Improvisers’ Workshop @ Jazz Café. September 9

(Review by Russell).

The Jazz Café’s monthly improv workshop has quickly established itself on the local scene. September’s event attracted familiar faces and one or two newcomers. Led by John Pope (double bass) and percussionist Wes Stephenson, the numerous participants worked in a series of duos, trios, quartets and larger ensembles.

Alpine kazoo cast aside inhibition to join Pope and Stephenson and before long alto, soprano and flute threw caution to the wind and their collective improv hat into the ring. 

Pianist Alan Law walked in and formed a lyrical ‘triette’, no, a ‘triage’ someone said to much laughter, with Pope and Karen Rann (soprano). Pope and Jeff Smith (flute) paired-up, so too Nigel (‘small toys’ and voice) and a ukulele. Stephenson vacated the drum chair to focus his attention on a bottle of Price Bishop, leaving the way clear for Christian Alderson to pick-up the sticks and interact with erstwhile musical partner Paul Taylor (piano). Alderson’s ‘extended technique’ included playing the hitherto unnoticed wall-mounted radiator. 

Last month’s welcome contributor – pocket trumpet man Andrew – arrived and in no time struck a musical conversation with Colin (alto), Rann and Smith. Ian Forbes popped his head round the door, took one look, and, being Forbesy, promptly left.

Davide sat front row, later to announce himself as a drummer – his thunderous approach added an extra dimension. ‘Shakey’ Ann Alex belatedly got in on the action (shakey eggs, flute, hand-clap and dunked biscuit). The finale featured everyone including the late arrival bass clarinetist lurking at the door. October’s session is on Tuesday 14 (8:00pm).  

Russell.