What a joy it was to be back in Bishop Auckland listening to a lunchtime performance of Gypsy Jazz hosted by #Bishop Auckland Jazz. Today’s artists known collectively as Swing Manouche featured Steve McGarvie on clarinet, Mick Shoulder on lead guitar, Dave Smith on rhythm guitar and Paul Grainger on bass. Starting with a free introduction by Mick on guitar, the group came together to play ‘When Day is Done’ and ‘Russian Lullaby’ by Irving Berlin. They reeled off standards including Clair de Lune, Lulu Swing, Chez Jaquet (a light waltz), Dinette, Je Suis Seule Ce Soir, NoTo Swing, Roses of Picardie, Djangology and finished with Minor Swing. Most of these were popular Django Reindhart classics or by Lulu, a German gypsy guitarist from the 1970s, hence the references. The group gelled together from start to finish generating a lovely relaxed atmosphere – even more amazing when we were told Steve McGarvie was seeing it for the first time. His lovely soft, velvet tone seemed effortless as he zoomed in and out of the music with such grace. We are so lucky to have such outstanding musicians coming to Bishop Auckland to perform and the almost capacity audience were not disappointed, applauding every solo.
The next month’s jazz on Friday 14th August, 1.00pm at Bishop Auckland Methodist Church, features the John Settle Quartet with John on Vibraphone (a rare chance to showcase this instrument). Let’s make Bishop Auckland great again!