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25/07/08 - Short notice, but tonight, in the early hours, 00.50am on More4 (Freeview channel) 'All You Need is Love' - the story of how pop music originated from the music of African slaves, how Jazz started in New Orleans and how the Blues began on the Mississippi Delta. Also 'Dinah Washington - Evil Gal Blues' on BBC2 11.35pm.
25/07/08 - I recently visited the Trumpet Inn in Bilston, Wolverhampton where Tommy Burton and his Sporting House Quartet were former famous residents in the fifties and sixties", writes David Evans, "The evening featured some guest drum solos including one from the quartet's former drummer. North West jazz fans who may visit this part of the West Midlands will be interested to know that jazz including some evenings of traditional jazz is available here every night and also at Sunday lunchtime. Musti, its new landlord who is French Algerian, plays a mean set of drums and does a fine rendition of 'My Way' in French. For information on this fine pub, famous for its real ale and whose lager is only £2.40 per pint, visit the website www.trumpetjazz.org".
23/07/08 - Christopher Dunn asks, "I can't find the record of 'Papa Laine's Children' (with Johnny Wiggs & co.). It appeared on an Oriole LP, again in the 50's I think, but even today it is occasionally featured on Jazz Record Requests. A CD would be preferable, but I can still play LPs. Anybody know where I can get one?".
23/07/08 - I've received several requests to sign a petition at www.ipetitions.com/petition/Radio-Jazz set up by Chris Walker & Digby Fairweather. It deplores the withdrawal of 'The Best of Jazz' on BBC Radio 2 - hosted so admirably by the late Humphrey Lyttelton. On the basis that I signed a petition to stop Tony's Tradtime being axed from JazzFM and another to prevent the new Music Licence being introduced, I'm not sure I'd be doing any favours if I did, but I guess I will. Perhaps you could have a look at it and consider adding your name.
23/07/08 - Hi Fred, We've struck it lucky this time Next week's Jazz Library www.bbc.co.uk/radio3/jazzlibrary Friday 1 August 2008 22:30-23:30 (Radio 3) features Kid Ory. The programme blurb reads as follows: - Trombonist Edward Kid Ory is generally regarded as the father of jazz trombone playing and in this programme, Alyn Shipton is joined by traditional jazz expert and fellow slide player Michael Pointon to select the highlights of Ory's work. These range from the first recordings by a black American band with his Sunshine Orchestra in 1921 to his triumphs in the jazz revival of the 1940s and 50s with such colleagues as the trumpeter Henry Red Allen. Cheers, Fred McCormick.
23/07/08 - The Spirit of Fats Waller is to be recreated at The Boathouse, Parkgate on Tuesday 5th August, when pianist and entertainer, Derek Harrison, joins the Parade Band for the evening.
22/07/08 - Dear Fred, Your readers may well be interested in this weekly one hour BBC Radio Ulster programme hosted by Walter Love on Sunday evenings at 7.00pm available on satellite or via the internet including the seven day playback facility. Most weeks feature traditional and often mainstream. Last Sunday's programme was for the most part traditional and featured George Lewis, early Humphrey Lyttelton and Ken Colyer. This made for excellent listening. Best wishes. David Evans, Rhuddlan
21/07/08 - Brian Harvey has updated his Hot Jazz Channel Show at www.radiojazz.co.uk and you can read more by following the link in Jazz Extras
20/07/08 - Barry Prime from Dove Jazz Club confirms that, "Tommy's \Burton's wife Dottie has two CD's for sale as advertised in Jazz Guide - 'Live at the Raglan' and 'Ma he's making eyes at me'. Raymer Sound www.raymerjazz.co.uk/catalogue/RSCD793.htm also issued 'Tommy Live - , containing much wit and banter in between songs. A few years ago, John Wooler issued a DVD of Tommy's 1993 Bude performance at the Haywarden Club, although the web-site on the case no longer connects. As captivating as Tommy was, it's difficult to imagine the same Jokes and Stories being told in the current climate of Political Correctness. Tommy, although he was the first 'Son of Dove', was 'of his age' - best we remember him that way".
20/07/08 - John Westwood writes from sunny Spain, "We were anticipating an evening of the 'real stuff' with the Preservation Hall Jazz Band in the Roman amphitheatre in Alicante. It started on time, four phenomenal numbers and then - 'splosh'..... the heavens opened up and flooding commenced. Everyone scattered for cover but, being an 'antigüedad' there was none, so, sopping wet we bundle into the car and drive the 60 miles back home. Didn't even get a chance to talk, let alone photo, our visiting idols". Reminds me of a jazz festival I went to in Stanley Park, Blackpool.
20/07/08 - Two days ago I mentioned the search engine www.searchme.com which I thought might be of interest. Here's something to try on it, enter 'jazz g3rsm' and click video in the top left corner. You should be able to see the videos of North West bands that I've posted on You Tube, one after the other.
19/07/08 - My thanks to John Howell for this quick reply to my last news item - "Hi, Fred, I have just seen the message from Tim Porter regarding Tommy Burton CDs. Tom's widow Dot lives not far from us and I know she does have CDs and Videos or DVDs of some of Tom's performances for sale (and weren't they all just brilliant!!!!)". John has sent me details of Dot's address and phone number which I can pass on to those interested.
19/07/08 - Tim Porter writes, "I'm trying to find some recordings of Tommy Burton for my Dad and when using Google I usually end up somewhere on your site". Well that's got to be the next best thing, but I seem to recall this question cropping up before and I can't help feeling there was a special memorial CD put out after Tommy's death. Can anybody help?
19/07/08 - I've just had a load of emails bounced from wannadoo/freeserve/orange addresses (all the same company). I'll try and send them again later, guess there's trouble at t'mill!
19/07/08 - Des Hopkins is looking for a set of Temple Blocks (Skulls) in good condition, details on the Wants Page
19/07/08 - There was a fire during last night at Liverpool Cricket Club, caused by mindless vandalism it seems, which has gutted the ballroom where the Merseysippi Jazz Band play. The band will now be playing downstairs instead, so it's business as usual.
19/07/08 - I've just added a link to www.chariot.net.au/~mathewm - A Ragtime Compendium - A free index of ragtime titles, with details of composers, lyricists, dates and publishers plus where to find MIDIs of many of the titles on the Web. A must for all musicians who play ragtime music.
