It was a privilege to be able to stage, in an intimate small venue, two world class jazz musicians, David Newton and Alan Barnes, who have honed a musical partnership over more than 40 years from a shared beginning at Leeds College of Music.
Dave’s consummate keyboard skill and extraordinary harmonic perceptions have made him the number one in the UK when it comes to jazz accompaniment. Alan likewise has played in many jazz bands over the years (including a 7 year stint with Humphrey Lyttleton) and has toured Europe with the cream of visiting US stars.
Alan is also a gifted composer, arranger, band leader and record producer. He owns Woodville Records, a leading UK jazz recording label. Alan’s Octet, which includes David on piano, has featured in every annual Southport Jazz on a Winter’s Weekend festival since its inception in 2005 and including Sunday last when the band played Alan’s latest composition, a suite entitled “Copperfield” inspired by the Charles Dickens novel.
Together they play as one and the music is enriched by Alan’s mastery of both clarinet and alto & baritone saxophones. Geoff has heard them many times in duet, including a concert at last year’s Scarborough Jazz Festival which has been critically regarded as the highlight of the whole weekend’s world class programme. Their interpretations of the classic jazz repertoire, particularly the compositions of Duke Ellington/Billy Strayhorn are just sublime, as was heard last Monday at Boulevard West.
If you are interested in joining the Southport u3a Jazz group please visit their group page to apply or contact the leader.
For more information about Southport u3a, please get in touch using our contact form.
