Festival brings world-class jazz to Lichfield

Lichfield is preparing for four days of jazz with a major festival coming to the city next month.

The Lichfield Jazz Weekender – from 4 to 7 June – promises international stars, local heroes and emerging talent, with 15 events spread across four venues.

Led by the fiery enthusiasm of Ben Holder, the Ben Holder Quartet (5 June) features four of the UK jazz scene’s finest players.

Ben is considered to be the most acclaimed and exciting jazz violinist in the UK.

Often playing across the UK, Europe and further afield, he is the first-call jazz violinist for many of the country’s top venues, line-ups and studios.

Guitarist Antonio Forcione (6 June) has won multiple international awards and 21 albums, earning the title ‘Jimi Hendrix of the acoustic guitar’ along the way.

His music transcends genres, blending jazz, Spanish, soul, African, Brazilian and improvised elements.

Antonio has shared the stage and recorded with Charlie Haden, Angélique Kidjo, Sarah Jane Morris and many more.

He has also supported music legends such as Phil Collins, Bobby McFerrin, Pino Daniele, Zucchero and Van Morrison.

The James Taylor Quartet (7 June) round off The Weekender, bringing tunes which take inspiration from the rare groove-style funk and boogaloo funk of the 60s and 70s.

Tom Morgan, curator of Lichfield Jazz Weekender, said:: “Right in the heart of the city, this brand-new event brings outstanding jazz artists to Lichfield whilst creating opportunities for the next generation of musicians.

“Alongside world-class performances, The Weekender is committed to nurturing young talent and making jazz accessible to people from all parts of our community.”

Check out the full Jazz Weekender line up.

Pictured: The James Taylor Quartet