Christoph Stiefel (piano), Arne Huber (double bass)
& Kevin Chesham (drums)
(Review by Russell).
Jazz North
East’s piano gigs at the Lit & Phil usually work well and this one,
presented in association with the library, was no exception. Swiss pianist
Christoph Stiefel had fulfilled a prestigious CD launch engagement at London Lakeland Newcastle
Stiefel makes much use of isorhythms (the repetition of rhythmic patterns). A
significant factor in successfully deploying this technical device in trio
format – and avoiding monotony – was to have a superb drummer capable of
responding to Stiefel’s prominent left hand. Kevin Chesham was the man; subtle,
responsive, polyrhythmic brilliance. Bassist Arne Huber chewed gum and looked
disinterested. He wasn't of course – he simply had it down. The material - all
Stiefel originals - showcased the new
album Christoph Stiefel Inner Language Trio Live! and a few newly composed numbers
(including Titanic). Major highlights
– In and Out of Order, Pensar Positivo
and Isorhythm #2 (Stiefel has
composed numerous Isorhythm pieces)
drew spontaneous applause and the odd holler. Late into the night on their
departure, the Swiss trio said how much they had enjoyed the gig and next time
would welcome the opportunity to have a little more time to see Newcastle
Note the new CD recorded live at three venues in Europe
(Basho Records) features a largely different line-up. The Lit & Phil’s next
concert is this evening - Friday 12 October – featuring ex-pat American
vocalist Sandi Russell working with Paul Edis (piano) and Mick Shoulder (double
bass). Jazz North East’s next offering - Sons of Kemet - is a joint promotion
with Splinter on Sunday 14th at the Bridge Hotel.
Russell
2 comments :
My wife and I tried to go to this concert but we are unable to get in. We were astonished to discover that the Lit and Phil does not have a ramp (even a temporary one) to allow wheelchair access to the ground floor. The members and management of the Lit and Phil society, which has a tradition of liberalism and inclusion, should be ashamed that they have failed to address this equality issue. It is 17 years since the first Disability Discrimination Act was passed.
Response to Mr and Mrs Parker re access to the Lit and Phil.
The Literary and Philosophical Society apologises profusely and unreservedly to Mr and Mrs Parker for finding that wheelchair access to the building is at present very difficult. Over the years many schemes have been put forward to reduce or eliminate this difficulty.
Due to the Grade II* listing of the 1825 Greek revival style building the access problem has taxed the ingenuity of many committees and individuals over all the 17 years mentioned. The present stone steps were last altered in 1909, and, unfortunately, the nearly 1metre difference in height from pavement access to inside ground floor level has meant a ramped solution is not possible.
However the good news is that the Society has today, 16th October 2012, received planning and listed building approval from the City for plans submitted earlier this year. The scheme includes a wheelchair lift similar to that at the Hancock Museum, and redesigned shallower front steps which will be level with the fully accessible ground floor incorporating suitable modern facilities.
As we are an entirely independent organisation with small monetary reserves, our ongoing appeal for more than £1 million includes money to pay for and implement the necessary alterations. This will be given added impetus in 2013 which is our 220 anniversary year.
We thank Mr and Mrs Parker for the recognition that our society is liberal and inclusive and assure them that the hard work and diligence continues in order to improve our physical and intellectual access.
Chris Calver
Vice Chairman
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