he’s now a pretty big name, he still clearly enjoys playing smaller venues, especially with such a classy rhythm section (hand-picked for the occasion). www.alan-barnes.co.uk

06 Nov -Jules Edwards (v) and Kevin Deardon (s) + trio inc. Bill Coleman (b) and Al Gurr (p)
Those who remember this singer/saxophone duo from their previous appearance at the Waterside Theatre will know how good they are - they apparently sold more albums at that gig than anyone else has ever managed. Those who missed it get a second chance.

13 Nov -Geoff Eales Trio: Piano Legends, feat. Roy Babbington (b) and Mark Fletcher (d)
Geoff’s reputation as one of the country’s finest continues to grow both here and in the States, and will only be enhanced by his current tour with his regular trio, paying tribute to, among others, the great Bill Evans. www.geoffeales.com
‘People like musicians to fit neatly into categories, Geoff does not do that. He delights in technique not for its own sake but because it allows him to be clear.’ Jazz Views
‘... a gifted home-grown, totally uncategorisable pianist-composer who burns with terrifying passion for the music.’ Jazz at Ronnie Scott’s

20 Nov - Ewen Baird Quartet
A welcome return for regular visitor Ewen and his band. The Oxford-based Scottish tenor player has an engaging, mellow but muscular style on standards, bop classics and less famous tunes like those of trumpeter Tom Harrell.

27 Nov - Brenda Scott Quartet feat. Paul Sawtell (p) and Bill Coleman (b) Brenda is a real crowd-pleaser with a loyal following among White Swan regulars: good old-fashioned swinging jazz, with the usual keyboard fireworks from Mr. Sawtell and (probably) the usual terrible jokes from Mr. Coleman (though to be fair some of them are actually pretty funny).

04 Dec - Pete Lay Quartet Tenor-player and occasional singer Mr. Lay’s last appearance prompted a section of the audience to sing along (with more spirit than musicality) to his version of Route 66. Let’s hope we have no repeat of such disgraceful behaviour!

11 Dec - Jazz Fantastique Paul Sawtell (p), Bill Coleman (b), Neil Bullock (d) This regular trio never fails to deliver. Every time you see them you realise you’ve forgotten how good they are. Expect good-humoured, quirky virtuosity.

18 Dec - Christmas Special -
Tickets: £5 advance, £8 door.SOLD OUT! - SOLD OUT!

For tickets Phone Roy Stevens: 01789 298607

Alan Skidmore info-1 info-2 with Keith Bill (p), Tom Hill (b) and Ian Palmer (d) “Skid” has been ahead of the British tenor pack for over thirty years now, and shows little sign of slowing down. Firmly in the Coltrane tradition, his most recent work has seen him backed by an African drum ensemble, Ubizo info-3. Ian Palmer, Tom and Keith make up a fine quartet who have been playing together quite a bit recently, including gigs at Ronnie Scott’s. Guy Salmon, Stratford kindly supported our Xmas Special

-------------------- 2006 Past Gigs ---------------------

08 Jan - New Year Special - Ticket - Going fast! GONE!

Tickets: £5 advance, £8 door.SOLD OUT! - SOLD OUT!
STAND BY Tickets, phone: Roy Stevens: 01789 298607

08 Jan - Alan Barnes info / Art Themen Quintet info with Paul Sawtell (p), Tom Hill (b), Neil Bullock (d) Anyone at Alan’s November gig will need no further urging. The addition of tenor veteran Art Themen, who has played with everyone from Jack Bruce to Stan Tracey, is a considerable bonus: the musical and personal rapport between the two is a real treat.

15 Jan - Jucamaya Graham Dent (p), Ian Hill (s), Adrian Litvinoff (b), Delroy Brown (d) Regular visitors Graham and Ian with their newly-named quartet (“It doesn’t mean anything,” says Graham). What it should mean, though, is music that is quietly passionate, with a soulful, occasionally funky edge. www.grahamdent.com

22 Jan - Steve Tromans De-bop Band with Ed Jones (s), Chris Mapp (b), Miles Levin (d) People may finally be waking up to the fact that Steve is one of the most creative and individual keyboard players in this area the country. Here he leads his fine young band in a “re-construction” of Coltrane’s legendary “A Love Supreme” suite. Intrigued? You will be.
www.steve-tromans.co.uk

29 Jan - ZZ Bop Ian Ellis (s), Craig Milverton (p), Tom Hill (b), Nick Millward (d) Tom Hill’s other band: less fusion-oriented than the Straitjackets (also due in a month or so) with more of a straight-ahead hard bop/blues feel. All four are great players with a sense of adventure and fun. www.clarke-hillmusic.com

05 Feb - Martin Pickett (p) Quartet Martin helped us out a couple of times last year, first by changing a date, which meant he couldn’t bring his full band, then by stepping in at the last minute when someone dropped out. This time we hope the circumstances will be more conducive to the subtleties of his music.www.martinpickettjazz.co.uk

12 Feb - Roy Forbes Quintet feat. Ian Hill (s), Graham Dent (p), Ryan Trebilcock (b), Steve Street (d) After his early work with Andy Hamilton’s band, Roy has over the years established himself as the pre-eminent male jazz vocalist in the Midlands, with a swinging style and a touch of soul and rhythm ’n blues. www.oyorecords.co.uk

