Another change of style for the jazz & swing band – we were asked to play for a 1920s / Great Gatsby themed corporate event recently at the luxury Beaumont House in Windsor. Even though not a totally “authentic” 20s line-up (no sousaphone or banjo!) the client thought the sound and style were perfect. With a possible repertoire of around 80 tunes from the era and massively experienced Pasadena Roof Orchestra regular Ben Cummings on trumpet the evening was a great success.
Rather behind in news from Summer events but one of the most enjoyable to be involved with was playing outdoors at the Olympic rowing venue at Dorney Lake on 30th June. This was with a 5 piece jazz & swing band line-up (including trumpet and sax) playing for family and friends of British Gas employees who were swimming a mile in the lake as part of “British Gas Swims Britain” a nationwide event raising more than £250,000 for Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity.
Was nice sunny summer day but wind blowing across the lake was quite something.
Another new top class venue in London’s West End for us last night with the jazz and swing quartet playing for a computer company’s 10 year anniversary party at Home House on Portman Square.
Very warm and sultry evening but everyone seemed to be having a good time.
Unusual event last week for the jazz trio playing for one of London’s oldest private banks in the “square mile”.
Although one of the busiest parts of the city we were outdoors in their large garden – just missed the rain thankfully.
Shame to hear the news that Gordon Ramsay will shortly be leaving Claridges. Have played for several very nice events over the years both with the jazz duo and as solo pianist in the private dining part of the restaurant. The Amaryllis Room was particularly classy although a very tight fit for us!
Have now joined the “blogging community”.
Will be updating on what the band is up to and also anything interesting I come across when performing as pianist and keyboard player.
