Bringing the best in live jazz to Guildford
WHO ARE GUILDFORD JAZZ?
Guildford Jazz is a not-for-profit Community Interest Company (company number 11587522) whose aim is to bring some of Britain’s finest musicians to a local audience, in an intimate and welcoming “jazz club” environment.
Everyone is welcome, young and old. You do not need to be a jazz fanatic or expert or to join as a Member to come to any gig, although there are benefits to becoming a Member if you come regularly (click here for details). We aim to keep ticket prices affordable and offer half price tickets for students. If you’re a regular or occasional attendee at our events we’d love to hear your feedback – you can contact us here.
Big Swing Showcase
Saturday 13 September
Big Band music showcasing two local bands. ‘Junction 4’ are a dynamic 18-piece ensemble performing everything from 1930s swing to modern chart hits. ‘Rhythm and Groove’ are an 18-piece outfit with a wide repertoire ranging from the swing of Benny Goodman to more modern composers.
Free entry, all welcome.
2pm Guildford Castle grounds Castle St, GU1 3SX.
Matt Skelton’s Blackhawk Quintet
Wednesday 17 September
An evening of cool jazz in tribute to the legendary drummer Shelley Manne, one of the greats of the 1950s West Coast jazz scene. The stellar line-up comprises Jim Davison (trumpet), Mark Crooks (tenor sax), Leon Greening (piano), Conor Chaplin (double bass), and Matt Skelton (drums & leader).
8pm Guildford Pavilion Woodbridge Road GU1 4RP.
The Alvar Tree Frogs
Sunday 21 September
Traditional jazz from a band that was formed on Alvar Street, New Orleans, where one night its founder members listened to the tree frogs singing and decided to form a band that would breathe life into the music that made the streets of New Orleans a place to dance and party.
Free entry, all welcome.
2.15pm. The Guildhall 131 High Street, Guildford GU1 3AA.
Visit www.guildfordjazz.org.uk to find out more and to book
We aim to run:
two regular mid-week gigs each month, both featuring some of the country’s top jazz musicians
monthly jam sessions at the Merry Harriers pub on the second Sunday of the month
occasional workshops before gigs
summer charity events including a “Jazz in the Park” in the beautiful walled garden at Loseley Park in aid of GUTS, who aim to improve the survival rates of people with bowel cancer by funding better screening, detection, treatment and facilities, as well as research into the disease (see a short video from 2019 here) and an afternoon Jazz Festival on Wood Street Village Green in support of Challengers , who provide vital play and leisure opportunities and parental support for local disabled children and young people (read Peter Vacher’s review from 2019 here)
an annual Christmas gig at St John’s Church, Farncombe
occasional pop-up jazz events with organisations and venues in and around Guildford