18/07/08 - Fred.... Thanks so much. I really enjoyed the Momma Don't Allow video (04/07/08), it took me back 50+ years. So little dancing is done now, but , wow, it kept me slim in those days. It would be interesting to see a similar video of a concert nowadays. At least the waistlines would be different". - Trevor Hodgson
18/07/08 - Are you a 'Googler'? If so you might be interested in a new search engine I've come across. www.searchme.com is a visual search engine allowing you to see a smaller version of the page before you select it. You can also see other pages that have been found, and a slider and arrows let you move between them. Try it out, you'll be amazed.
18/07/08 - From the Washington Post - "Jo Stafford, 90, an exceptionally versatile singer who worked with Frank Sinatra, Tommy Dorsey and the Pied Pipers and shared a Grammy Award with her conductor-husband for their parody of a tone-deaf lounge act, died July 16 at her home in Century City, Calif. She had congestive heart failure".
18/07/08
- Fred
McCormick sent me this lovely picture of Annie Hawkins
taken at the Dove
Holes Jazz & Beer Festival and he tells me it was
taken by Jill Hollywood or Peter Crowden, he's not sure
which. I gather they aren't sure either!
16/07/08 - Paul Marks writes, "It is my sad duty to advise you and your readers that the clarinet and saxophone player Dennis Kirkpatrick passed away Monday 14 July 2008 following a long battle with cancer. Dennis was a regular musician on the Southport jazz scene for many years and would often sit in at venues further afield such as the Malt Shovels, The John O' Gaunt Lancaster and The Wagon & Horses Leyland to name but a few. A skilled and knowledgeable musician Denny was a strong character, once met never forgotten and will be deeply missed by all that knew him. I extend my sympathy to Lorna, his family and many friends. I understand the funeral will be held at Southport Crematorium 12 noon Tuesday 22 July 2008".
13/07/08 - Alan Duckles, Gerry Duckles and Barrie Marshall (members of the Quayside Hot Stompers), are playing at Pickering Jazz Festival next Sunday the 20th, they have done it for years, sadly without Delia now. As that also depletes the Sun Street Stompers by three, Barrie Marshall , is replacing them with a quartet put together by Mike Lovell. The venue is the same, The Robert Gillow in Lancaster, at lunch time.
12/07/08 - Last Sunday saw the Cotton City Jazz Band at Moor Park Bowling Club, but I only made the second set after my hospital visit, but what I heard sounded good. Unfortunately once again Derek Daniels had a poor turnout, possibly due to the tennis finals, but there's always a good reason. He was going to throw in the towel, but Norman Gibson and David Wellock, who promote jazz in Heysham, threw him a lifeline instead. Norman has written to me as follows, "You have visited one of our events, at 'Heysham Heritage Hall', and you are aware that we have been successful with our community jazz evenings over the past three years. You also know that we support many other jazz clubs - but Moor Park Jazz Club is one where you see us quite often. We feel for Derek as he continues losses while supporting bands and the music he and we all love. Therefore, he has agreed to accept our offer of practical support for his next gig ( 3rd. August ) when he has The Savannah Jazz Band (whom we hope to put on soon!) We will theme it "A Night in New Orleans" and intend to add some new posters to create the 'feel'. We will try and bring some of our gang of 'jazzers' with us. We are making a plea to your website visitors, and in particular all jazz musicians who are not playing that night, to make the supreme effort to forget the Sunday night TV and help Derek to continue. Remember the sayings "If you don't use it you lose it!" and "When it's gone it's gone!" Promoters need bands - Bands need promoters! Let's have a great 'NIGHT IN NEW ORLEANS' - 'Good music makes good friends' - Norman and David." The Savannah Jazz Band will be appearing at the club on Sunday 3rd August at 8pm.
09/07/08 - Glad to say that Barbara is back home and passing on useful tips on the ironing front, it appears I'm still in charge of that for a while yet. During my 15 minute walks to the hospital, I was able to listen to the MP3 player and catch up on some of the downloaded jazzpods from www.jazzology.com.au that I'd not had chance to listen to, and it was good to hear North West Band Mart Rodger M/cr Jazz getting a good airing in Australia.
09/07/08 - I don't publish plaudits from promoters about their own venues, but this is clearly about a band of musicians. - Alan Grubb writes from the Isle of Man, "Manx Jazz Club, our recent concert last month was one of the best ever in the 36 years of the club. The line up was Jonny Boston tenor/clarinet, Adrian Cox clarinet/alto, Sky Murphy trombone, Tom Kincaid piano, Jim Swinnerton bass and John Perry drums".
08/07/08 - Many thanks for the kind wishes that I have received for Barbara and I'm pleased to say she is recovering well, and hoping to be home tomorrow. I feel I'm the one now ready for a rest, though it looks like I'm still going to be busy, but with supervision this time!
08/07/08 - In between hospital visits I managed to get up to Pilling today for Jack Swinnerton' s funeral. Dave Donohoe's Hi-Life Band led the funeral procession to the church and Jack's son Jim helped to bear the coffin into the church. There were many musicians there mainly from the Fylde Coast, Lancaster other parts of Lancashire and the Greater Manchester areas. I saw Barrie Marshall with camera and left him to do a better job than I could. Barrie has made photographs available at http://picasaweb.google.co.uk/barrie40/JackSwinnertonsFuneral for download, and he has cropped them to 5" X 7" for those who wish to print them off. The family had laid on a super buffet at the Golden Ball for all those who had travelled near and far to get there and before they gathered to play in memory of Jack, but unfortunately I was only able to stay for one number before shooting off back for hospital visiting time.
07/07/08 - Two new deps have gone on the deps list. They are Jeff Matthews (clarinet) and Jack Cotterill (drums).
07/07/08 - Hello. I stumbled upon your site after talking with my dad who told me he played drums for The Saints Jazz Band and recorded "When The Saints Go Marchin In". My dads name is Alan Smith, He told me he was at Uni and did part time with an agency when he played with The Saints in 1951. I am sure my dad would be so pleased if anyone remembers him as he often talks about his time with them. Wishing you all happiness - J Marshall (Alan Smiths daughter)
06/07/08 - Thanks to all those who sponsored my son for his sky dive for cancer research at t www.justgiving.com/daveburnett . I will get round to thanking you all personally.
06/07/08 - Re Jack Swinnerton's Funeral on Tuesday, Dave Donohoe tells me, that at the families request the Hi-Life Brass Band has been organised to play the pre-burial, and music in the church. After the internment in "turn the body loose", in New Orleans tradition, the band will then march back to the Golden Ball pub hopefully augmented by other willing musicians. The music will continue at the pub.
