Alan Barnes & Dave Newton

Alan Barnes & David Newton have been playing duets for 41 years. These multi-award winners cover a vast repertoire from Louis Armstrong to Chick Corea. David is one of the greatest solo jazz pianists this country has ever produced and the peerless Alan plays multiple reed instruments – all the saxophones, clarinet and bass clarinet.

They have developed an empathy and telepathic sympathy which only playing together for many years can bring.

The emphasis, as always, is on swinging, accessibility and interplay. You can expect a hugely entertaining programme of straight-ahead jazz, flawlessly played – interspersed with lots of anecdotes, and peppered with their inimitable humour.

“I was relishing the prospect of Barnes’s casually consummate musicianship, deadpan humour and indomitable belief in a respected place for the music’s rich history in this eclectic and often forgetful world.” John Fordham - The Guardian.

Of Dave Newton, a reviewer noted: “A genuine spirit of fun and musical adventure seemed to imbue his explorations.”

Listen to Professor Anthony Pinching's interview with Radio Harrow, talking about the concert here.