Fleece Jazz

Having met as teenagers studying at Leeds College of Music in the 1970s, Alan Barnes and David Newton have been performing duets together for over 40 years. They have played on five continents and recorded with giants.  Few of their peers could claim to match them – for range, technical accomplishment, or versatility. Their degree of proficiency is demonstrated in their latest album 'Tis Autumn, where a set of nine standards thoroughly showcases their empathy, foresight and musical ability.

In addition to his work with Barnes, Newton's playing and compositions have been featured on many jazz recordings, numerous TV movies and West End plays. An exquisite soloist and accompanist, he is perhaps best known as an accompanist for Stacey Kent, with whom he recorded and toured for over 10 years. In 2019, he was voted 'Best Jazz Pianist' for the sixteenth time in the British Jazz Awards.

Barnes' versatility across alto and baritone saxophone, arranging and clarinet categories has also been recognised multiple times at the British Jazz Awards. He is a popular figure amongst British audiences and has an extensive back catalogue. His remarkable range has led to him working with artists as varied as Freddie Hubbard, Bryan Ferry, Humphrey Lyttleton and Björk.

These multi award-winners cover a vast repertoire and play with an empathy that can only come with long experience. The emphasis, as always, is on swinging, accessibility and interplay. Expect a hugely entertaining programme of straight-ahead jazz flawlessly played and interspersed with lots of anecdotes.

“Whether on alto, baritone or tenor, Barnes’ melodic sense bypasses the usual scale-running clichés that pepper the playing of lesser bop disciples.” - Peter Marsh, BBC Music Review

"The pace of this couple of much-garlanded, highly respected masters is relaxed and leisurely, almost sedate. But don’t be mistaken. The autumnal atmosphere doesn’t mean fireside pipe and slippers. Every note on this album pulses with electricity, vigour, invention and swing. And meaning. ’Tis Autumn highlights the sophistication, virtuosity, experience and integrity of two forward-looking masters looking backwards.” - UK Jazz News

• Alan Barnes - Saxophone & Clarinet
• David Newton - Piano

Fleece Jazz is an independent, non-profit association run by a voluntary committee who have been providing modern and contemporary jazz for 28 years. They book talented musicians and jazz bands from the UK and beyond to perform at Stoke by Nayland Resort, providing the perfect backdrop for these cherished and popular events.

Fleece Jazz events are generally held on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month.