19 Feb - Lupa with Alfonso Deidda (s, p), Roger Innis (b), Miles Levin (d) + guest Bryan Corbett (t) Sometime model and actress Lupa (aka Antima Abbamonte) is a singer with an interesting style that is all her own: intimate and almost conversational in tone. She is currently on tour with this band featuring her fellow-Italian Alfonso Deidda, plus three names that will be familiar to most of us. The appearance of Mr. Corbett will be recommendation enough for regulars. www.lupamusic.com

26 Feb - Stekpanna Mads Kjolby (g), Steve Kershaw (b), Petter Svard (d) with (tbc) Steve Waterman (t) and/or Ed Jones (s) The return of this perennially popular, cheerfully cool Anglo-Scandinavian trio, hopefully (though it’s not yet confimed) by either or both of the two front men who guested on their last album, the excellent “All for a Beautiful Life”. For a fascinating interview with Steve Kershaw look up the October 05 issue of Jazz views at www.jazzviews.co.uk (look under 2005 newsletters). www.stekpanna.com

05 March - The Straitjackets Andy Shillingford (s), Pete Harris (g), Paul Sawtell (p), Tom Hill (b), Neil Bullock (d) Their regular visits over the years have made them one of the biggest draws in these parts. Top quality jazz from one of the best live outfits in the area - satisfaction is guaranteed when these guys come to town. Just one word of advice: get there early.

12 March - Edgar Macias feat. Chris Bowden (as), Tom Hill or Mike Green (b), Miles Levin (d) Venezuelan piano maestro Edgar brings back his regular band (and what a band they are). No extra percussionist this time but the full complement will be back later in the year to celebrate the launch of their debut album. This promises to be a great evening, not least because of the fantastic Mr. Bowden’s first (but not last) appearance this year.

19 March - Ray Butcher Quintet feat. Tim Amman (p), Percy Pursglove (b), Miles Levin (d) with guest Julie Dunn (v) Trumpeter Ray played a storming set last time he was here, proving that he’s one of the best in the area (and that’s in the face of some pretty stiff competition). As before, he’ll be bringing a fine band along for the ride. In case you were wondering, Percy Pursglove is the trumpeter - apparently he plays bass too.

26 March - Chris Gumbley “Nights at the Turntable” feat. Andy Derrick (trom), Dave Storer (b) and Malcolm Garrett (d) Baritone player Chris was apparently a great hit last year when he brought this tribute to Gerry Mulligan’s renowned piano-less quartet - many remember it as one of the best gigs of 2005. If, like me, you missed it first time around, this is a second chance to catch them.

02 April - Sue McCreeth with Steve Melling (p), Zoltan Dekany (b), Neil Bullock (d) Several people have asked when singer Sue McCreeth was coming back. Here’s the answer, as well as her preferred local rhythm section, who need no introduction.

09 April - Brenda Scott & John Patrick Trio with Malcolm Garrett (d) Stepping in to fill a gap that suddenly opened up, Brenda is an established favourite who always delivers. She’s a seasoned singer and performer with a great “feel” for a song and warm, humourous audience rapport. Just think twice about sitting at the front!
We were delighted greet Malcolm Garrett's guest, Jim Chapin (Yes! 'The' Jim Chapin!) who took over the drums for a couple of numbers. More: www.jimchapin.com

16 April - Bryan Corbett Quartet, Bryan on trumpet and flugelhorn with his regular band: Levi French (p), Ben Markland (b) and Neil Bullock (d). What could be better? Not much, his regular fans here at Stratford Jazz would contend. For many of us, it’s one of life’s many mysteries that he isn’t a national name by now. www.bryancorbett.co.uk

23 April - Miles Levin Quintet With his loose, inventive style, Miles is rapidly becoming the favourite drummer of many regulars. Here he’s joined by some of his regular collaborators, probably including Percy Persglove (t), Tony Ashford (s), Tim Amman (p) and Mike Green (b).

30 April - Simon Spillett with Paul Sawtell (p), Tom Hill (b), Neil Bullock (d) Tenor-player Simon Spillett asked for a rhythm section “who can really tear it up”, so these three should fit the bill. His style is based on the forceful blowing of the Jazz Couriers and he himself has been compared to the legendary Tubby Hayes by some who ought to know, having played with both. Can it be so? It’s an enticing prospect, so come along and find out.

07 May - Mike Hatton Jazz Trio with Tim Amman (p), Miles Levin (d) Mike (5-string bass and vocals) has been working in this trio format for a while now, as well as performing solo and running his own blues band. It's some time since we last saw him here, so it will be a good opportunity to hear how he sounds these days. The format should give the band plenty of room to stretch out too.
http://www.mikehatton.co.uk

14 May - Anna Brooks (s) Quintet with Tim Crampton(g)
Alcyona Mick (p), Dave Foster (b), Carl Hemmingsley(d)
"Anna Brooks made the switch from classical to jazz while studying at the Birmingham Conservatoire and the classical world's loss is most certainly the jazz world's gain. Brooks reveals a dramatic flair, an exceptionally keen ear, an impressive facility and abundance of ideas". Peter Quinn, Jazzwise www.jazzservices.org.uk/band/2141.htm
More at: www.annabrooksquintet.com