05/07/08 - It's been a hectic old week, I had to take Barbara to A&E in the early hours of Tuesday morning, and after an agonising week in which it was suggested that she might have bowel cancer, she finally had an operation on Friday, and it was all down to her appendix which was eventually removed. Thankfully she is now on the better side, and starting her recovery. It will be another 5 to 7 days before she comes home, but it does mean that emails have been piling up whilst I've been up and down to the hospital. In the meantime I've learned a whole new set of skills like washing and ironing, which involved flooding the ironing board because the temperature was too low, and breaking the handle on the washing machine because the door wouldn't open, something to do with a button I pushed called "rinse hold"!
04/07/08 - Barrie Marshall has passed on a comment from Stu Morrison about the Channel 4 archive film, and you can read it by clicking here
04/07/08 - I'm indebted to John Turner for the following :- "Dear Fred, Wood Green is a bit outside your patch but Tony Richardson's film of the Barber band at The Fishmongers Arms in 1954 could have been made at virtually any pub in Britain in the fifties. (Though I don't recall anyone turning up at the Black Lion in a Hispano) It's at http://www.channel4.com/fourdocs/archive/momma_dont_allow_player.html and worth a look now that it is on the Channel 4 archive. Just click the small screen.
03/07/08 - Jack Swinnerton's Funeral is at 11 a.m. at St John's Church in Pilling on Tuesday July 8th. A band will assemble for marching outside the Golden Ball pub, School Lane, Pilling at 10.30am and afterwards there will be refreshments and music in the Golden Ball.
03/07/08 - Hi Fred, Sorry to hear of the passing of Jack Swinnerton. Jim was playing Bass with us at the recent Kirkcudbright Jazz Festival, and he was concerned then over his fathers health. Please pass on our sincere condolences to Jim and all the family and friends. From Terry Binns (drummer, The Yorkshire Stompers)
03/07/08 - Clive Edwards of Wirral Jazz Friends writes, "Dear Fred, It was very heart warming to read Mike Carnie's email to you, about playing at and enjoying our Wirral Jazz Friends evening on 27th June. It was a delightful and happy evening, with lots of wonderful music from the Rae Owens Quartet and Mart Rodger Manchester Jazz. The dancers were kept busy, as were the parasol paraders. There was a bonus from Willy Entwistle, playing with the Quartet, when he added penny whistle and storming violin to the menu! We sold 150 tickets and made £500 for Claire House Children's Hospice. As some may know we had to change the date of the June evening, and the bands, due to a double booking by the British Legion ( they have changed systems to prevent this in the future) and we are so grateful to both bands for coming up trumps for us. The original concert has been rescheduled to 10th October with a Mersey theme from the Tony Davis Band and the Merseysippi Jazz Band. More about this nearer the time. Many thanks to our loyal supporters and to Terry Birkinhead, our MC".
01/07/08 - I had a call from bass player Jim Swinnerton tonight to tell me that his father Jack had died peacefully yesterday. Jack, who was born in 1939, was greatly involved with the Manchester Sports Guild and became its jazz organiser in the early 60s being responsible for some of the greatest musicians of the day coming to play there. Jack wrote a detailed account of the history of the MSG, which appeared as an 11 part series in Just Jazz, before being reproduced on this site. The funeral will take place next Tuesday in Pilling, more details when I get them.
30/06/08 - This letter by Thomas Evans from Barrow in Furness, has just appeared in the Blackpool Gazette - "It was a joy to be in Blackpool this last weekend, We booked a “jazz weekend” at the Doric Hotel which featured 6-in-a-bar" Dixieland Jazz Band and the Mike Lovell AllStars, both with Rosie. On both the Friday and Saturday Mike had a guest piano player up from London, Keith Nichols. Not only is Keith the best ‘stride’ piano player in the UK, he has arranged and toured with greats such as Bing Crosby and Buddy Greco and home grown big bands... Pasadena Roof and Midnite Follies Orchestras. A wonderful two days of entertaining jazz. An added bonus was that Mike was able to keep Keith up on Sunday as well, to play at their residency the Art Deco Cafe, in Stanley Park, The weather was horrible but the management had to bring extra tables to cope with the large crowd that came. All in all what a great weekend and so nice to see jazz being so well played, especially as we have just heard that the Swinging Jazz Party to be held in the Hilton Hotel has been cancelled. Hope we can do it again in the not too distant future." . Well done Thomas, it's nice when someone takes the trouble to write these sort of letters.
29/06/08 - A slight change in the pattern of appearances at The Bitter Suite in Preston means the Silver Bell Band are on on the first Thursday in July and August ie. Thursday the 3rd July and Thursday the 7th August.
29/06/08 - Mart Rodger has sent me what he describes as "The worst publicity photo ever" ! But he does go on to say that the photographer took some more. It's of the Zenith 6, so it should bring back happy memories for some of you. I've put it on the reminiscing page. To view it, get the page up via Jazz Extras, find Zenith 6 on the Drop Down menu, then scroll down the way. Have you got a band photo that can beat this?
29/06/08 - The July edition of Just Jazz magazine has just popped through the letter box. There's an interesting article on North West trumpet player, Dave Copperwaite, written by Andrew Liddle. You can access a copy of the front page and subscription details from Jazz Extras via the Main Menu
28/06/08 - Accommodation - An en-suite double room within walking distance has become available for any 'last-minute' bookers for the 17th Dove Jazz & Beer Festival Weekend. Contact Roger on 01298-814722 or Barry on 0161-483-7492.
28/06/08 - "Friday the 27th June took me to Heswall British Legion Club to sit in on drums with the Rae Owen Quartet at the Wirral Jazz Friends charity event. Rae was on good form as always playing and entertaining the crowd with his great humour and wit - everyone loved it. I have always said that as well playing good jazz the audience want to be entertained, and on this occasion they certainly were. Mart Rogers band were also playing on the evening and gave the crowd a great evening of jazz. Thanks again to Chris Pendlebury for letting me use his drum kit, what a difference it makes to a drummer not to have to pack up his drums at the end of an evening." - Mike Carnie
25/06/08 - It was listed here on 11/06/08 that Jim Chambers of Carlisle, trombonist with the Kaycee Jazzmen in the 60s and 70s, had died. There's a report of his funeral in the Cumberland News at www.cumberland-news.co.uk/news/1.127172.
25/06/08 - Carlisle Jazz Club gig list has been updated
25/06/08 - My son David is trying to raise money for Cancer Research, a worthy cause I'm sure you will agree. To do this he's committing himself to sky dive from an aeroplane. Rather him than me. He's looking for sponsors, and even the smallest amount will help. If you enjoy this site, then I would take it as a personal reward if you could help sponsor him. One way you can do this is to visit www.justgiving.com/daveburnett.
