Kevin Bates Trio post-gig post

 

We had a really special evening with the Kevin Bates Trio on Friday as we continued our Gregson Gig Series. 

 

The set was perfectly placed in the space and was varied, entertaining and hugely appreciated, the musicians generating an atmosphere of great respect; for each other, for the audience and most of all for the music. This lent the pieces a beautiful breathing space and a full life, creating an engaging and powerful listening experience of immense value. 

 

Kevin's modest style and thoughtful voicing drove the story of each piece, from the whistful ‘Whisper Not’ to Metheny's joyful ‘James’ and originals such as ‘Weird Sky’. An arrangement of Eric Satie's ‘Gnossienne No 1’ was an unexpected highlight. 

 

Barry's succulent bass tones were rich and charming, giving full character to each tune such as ‘Nardis’, with all its intrigue, and the original ‘Light in the Dark’ with fusion rock-driven energy. 

 

Mark provided sensitive spacey drums, his skilful dexterity and deft touches producing dramatic dynamics when called for but always in a sensitive correspondence with the strings. His manipulation of tension and release was masterful and used to great effect. 

 

There was so much to love about this gig and it was a total pleasure to spend time with the band. Thank you as always to those who came along to support the event and our project, we really appreciate and need it! 

 

For your 2026 diary, our next events in the Gregson Gig Series will be on 31st May, 28th June and 15th November. We'll be in touch to let you know what's happening and you can keep up to date with us on FB, Insta and via our blog at lancasterjazzscene.blogspot.com

Lancaster Jazz Jam Friday 5th December

 

The Jazz Jam is part of Lancaster Jazz Scene. The next Jam takes place on Friday 5th December from 19:30 at the Printroom Cafe Bar located in the historic Storey Building on Meeting House Lane near Lancaster Castle.

Here's more info;

Lancaster Jazz Jam was established in 2017, emerging out of the Orbit Jazz Workshop at Lancaster Community Music Centre. Our aim is to present an inclusive jam session that allows players of all abilities to have an opportunity to play, gain confidence, learn about jazz music, develop performance skills and hear other musicians. At the jam we have a selection of tunes/standards to play and there is music available for C, Bb, Eb and Bass. You can choose which tunes you wish to play on and sign up to be part of the band when those tunes are called. The emphasis is on having fun, supporting each other and enjoying the music. The event is free and non-players are very welcome to come along too. For more information and to join our mailing list please email lancasterjazzscene@gmail.com or visit 'Jazzjam Lancaster' or 'Lancaster Jazz Scene' on Facebook/Instagram.

Lancaster Jazz Jam Friday 14th November

 

The Jazz Jam is part of Lancaster Jazz Scene. The next Jam takes place on Friday 14th November from 19:30 at the Printroom Cafe Bar located in the historic Storey Building on Meeting House Lane near Lancaster Castle.

Here's more info;

Lancaster Jazz Jam was established in 2017, emerging out of the Orbit Jazz Workshop at Lancaster Community Music Centre. Our aim is to present an inclusive jam session that allows players of all abilities to have an opportunity to play, gain confidence, learn about jazz music, develop performance skills and hear other musicians. At the jam we have a selection of tunes/standards to play and there is music available for C, Bb, Eb and Bass. You can choose which tunes you wish to play on and sign up to be part of the band when those tunes are called. The emphasis is on having fun, supporting each other and enjoying the music. The event is free and non-players are very welcome to come along too. For more information and to join our mailing list please email lancasterjazzscene@gmail.com or visit 'Jazzjam Lancaster' or 'Lancaster Jazz Scene' on Facebook/Instagram.

Lancaster Jazz Jam Friday 24th October

 

 

 

The Jazz Jam is part of Lancaster Jazz Scene. The next Jam takes place on Friday 24th October from 19:30 at the Printroom Cafe Bar located in the historic Storey Building on Meeting House Lane near Lancaster Castle.