21 May - Frank Harrison Trio with Aidan O'Donnell (b), Steven Keogh (d)"Frank Harrison is one of the most talented young musicians I have heard" - Ronnie Scott
That was a while ago, obviously, since when Frank has become a fixture in Gilad Atzmon's band, and believed by many to be among the most inventive pianists in the country. This is his own outstanding trio, featured on the new album "First Light". http://www.bashomusic.co.uk/frank.htm

26 May - Special Friday extra - 8.30pm
(Ticket only - £5 - Roy: 01789 298607)
Sara Colman with the Neil Bullock Quintet with Bryan Corbett (trumpet), Chris Taylor (piano), Ben Markland (bass),When Simon Kemp asked if we’d put on an extra gig to flesh out the Friday evening part of his Stratford Big Jazz Explosion - Long Weekend, Click for Info the idea that came to mind was to put together a band of people who’ve established themselves as firm favourites with White Swan audiences over the years, as a kind of showcase for the amazing talent we have in this area. It’s a cracking quintet with Sara Colman on vocals. Sara recently won the 2005 Rush Hour Blues Audience Award at Birmingham's Symphony Hall. Drummer Neil Bullock was a natural first choice, and although he’s usually a very reluctant leader and self-publicist, once he heard of the idea, he picked up the ball and ran with it, which is why in some places it’s referred to as the Neil Bullock Quintet. So now we can truthfully say it’s a band of bandleaders.

28 May - Gilad Atzmon Quartet with Frank Harrison (p), Yaron Stavi (b), John Blease (d). Gilad should need no introduction by now. His new set features more in the way of ballads, blues and bop, but all with the inimitable Atzmon combination of emotional intensity and humour. The words "virtuoso" and "genius" have been bandied about, in this instance with more justification than is often the case.
http://www.gilad.co.uk

04 June - Ben Waghorn Quartet with Jim Blomfield (p), Riaan Vosloo (b), Andy Hague (d) Young multi-reed player Ben is well known on the Bristol scene and has a wide and impressive reputation. When we heard his album, we had no hesitation in booking him. www.benwaghorn.co.uk

11 June - Chris Bowden (alto s) Ben Markland (b) Edgar Macias (p) Carl Hemmingsley (d) This was a line up to look forward to and not to miss.

02 July 2nd - Stekpanna:
Mads Kjolby (g) Steve Kershaw (b) Petter Svard (d) with Russian guests Leonid Vintskevich (p) & Nicolai Vintskevich (s). info This will bring back fond memories for some of us. It must be three years or more since Steve and the boys brought along the brilliant Russian pianist/composer Leonid and his sax-playing son. It was one of the great nights, and there’s no reason why this shouldn’t be another. www.stekpanna.com

09 July - No Jazz Tonight - World Cup Final Night!

Postponed: Heath Coldfield Quartet featuring. John Sparry (vibes) with Jim Sutton (b) Bryn Venus (p), tbc (d) Appearing by special request, Black Country local historian, writer, raconteur, bookshop owner and, more to the point, jazz musician John is reputedly something of a one-off who’s always worth seeing. Even more fun than a World Cup Final.
www.johnsparry.freeuk.com

July 16th - Esther Miller Quintet with Bryan Corbett (t), Gerry Spencer (p), Zoltan Dekany (b) and Neil Bullock (d) - South African (but Birmingham-based) singer Esther always goes down a storm, partly because shes a wonderful singer with great presence, and partly because its such a brilliant band. This is another one you need to get there early for. - [ Info | Image | www.esthermiller.co.uk ]

Its been a while since we saw them as a duo, and theyve both been pretty busy in the meantime. Luis has his own trio and has just released an excellent new album, In Between. Pete, apart from co-running The Spin jazz club in Oxford, also has his own band, the well-regarded Curious Paradise. - http://www.peteoxley.com

30 July - Juliet Kelly Quintet feat. Omar Puente (violin)

For several years now Juliet has been tipped as a rising star of the jazz/soul style. She has an expressive, seductive voice and writes a lot of her own material, and was described by Jazzwise as "one of the UK's finest female jazz stars". A considerable bonus is the presence of her regular collaborator, the amazing Cuban violinist and singer Omar Puente
http://www.julietkelly.com

06 Aug -‘The Italian Connection’ Andrew Fawcett (s), Davide Logiri (p), Gianluca Alberti (b), Neil Bullock (d) Andrew and Davide have been collaborating for a couple of years now, switching between Italy and the UK. This is the line-up for their new album The Chase, with Andrew’s big tenor sound augmented by this excellent rhythm section of two Italians and some chap on drums whose name seems oddly familiar. www.andrewfawcett.co.uk and www.davidelogiri.eu

13 Aug - Joe Archer Quartet w Chris Morgan (s), Ida Hollis (b), Jim Bashford (d) A young local band led by guitarist Joe Archer, playing mostly Joe’s own compositions, described by trumpeter Henry Lowther as "innovative and original". They recently played at Birmingham Symphony Hall as part of the Commuter Jazz series, where Tony Dudley Evans pronounced them “Excellent ... a proper band, rehearsed and with good material". Joe himself says: “I aim to write progressive and interesting music, which retains retains a sensitivity for Jazz idioms of the past.”