24/06/08 - Noel Broadgate reports that he has had to give up gigs for a fortnight as he is advised not to drive for a short while following a cataract operation. "Assuming that the operation is successful", says Noel, "there might be a chance that I can see both the keyboard and the music".
23/06/08 - Dumfries Jazz Club gig list has been updated
23/06/08 - Didsbury Cricket Club gig list has been updated.
22/06/08 - Stewart May has just advertised his King Flugelbone made in the 70's and in very good condition, on the Sales Page for any one interested.
22/06/08 - The Jazz Gig List for the Shrimper in Southport, has just been updated.
22/06/08 - Many Happy Returns of the day to Barrie Marshall, clarinet player with his own band - The Sun Street Stompers
21/06/08 - Jazz comes to Blackpool in the afternoon. Mike Lovell's 6 in a bar are playing on the North Pier next Saturday lunchtime. Starting again on the 26th July, it will continue weekly until the end of August between 1pm and 3-30pm. . Now that's what I call a civilised time.
21/06/08 - As I got in the car yesterday lunchtime, I heard part of the Ken Bruce show in which British guitarist, songwriter and vocalist, and founding member of 1960s British pop band Amen Corner- Andrew 'Andy' Fairweather-Low, was talking about his chosen track, Lonnie Donegan's "Putting On The Style". He said, "I've done two tours recently in the last couple of years with the Big Chris Barber Band. Lonnie Donegan was Chris Barber's banjo player, and went off and obviously became the king of skiffle, I got to do the second half of the show pretending to be Lonnie Donegan singing Precious Lord, or Takes a Worried Man .......... No bigger compliment than to play with a man like Chris Barber, 76 years of age. I think I can talk, I think I got energy, he beats me to a pulp, he's just phenomenal".
21/06/08 - Sammy Rimington will be playing with Louisiana Highway at Hyde Cricket club on 26th November. Cost of tickets £6 - available from the club or Dave Copperwaite
19/06/08 - I take comments from musicians about other musician's bands quite seriously, but rarely put them on here on the basis that 'they would say that wouldn't they', so it was nice to get this one from Barrie Marshall about Mike Lovell's 4-in-a-bar with Rosie - "Hi Fred, I heard the band tonight with Colin Turner Bass Sax and Chris Howe's Tenor Guitar, Banjo and vocals, I had a most enjoyable evening's entertainment. I took 126 photographs!".
19/06/08 - John Muskett reports, "The landlord of the Thatch And Thistle at Blackrod (or his bosses - Cains) have decided that the jazz sessions should operate monthly on the first Tuesday instead of weekly. Café Olé Trio will play on 24th June with Howard Murray guesting, on 1st July with Brian Smith and 5th August with John Hallam - future guests to be arranged for 2nd September, 7th October etc. John Gordon (guitar) and I (bass) will be in attendance as usual. Listeners, diners (good food with a proper chef), drinkers and sitters-in are all welcome. We look forward to some memorable monthly Tuesdays starting at 7.30 pm".
18/06/08 - Mart Rodger tells me that Chris Pendlebury is covering for Nigel on drums at the moment, and he played with MRMJ this week-end in Abersoch so Janet made up a memorabilia pack for him of his dad Alan. Some articles by reporter Doug Jackson were in the pack and who should be in the audience on Friday night none other than Doug himself !
18/06/08 - I recorded a video of the Les Bull Band at Moor Park Jazz Club, Preston at the start of the month. You can see it by visiting the band's web page on this site.
18/06/08 - Brian Harvey has updated his Hot Jazz Channel Show at www.radiojazz.co.uk and you can read more by clicking here.
16/06/08 - Fred McCormick has updated his Traditional Music site at http://www.live365.com/stations/oneworldmusic. Bessie Smith leads off a bunch of songs from the great American depression; Séamus Ennis and Willie Clancy tear into two of the most formidable jigs in Ireland; The Memphis Jug Band, Louis Armstrong's Hot Five, and Bob Skyles and his Skyrockets dish up some culinary delights; there's several tracks from the new Bobby Casey CD, and Marilyn Middleton Pollock shares the honours with the Lake Records All Star Jazz Band.
16/06/08 - This item first appeared on 07/06/08, but a correction has been made to the date. - "All those who enjoyed the Ken Colyer edition of Radio 3's Jazz Library broadcast on Friday 18th April may be interested to know that the listeners' feedback edition of Jazz Library is due for broadcast on Friday 20th June at 10:30pm on Radio 3, and includes some feedback and comment on Ken, as well as the correct version of the Christie Brothers Stompers' version of Creole Song. In the original programme they played the wrong track". - Robert Greenwood Chatham, Kent.
16/06/08
- The
River City Jazzmen are set to commence their summer season this year on Llandudno pier every Saturday and Sunday
in July and August between 1pm and 5pm, and in addition, August Bank Holiday Monday.
16/06/08 - Dave Vernon has been having a clearout and he has around 175 very interesting 78rpm records you might be interested in, by Sidney Bechet, Jelly Roll Morton, Mezz Mezzrow to name bit a few. I've put the details on the Sales Page which you can access via Jazz Extras on the Main Menu
16/06/08 - Mike Lovell is putting on another JAZZ WEEKEND at the DORIC HOTEL this weekend and the guest artist is the the well known stride piano player and entertainer, KEITH NICHOLS. He will be there on Friday 20th & Saturday 21st (evenings) with the full bands and on Saturday afternoon - solo piano. I'm told there are a few spaces left for locals to enjoy dinner/jazz at £25 each night or £40 for the two. The other great news for Mike is that he has been able to keep him up here for another day and he will be guesting with his band at the ART DECO CAFE on Sunday afternoon.
15/06/08
- Mike
Rogers tells me of an Archive site that might be of interest
to you - http://www.archive.org/index.php
I wasn't sure at first as it is a Californian site, but once
I got into it I realised how powerful it was. Simply
searching for Jazz in the Text section, I soon realised that
Max Kaminsky and I had something in common. We both built
crystal sets early on in our lives. I discovered that in his
book, "My Life in Jazz", which you can download or
flip it from page to page and read it on screen like a book.
Searching the same topic again under Music & Arts, and
I'm now listening to Phil Elwood presenting "A program
on the evolution of Ragtime music from Scott Joplin to Jelly
Roll Morton". The site is listed as a "Universal
Access to human knowledge". If you like to
explore extremes, you can even download a picture of Aliens
playing the Blues.
