Greater North Jazz Showcase

Voice of the North Jazz Orchestra with Graeme B Wilson: 1pm
Gogo Penguin: 2.30pm
Roller Trio: 3.30pm
The Sharkestra: 5pm

This year we celebrate the richness of jazz across the North of England, culminating in the first performance by the newly formed ensemble The Sharkestra.

Voice of the North with Graeme B Wilson
Since its creation in the North East 15 years ago, Voice of The North Jazz Orchestra has the drive, swing and precision of the great big bands of the past, but has been determinedly forward looking in developing its own original repertoire, much of it contributed by the internationally acclaimed composer and arranger John Warren, the band’s Musical Director, but also featuring music from the likes of John Surman, Bob Mintzer, Andy Sheppard and Jason Yarde. The pattern continues with a programme of new tunes from Scottish saxophonist Graeme B Wilson. Now based on Tyneside, Graeme is a performer of immense versatility, equally at home from jazz standards to free improvisation.

Gogo Penguin
Describing themselves as “Prog Jazz meets Pingu”, this young trio from Manchester – Chris Illingworth, Grant Russell and Rob Turner – move away from the traditional piano trio format in favour of a fun, vigorous and exhilarating romp through electronica, classical and what they call “arctic rock’n’roll”!

Roller Trio
Roller Trio are a collaborative band – James Mainwaring (tenor saxophone and electronics), Luke Wynter (guitar) and Luke Reddin-Williams (drums) – who combine contemporary jazz and rock traditions creating a powerful and accessible blend of conventional and experimental sounds. Their original compositions consist of beautiful evocative songs, groovy riffs, thrashy noise and electronic soundscapes creating seminal and atmospheric music. They are winners of the 2011 Peter Whittingham Award.

The Sharkestra
The Sharkestra is a place where the musical rule books can be challenged – breaking down the roles of composer and performer and the pigeonholing of music in a new band that is like no other. Featuring some of the North East’s best emerging musicians, led by Gateshead born Chris Sharkey, The Sharkestra draws upon the skills and influences of its members to create truly original music through a process of experimentation, improvisation and collaboration in the months running up to the festival.