Hot on the heels of his appearance at the Classic Jazz Party (something like twelve hours had elapsed since the last knockings of the festival's third and final late night jam session), pianist Martin Litton made the short journey up the coast from Cobalt Business Park, near Whitley Bay, to the Yamaha Music School in Blyth, south east Northumberland.
Blyth's Monday lunchtime concert series is predominately a classical music affair with the occasional jazz event added to the mix. This afternoon's concert was firmly in the jazz category. Martin Litton relished the opportunity to play a Yamaha grand in front of a sizeable, appreciative audience.
Ragtime to stride to swing era developments, Litton's easy going nature and informative introductions captivated his audience. Darting left hand stride patterns were something to behold, Litton never 'showy', simply virtuosic.
Litton introduced a special guest, Mr Roy Chappell. Long time friends (they first worked together many moons ago in London's West End), Litton and Chappell (one time crooner with Sid Phillips) picked up where they left off, Chappell singing a couple of GASbook numbers. Relaxed? You bet!
Blyth's Yamaha Music School is a little-known gem. Located on Seaforth Street, the first floor premises is an eye opener. A Yamaha piano, of course, and more percussion instruments than you could throw a drumstick at. Check out: www.neyamaha.uk. Russell
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