14/06/08 - I've just been reading in the latest copy of the Ken Colyer Trust Newsletter, that Pat Halcox is due to retire from the Chris Barber Band. Pat is 78 years old and has spent 54 of them with the Chris Barber Band. There's a tribute page for Pat on the Chris Barber website at: http://www.chrisbarber.net/pat/ -- there is also a message board where his friends and fans can express their best wishes. Ed Jackson, who maintains the site, tells me that Pat's last date will be on July 16.
11/06/08
-
I was treated to a night out last Monday. Mike Lovell kindly
offered to take me to Didsbury Cricket Club as he was going
there himself and it was good to sit back and be driven in
style. New Orleans Heat were playing, and although
surprisingly Roger Wigley didn't quite get the crowd he was
hoping for, those who did come, obviously enjoyed the evening.
Roger and I have been in conversation on the phone several
times, but this was the first time we had met. He is doing a
great job out there, and I've no doubt it's getting
difficult, as many promoters across the region seem to be
finding it these days.
11/06/08 - Tom Baron, who successfully promoted the "Swinging Jazz Party" in Blackpool for eight years, has had to cancel the next event which was due to take place in October. This was a premier party which involved bringing together some of the world's top jazz musicians from England, America and elsewhere to the North West of England. It's a sad end to a top event. You can read Tom's letter on the site by clicking here.
11/06/08 - Hello Fred I hope you are well? Maybe you would like, once again, to draw attention to my little group on Youtube, The Jazz Video Library http://www.youtube.com/groups_videos?name=jazzvideolibrary All sorts of good stuff for NW Jazz readers there. I'd love to bring Rod Mason's Hot Five up t'North sometime, especially in October 2009 and am open to serious enquiries...Sean Moyses, Sean@SeanMoyses.com
11/06/08 - "A while ago, I made an appeal through Jazznorthwest for news of any of the jazz musicians, who played in the radio ballads, that seminal series of documentaries, which were the work of Ewan MacColl, Charles Parker and Peggy Seeger. This quest was on behalf of Peter Cox, who was writing a book about the radio ballads. The Ballad of John Axon told the story of a railwayman who died in a crash at Chapel-en-le-Frith station, and was awarded the George Cross for bravery. On Tuesday July 1st Peter Cox will play extracts from the programme at Dove Holes Village Hall", writes Fred McCormick, and you can contact me if you want the details
11/06/08 - "Jim Chambers of Carlisle, trombonist with the Kaycee Jazzmen in the 60s and 70s, and with the Jazz Society Six in the 80s, died yesterday 10 June. Jim had not played for many years, but will be remembered with affection throughout Cumbria and beyond as a player, a promoter (He ran a hugely successful jazz club at the Pheasant in the 60s, presenting Alex Welsh with international guests and other top-line bands, and was at his death still the President of Carlisle Jazz Club), and most of all as an all-around good bloke. His funeral will be at 2pm on Monday 16 June at Our Lady St Joseph's Church, Warwick Road, Carlisle, followed by a get-together at the Cumbria Park Hotel, Stanwix, Carlisle where survivors amongst his musical friends will be making music in his memory. " - Bruce Carnaffin.
11/06/08 - If you missed the Alan Lomax interview recorded in 1938 with Jelly Roll Morton on BBC Radio, you've still got time to "Listen Again" by going to www.bbc.co.uk/radio4/progs/listenagain.shtml, and scroll down to The Archive Hour. Thanks to John Westwood for the reminder, but as he points out, it's only there until Saturday.
09/06/08 - Now here's one to tax the Mancunians. John Westwood sent me a radio programme recording of Joe Daniels and his Hot Shots playing boogie woogie, with a vocal interview introduction in which Joe says "We were up in Manchester, we used to go there quite a few times a year, and this girl used to come up, every time we played some boogie, and about the second or third time Joe asked her, "What's your name? And she said "Googie", so Joe played "Boogie for Googie". John says, "I wonder if anyone knows just who Googie was? Answers, in pencil, on the back of a ten pound note, please"!
08/06/08 - Alan Duckles and Sue Parish have written personal articles about Lancaster bass player, Malcolm Hall who died last month. I've put these, and other messages I received, on a tribute page dedicated to Malcolm, which can be accessed from Jazz Extras on the main menu.
08/06/08 - Les Bull has forwarded an email to me from Campbell Burnap's wife Jenny, in which she gives thanks for all the support she has received and also details of the memorial celebration and an invitation to friends who wish to make donations to specific charities. I've included the letter immediately following Les's own memories of his friendship with Campbell. You can access the page via Jazz Extras from the Main Menu
07/06/08 - "All those who enjoyed the Ken Colyer edition of Radio 3's Jazz Library broadcast on Friday 18th April may be interested to know that the listeners' feedback edition of Jazz Library is due for broadcast on Friday 20th June at 10:30pm on Radio 3, and includes some feedback and comment on Ken, as well as the correct version of the Christie Brothers Stompers' version of Creole Song. In the original programme they played the wrong track". - Robert Greenwood Chatham, Kent.
07/06/08 - Chester Lions are putting on a charity event at Bank of America (formerly MBNA) on Chester Business Park featuring the Blue Magnolia Jass Orchestra on Friday 13th June. It's in aid of Chester Crossroads for carers of those with Dementia or Alzheimers. Full details by clicking here. Tickets are available from Alan Webb, tel. 01244 677422.
06/06/08 - There will be a private funeral on Wednesday 11th June for Campbell Burnap, then on Friday the 4th of July there will be a public celebration of his life in the Long Room at Lord's at 2 o'clock. The John Barnes Outswingers will play. "What a very fitting place for Campbell", writes Les Bull, as he was an MCC member, his ashes can be scattered in the Harris Gardens - just behind the iconic Lord's Pavilion. This is the area in which the Outswingers have played for many years on big match days. One important thing to remember is that, to get into the Pavilion, there is a dress code - jackets and ties are required.
06/06/08 - I would like to thank Brian Singleton for contacting me recently to stand in for him on drums with "The Chicago Teddybears Society Jazzband" It is great after so long to play with the Teds once again, and can say what a great band this is, both musically, and also entertaining the crowd. Rae Owen ( Bass & Vocals ) told me that I will be sharing a log cabin with Neville Goodwin ( Keyboard ) and Tony Ormesher ( Banjo / Guitar) for the "Kirkcudbright Jazz Festival", and it will be known as the "Snorer's Cabin" Just hope we harmonise !!! - Mike Carnie
06/06/08 - Eagley Jazz Club programme of events has now been updated until the end of the year.