20 Aug - Dylan Howe’s Hammond Trio feat. Brandon Allen (s), Ross Stanley (org)This is basically three fifths of the the dynamic drummer’s electrifying quintet that we saw last year, but a different style. It’s the classic Hammond/tenor sax/drums line-up and with players as good as this, it promises to be an exciting evening. www.dylanhowe.co

27 Aug - Killer Shrimp (Damon Brown/Ed Jones Quartet)
Ed Jones (s), Damon Brown (t, fl, voc), Ben Hazelton (b), Troy Millar (d)
Ed Jones (last seen here with Stekpanna a few months back) and Damon Brown have been co-leading bands for quite a while, and both individually and as a pairing they have a formidable reputation. This, their latest project, is perhaps best described as hard bop, immaculately played, with a modern edge. It’ll be a good one. “Telling tunes, coolly crafted harmonies, powerful horn-playing and a great young rhythm section” - John Fordham (Guardian) www.damonbrown.co.uk

03 Sept - Andrew Colman Quartet Andrew Colman (flugelhorn), Jamil Sheriff (p), John Thorne (b), John Perry (d) We don’t get to see/hear Andrew as often as we should these days what with him being based in Leeds, so don’t miss the chance to catch him; “warm toned, with meticulous tone control and sensitivity”, says John Fordham (again). The band are excellent too, and there are many who’d come just to hear Jamil. www.andrewcolman.com

10 Sept - Ewen Baird Quartet (line up tba) A welcome return for a Stratford Jazz stalwart. An Oxford-based Scot, Ewen has a passion for vintage saxophones and a warm, soulful sound on tenor, soprano and occasionally alto. His material ranges across the more accessible part of spectrum of modern jazz from bop, through post-bop to funk, taking in modern standards and some less well-known gems.

17 Sept - Tom Hill’s Straitjackets Andy Shillingford (s), Pete Harris (g), Paul Sawtell (keys), Tom Hill (b), Neil Bullock (d) Another return visit, this time by the ever-popular Mr. Hill and his cohorts. Whether its straight bop, funk-fusion, soul/blues or political parody, this band has to be one of the most entertaining live acts in the country. Early arrival strongly recommended.

24 Sept - Edgar Macías Quintet Chris Bowden (s), Edgar Macías (p), Mike Green (b), Miles Levin (d), Wilmer Sifontes (perc) This is the group that played what many here considered to be one of the best gigs of last year. They were here as a quartet a few months back but this is them in their full glory, Latin-based but firmly in modern jazz territory, with any one of the five liable to reel off dazzling solos. It’s a truly great band that you’d be daft to miss.

01 Oct - Bryan Corbett (t, fl) and Levi French (p) When they played here last year there were one or two who expressed doubts about the ability of a duo to sustain interest over a whole double set. In fact, they were of course wonderfully compelling and, as someone remarked afterwards, “we could have a duo like that every week”. If you were on the boat trip, you may have wished you could hear them in a quieter context, so here they are: www.bryancorbett.co.uk or www.levifrench.com

08 Oct - Jucamaya Ian Hill (ts, ss), Graham Dent (p), Adrian Litvinoff (b), Dave Balen (d, perc)The return of Graham and Ian’s band, with the excellent bass of Adrian Litvinoff and a drummer who’s a new name (to me at least). “As usual we will feature a varied selection of originals (mainly mine), and other jazz tunes. Dave brings some interesting percussion opportunities to the band,” says Graham.

15 Oct - Trio Gitano Collective Jamie Fekete and Sam Slater (g) with Ray Butcher (t), Percy Perseglove (t, b), Holly Jones (f), Louis Robinson (v), Mike Fletcher (ts & as) This line up is a guitar duo augmented by some “friends of Gitano” who are well-known names to Midlands jazz fans. It should be an absorbing and entertaining evening. www.trigitano.com
In association with Stratford Music Festival <-- Click for programme

22 Oct - The Hub
Paul-Alexandre Meurens (s), Tim Dahl (b), Sean Noonan (d)
Stratford Jazz goes international with this visit by a young power trio all the way from New York City. The band has played at famous venues all over Europe and built up a strong following over here. Their music is rather more, shall we say, challenging (and loud) than some of us are used to. The Guardian described it as “manically exhilarating, gripping in its precision and energy” and “a real breath of fresh air, even if it hits your eardrums at dangerous velocities.” On the other hand, bassist Tim Dahl assures me that “it is jazz at the end of the day. We have played at some of the biggest jazz clubs around the world and we consistently win over classical jazz fans time and time again. So I can promise you that we won't scare anyone away.” www.thehubnyc.com

29 Oct - Sara Colman with Al Gurr (p), Ben Markland (b), Neil Bullock (d) + possibly Martin Williams (s) Sara is always popular with White Swan audiences (even those not that keen on singers) and for good reason. Where some other singers sacrifice feeling for technique, or vice versa, Sara is the real deal: skilful, tuneful, soulful and various other fuls. The line-up isn’t confirmed as yet, but rest assured - Sara always brings a great band.

