Anthony'sAllStars Cool Jazz

I've lost count of the number of parties, weddings and corporate events we've played over more than twenty years. We appear in public on bandstands and occasionally in pubs as well as at private functions. The customer comes first. I'll come and meet you at the venue beforehand to ensure it's all going to run smoothly with the right atmosphere. We look at logistics (although I have played at many, so know their layout) - from where is the best place for the band, to where the electric sockets are, to parking and arrival times. It's also important to know your party itinerary so we can fit the sets in around your plan - eg a quieter background set for the drinks reception/meal where everyone is chatting, or an upbeat set for dancing. We'll discuss your favourite tunes as well as, if required, a 'first dance' if its a wedding or a significant anniversary. We can also make a microphone available for speeches. I have a classy portable PA which doesn't take up too much space and is quick to set up, as well as additional coloured footlights. Other lighting can be hired in should it be needed, although many venues will also have some. Our music, much loved and familiar tunes from the jazz and shows world, is always about the melody, whether or not you have booked a vocalist. I make my clarinet sing, and the tenor sax is rich and warm. With a quintet or sextet the trumpet/flugel adds a lovely solid front line with the sax. I've played reeds since my early teens, and later ran and played in both pop/rock and jazz and big bands as well as working as a session musician. I currently run Anthony's AllStars, as well as playing in another local rock n' roll band and a couple of big bands. I also teach sax and clarinet locally (I live in Milford, Surrey), specialising in helping adults return to the musical world but equally happy with beginners of all ages. Keyboard player Russell is an RCM graduate and a gifted pianist with an inventive touch. Roger steps in sometimes - classically trained with years of experience in all genres (he's also a church organist) his approach is sensitive and supportive. Bassist Jules is a precise and inventive double or electric bass player with an innate sense of groove. Drummer Dave is an extraordinarily experienced and talented musician who doesn't drown out the rest of the band! An occasional guest is Andrew (singer Sarah-Jane's husband) who has a light touch and excellent timing. Colin the guitarist is very imaginative and supports all kinds of rhythms at the drop of a hat. Our trumpet/flugel players, Andy and Ben, are both colleagues from the big-band world whom I've played with many times over the years. You'll hear Andy in our clip of The Girl from Ipanema. I've worked with many singers (eg Vic Cracknell, Sarah-Jane Eveleigh, Jess Harman) and on one occasion the Mother of the Bride did a couple of numbers with us. If budget and space stretch, it's great to include vocals.