Award-winning jazz masters star at village music evening

These esteemed jazz musicians have been playing duets for 40 years. Both multiple award-winners, they cover a vast repertoire, from Louis Armstrong to Chick Corea, and play with an empathy that can only come with long experience.

And they will be on stage at Wingates on Friday, March 30.

The emphasis, as always, is on swinging, accessibility and interplay. Audiences can expect a hugely entertaining programme of straight ahead jazz, flawlessly played and interspersed with lots of anecdotes and peppered with humour.

David Newton is a record breaking, award-winning pianist. He was 13 times winner of best pianist in the British jazz awards and is one of the greatest solo jazz pianists this country has produced. His collaborations include Stacey Kent, Martin Taylor and Carol Kidd.

Alan Barnes is a prolific international performer, band leader and composer. He is master of alto and baritone saxes, clarinet and bass clarinet, and recipient of 25 British Jazz awards.

He’s been described as “the accompanist of choice for vocal royalty for years and is the kind of pianist every drummer and bass player could wish for”.

He has played with everyone from Tommy Chase and Pasadena Roof Orchestra to Don Weller and Stan Tracey, and has been a session musician for many artists including Van Morrison, Bjork, Bryan Ferry and Jools Holland.

Louise Kirkwood, promoter at Wingates Village Institute said: “We’re really excited to have such stellar quality jazz musicians playing in our local community hall.

“This is Alan and David’s only North Northumberland Highlights show so do come along to hear them. We’re sure you’ll have a terrific evening.”

It starts at 7.30pm. Book on 01669 620512 or email [email protected]