Preview: Hexham Jazz Festival (Saturday 14, day 2/3)

The second day of this year's Hexham Jazz Festival features established names performing in Hexham Abbey and a double bill of Tyne Valley musicians in the Sele (the adjacent park) on Beaumont Street. Jo Harrop is undoubtedly in the upper echelons of British jazz singers and her appearance in Hexham is a real coup for festival organisers. Jo, originally from Chester le Street, arrives from London with an ace band in tow. Following Ms Harrop's concert, Saturday evening will conclude with a solo piano set by Dean Stockdale.

The Heart Wants is Jo Harrop's latest album and, like Weathering the Storm, her duo recording with Jamie McCredie, it has garnered nothing but critical acclaim. A recent sold out appearance at Ronnie Scott's set up Harrop for a nationwide tour, of which this Hexham concert is one of many dates on the itinerary. Pianist Paul Edis, Jo's musical director, will be working alongside guitarist James Kitchman, bassist Jihad Darwish and drummer Steve Hanley. What's more, for this festival appearance, Jo and her quartet will be joined by the strings of Quartet Northumbria. It's a 7:30pm start, admission £15.00, it has all the makings of a memorable occasion. At ten o'clock Dean Stockdale will sit at Hexham Abbey's Yamaha Grand to entertain festival goers 'til late. A perfect end to what is sure to be a marvellous day of jazz. 

And 'a day of jazz' it will be with the addition of the Tyne Valley Big Band, whose base is right here in town, little more than two minutes' walk from Hexham Abbey. Dave Hignett's outfit is the pride of of Northumberland, four o'clock start. And, for good measure, at three o'clock Joe Steels, guitar, and bassist Pau Susans will be playing some music in the company of rising star trumpeter Ferg Kilsby. These performances are free, donations appreciated. So, a fine day in prospect. Russell