05 Nov - Alan Barnes with Paul Sawtell (p), Bill Coleman (b), Neil Bullock (d) Fireworks night indeed. Alan really needs no introduction, as the old cliché goes, and nor do the band for Stratford Jazz regulars. So I won’t do one. It’s likely to be standing room only. www.alan-barnes.co.uk

12 Nov - Theo Travis Quartet feat. Simon Colam (p), Alex Keen (b), Marc Parnell (d) Originally a local lad, Theo Travis has made quite a name for himself with his virtuosic and soulful style on tenor and occasionally flute. as well as his own bands, he’s played with many luminaries, including Jim Mullen, Norma Winstone, Tony Coe and the late Slim Gaillard. He’s also involved in 60s underground legends Gong and the Soft Machine Legacy (with John Etheridge,Hugh Hopper and John Marshall). "One of the very best young tenor players of this or any jazz generation in Britain", said Digby Fairweather - and that was over a decade ago. In case you were wondering, drummer Marc is the son of bandleader Jack. www.theotravis.com

19 Nov - Lupa with Bryan Corbett (t, flg), Alfonso Deidda (p, s), Roger
Innis (b), Miles Levin (d) A return visit by Italian singer Lupa and the boys. Quite apart from her individual vocal style, ranging from Mingus to Joni Mitchell, those who remember the last time she was here will confirm what a great band this is. The local names speak for themselves, and the less familiar Alfonso Deidda is something special, playing great piano and great sax, sometimes simultaneously. www.lupamusic.com

26 Nov - Geoff Eales Trio featuring Roy Babbington (b), Mark Fletcher (d) with special guest Simon Spillett (ts) By demand we had to bring them together – two sensational musicians - GEOFF EALES and SIMON SPILLETT in an exciting double header. Last time the Geoff Eales Trio were here it was probably the best attended evening of the year, and the more recent appearance by the astounding Simon Spillett (Click:info) was a real jaw-dropper - people in the audience old enough to have seen Tubby Hayes live confirmed that this guy who seemed to have appeared from nowhere really did sound as good as the legendary Tubs. The first set will be the launch of GEOFF EALES new CD HOMECOMING, then in the second they’ll be joined by the exciting tenor sax star. NB this will be in the back room but only because of anticipated numbers - it’s still F R E E, you lucky people, so ...
... please dig extra deep for the raffle! More: www.geoffeales.com

03 Dec - Denise Gordon w Ian Hill (sax), Graham Dent (p), TBA (b), TBA (d) It’s been too long since we last saw and heard Denise here. Unavoidable circumstances forced the cancellation of a date earlier in the year, but she’s finally back, and many of us have been looking forward to it for a while. If you haven’t heard her before, her gospel/soul inflected singing will be a revelation.

06 Dec - Gilad Atzmon presents Artie Fishel & 'The Promised Band' - feat. Ovidiu Fratila tbc (v), John Turville (p), Yaron Stavi (b) and Asaf Sirkis (d) (Tickets £6 - Roy: 01789 298607)

Another real treat - on a Wednesday This is a £6 ticket-entrance back room special gig. Gilad takes in the White Swan as part of his long UK tour promoting his new album. The album is astonishing: outrageous and funny with some fine playing mixed in with the pastiche and satire. The Guardian reviewer predicted: “I imagine sparks will fly on his current tour of the UK.” See: Arts Guardian I wouldn’t be at all surprised, so come along and find out. Meanwhile take a look at: www.artiefishel.com

10 Dec - Miles Levin Quintet feat. (tbc) Tony Ashford (s), Ray Butcher (t), Tim Amman (p) and Mike Green (b) Miles is one of the finest drummers in the area, and this is a welcome return for him, with a band assembled from his regular collaborators, each one a fine player in his own right; another evening of high-quality modern jazz.

17 Dec - End of Year Special - Chris Bowden (s), Percy Pursglove (t), Edgar Macías (p), Arnie Somogyi (b), Tony Levin (d) (Tickets £6 - Roy: 01789 298607) This quintet was specially put together to see out 2006 with a bang (not a whimper), and a very classy ensemble it is too. Each one has playing connections with at least a couple of the others, although as far as I know they’ve never all played as a band. The brief, as explained to them, was to get together and have some fun, and everyone was up for it.

------------------------------------- 2007 -------------------------------------

07 Jan - Alan Barnes/Steve Waterman Quintet with Edgar Macías (p), Tom Hill (b), Carl Hemmingsley (d) (Tickets £6 - Roy: 01789 298607) So to 2007, and what a way to begin: the return of Alan Barnes, this time with the wonderful Steve Waterman on trumpet. These two have worked together a lot, notably on their Horace Silver tribute, and they’re a predictably great combination. On this occasion, they’re supported by the incomparable on drums (Edgar’s choice). It’ll be great fun and a fine way to start the year.
Click to see: Review: Independent on Sunday by Phil Johnson

14 Jan -Tim Collinson Quartet
Tim Collinson (s) Lester Bennett (d) Chris Goodhall (b) Gianni Boscarino (p) This exciting quartet has been together for a year though they have collaborated for over 8 years. They have had a busy summer, playing at the Swindon, Swanage, Marlborough Festivals and also supporting Stan Tracey at the Corsham Jazz Festival. They are booked for the Isle of Wight Jazz Festival in August.

