Ashington Jazz Festival - Strictly Smokin' Big Band @ Ashington YMCA June 6.

The final event celebrating thirty years of the Ashington Jazz Club took place at the refurbished Y.M.C.A. with a concert by the Strictly Smokin’ Big Band.

The Band played many excellent arrangements throughout the evening and the building was definitely "Rockin' in Rhythm". An excited company responded with rapturous applause expressing their appreciation of this fine collection of north east musicians. The downside of the evening was sadly the attendance which fell far short of our expectations and gave us concerns. Having advertised and made public the event through posters, local papers, radio and internet we were unfortunately unable to draw in the number of customers which this venue and this Band deserved.

Despite our disappointment I would still recommend this venue as a suitable function room for all types of gatherings.

The management and staff’s preparation of the function room was excellent. We were delighted by their attention to detail in the arrangement of tables and seating. With a well lit stage and ambient lighting this was the perfect setting for this evening of wonderful big band arrangements. The musicians were assembled comfortably on the stage giving the audience a good view of all sections of the Band. We thank the YMCA for their warm welcome and well thought out planning which contributed to a successful evening. The acoustics and sound quality for the on stage orchestra was as good as it gets.

The dedication of the staff strengthens its attraction within this community and I highly recommend the YMCA as a venue. 

What more can be said of the Smokin' Big Band?   It is a well organised unit within which the musicians and vocalists give an outstanding and professional performance whilst keeping alive the enduring attraction of a big band. You will not be disappointed.    

Peter S.