February goodies

As the days slowly but surely begin to lengthen, there is a long list of gigs well worth going to during February. Here's a relatively short list. On Friday 6th, Encounters in Concert is a coming together of two big bands at Saltburn Theatre. Durham Alumni Big Band and Saltburn Big Band will share the stage on Albion Terrace, Saltburn-by-the-Sea, it's a seven thirty start, it promises to be a memorable occasion.

Tees Bay Swing Band meets at Hartlepool's Blacksmith's Arms on Saturday (Feb 7th, 1:30pm). It's an open rehearsal and you're invited to pop along, sit with a drink and listen to the band as it's put through its paces and it's free admission! Up the road in Newcastle on Sunday evening (Feb. 8th) one of the great bands makes a swift return to Jazz Co-op HQ. In October last year Gerry Richardson's Big Idea sold out the Railway Street venue and the nine-piece band is on course to do the same thing this weekend. The Globe is a thriving, independent music venue, to show your support, book in advance at: www.theglobenewcastle.bar. Do it now or miss out! 

Friday 13th...unlucky for some! You'll be in luck if you go to either of the following gigs. Trumpeter Noel Dennis will be in concert with his ace quartet at Bishop Auckland Methodist Church. It's a lunchtime session (1:00pm), £9.00 at the door. Friday evening (7:00pm), Sunderland's Ship Isis plays host to a first rate guitar duo. Tom Remon (a welcome, frequent visitor to the BSH region) will join forces with John Moriarty (guitarist and luthier from Dublin). The venue, CAMRA's local Pub of the Year in 2025, is on Silksworth Row, a short walk from Sunderland Empire. Admission: £11.00. (inc. booking fee). Book online at: www.musiccity.uk.           

On Monday 16th all roads lead to Blaydon. Guitarist Joe Steels is touring his album A Blue Patch with several dates right here in the region. Blaydon Jazz Club is delighted to welcome Joe's top class quartet (including pianist Ben Lawrence) to the Black Bull. It's an eight o'clock start, a tenner at the door.

Friday 20th will be a busy day for the brilliant Alex Clarke. At one o'clock, alto saxophonist Alex will play to a sold out audience at Newcastle's Lit & Phil (to enquire about returns, call 0191 232 0192). In the evening, Alex with the Dean Stockdale Trio will do it all again at Sunderland Minster. It's a 7:30pm start, £12.96 in advance or £15.00 on door. Book online at: www.muscicity.uk.  

Joe Steels follows up his appearance at Blaydon Jazz Club with two further regional dates. Sunday 22nd, the Joe Steels Group will be at Queen's Hall, Hexham (3:00pm) and on Friday 27th at Durham's Gala Theatre (1:00pm). It's likely both concerts will attract a capacity audience. Don't delay, book today! Book at: www.queenshall.co.uk and www.galadurham.co.uk. 

And finally...Friday evening (Feb. 27th) you'll need to be in two places at once! If you're yet to perfect the art, it's a choice between Alan Barnes at Opus 4 Jazz Club (Traveller's Rest), Darlington (8:00pm). £15.00 at the door, or Giacomo Smith with the Strictly Smokin' Big Band at Gateshead's Glasshouse. It's a tough call. If you choose the latter gig, please note, it's looking like clarinet and alto sax maestro Giacomo will be playing to a full house. As ever, don't delay, book now at: www.theglasshouseicm.org. Russell