Hotter Than That - Fiddles on Fire by 'The Doc'.

I guess few mainstreams jazzers will have given much attention to the Fiddles on Fire Festival at the Sage over the weekend, given the massive emphasis on folk genres it would seem an unlikely hunting ground.

A pity, because for those interested in gypsy jazz the event boasted a splendid gig featuring Tim Kliphuis and James Birkett. Tim is enjoying an exponential rise as possibly the most fluent and genuine practitioner of Grappelli syle fiddling around (with all due respect to Chris Garrick, Mike Piggott and others).

The Sunday afternoon concert was a gem featuring Hot Club material such as "How About You", "Nuages" and "Sweet Georgia Brown", mixed in with swing versions of the "Skye Boat Song", "Devil Among the Tailors" and even the Pachelbel "Canon". Delivered with startling virtuosity, they were very well received.

Tim takes some pride in venturing into folk and classical genres, but not all moldy figs will give this an unreserved welcome. These are dangerous areas for the swing violin player. I recall, for instance, the late Johnny Frigo's rendition of 'How Are Things in Glocca Morra' with very mixed feelings.

But I digress. Both Tim and James Birkett delivered a superb performance. If you missed it Google up Tim's website for the next time he's anywhere near. It will well repay the effort.

In addition to the concert Tim conducted two workshops for aspiring swing fiddlers, enthusiastically attended in almost unmanageable numbers. Tim is a superb instrumental teacher as his teaching publications and DVD's confirm. Nigel Kennedy has said 'The sound of Stephane Grappelli is safe with Tim Kliphuis' . It sure is, but Tim is way more that an imitator and his own personality shines through both in his playing and through his great rapport with the audience. Just wait until those telly people find out about him.

"The Doc."