06/06/08 - I was sorry to hear that Peter Hunter, the Ken Colyer Trust's education coordinator, riverboat and concert organiser, died very suddenly on Thursday 29 May of a heart attack. I had spoken to Peter once when he bought a couple of the George Lewis DVDs off me and we had a very interesting chat. It was through talking to Peter that I joined the Ken Colyer Trust. Peter's funeral will take place on Monday 16 June at 12:30 at St Paul's Church, Langton Road, Rusthall, Tunbridge Wells, TN4 8XD, followed at 14:00 at Tunbridge Wells Crematorium, Benhall Mill Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN2 5JJ.
05/06/08 - "Hi Fred, BBC Radio 4 this Saturday 7th June at 8.00pm - I hear there is a programme about the Alan Lomax & Jelly Roll Morton Library of Congress recordings. It might be good listening" - Mart Rodger. Fred McCormick says, "It's about the legendary Library of Congress session, when Alan Lomax recorded 10 hours of talk and music from Jelly Roll Morton. The programme is presented by Marybeth Hamilton, who I can guarantee, knows her onions about such matters.
05/06/08 - Good News, Broadband was back on this morning after two days, and that was without me doing a thing.
04/06/08 - Things are a bit behind at the moment, not because my broadband has been down for two days, but because I'm spending literally hours on the phone talking to BT in Southern India, trying to get them to fix it. I realise they don't know that I was a technical support engineer on computer links when I worked for them, and that I built my own pc and am able to do some in depth diagnosis, but when I'm asked to repeat the same useless time consuming tasks for the fourth time, I do get a little frustrated. It's even more frustrating when after an hour of switching things on and off, resetting, unplugging, and typing in the same old commands, they tell me there is a problem in the Exchange, something I worked out for myself before I even rang!
04/06/08 - Two bands at two new venues, both got off to such a good start they've been asked back. The New Riverside Jazz Band are back at the Plough Inn, Runshaw Lane, Euxton near Chorley, on Sunday 6th July, and Mad Ed's Hot Five have been invited back to the Liverpool Arms, Manai Bridge, Anglesey on Monday 16th June.
03/06/08 - The very popular band, that's no stranger to the North West, New Orleans Heat, are back again. This time it's Didsbury Cricket Club on Thursday night this week, at 8-30pm, admission charge is £8.
01/06/08 - Keith Allcock has asked me to remind supporters of The Jazz Gentlemen, that their monthly residency at The Derby Arms in Rainford has finished and that their monthly residency at The Beaufort Hotel, Burscough, is taking a break until the autumn".
31/05/08 - The Blue Magnolia Jass Orchestra are the latest band to take charge of their web page by including a Google Calendar of Events. Now you can quickly see where and when the band is playing next, and in the future. As yet no other band has come forward to include a gig calendar on their web page.
31/05/08 - "Less than 24 hours before Campbell Burnap died, British born Danny Moss, a talented veteran swing-oriented tenor sax player, died in Perth, Austalia", Clarrie Henley told me. Danny Moss had been an important part of the British jazz scene since the early ''50s. He started playing professionally when he was 16 and through the years had worked with a who''s who of England''s jazz community, including Vic Lewis, Ted Heath (1953-1955), Johnny Dankworth (1957-1961), Alex Welsh, and Humphrey Lyttelton (1962-1964). A fine thick-toned tenor stylist in the tradition of Coleman Hawkins, Moss had often been called upon to perform with traveling American jazzmen, most notably Buck Clayton in the mid-''60s. He had led his own groups on and off since the 1960s, in addition to extensive freelancing (including working with the Pizza Express All-Stars in the 1980s and with his wife, singer Jeannie Lamb). Danny Moss, moved to Australia in 1989 but still played often in Europe.
31/05/08 - Les Bull, one of Campbell Burnap's greatest friends and cricketing buddies in the North West, has written a moving account of their friendship. You can read it by clicking here or via Jazz Extras. I'll also be adding other tributes as they come in.
30.05.08 - I've just received this shock news from John Petters. - "I heard from Mike Pointon this morning of the unexpected and tragic death of Campbell Burnap, following a short illness. I had a long association with Campbell, which more or less started with the Legends of American Dixieland Tour in 1989, with Wild Bill Davison and Art Hodes. Campbell was featured on most of the dates on what became the last tour both the American octogenarians. He was a fine jazz singer with a magnificent voice and in my view he could have had a career as a singer had he been so inclined. As well as his trombone playing career in such top UK bands as Terry Lightfoot’s and Acker Bilk’s, Campbell’s warm, rich voice, combined with his passion and knowledge for swinging jazz , made him a natural choice for presenting informed and intelligent jazz shows on BBC Radio. The birth of Jazz FM in the 80s, promised much and delivered little. The station did offer a further glimpse at the skills of this fine broadcaster with his excellent show, ‘Mainstem’, which not only played great recordings from the past, but gave exposure to new CDs, which most other stations ignored. British traditional jazz has lost many legendary figures during the past year, George Melly, Dick Charlesworth, Humph and today Campbell. Somewhere in heaven there must be a hell of a jam session going on". - I first had contact with Campbell when he rang to ask for a list of NW gigs to bring a balance to his programme after we lost "Tony's Tradtime" on JazzFM. We have been in occasional contact ever since and Barbara & I were lucky to meet up with him, first at Maghull, and then at Rawtenstall' s Rhythm Station where we sat with John & Jasmine Lawrence who brought Campbell over. It was to be John's funeral when we were to meet again for the final time. In all that time he never forgot Barbara's name and always asked about her. We are deeply saddened to hear this news about a gentleman and a musician who still had a lot to give. - Fred
29/05/08 - 29/05/08 - Dave Dixson took up the challenge of 23rd May when I suggested band musicians might be willing to have a go at creating a calendar of events for their band, using Google Calendar and maintaining it. This follows the success of Mike Lovell's 6-in-a-bar and Barrie Marshall's Sun Street Stompers who trialled it for me. As a result, you can now also follow the gigs of the Peninsula Jazzmen by visiting the band's page.
29.05.08 - Wil Robinson writes, "I was recently listening to Kenny Ball's Greatest Hits (an act I make no apologies for - great entertainer!!!) and came across a number called "Acapulco". I wonder if any of your faithful subscribers can, as they did wonderfully well with my last request, provide me with either a lead sheet or a set of chords (even better, both) for this number. I have also been asked by a non-computerised fellow musician to request the same help for a number which Chris Barber used to do called "I Never Knew What A Girl Could Do" or "I Never Knew Just What A Girl Could do". I think a lead sheet is what he is after."
