PORTHCAWL JAZZ FESTIVAL
Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl
Fri 22-Mon 25 Apr

Ah, the Easter Bank Holiday weekend: a time for chocolate, family and, now, jazz as Porthcawl hosts its annual International Jazz Festival. This year’s lineup is perhaps the festival’s best yet, with a wide range of talents and styles that are sure to accommodate everyone, from the most discerning jazz fan to the uninitiated.
One of the weekend’s biggest names comes in the form of legendary singer and pianist Buddy Greco, an original Rat Pack member who has performed with Frank Sinatra and The Beatles, recording 65 albums in the process. Other highlights will no doubt include the world-class National Youth Jazz Orchestra, acclaimed British jazz singer Jacqui Dankworth and the renowned, not to mention superbly-named, trombone soloist Jiggs Whigham. In addition to a wealth of international acts, The Grand Pavilion will also showcase homegrown talent, from pianist and composer Geoff Eales to the New Orleans-inspired Liberty Street Jazz Band.

Non-stop music throughout each day of the festival has resulted in a number of ticket options and prices, allowing audiences to make the most of their visit and see exactly who they want to see. However, judging from the sheer number and variety of quality acts and big names on offer, an all-day helping of smooth grooves and fast-paced improvisation might just be in order. Tickets: £60 (festival ticket)/£5 (day stroller)/concerts individually priced. Info: 01656 815995 (MB)