My Life in Jazz

Jazz is a unique art form – the main contribution to American music in the 20th century played in obscure clubs by under-paid and disregarded musicians, some of whom rank as virtuosi in any era or context.

After many years spent on the listening and observing side of bandstands, I can now draw on my experience as a practitioner, playing alto sax with a couple of modern jazz bands playing music drawn from the great modern jazz repertoire stretching from early bebop through to the 1970’s around London. From Monk & Bird through to Sonny Rollins, Wayne Shorter, & Herbie Hancock. Plus many less well-known jazz composers – Mal Waldron, Benny Golson, Tadd Dameron.

Jazz has been a significant feature and factor in my life since my mid-teens. I am deeply immersed in its music, culture, social history, politics, urban myths and influences. I realise how much jazz has invigorated my life.

This is an opportunity to share some of that enthusiasm with you…