29/05/08 - There's a "Summer Special" coming up on JUNE 20th at Fort Perch Rock. ANDY COOPER, the wonderful clarinet player/vocalist from The Kenny Ball Band, probably - and unjustly! - best known as the guy who sings "King of the Swingers" - complete with jungle noises, will be the guest of the Tony Davis Band. The "Summer Special" replaces the usual last Sunday Jazz Brunch, and tickets are £10 on the night - £8 in advance from Tony or the Fort.
29/05/08 - Back in April I mentioned ex-mancunian Merton Cahm. Merton is now in Tel Aviv and plays with the Isradixie Band. He has told Joe Silmon that the band would like to tour the UK if there was enough interest. So any promoters out there who may be interested in booking the band, can hear a sample and read more by visiting http://frederickburnett.googlepages.com/isradixi.htm.
28/05/08 - Around 150 people arrived for the funeral of Lancaster bass player Malcolm Hall today as the New Riverside Jazz Band were playing 'Just a Closer Walk With Thee'. Sue Parish then began by singing Pennies from Heaven, and the New Riverside Jazz Band played one of Malcolm's favourites, Creole Love Call. Bass player and long time friend of Malcolm's, Pete Deeley, gave some amusing anecdotes and an insight into Malcolm's sense of humour. It was standing room only with some people unable to get inside the crematorium chapel, so it was not surprising that everyone I met spoke of Malcolm as "a lovely fellow". There was an invite for everyone to attend the Robert Gillow afterwards, where the New Riverside Jazz Band were playing, but band leader Alan Duckles was delayed, as he hardly had time to put his cornet away before dashing round to the entrance for the next funeral, which was for an old friend of his. "It comes to something when you start doing them in tandem", said Alan. The Gillow was also packed with people sharing fond memories of Malcolm and his music. Many musicians who had worked with him over the years were present, along with his family and many friends. The band played spiritedly throughout the afternoon, with lots of sitters in paying musical tribute to a man who gave a lot of joy to a lot of people, and whose memory will continue to make people smile for years to come.
28/05/08 - Jon Critchley advised me of a Courtney Pine tribute to Humph on Radio 2, but it was too late to let you know in advance. However thanks to Listen Again, you can find it at http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio/aod/genres/jazz/aod.shtml?radio2/r2_humphtribute . Jon said, "Hope it's better than Radio 3 programme last Saturday: featured about 10 mins of Humph". Well I can tell you it's a very interesting program, I've just listened to it.
28/05/08 - Fans of Billy Edwards might like to know that he will be depping on trumpet with the Salt City Jazzmen on their regular Thursday gigs at The Old Barbridge Inn, near Nantwich, Cheshire on 29th May and 5th June? Also Don Lydiatt of the Merseysippi Band will be depping on clarinet with the Salt City Band on 5th, 12th and 19th June while their regular reed man Harry Christian is on holiday.
28/05/08 - Hello Fred, I wish to express my thanks to all the fine musicians in the ‘Chicago Teddybears Society Jazzband’ for involving me in their entertaining band last week and their supportive fans, particularly for their warm reception when I returned to ‘old stamping grounds’ on a short ‘tour’, to deputise for drummer, Brian Singleton. I really enjoyed playing the gigs and it was also good to see family and so many friends again during the visit. Since moving from the region to live in Cornwall, while keeping in touch via your excellent website Fred, I have been ‘locum‘ drumming with several top bands and musicians in the south west, being able and of course willing, to travel far afield to play jazz, but it really was a special pleasure to play for 'Chicago Teddybears Society Jazzband'. I sincerely hope to be invited to return to North West jazz again, as and when opportunities occur. - Alan Davies
27/05/08
- Popular
Lancastrian bass player, Jim Swinnerton, has been seen
sporting a sousaphone of late. Here he was photographed by
Barrie Marshall down by the the river at Garstang. Jim and
Barrie were playing for Garstang Children's Festival with
the Red Rose Band.
27/08/05 - There are some Lancaster Jazz Musicians off on a jolly jaunt tonight. The BBC, for their programme, "The Culture Show", have invited ex workers and musicians, to a celebration of the rebirth of the Midland Hotel, in Morecambe. There's a champagne reception on the Sun Terrace, followed by Live music in the lobby with the BBC Big Band, - Champagne, canapés and dancing are the order of the night. Barrie Marshall tells me he qualifies on account he was a page boy there in the 50's, but dancing was not part of his training programme!
24/05/08 - The June edition of Just Jazz magazine has just arrived. There's a photo of Frank Parr on the front. An early member of the Merseysippi Jazz Band, Frank celebrates his 80th birthday on the 1st June. You can access a copy of the front page and subscription details from Jazz Extras via the Main Menu
23/05/08 - Humphrey Lyttelton Saturday 24 May 2008 17:30-18:30 (Radio 3) Geoffrey Smith presents a special edition of the programme with listeners' requests saluting the late Humphrey Lyttelton.
23/05/08 - "Like everyone else I was saddened to hear of Malcolm Hall's death. I listened to him in various bands and also played alongside him many times over the last fifteen years and it was always a real pleasure; his sense of swing, enthusiasm and superb musicianship helped us all to play that bit better. One gig I remember with particular affection was a lunchtime trio at the Wagon and Horses, Lancaster with Mal playing piano, myself on guitar and Delia singing a programme of Bessie Smith numbers. I don't need to tell you how honoured I felt to be invited to join two such accomplished musicians. Above all he was a really nice guy and I shall miss him." - Steve Lister
23/05/08 - I've introduced a new feature to the web site. Using Google Calendar, I'm trying to incorporated the band's own gig list into the band's web page. As a trial, I've set up a calendar for the 6-in-a-bar gigs, and you can see the result on recently added web page. Barrie Marshall has taken over responsibility for his own calendar, and as he updates the gig list for the Sun Street Stompers, it now automatically appears on the web page on this site. Obviously the ultimate intention is that each band should update its own list and it will mean that eventually you will be able to click on your favourite band's web page and see where you can see and hear them next. You can click on each event for more details, and if you click on the map icon, you can even print off a route to get you there. Any musician willing to have a go at creating a calendar of events for their band, and maintain it, should contact me, I'll be happy to give you all the assistance you need. In the meantime take a look at those two pages and get a glimpse of the future.
23/05 08 - I've just added two new bands to the site - The Tame Valley Stompers and Mike Lovell's SIX-IN-A-BAR.
