Jo kicks off new year

The popular new Jazz At The Village series at Felpham Memorial Village resumes for the New Year with a visit from tenor saxophonist Jo Fooks on Wednesday, January 4.

The music is the first Wednesday every month, doors open 7pm. start 8pm.

Series organiser Patrick Jenkins said: “For the very good reason of popularity pre-booking is recommended.

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“Jo played with the Humphrey Lyttleton Band and regularly commands a full house, so another very good evening in prospect.”

Jo, born in Edinburgh, began learning the saxophone at 15. In 1992 she won The Young Scottish Jazz Musician of the Year.

Inspired and encouraged by local Edinburgh musicians, Jo went on to study saxophone at the Guildhall School of music in London (1995-99). She also studied at the Berklee School of music in Boston after receiving a full fee scholarship for the summer jazz programme.

After recording her debut album Here and Now!, she was invited by British trumpeter Humphrey Lyttelton to join his eight-piece band. Jo has also recorded and worked with Acker Bilk and played alongside Tina May, Joe Temperley, Scott Hamilton, Elkie Brooks and many others.

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Jo’s other influences include Illinois Jacquet, Sonny Rollins, Dexter Gorden, Cannonball Adderley and Bill Evans. She currently gigs in and around the London area, and her teaching positions have included tutoring the RAF bandsmen (2000-2006).

Patrick added: “Bookings are also coming in fast for our February 1 evening when Val Wiseman will be performing her show Divas of Swing accompanied by The Don Hunt Trio. Val is considered to be one of Britain’s best jazz singers, an appealing stylish performer with a connoissseur’s ear for repertoire.

“The programme will be a tribute to the singers who have inspired her throughout her career, featuring songs performed by Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Peggy Lee, Sarah Vaughan and Anita O’Day. For those who enjoy this sort of entertainment, this is an evening not to be missed.”

Pre-book with Patrick or Sue 01243 584932.

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