WORLD JAZZ LIVE SESSIONS AT THE TOWER – Hosted by Maiuko

Ben Holder is the most acclaimed and exciting jazz violinist in the UK.  His classical studies began at the age of six and were complemented by training at the Birmingham Conservatoire.
An introduction to jazz came in his early teens – classic masters such as Benny Goodman, Oscar Peterson and Stephane Grappelli – and lead Ben to truly find his place as a musician.
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Ben possesses an innate sense of swing rhythm (something which often eludes classical players), breathtaking technical ability and true showmanship on stage. He offers flawless musicianship, heaps of energy and personality and a visible passion for his craft.
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Ben’s various awards bear testimony to these abilities. Often playing across the UK, Europe and further afield, he is a first-call jazz violinist for many of the country’s top venues, line-ups and studios.

Ben Holder – Violin & Vocals
Caley Groves – Guitar
Mike Green – Double Bass

“That man Holder…If he was playing electric guitar behind a screen you’d swear it was Jimi Hendrix come back to life. So fast, so melodic.”  Jonathan Craymer – Grapevine Live

“Get your feet tapping and your jaw dropping at the speed of his fingers. Top quality musicianship and utter entertainment.”  Little Live Music Company

http://www.benholdermusic.co.uk

Support Act – Frances Knight Quartet 

Frances Knight is a pianist with an exquisite touch, and a ‘Musicians Federation Songwriting Prize’ winner.

Originally studying Fine Art, Frances began her musical journey by taking evening classes at Goldsmiths, at the same time performing in all kinds of situations from formal concerts to alternative cabarets.
She was inspired by the wealth of influences in London at that time: South African and Brazilian music, as well as Argentinian tango which she went on to perform extensively.

Since arriving in Canterbury 25 years ago Frances has recorded and performed with diverse musicians such as the late Hugh Hopper of Soft Machine. Her label Mandeville Records has released many albums featuring amongst others, legendary clarinettist Tony Coe. Internationally acclaimed saxophonist Paul Booth can be heard on the latest release ‘Magliasina’.

Frances Knight – Piano
Matt Miles – Saxes & Flute
Alex Keen – Double Bass
Jonathan Ward – Drums

Album Launch  – MAGLIASINA (poetic jazz originals by Frances Knight)

‘Magliasina’ features Paul Booth on saxophones and alto flute, Frances Knight piano, Alex Keen double bass and Jonathan Ward on drums. Recorded live one summer’s day in a converted chapel in Ramsgate, this album of mostly original compositions contains a variety of atmospheres and moods, taking its inspiration from, amongst others, Duke Ellington and Astor Piazzolla.

‘Intriguing lines and rich harmonies’    Peter Martin Jazz UK
‘Pianist Knight displays an exquisite touch … beautifully articulated melodic tendrils’.   Peter Quinn, Jazzwise

Tickets £15 | Doors from 6.30pm
Unreserved seating
A PortCaia Production in association with The Tower Theatre