Here's more info;

Lancaster Jazz Jam was established in 2017, emerging out of the Orbit Jazz Workshop at Lancaster Community Music Centre. Our aim is to present an inclusive jam session that allows players of all abilities to have an opportunity to play, gain confidence, learn about jazz music, develop performance skills and hear other musicians. At the jam we have a selection of tunes/standards to play and there is music available for C, Bb, Eb and Bass. You can choose which tunes you wish to play on and sign up to be part of the band when those tunes are called. The emphasis is on having fun, supporting each other and enjoying the music. The event is free and non-players are very welcome to come along too. For more information and to join our mailing list please email lancasterjazzscene@gmail.com or visit 'Jazzjam Lancaster' or 'Lancaster Jazz Scene' on Facebook/Instagram.

 

Gregson Gig Series #14: Kevin Bates Trio

 

 

  

Lancaster Jazz Scene presents the Kevin Bates Trio on Friday 28th November.

Blending sophisticated harmonies and infectious grooves, the Kevin Bates Trio explores modern jazz fusion through a wide selection of standards and original tunes.

Led by Kevin on guitar, the Trio features Mark Whiteman on drums and Barry Howard on bass. 

With diverse influences such as, Pat Metheny, Avishai Cohen, Miles Davis and Herbie Hancock, together the group are guaranteed to provide a musical journey of lush textures and melodic sensibility.

Kevin Bates - Guitar

With multiple influences on his playing and writing, Kevin brings a unique sound to the guitar led Trio. His career in music has consisted of many aspects in live performance.

Working as a professional performing musician with extensive touring experience nationwide and abroad, he has worked with a wide range of ensembles, pit orchestras and big bands, also running, writing and arranging for ensembles. During his career he has worked with artists such as Dennis Rollins, Eric Delaney, Mark Nightingale, Francios Mulder, Alan Benzie, Dave Julian (the voice), Omar, Corey Christiansen, Lasse Lindgren, Clare Teal, and others.

Mark Whiteman - Drums

Mark is the heartbeat of the band, driving the music forward with energy, precision, and creativity. He first cut his teeth touring the world with Australian dance show Tap Dogs, and since settling in the North West he has played with numerous jazz ensembles, drawing on a eclectic range of influences.

Barry Howard - Bass

Barry is the groove engine of the trio. He has been an active musician for 25 years, playing bass and working in music education. Based in the North West, he plays many styles of music ranging from folk to jazz and plays in numerous ensembles including big bands, small Jazz combos and soul/pop function bands.

Come and join us for this extra special gig!

Friday 28th November - doors open 7:30 music from 8pm

The Gregson Arts Centre, Moor Gate, Lancaster LA1 3PY

Entry £10 cash or card on the door (£5 student/unwaged) 

If you would like to join our mailing  list email us at lancasterjazzscene@gmail.com

 

The Jazz Jam coming to Lancaster Jazz Festival 2025!

 

 

Lancaster Jazz Jam will be part of Lancaster Jazz Festival this year!

The September Jam will be in the Innovation Hub at the Gregson Centre, Moor Gate, Lancaster on the 13th September from 9pm. 

Please come and join us!

You can find out more about the festival here: https://www.lancasterjazz.com/ 

 

The Jazz Jam is part of Lancaster Jazz Scene. 

Here's more info;

Lancaster Jazz Jam was established in 2017, emerging out of the Orbit Jazz Workshop at Lancaster Community Music Centre. Our aim is to present an inclusive jam session that allows players of all abilities to have an opportunity to play, gain confidence, learn about jazz music, develop performance skills and hear other musicians. At the jam we have a selection of tunes/standards to play and there is music available for C, Bb, Eb and Bass. You can choose which tunes you wish to play on and sign up to be part of the band when those tunes are called. The emphasis is on having fun, supporting each other and enjoying the music. The event is free and non-players are very welcome to come along too. For more information and to join our mailing list please email lancasterjazzscene@gmail.com or visit 'Jazzjam Lancaster' or 'Lancaster Jazz Scene' on Facebook/Instagram.

 

Lancaster Jazz Jam Friday 22nd August

 

 

The Jazz Jam is part of Lancaster Jazz Scene. The next Jam takes place on Friday 22nd August from 19:30 at the Printroom Cafe Bar located in the historic Storey Building on Meeting House Lane near Lancaster Castle.

