Chetham's team of specialist Jazz teachers provides an exciting and diverse programme which accommodates both first study Jazz Students as well as serving to broaden the skills and experience of many more of our non-specialist players.
All trumpet, trombone, saxophone, string bass and percussion players participate in either the renowned Chetham's Big Band or the Chetham's Jazz Orchestra. In 2005 the Big Band claimed the junior section of the BBC Radio 2 Big Band of the Year Competition for the third time, also having won it in 1996 and 2000.
The Jazz Programme has provided Chetham's students with the opportunity to work with such eminent jazz soloists as Don Lusher, Kenny Baker, John Escreet, Bobby Shew, Mark Nightingale, Jiggs Wigham, Frank Mantooth, Pete King, Bob Mintzer, Jim Hart, Paul Clarvis, Alan Barnes and Rex Richardson. During 2005, John Dankworth and his Quartet performed in a concert at Chetham's alongside the Big Band.
There are also frequent opportunities for students to see major artists in local venues - recently these have included Allen Vizzutti at The Cinnamon Club, Altrincham and Mark Nightingale at The Rhythm Station, Rawtenstall. The re-opening of Manchester jazz venue 'Band on the Wall' during September 2009 presents an exciting prospect for school students. This prestigious venue is very close to the school and links are already being forged for close collaboration and increased opportunities.
During 2008 the school welcomed the celebrated jazz trio Acoustic Triangle for the third time. This group features Tim Garland, Malcolm Creese and Chetham's ex-student Gwilym Simcock. They gave a day of workshops culminating in an evening concert at Manchester Cathedral with Chetham's students sharing the platform. Gwilym, a student at Chetham's for eight years, is a multi awarding winning jazz pianist, and was the first BBC Radio 3 New Generation Jazz Artist.
As part of the Jazz Programme, all students have the opportunity to attend improvisation sessions with Steve Berry (bassist and jazz educator). These sessions cater for all levels of ability and all instruments, and encourage individuals to extend their skills within the jazz improvisation spectrum. From these sessions smaller jazz groups are formed, which are often given opportunities to perform within school and venues around the North West.
