Classical music and jazz: Latest news
Published: 20 May 2010
by SEBASTIAN TAYLOR
THERE are so many fine gigs coming up that jazz enthusiasts will have some difficulty in making their selection. For instance, which to choose this evening (Friday)?
At the Kings Place arts centre, there’s an opportunity to hear brilliant gay American comic/singer Lea DeLaria once described as a cross between Ella Fitzgerald and a Broadway diva.
At The Forge, Camden Town, young Manchester big band Beats & Pieces is starting its national summer tour with music mainly drawn from its new album. The band’s line-up consists of three trumpets, three trombones, three saxes/reeds, piano, guitar, bass, drums and laptop musician.
On Saturday evening, again at Kings Place, jazz singing continues with the celebrated partnership between Claire Martin and legendary classical and screen composer Sir Richard Rodney Bennett. Their programme will include Cy Coleman pieces featured on their new album.
Sunday lunchtime at The Princess of Wales, Primrose Hill, expressive swing trombonist is playing with Pete Chapman’s Trio.
Monday evening has a choice between experimental jazz played by Tom Challenger’s MA at The Con Bar, St Pancras Way, and swing-era jazz played by the Dan Spanner Big Band at Cross Keys on York Way, King’s Cross.
On Tuesday evening, consummate saxophonist Mark Lockheart is playing with his group at The Oxford in Kentish Town.
Wednesday evening, saxist Alex Garnett is joining the Michael Janisch Trio at the Green Man in Euston Road.
Thursday evening, Martin Drew’s star-studded New Jazz Couriers is playing at Lauderdale House, Highgate.