Music, music, everywhere…….
Organiser Nick Fogg’s quote of more than 100 different acts appearing at this year’s Jazz Festival hit home on Saturday when at almost every point in the centre of the town, from Bow Belles by St Peter’s to the Rope Works in Kennet Place there was music to be heard within a few feet, and performers carrying, dragging or lugging instruments, PAs and other gear in and out of the many venues.
A wide and embracing range of styles and genres, from the delicacy of the Marlborough Community Choir in St Mary’s in the afternoon to Straight Six playing hard driving blues at their farewell set in The Bear at the other end of the day.
A great day with something – in fact plenty – for just about everyone.
Lil’ Jimmy Reed was the star turn, wowing the crowds in the Cattle & Ball marquee, launching into a walkabout through the audience in his opening number. Best way to get the audience onside? Go join them…
Lots of acts, too many to mention so below are pics of a selection.
As promised by the Jazz Festival committee (see ‘Jazz Festival road closure – latest: No Road Closure‘) the roads were kept open. They upheld their decision to not to take up the 5pm Road Closure order that was issued by Wiltshire Council on the Friday. A sign proclaiming ‘Road Closure refused by Wiltshire Council’ appeared on a wall in London Road opposite Pinos restaurant which was later enhanced by the addition of some ‘Shakespearean’ graffiti wishing ‘A pox on the Council’….
There was some confusion regarding whether the roads were to be closed. The Council closed the parking area in George Lane on Saturday morning, which was undone later, and the Bus Stop by ‘One Stop’ informed passengers that the road would be closed from 10am.
Overall it was a thoroughly enjoyable day providing superb entertainment for the many visitors who thronged the town for the weekend and for those of us to whom Marlborough is home.
Any comments, experiences to share or opinions on the Festival? Write to letters@marlboroughnewsonline.co.uk
Click on any pic to enlarge…..
All pics Copyright Neil Goodwin and Marlborough News Online LLP unless stated otherwise in caption