Last Friday evening members of the Music Society met once again for their monthly dose of live music performance. On this occasion Jazz 59 made a return visit to fulfil the task, again doing so with their usual skill and enthusiasm.

With the opening “glissando” from the trumpet the scene was set for the first half, a contrast of “Bebop and Ballads”. Two pieces to highlight; “My Funny Valentine” with a lazy, gentle accompaniment to the intricate melody line of the trumpet and “Pent up House”, a complete contrast with excellent ensemble work and a trumpet part not for the faint-hearted!

After the interval we heard “”Kind of Blue” played in the original order.

“So What”, “Freddie Freeloader” and “Blue in Green” all displayed the traditional style of each performer having the opportunity of playing the melody – or their own version of it – with different accompaniments from the group which produced a varied selection of sounds to delight the audience. “All Blues” followed and proved to be most interesting. Initially the saxophone took on the task of introducing the melody and soon the trumpet (with mute) joined in with what could be classed as a descant - the effect was most interesting. Then we heard snippets of melody from different instruments until finally, the complete melody emerged. A fascinating piece. The programme ended with “Flamenco Sketches” introduced by a very soft, slow rhythm on drums and bass producing all the elements of a lazy, relaxed atmosphere as the other instruments joined in with snatches of the melody before the complete performance made one dream of evenings spent somewhere in a warm climate with the stars shining overhead. This was greeted with much applause – and an encore – “Take 5”.

This was an evening to remember - live music performed by a group who all enjoy performing together to a high standard – and they then donate the fees earned to the Dementia Society. Congratulations to them, and their leader Paul Dowler, for a most enjoyable evening.