JAZZ pianist Mike Denham returns to Ilminster Arts Centre with another of his popular Speakeasy nights.

The formula – which originated at the Arts Centre over a decade ago – features Mike duetting with musicians of the highest calibre from the world of jazz. For this concert he will be joined by swing violinist Emma Fisk.

Emma Fisk is a UK based jazz violinist, specialising in Hot Club/Gypsy Jazz, Classic Jazz and Swing styles.

Having been taught violin at school, Emma was inspired, at the age of 16, to become a professional after hearing and meeting Nigel Kennedy and Stephane Grappelli.

She has received critical acclaim both for her spirited gypsy jazz performances, and her interpretations of early jazz violin master, Joe Venuti’s music.

She has played with many top UK and international players including Jeff Barnhart, Remi Harris, Spats Langham, and Enrico Tomasso. She was highly ranked in the 2018 British Jazz awards.

Michael Steinman from Jazz live, said: “She is a violinist with a dark rich tone, a love for melody, and a way of swinging without being syrupy.”

Chard & Ilminster News:

Mike Denham discovered jazz at university and, for years, juggled a career as a chemical engineer with band and solo performances.

Ragtime was Mike Denham’s first love, and he has performed rags at every opportunity – from St Pancras Station concourse to concert venues including London’s Purcell Room. As a young man Mike was asked to duet with the great Humphrey Lyttelton on Humph’s hit Bad Penny Blues, which kindled a lifelong interest in the boogie-woogie.

These days Mike’s piano playing ranges from early jazz through to jazz standards from the Great American Songbook and 1950’s style Rock ‘n’ Roll created by the likes of Chuck Berry.

Mike Denham’s Speakeasy with Emma Fisk will be at Ilminster Arts Centre on October 11 at 8pm. The event is now sold out with a waiting list.

To find out more about other events, visit www.themeetinghouse.org.uk