23/05/08 - "So sad to hear about Malcolm- the last time I played with him was at Southport Jazz Club a couple of months ago. He was happy and cheerful even in the face of his illness. He was always so kind and inspirational to me." - Rosie Harrison
22/05/08 - "Sad news about Mal Hall. We go back over 50 years, we both went to Lancaster Royal Grammar School, worked at Burtons in Lancaster for a short while, we both went into military bands in 1956 for 3 years. Malcolm played tenor sax in those days, as well as piano. I played clarinet and baritone sax as well as piano. We continued playing music after the forces, with Moff, George Niven & co. I will miss him dearly, he was an extremely talented musician, his vibraphone playing was always appreciated, but of course he settled on acoustic bass, which he was a master. His talents and bubbly personality will be greatly missed. Fortunately I have recorded cassettes and videos of his music, so I can always go back to that for memories. Love and best wishes go to Mary." - Tony Booth
22/05/08 - "It was a sad day when Peter Eddowes rang me about Malcolm Hall. Over the years Malcolm and I have had many long chats on the phone. I depped for Malcolm - He depped for me etc. We met him a few times on some of our visits to Lancaster venues. Always friendly and never a bad word about anybody. We will all miss him. God Bless. " - Gerry & Margaret Clayton
22/05/08 - The Wilbraham Arms gig list has been updated until the end of August.
22/05/08 - Malcolm Hall's funeral will take place at Lancaster & Morecambe Crematorium, Powderhouse Lane, Lancaster, LA1 2TT, on Wednesday 28th May at 2pm.
21/05/08 - Re Malcolm: "I'll miss him very much - he taught me such a lot about music and how to swing the band ! He was a great guy - so talented and yet so modest." - Dave Bateman
21/05/08 - The Les Bull Jazz Band will play The Bull, Main Street, Sedburgh on Tuesday the 3rd June and the First Tuesday of every month thereafter - 8.30pm - 11.00pm. This is a change from the previous regular gig which was on the 2nd Tuesday of the month
21/05/08 - "Re Malcolm Hall: So sad.......... Whenever I turned up unannounced at those Lancaster gigs, Malcolm always greeted me with a welcoming smile as if I'd just come from down the road rather than having arrived from Canada. His casual attitude always made me feel at home on my visits. I shall miss him. In my original "Doom & Gloom" letter I may have been wrong in saying the music would die with our generation, but I was right in regretting that our generation of musicians & fans were gradually disappearing. Each one of them is unique and irreplaceable." - Trevor Hodgson.
20/05/08 - I was saddened to get a call from Alan Duckles tonight to tell me that Malcolm Hall, bass player with the New Riverside Jazz Band, and the Sun Street Stompers, had died in Lancaster's hospice this morning. Malcolm was a great guy, who always had a laugh, shrugging off his latest illness with a "C'est la vie" attitude. He was a great supporter of this web site, both financially and as a reader, carefully filing away on his computer, all the News items that appeared on the site. Barbara and I will miss the little chats we had with him whenever we met up. More details when I get them.
19/05/08 - Don Bridgewood has just sent me a reminder that jazz features at the Horse & Farrier, Bentham, this Thursday. He says, "The last session was a good one and hopefully with the holiday season upon us there will be good support. From around eight o'clock onwards and food is available". Let's hope it continues.
17/05/08 -" 'The Dixieland Country Show' at www.radionorthwickpark.org is a hospital radio show that has been running for 11 years live and on line on Thursdays at 7.0pm", writes Programme Controller Vic Moont. "Last week I was pleased to welcome as my studio guests Jeff & Anne Barnhart, hot foot from The Keswick Jazz Festival. Richard Leach & Graham Smith From "The Antique Six Jazz Band" were also my special guests on the show. Next Thursday 22nd May I will be continuing my report back from Keswick along with a special tribute to Humphrey Lyttleton. On Thursday 29th May I shall be presenting a special show tribute to Ken Colyer on this anniversary year since his birth 80 years ago and the formation of The Ken Colyer Trust on his demise 20 years ago. Radio Northwick Park serves the patients and staff at Northwick Park Hospital in Harrow and all live shows can be heard by logging on to the above website.
17/05/08 - The Preservation Hall Jazz Band are set to tour the UK again this year, but unfortunately the North West does not feature on their itinerary. If you are think of travelling further afield, you can see them in Henley Festival (Jul 10), Chichester Cathedral (Jul 11), Oundle International Festival (Jul 12), Union Chapel, London (Jul 17) and Harrogate International Center (Jul 19). If you can organise a party, the Union Chapel in London are offering a special group deal for friends of Jazz North West. For every ten tickets purchased get one ticket free (=£1 p/p) available direct from the organisers. Please email Andrew mentioning Jazz North West to: info@ex22production.co.uk or call 0845 3920999. I can supply more details if needed.
17/05/08 - On the 6th June, Amy Roberts will be a guest of the "Spirit of New Orleans Band" who play every Friday night at the Delph Band Club. Also on June the 27th the guests will be Frank Brooker and Tom Kincaid .
17/05/08 - Dear Fred, Last week my wife Ros and I visited Keswick Jazz Festival and continued the Busking sessions started by the late Len Storey. Would you please announce the takings of those sessions through your web site and thank the musicians for giving their time. The grand total came to £368.14 and a cheque for £370.00 is on its way to Meningitis Research, the chosen charity for this years efforts. A good time was had by all and we all enjoyed another cracking festival to boot. - Roger Wimpenny
16/05/08 - Jeff Lewis writes, "The Crosby Music Festival takes place over the bank holiday weekend (23rd - 26th May). The Rioters Dixieland Jazz Band will be appearing on the main stage in Crosby Village on Sat 24th approx 16:30 to 17:30.......Stocks have been specially erected!!!...... The downside of this is, that for one month only, we will not be at our usual excellent watering hole, Stamps Wine Bar, on Sunday 25th. Back to normal (as near as we ever get) in June." If you can't wait until Saturday 24th, the Rioters we will be making their regular visit to Waterloo Rugby Club the previous evening from 8:00 onwards.
13/05/08 - There's a Jazz & Barbecue night coming up in Southport at West Lancs Yacht Club on 4th July with The Merseysippi Jazz Band. Your choice of Salmon, Beef and Chicken, all freshly cooked by the Yacht Club Chef - See web page for full details
13/05/08 - The Pendle Jazzmen are back on the scene after a short absence. They are doing a one off gig at The Oak Hotel, Colne Road, Reedley, Burnley BB10 2LF, on Wednesday 28th May, at 8pm. Admission will be £4, and your support would be greatly welcomed.
10/05/08 - Denys Owen asks, &