18/07/2026
A huge thank you to everyone who came along to this week’s gig with the Chris Gumbley Quintet playing the music of Cannonball Adderley. It was fantastic to see such a great turnout and a room full of people enjoying live jazz together.
I’d also like to give you a little update on where we are with the club. At the moment, unless things improve, Alsager Jazz Club is likely to close in early October.
Since taking over the bookings in January, I’ve made a real effort to bring many of your favourite musicians to Alsager, but a healthy jazz scene is an ecosystem. Alongside established names who have dedicated decades to this music, we also need to support the next generation of outstanding players.
Today’s jazz stars were once the young musicians that audiences took a chance on. If we don’t support those emerging artists now, who will be keeping this music alive in years to come?
The reality is that if audiences only come to see the musicians they already know, eventually there won’t be a venue left for any of them to play. Your favourite artists can only keep returning if the club itself survives.
Every musician I’ve booked is someone I genuinely believe in. They’re not just names on a list—they’re musicians I’ve played with, admired and been inspired by. I know they’ll give everything they have every time they step onto our stage.
Next week is a perfect example. We’re delighted to welcome the brilliant young guitarist Tim Williams, joined by one of our favourite pianists, Richard Wetherall. They’re both exciting, inspiring musicians and together I think they’ll create a night to remember. If you’ve never heard Tim before, he is quite simply exceptional, and this is exactly the kind of evening that reminds us why it’s so important to support the next generation of jazz artists.
So can I just remind you that this is your jazz club. If you’ve been meaning to come along, or you’ve only been picking the occasional concert, I’d ask you to consider supporting the club more regularly. Bring a friend, tell people about us, and help us keep live jazz thriving in Alsager.
Thank you to everyone who has supported us so far. I genuinely believe this club has a future, but only if we build it together. I hope to see many of you next week.
