AN AWARD-WINNING big band is set to bring festive music to Henley in Arden.
The Midland Youth Jazz Orchestra (MYJO), one of the world’s top youth jazz groups, will present a variety of big band music as part of its A Fanfare to Christmas concert.
The concert takes place at 7:45pm on December 19 at Memorial Hall in Henley in Arden.
Celebrating over 50 years since its inception, the long-established orchestra supports young people in developing their musical talents, under the direction of award-winning trumpeter and conductor John Ruddick.
The group has a broad repertoire of music and was unbeaten in 20 years in the BBC National Big Band Competition.
Many of the group’s alumni have gone on to forge successful careers in international jazz music, attending prestigious institutions including Birmingham Conservatoire, Guildhall School of Music and the world-renowned Manhattan School of Music.
Alex Cardall a drummer and vocalist with the band when he was 16, currently performs in the UK wide theatre tour of The Osmonds and will be returning to sing with MYJO as part of the Christmas concert.
Alex said: “I am really excited to be returning to the Midlands this December and to perform as part of MYJO’s A Fanfare to Christmas.
“I am proud to call myself an alumnus – my time in the orchestra was instrumental in shaping my early steps as a musician and performer and I am looking forward to performing in a cracking show, full of fun and festive tunes for everyone to enjoy.”
The evening includes a raffle and bar, with funds for the event helping to support the orchestra’s 2023 events.
Tickets cost £15 and are available from John Latham on 07719 618 843 or emailing [email protected] or Nichola Ruddick on 01675 442050.
