We have a fantastic range of music shows for Spring 2010 starting with...

TG Collective

Moving through flamenco, jazz, gypsy, hotclub and contemporary classical influences, the group is centered around the two acoustic guitars of Jamie and Sam, Percy Pursglove on double bass, cajon and trumpet; Holly Jones on flute and alto flute, and Louis Robinson on violin. TGC also feature eminent flamenco dancer and choreographer Ana Garcia, and world percussionist/cajon player Tom Chapman, with new and interchanging shapes and sizes of ensemble within a performance.

Touching on the influences and new arrangements of works by such luminaries as Paco de Lucia, Django Reinhardt and Horace Silver, the Collective also perform self-penned compositions and arrangements, and music by longstanding TG Guru Bryan Lester.

Clive Carroll

Clive Carroll was described by Acoustic Guitar magazine as ‘Probably the Best and Most Original Young Acoustic Guitar Player and Composer in Britain’. Clive is immersed in a diverse range of music swing, jazz, seamless changes from chamber music into Irish Reels, 16th & 17th Century lute pieces, satanic Romanian inspired tunes and finger lickin’ hoedown’s. His father made him his first banjo in 1977at the age of 2 and a few years later he was playing in the family band.

‘Clive takes us on a touching and joyful journey through his musical influences where Django meets Chet while Renbourn picks out a delta Blues in the background. Masterful.’ Acoustic Magazine

Kirsty McGee

On a welcome return to Highlights venues, Kirsty McGee will perform original songs written and performed by herself and accompanied by Mat Martin on banjos and guitars. Her new album - entitled No. 5, and due for release in early 2010 - features songs from her critically acclaimed 2008 release ‘ The Kansas Sessions’ (‘a stunning musical masterpiece’ - Maverick. ‘Her best so far’ - Rock & Roll Reel) as well as arrangements of old favourites and performances of brand new material not previously released.

Listening to Kirsty McGee, you’d never guess she’s from Manchester. Her style is foot-stompin’, porch rocking’, banjo dappled carby shuffle - think 20’s clarinet-soaked swinging songs that sound familiar the minute you hear them. Kirsty describes her music as ‘vaudebilly music for the new depression era.’ Witty and catchy, you’ll be humming these tunes all the way home!

‘Kirsty McGee has the kind of voice that stops you dead in your tracks, she blends styles like a master alchemist and has a way with melody that means the moment you hear her songs it’s impossible to get them out of your head.’ Ralph McLean BBC

Helen Barrett - 'The Lady Loves Jazz'

The Lady Loves Jazz is a wonderful celebration of traditional and contemporary jazz songs that will ignite the spirit and warm the soul.
Helen Barrett, accompanied by fantastic jazz piano, performs an entrancing tribute to some of the most beautiful and well-loved singers and song-writers including Ella Fitzgerald, Gershwin, Nina Simone, Peggy Lee, Norah Jones and Eva Cassidy.

“Helen’s a terrific performer with a great personality and voice to die for – it’s lovely to witness her total love and respect for both the classic and contemporary songs she brings so well to life.” Sarah Peterkin, Director, Take Art, Somerset.