News

GBH BIG BAND Merry Jazzy Christmas, with the ebullient vocals of Clara Walker

Sunday 16th December 7.30 pm – Wiltshire Music Centre

Joan Davis and Byron Wallen, St James’ Wine Vaults, Bath, Thursday 1st November 2018
Tickets £12/10 Doors open at 8 pm

In a span of twenty years, 7 recordings and countless stage performances, vocalist Joan Davis has built her reputation as not only a singer but also a composer, arranger, jazz poet, scholar and teacher. Guided and tempered by powerful life lessons and rooted in jazz traditions laid down by Betty Carter, Ella Fitzgerald, and other leading ladies of past generations, she combines various elements of jazz, soul, R&B and world music to create a captivating hybrid style.
Throughout her career as a vocalist and songwriter the elements of nature versus urban existence have provided a dramatic resource of images to express her vision of life through words and music.
Joan’s career has included performing with Tony Kofi, Bobby Mcferrin, Byron Wallen, Pee Wee Ellis and Clive Deemer; Just to name a few and for this performance it is Byron Wallen who joins Joan on stage. A leading figure of the British Jazz Scene and a firm favourite of the Vaults’ audience this will be a very special night!

“she can deliver any song she chooses with power and conviction, and any opportunity to see her performing has to be a treat for the ears. When Joan steps out, you can bet there’ll be a well satisfied audience somewhere.” Venue

“forthright and unaffected singing with style and intelligence.” The Guardian

Byron Wallen is “one of the most innovative, exciting and original trumpet players alive” (Jazzwise Magazine). Widely recognised as a seminal figure in world jazz, he is constantly travelling the world recording, teaching and performing.

“Byron’s always absorbing music genuinely draws in the disparate elements of African and Eastern cultures, while retaining true jazz spirit … ”

Jazz Factory Celebrates 20 years!

20th Anniversary Gala Concert                                                                                  Monday 26th November 2018                                                                                  Wiltshire Music Centre                                                                                                                8pm – Free entry with retiring collection

Jazz Factory is celebrating 20 years of jazz education. During that time over 500 people from all walks of life have been members and over 40 jazz professionals have led the workshops.  

To celebrate two world-renowned jazz musicians, Iain Ballamy and Huw Warren will be leading our workshops and appearing at the Showcase Concert on Monday 26^th November. 

There will be a mixture of  the usual group format as well as the group performances led by Iain and Huw. There will also be a chance to see them in action and there may even be a few other surprises. This is a real treat for members and for everyone attending the concert. 

ECM recording artist Iain Ballamy is an internationally recognised saxophonist and composer who has been variously described as urbane, original, freethinking and uncompromising.

Find out more www.iainballamy.com

Welsh pianist and composer Huw Warren has achieved an international reputation for innovative and eclectic music making over a thirty year career.

Find out more www.huwwarren.wordpress.com

Please spread the word and we look forward to seeing you there. It’s certainly not to be missed.

Our new term starts Monday 10th September. New members are always welcome. Do just come on down to Wiltshire Music Centre for 7.30pm start and introduce yourself to our Secretary, Lynden. Mike Daniels our Musical Director will then show you to the different groups and suggest the best one for you.  Registration is a quick form to fill in. We offer ‘Try for a Fiver’, so there really is nothing to lose! 

We particularly welcome drummers and bass players, although we do have room for all instruments/vocalists.

Do get in touch if you would like to put your name down in advance to join us in September.

We are currently planning our 20th anniversary celebrations which will follow our end of term Showcase Concert, Monday 26th November 2018. Details coming soon…

A chance to see our tutor in action! Damian will be playing at St James Wine Vaults, Bath on Thursday 17th May with the house trio. It’s a great cellar bar with a real authentic feel to it! £7 (£6). Tickets can be bought at Bath Box Office  as well as on the door. 8.30pm start.

There’s no Jazz Factory Bank holiday Mondays. Why not check out some great jazz at Cheltenham Jazz Festival the first bank holiday!

www.cheltenhamfestivals.com/jazz/

In Jan 2018 we suddenly found ourselves with four groups and two drummers. At Easter we find ourselves with NO DRUMMERS. So to entice you perky percussionists out of your houses, we are offering a special subscription discount. Contact us for more details.

We’re really thrilled that, Rachel Kerry, has agreed to give our site the once over!!