Swindon and its Old Town has seen visits by many of the world's finest jazz artists over the years, and Swindon Jazz Society has been influential in arranging many of those performances. Yet it was not until the Millenium that stalwart 'jazaf' Ray Butt pioneered the first Jazz Festival actually in the town.
The purpose of a Festival is to celebrate and showcase, and this involves the display of talent and ability, for the enjoyment of enthusiasts and all those open to appreciate man's artistry and skills. (Those who saw Jamie Cullum performing the first few Jazz Festivals may well feel pleased with their luck and their critical judgement!)
Since the Society took over promoting the Festival four years ago, major names such as Peter King, Stan Tracey, Alan Barnes, David Newton and Steve Waterman have taken the stage and new talent including vibes sensation, Jim Hart, has enthralled audiences. A wide range of jazz styles is offered, in the ambience of local hostelries.
Perhaps a greater percentage of this music is free-admission than at any other such Festival that comes to mind.
The Jazz Festival runs concurrently with the Old Town Festival and the Swindon Jazz Society thanks all those who have made an input. Especially to Nationwide for enabling not just a high quality Festival for jazz aficionados and the general public, but access to music for those in the community handicapped by disabilities.
| JATP is the Pheonix Theatre at New College, Swindon, a theatre for the performing arts.
Printed Programme available. Contact Jane Ratcliffe (01793) 826856 |
Swindon Jazz Festival is Supported by:
Tickets available from:
Swindon Tourist Information Centre
37 Regent Street
Swindon 01793-466454
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