England’s Longest-Established Jazz and Blues Festival Expands into Coventry for the First Time
The Birmingham, Solihull, and Sandwell Jazz & Blues Festival, the longest-established jazz and blues festival in England, is making a landmark expansion into Coventry as part of its 40-year celebrations. For the first time, this milestone event will be held at the Coventry Building Society Arena on Saturday, 27 July 2024.
Event Highlights
Venue: Coventry Building Society Arena
Date: Saturday, 27 July 2024 (FREE EVENT)
Coventry Event Features:
Nine different bands and musicians performing
Various spaces within the venue utilized
A beer festival alongside the music performances
Workshops, talks, and masterclasses for jazz and blues enthusiasts
Workshops and Activities
Ukulele Workshops: Hosted by You’re Never Alone with a UK, these informal sessions will cater to ukulele players of all abilities. Julian Cockshott of Ukulele Rocks will provide tips and advice.
Dance Workshops: 'The Swing Era' dance workshop led by Ben, Serana, and company will teach the basics of lindy hop and swing dancing, enabling participants to enjoy dancing to the festival's music.
Featured Artists
Sunjay: Derby-born multi-award-winning guitarist and singer, nominee of a British Blues Award, who has supported notable blues artists such as Steeleye Span, John Renbourn, and Albert Lee.
The Warren James Skiffle Group: Performing hits from skiffle legends like Lonnie Donegan and Tommy Steele.
Chickenbone John: Known as the Godfather of the Cigar Box Guitar, he brings an authentic blues sound.
The Shufflepack: Led by harmonica player Stuart Maxwell, offering a blend of 1950s Chicago blues with 1940s influences.
Jamie Thyer & The Worried Men: With over 4,000 gigs in the past 30 years, they are set to perform.
Jump, Jive and Wail: Known for their live performances, they will deliver a set featuring boogie woogie piano, honking sax, exuberant harmonica, and three-part vocal harmonies.
Back On The Road: Comprising musicians Tony O’Brien, Richard Fedeski, Ray Sweeney, Bill Jefferson, and Stevie Barr, performing classic rock, pop, and blues covers.
Organization and Statements
Organizer: Big Bear Music, one of the UK’s longest-running independent record labels and booking agencies.
Paul Michael, Managing Director at Coventry Building Society Arena: Expressed excitement about collaborating with Big Bear Music and bringing the festival to Coventry, highlighting the free entry as a significant attraction.
Jim Simpson of Big Bear Music: Emphasized Coventry's rich musical heritage and the ease of collaboration with the Coventry Building Society Arena team, ensuring a fun and memorable event.
Additional Information
For more details about the Coventry Jazz, Blues & Beer Festival, visit the official festival website or contact the Coventry Building Society Arena.
Join the celebration and immerse yourself in a day filled with the best of jazz, blues, and beer at Coventry Building Society Arena on 27 July!
Find out more about jazz festival: https://www.birminghamjazzfestival.com/