Jazz Jamboree 2012 report and video

"Overnight snow did not deter 30 budding musicians from travelling to the Grammar School at Leeds on February 5th to take part in our Jazz Jamboree Workshop. Participants aged 12 to 18 came from schools throughout the region, including Doncaster, Wakefield, Thirsk, Skipton and Ilkley to work with renowned tutors Al Wood and John Ellis, who rehearsed them throughout the day in a variety of big band charts.

Tempo, discipline and improvisation were highlighted and the hard work was shown to good effect in a closing concert of eight very different charts in front of an appreciative audience of parents and supporters. The standout performance was arguably the highly professional playing of the well known but demanding “L’il Darlin’”.

Participants went away feeling exhilarated by their high standard of music making, and inspired to continue playing the big band repertoire. We wish them all success in developing their musical careers."

Martin Coultas, Chair, Jazz Yorkshire.