21 Jan - Pete Canter Quartet
Pete Canter (t-s) Nick Millward (d) Wayne Elliot (b) Nick Blunn (p).
Pete Canter is a fine sax player with an exceptional sound. His set of well-chosen hardbop, Latin and more contemporary jazz music draws on the work of Hank Mobley, Jo Henderson, Horace Silver and Bill Evans as well as his own originals. Based in the southwest, he has become known more widely through his numerous festival appearances including Cheltenham, Bude, Teignmouth and Pontypool. The band recently supported Polar Bear at the Exeter Vibraphonic Festival and headlined at the Taunton Jazz Festival with a twin sax frontline featuring Iain Ballamy.

28 Jan - Bryan Corbett Quartet
Bryan Corbett(t&f) Levi French(p) Ben Markland(b) Neil Bullock(d) All local favourites who need no introduction - a jazz lover's dream quartet! What could be better? Not much, his regular fans here at Stratford Jazz would contend. For many of us, it’s one of life’s many mysteries that Bryan Corbell isn’t a national name by now. www.bryancorbett.co.uk

04 Feb - Ben Waghorn with John-Paul Trio Ben Waghorn (s), John-Paul Gard (Hammond Organ/Pedals) Eddie John (d). A welcome return for Ben who made such an impression with his quartet last June. Tonight he appears with John-Paul Gard and Eddie John a talented combination with a really big sound!

11 Feb - John Sparry/Heath Coldfield Qrt
John Sparry (vibes), Richard Werritt (g), Bryn Venus (p), Jim Sutton (b) and Mal Garrett (d). Anyone who witnessed the memorable "Vibes Summit" gig when John appeared at the White Swan with the late Mike Webber some 4-5 years ago will know that this is a gig not to be missed. Not only is John a fine vibes player he is also a wonderful raconteur. This promises to be a very lively and entertaining evening.

25 Feb - Alex Hutton Trio.
Alex Hutton (p), Arnie Somogyi (b) and Graham Fox (d)Alex is widely regarded as one of the top young pianists in the country. His latest album "Cross That Bridge" has received splendid reviews in the jazz press.
Thanks to Jazz Services & PRS Foundation for sponsorship. See: *

04 Mar - Luis D'Agostini Qrt
Luis D'Agostini (g), Duncan McNaughton (t), Ralph Mizraki (b) and Charlie Stratford (d) Luis's talented trio is well known to us but this is Duncan McNaughton's first visit to SJ. Duncan is equally at home in both the classical and jazz worlds. As a classical musician he has appeared with Nigel Kennnedy, Simon Rattle and Bryn Terfel, and has performed Haydn's Trumpet Concerto at the Royal Festival Hall. On the jazz front he has played with Stan Tracey, Steve Waterman, Bobby Shew, Ed Jones etc etc.Luis is very excited about this new combo!

11 Mar - Jazz Fantastique
Paul Sawtell (p), Bill Coleman (b) Neil Bullock (d) Paul's lively trio is truly fantastique! An eagerly awaited return to Stratford Jazz at The White Swan.
Thanks to Jazz Services & PRS Foundation for sponsorship. See: *

18 Mar - Edgar Macias Quartet NB: changed band
Edgar Macias (p), Ray Butcher (t), Mike Green (b) Carl Hemingsley (d)
Venezuelan piano maestro Edgar back with a excellent line up - promises to be a great evening.

25 Mar - Joel Purnell Qrt
Joel Purnell (ts), Paul Sawtell (keys), Zoltan Dekany (b) John Perry (d)
A welcome return to this Leeds based saxophonist whose reputation goesfrom strength to strength. Another evening of high quality jazz!

01 Apr - Julie Edwards/Kevin Dearden.
Julie Edwards (voc), Kevin Dearden (saxs), Tom Pedersen (b), Alan Savage (d) Edgar Macias (p). A welcome return to the singer/sax duo who have an enviable empathic relationship. Julie has clearly joined the front runners in the world of female jazz singers.
Thanks to Jazz Services & PRS Foundation for sponsorship. See: *

08 Apr - Nicolas Meier Qrt feat. Gilad Atzmon.
Nicolas Meier (g), Gilad Atzmon (s), Tom Mason (b), Asaf Sirkis (d).
This Swiss guitarist is possibly a new name to many of you but he is well known on the European circuit, having toured extensively in Switzerland, Italy and France with such illustrious names as Elvin Jones, Brad Meldau, Bill Evans etc. The fact that he can call on such support for our gig speaks volumes!
Thanks to Jazz Services & PRS Foundation for sponsorship. See: *

15 Apr - Philip Clout Trio
Philip Clouts (p), Alex Keen (b), Sean Randle (d).
Philip Clouts latest CD, 'Direction Sout', has rheceived splendid reviews in the jazz press and has been widely featured on Jazz FM and BBC’s Jazz Line-up. Clearly a pianist with a great future.
Thanks to Jazz Services & PRS Foundation for sponsorship. See: *

22 Apr -Tom Hill's ZeeZee Bop
Tom Hill (b) Ian Ellis (s) Craig Milverton (p) Nick Millward (d).
This is Tom Hill's other band and popular with his many Stratford fans. Four great musicians who bring asense of fun and adventure to jazz.

