Diary

Coming from a family of strong musicians, Carl first started playing the piano when he was six years old. He had classical lessons to the age of twelve (just listening and learning to copy the sounds) and went on to win 'Young Musician of The Year'. A few years later, he switched to a teacher that gave more direction on improvisation, jazz and pop. By the age of eighteen, he'd mastered the art of playing boogie-woogie piano - relying on a strong left hand and a quick technique. Since 2007, he has become one of the resident pianist at Jools Holland's live music venue 'The Jam House' in Birmingham. But he’s also very privileged to have performed at some of the country’s top music festivals and theatres and at countless weddings/private parties - and even done a few for some celebrities! One of our club favourite acts, Carl Sinclair (piano) will make a return visit to us alongside Howard Smith on Drums.

Lady be Good is an all-female, saxophone-filled jazz band that brings a touch of class to your event. Think classic swing and jazz from the likes of the Rat Pack, Julie London, Nina Simon and Peggy Lee, plus more modern numbers with our unique twist. Lady Be Good have it all covered, featuring the vocal talents of Lynn Dawes and Joe Greaves.  From Ella Fitzgerald through to Frank Sinatra. Lady Be Good just love to play your favourite songs. Perfect music to get your guests up on the dancefloor and keep them there, without overpowering those who just want to sit and tap their feet at the back. Don't forget your dancing shoes! Expect some Christmassy classics.

What actually happened here was, that Emma had a couple of dates open and asked Sarah to put a band in which wasn’t the Transatlantic Band or Sax ‘n Bone as they had enough bloomin’ gigs.  Sarah called Mike Owen and asked what he thought they could do and should call a new band…. he suggested a name that he’s had on the back burner for a while…….Forming a 5-piece lineup that would be more New Orleans Revival-style, Sarah has formed the Mississippi Mudbugs (with gratitude to Mike Owen for the band name).  It has a 2-piece front line and a powerhouse rhythm section and plays the music of the New Orleans dance halls.

Mike Owen - trombone, Sarah Spencer - reeds, Tom ‘Spats’ Langham - banjo/guitar, Jim Swinnerton - string bass, Graham Smith – drums

Paula Jackman’s Jazz Masters, is made up of great musicians and great friends - ‘we enjoy our music and enjoy our time together. When a band has fun, you can guarantee the audience will too.’ We play Dixieland jazz from its roots in New Orleans through to its heyday during the British Trad boom.’ Paula Jackman – clarinet and saxes (soprano, alto, C melody and tenor), ‘Magic’ Mike Henry (cornet), Alistair Allan (Trombone), Hugh Crozier (Piano and vocals), ‘Lord’ Marc Easener (Sousaphone), Graham Collicott (Drums & Washboard).