Jazz breaking news: Charlie Haden with Quartet West and Gretchen Parlato added to Norfolk & Norwich Festival
Friday, March 4, 2011
This year’s Norfolk & Norwich Festival, that takes place between 6 – 21 May, boasts a diverse programme of jazz, world and classical artists and has just announced two major additions to its programme.
The first of these is a rare UK appearance from iconic US bassist Charlie Haden who appears on 19 May at the St. Peter Mancroft Church with his acclaimed group Quartet West. The group’s formidable line-up includes fiery tenorist Ernie Watts and equally impressive pianist Alan Broadbent all playing songs from their latest vocal-led album Sophisticated Ladies, though any potential guest vocalists have yet to be announced.
The second jazz artist of note appearing is rising star vocalist Gretchen Parlato (pictured) who makes a welcome return to the UK after her stellar performances at last year’s London Jazz Festival over two nights at Ronnie Scott’s, as well as stand out guest appearances with Esperanza Spalding and her spine tingling take on Herbie Hancock’s ‘Butterfly’ at the Jazz Voice vocal spectacular. Known for her ethereal vocal style she’ll be performing songs from her latest album Lost And Found, the follow up to her critically acclaimed debut In a Dream, where she continues to take a fresh approach to gems from the likes of Stevie Wonder, Duke Ellington, Herbie Hancock and Wayne Shorter. She performs on 20 May at the Norwich Playhouse.
Elsewhere on the festival’s eclectic bill other major bookings include striking Portuguese fado singer Mariza (15 May, Theatre Royal), popular classical-jazz crossover group Penguin Café (16 May, Theatre Royal), renowned genre hopping string ensemble Kronos Quartet (17 May, Theatre Royal), and Congalese super group Staff Benda Bilili.
For more info see www.nnfestival.org.uk
- Mike Flynn