The pleasant little town of Maldon on the Essex coast has been well known for centuries. In 991 it saw an epic battle between the Anglo-Saxons and the invading Danes. Fast forward more than a thousand years and “Maldon” brings to mind Maldon Salt, Thames barges and a pleasant place to live. Now it hosts Jazz Workshop Sunday.
The town has a lively music scene – check out mactheatre.co.uk and charliemike9.co.uk and nearby trad-jazz hot spot at Wickham Bishops Village Hall. This second Jazz Workshop Sunday, on Sunday 24 November, seeks to add to the scene, bringing professional musicians to Maldon to teach, encourage and provide an opportunity for exploring, singing and playing jazz music.
This year’s morning session (10.30am – 1pm) is one of jazz, gospel and swing singing led by Tina May (see tinamay.com). Tina is a leading and hugely respected jazz singer appearing in all the great jazz venues and this summer has toured in Australia. She is also a voice coach who specialises in helping people develop their voices in a fun and relaxed environment. Dave Brooker of local combo Kind of Blue accompanies on the keyboards.
In the afternoon (2pm – 5pm) there is an all instrument session led again by John Seeley (johnseeleyjazz.co.uk). John is accomplished both as a musician (sax and clarinet) and as a teacher, and comes to jazz from an academic background. He is accompanied by his own rhythm section to give those attending a chance to play along in a band setting.
The venue is The Swan Hotel, High Street, Maldon CM9 5EP and the cost £12 per session per person (not for profit) . All levels are welcome. Email the Jazz Workshop with enquiries and to make reservations.
This article was produced with the assistance of the promoter.
