Toby Boalch
Photo credit: Brian Homer
Editor-at-Large Peter Bacon picks the choice jazz events close to his home. And remember, it’s often quicker to get up to Birmingham than to get to the other side of London…
Here is a bunch of gigs worth getting to this month in England’s second city:
Today, Friday 3 March
Tom Harrison & Cleveland Watkiss plus…
Duke Ellington’s music gets a reworking for modern times from the saxophonist and his illustrious guest vocalist.
Presented by Birmingham Jazz at The Red Lion, in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, 7.45pm, £12.50.
More at Birmingham Jazz
Saturday 4 March
Neil Cowley Trio
Return of the concept album! A live performance of Space Bound Apes, the latest from Cowley and his long-time associates.
Presented by Jazzlines at the CBSO Centre, Birmingham, 8pm, £18.
More at Jazzlines
Tuesday 14 March
Toby Boalch
The Birmingham-based pianist has produced some classy settings of poetry and has Brigitte Beraha to sing them. Get there early if you want a seat.
Jazz At The Spotted Dog, the characterful pub in Digbeth, Birmingham, 9pm, suggested £5 donation.
More at Jazz At The Spotted Dog
Saturday 18 March
Lilli Unwin Band - I Won't Grow Up
Lilli Unwin Band
The singer has drummer Corrie Dick and pianist Matt Robinson on her band. The first of this month’s choice bands led by a member of London Vocal Project.
Jazz at the Arena, Arena Theatre, Wolverhampton, 8pm, £10.
More at Jazz at the Arena
Sunday 19 March
Julian Siegel Jazz Orchestra - Tales From The Jacquard
The saxophonist/composer with his special big band. The project and tour, of which this is the final date, have been put together by Derby Jazz. (SEE PREVIEW/ INTERVIEW)
Jazzlines Birmingham Town Hall 7.30pm £18.
More at Jazzlines
Tuesday 21 March
Anthony Marsden Band
The second band of the month led by a vocalist who also sings with London Vocal Project. A Birmingham favourite.
Presented by Jazzlines at The Jam House, in Birmingham’s St Paul’s Square, 8.30pm, Free entry.
More at Jazzlines
Thursday 30 March
Binker & Moses
The MOBO Award-winning sax and drums duo appear at the legendary South Birmingham music pub - a second album is on the way (FEATURE)
Presented by Jazzlines, Hare & Hounds, Kings Heath, Birmingham, 7.30pm, £10.
More at Jazzlines
And if you need a one-stop guide to these gigs and lots more, there’s a bi-monthly guide. It’s at Jazz In Birmingham