Here's more info;

Lancaster Jazz Jam was established in 2017, emerging out of the Orbit Jazz Workshop at Lancaster Community Music Centre. Our aim is to present an inclusive jam session that allows players of all abilities to have an opportunity to play, gain confidence, learn about jazz music, develop performance skills and hear other musicians. At the jam we have a selection of tunes/standards to play and there is music available for C, Bb, Eb and Bass. You can choose which tunes you wish to play on and sign up to be part of the band when those tunes are called. The emphasis is on having fun, supporting each other and enjoying the music. The event is free and non-players are very welcome to come along too. For more information and to join our mailing list please email lancasterjazzscene@gmail.com or visit 'Jazzjam Lancaster' or 'Lancaster Jazz Scene' on Facebook/Instagram.

 

Lancaster Jazz Jam Friday 25th July

 

 

 

 The Jazz Jam is part of Lancaster Jazz Scene. The next Jam takes place on Friday 25th July from 19:30 at the Printroom Cafe Bar located in the historic Storey Building on Meeting House Lane near Lancaster Castle.

Here's more info;

Lancaster Jazz Jam was established in 2017, emerging out of the Orbit Jazz Workshop at Lancaster Community Music Centre. Our aim is to present an inclusive jam session that allows players of all abilities to have an opportunity to play, gain confidence, learn about jazz music, develop performance skills and hear other musicians. At the jam we have a selection of tunes/standards to play and there is music available for C, Bb, Eb and Bass. You can choose which tunes you wish to play on and sign up to be part of the band when those tunes are called. The emphasis is on having fun, supporting each other and enjoying the music. The event is free and non-players are very welcome to come along too. For more information and to join our mailing list please email lancasterjazzscene@gmail.com or visit 'Jazzjam Lancaster' or 'Lancaster Jazz Scene' on Facebook/Instagram.

 

Frank Griffith Trio post-gig post

The Frank Griffith Trio gifted us a truly exceptional display of musicianship and style. This was one of those 'if you missed it, you missed out' gigs, a performance full of colour, invention, skill and beautiful storytelling.  

 

Frank's sweet clarinet playing (So Nice) was perfect for a summer evening. His tenor sax tone was impressive throughout and especially interesting in his use of extended techniques such as in Monk's "Nutty", a sublime, characterful conversation between the trio. 

 

Andrzej's piano was full of clever movement and creative connections (Begin the Beguine) with complex, intricate explorations of themes and modes. It was a particular treat for band and audience to hear Andrzej on the Olive Bar's upright piano. 

 

Steve Berry on bass was superb. His poise and mastery of his instrument was spellbinding, equally when expertly holding the rhythm as when taking dexterous, dynamic solos. The breadth and depth of his ability was compelling, such as in the excellent Bernie's Tune.

 

The Trio were clearly having a lot of fun and the fabulous audience responded with respect, appreciation and gratitude. Thanks so much to everyone who came along to support the band and Lancaster Jazz Scene. We will be returning with our next event in the Gregson Gig Series in November so keep in touch! 

We're on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube and you can join our mailing list by sending an email to lancasterjazzscene@gmail.com

                                          

Lancaster Jazz Jam Friday 27th June

 

 

 

The Jazz Jam is part of Lancaster Jazz Scene. The next Jam takes place on Friday 27th June from 19:30 at the Printroom Cafe Bar located in the historic Storey Building on Meeting House Lane near Lancaster Castle.

Here's more info;

Lancaster Jazz Jam was established in 2017, emerging out of the Orbit Jazz Workshop at Lancaster Community Music Centre. Our aim is to present an inclusive jam session that allows players of all abilities to have an opportunity to play, gain confidence, learn about jazz music, develop performance skills and hear other musicians. At the jam we have a selection of tunes/standards to play and there is music available for C, Bb, Eb and Bass. You can choose which tunes you wish to play on and sign up to be part of the band when those tunes are called. The emphasis is on having fun, supporting each other and enjoying the music. The event is free and non-players are very welcome to come along too. For more information and to join our mailing list please email lancasterjazzscene@gmail.com or visit 'Jazzjam Lancaster' or 'Lancaster Jazz Scene' on Facebook/Instagram.