The music of KENNY WHEELER
​
MARTIN SHAW trumpet & flugel
TONY WOODS alto sax

with SIMON COOK piano, MARIANNE WINDHAM double bass
​
7:30 p.m. Friday 7 August 

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Kenny Wheeler, June 2012. Photo by Tim Dickeson
Kenny Wheeler (1930-2014) was one of the most influential figures in shaping modern UK jazz. He moved to the UK from Canada in 1952 and quickly became a central presence in London’s jazz scene, working with leading musicians and ensembles, such as John Dankworth.
Wheeler’s significance to UK jazz lies in his distinctive musical voice, which blended lyricism with complex harmonies and an openness to improvisation. His compositions often featured delicate, almost ethereal melodies combined with sophisticated structures, influencing generations of British jazz musicians. Albums such as Gnu High (1976) demonstrated his ability to merge European classical sensibilities with American jazz traditions, contributing to a uniquely “British” jazz sound. His long association with the German label ECM Records helped bring international attention to UK-based musicians.
Ultimately, Wheeler’s legacy is one of quiet innovation. He helped establish the UK as a serious centre for creative jazz, influencing both composition and improvisation. His work continues to resonate, marking him as a pivotal bridge between British, European, and North American jazz traditions.
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TONY WOODS - photo by George Boxley
​Tony Woods is renowned for his imaginative improvisation, fiery and lyrical by turn. He has toured extensively and performed at festivals including Manchester and Swanage, and venues like Southbank and Ronnie Scott’s. He has recorded CDs with his own Tony Woods Project, and with Tim Whitehead, Pete Churchill and the late Michael Garrick.
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MARTIN SHAW - photo by John Ross
Martin Shaw is one of the top jazz trumpet soloists in the country. He plays in an extraordinary range of settings, from big band to quartet, cutting edge jazz to contemporary pop and funk. He has worked with most of the leading jazz artists of the last 40 years including Cleo Laine, Sir John Dankworth, Pete King, and Tim Garland. His big band work includes the BBC Big Band and the Michel Legrand Jazz Orchestra.