29 Apr - Andy Hague Quintet
Andy Hague (t), Ben Waghorn (ts), Jim Blomfield (p), Dave Goodier (b), Simon Gore (d). An exciting quintet with a talented line-up which is well known to us. The repertoire combines Andy's catchy original compositions with fresh treatments of jazz standards.
Thanks to Jazz Services & PRS Foundation for sponsorship. See: *

06 May - Ewen Baird Qrt
Ewen Baird (saxs), Kevin Armstrong (g), TomFarmer (b), Andrew
Chapman (d) A welcome return to Ewen and his band. TheOxford based Scottish tenor player has an engaging mellow but muscular style,playing a mixture of off-centre modern jazz standards and original material.

13 May - Rosie Brown Qrt
Rosie Brown (v) JamilSheriff (p) Zoltan Dekany (b) Jonas
Backman (d) With quality musicianship and effortless stylethis established collective offers a classic interpretation of some choice singer-songwriter tunes. The set includes Jamil's arrangements of Joni Mitchell,Rickie Lee Jones, John Martyn, Neil Young and Cat Stevens alongside some Brazilian and jazz classics plus some strong originals penned by Rosie and Jamil.

20 May - Simon King Qrt
Simon King (g), Sam Roger (sax), DanNicholls (key), Danny
Preston b), Carl Hemmingsley (d) Simon has played with many influential jazz musicians including Randy Brecker, Jonny King, Pete King, Tim Garland, AlanBarnes, Jim Mullen etc. As well as writing and playing for his own octet and quintet, he plays regularly with groups around the West of England and is the conductor of the up and coming Shrewsbury Big Band

27 May - Esther Miller Qrt.
Esther Miller (v) Karen Sharp (ts) Gerry Spencer (p) Zoltan Dekany (b) John Perry (d) Since herfirst appearance at the White Swan in 2003 she has established herself as one of our favourite artists. Described as "a cross between Shirley Horn and Annie Ross", Esther is one of South Africa's leading singers. Karen Sharp in the line-up is an added bonus.

03 June - Henry Lowther (t) Qrt Click for his Info
featuring Jim Mullen (g) Info: www.jimmullenjazz.co.uk
with Dave Green (b) Stu Butterfield (d) * Sponsor: Jazz Services.
A 'Stratford Jazz Back-room Special'.| Phone for
Tickets £6. Phone Roy 01789 298607| Tickets

10 June - Beebe (Chris Aldridge) Quintet info: www.beebeplanet.com
Chris Aldridge (s), Bryan Corbett (t), Levi French (p), Roger Innis (b), Neil Bullock (d) Chris Aldridge may be a new name to many at Stratford Jazz but just read the line-up to know we are set for exciting high quality jazz.

17 June - Katya Gorrie Trio info
Katya Gorrie (v & pc), Denny Ilett (g), Chris Hill (b)
Katya, a welcome arrival from Vancouver, is a jazz singer of impeccable quality.Her recent CD, 'Pousse Cafe', inspired by sultry 50's recordings of Julie London, has been widely acclaimed by the jazz critics. She is ably accompanied by partner, Denny Ilett, whose guitar playing comes straight from the Wes Montgomery/George Benson school. With Katya's vibrant personality and song choices this promises to be an atmospheric evening.

24 June - Gianni Qrt info
Gianni Boscarino (p), Binker Golding (s), Ben Bastin (b), Vasilis Sarikas (d) We were so impressed by Gianni's playing in January, when he appeared with Tim Collinson, we have invited him back with his own quartet. The band has been together for two years and provide a mix of original material and modern interpretations of jazz standards. Gianni's music is beautifully enhanced by Chris Williams's soaring alto sax. Chris, a versatile musician, is an integral part of experimental jazz group 'Led Bib', signed to Babel Label.

01 July - Karen Street Quartet Info: www.karenstreet.com
Karen Street (acc), Ben Castle (s), Fred Baker (b), Mike Outram (g)
*Sponsor:Jazz Services = FREE! (But please see'Raffle'above)
Karen is probably the leading jazz accordionist in the UK as well as being a talented composer. This gig promotes her latest CD 'Accordion Crimes!'. Karen is ably supported by the lyrical and creative playing of Ben Castle (great to see him back at the White Swan), the outstanding soloing of Mike Outram and the inimitable Fred Baker.

08 July - Jucamaya info: www.grahamdent.com
Graham Dent (p) Ian Hill (s) Tyrone Bishop (b) Nick Millward (d) Regular visitors and favourites of Stratford Jazz. Good honest jazz with a soulful, occasionally funky edge. Fresh from their recent appearance at the Coventry Jazz Festival.

15 July - Cuban Meltdown!
Bobby Carcasses (pc, v, fh) Maria Cecilia Colon (v) Robin Jones (pc) Steve Waterman (t) George Haslam (s) Adrian Noble (p) Steve Kershaw (b) Marc Cecil (d) A real coup for SJ. The legendary Bobby Carcasses with Maria Cecilia Colon - two exciting Cuban musicians who have made such an impression on the world stage. Steve Kershaw has introduced us to a number of first class foreign musicians and they never fail to excite. Steve Waterman in the lineup is certainly an added bonus. Copies of the new CD 'CUBAN MELTDOWN' will be available on the night.

22 July - Kevin Figes Quartet Info: www.kevinfiges.co.uk
Kevin Figes (s) Jim Blomfield (p) Riaan Voslool (b) Scott Hammond (d)
This group is well known in the Bristol area and Kevin and Jim have become great favourites of SJ, they just get better and better.

29 July - Lee Jones Quartet Info: www.leejones-guitarist.com
Lee Jones (g) Pete Parkinson (s) Dane Cranenberg (b) Ian Russell (d)
The first appearance at the White Swan for Lee who is a product of the Birmingham Conservatoire. When we heard his demo CD we just had to book him. Definitely a star of the future

05 Aug - Ralph Allin Qrt - Lineup TBA
For those of you who have not witnessed one of his performances, violinist Ralph Allin is a revelation, an artist with the rare ability to combine jaw dropping virtuosity with universal musical appeal. His programme is both entertaining and well crafted, and uniquely diverse in content. This is swing with a capital 'S' - all providing the backdrop for Ralph's energetic and innovative arrangements of the great jazz standards and original compositions.

12 Aug - Louise Parker Qrt
Louise Parker (voc) Craig Milverton (p) Tom Hill (b) Nick Millward (d)
Jazz songstress Louise Parker has established herself as one of the most compelling vocalists on the jazz scene. A recent winner of the Evening Standard award for best vocalist in jazz, she will be featuring material from her latest CDs. Stratford Jazz enthusiasts will not be slow to notice that her quartet features the talents of ZeeZee Bop.

19 Aug - Nick Blunn Qrt
Nick Blunn (p) Sam Rogers (s) Dane Cranenberg (b) Steve Street? possibly (d) A welcome return to the very talented pianist and composer Nick Blunn. The programme will feature both modern and mainstream jazz with Nick's original compositions based on Motorway Services??!! Great to see Sam Rogers in the lineup - he made quite an impression in May when he appeared with the Simon King Qnt.

26 Aug - Bryan Corbett (t) / Levi French (p) Duo
his extremely talented duo are deservedly great favourites of Stratford Jazz. An evening of superb quality jazz is in store with a few surprises into the bargain.

02 Sept - Gitano Collective

09 Sept - The Trio Chris Bowden(s) Ben Markland(b) Neil Bullock(d) Hot from their nationwide tour where they supported the noted Swedish group EST this has to be SJ's most popular trio. An evening of the most exciting modern jazz is anticipated - the big problem is, as we are now in the backroom, where do we find a radiator for Neil??!!

16 Sept- Tim Collinson Qrt featuring Tim Collinson(s), Gianni Boscarino(p), Chris Goodsell(b). Mike Paxton(d) This quartet made quite an impression when they appeared at the White Swan for the first time in January. They are a dynamic jazz group with a varied repertoire, including a greats election of standards and creative original compositions. An entertaining evening of explosive improvisations is anticipated.

23 Sept - Denise Gordon info & Graham Dent Qrt
Denise(v) Graham Dent(p) Ian Hill(s) Roger Innis(b) Nick Millward(d) Denise a wonderful jazz vocalist who improves performance after performance. A warm welcome from her many fans is anticipated. The support of the Graham Dent Qrt couldn't be bettered.

30 Sept Gilad Atzmon & The Orient House Ensemble Tickets £6: Phone Roy: 01789 298607. Tickets are going fast!
Featuring Gilad Atzmon info (saxs & electronics) Frank Harrison (p & electronics), Yaron Stavi (db & elect bass), Asaf Sirkis (d) This gig is part of Gilad's 'Refuge Tour 2007' which is supported by Jazz Services.** Love him or hate him you just cannot ignore Gilad, he is an amazingly talented musician. All that can be said of the music on this gig is 'expect the unexpected'. They say that great musicians attract great musicians, that's certainly true for this gig when you see the abundance of talent with Gilad. The message is book early - tickets are going fast!

07 Oct: Tom Hill's Straitjackets - Info Tom Hill (b) Andy Shillingford (saxs) Paul Sawtell (p) Lee Jones (g) Neil Bullock (d).
A return to the White Swan of one of our favourite bands. The usual suspects are in the lineup except that Lee Jones, who was so impressive with his own band earlier this year, replaces Pete Harris. Lively entertaining jazz is assured.

14 Oct: *Steve Waterman Sextet* Tickets £10. Steve Waterman info (Trumpet/Flugel), Mark Nightingale (Trombone), Dave O'Higgins (Tenor Sax), Nick Weldon (Piano), Andy Cleyndert (Bass) Clark Tracey (Drums) Steve put the sextet together for the Mainstream CD 'Stablemates' to feature the music of the legendary Benny Golson. Each member of the group is a band leader in his own right so it is quite a coup for Stratford Music Festival to have them assembled under one roof at Stratford Jazz. Some of the best loved themes in modern jazz will be featured in refreshingly new and original arrangements by Steve Waterman.
This programme provides a great opportunity for jazz lovers to experience an evening of superlative musicianship by artists at the top of their game. “Great music, splendid interpretations.” - Jazz Journal.
Tickets Roy: 01789