In our opinion, there’s nothing better than a cosy winter morning with a good coffee, a toastie and some smooth jazz to start off your weekend, so we’ve been lucky enough to book in Kevin Fenner JazzFive to play our studio in June.
Kevin Fenner is a professional saxophonist who has earned accolades for composing over 80 modern classic works including two operas, symphonies, concertos, chamber works and even a ballet, receiving international awards performing in London, Boston, New York and at a Saxophone Quartet at the World Saxophone Congress in Zurich in 2018.
From 9am – 10.30am on Saturday 11th June, you’ll be able to settle into our studio, get comfy and listen to the contemporary and classic beats of Kevin and his band.
We thought we’d get to know Kevin a little better, so asked him a few questions:
Thanks for answering some questions for us Kevin. Tell us about the JazzFive – what’s the background of all of the members?
The team is made up of five experienced musicians who have played all sorts of music from backing local to overseas artists all around the globe. Our band consists of Peter Groos (alto sax and clarinet), Kevin Fenner aka me (tenor sax and vocals), Tonny Warnock (keyboards), Ross Lambert (electric bass) and last but not least Allan Hibbert (drums).
Sounds like a brilliant team with plenty of experience from around the world. So, where did your musical inspiration come from? When did you start playing?
My father bought me an alto saxophone and found a music teacher. I was 16 years of age; that was 68 years ago. (They say I don’t look my age LOL.)
You don’t look a day over thirty Kevin – now what can we expect for your visit to Cleaver Street?
For the Cleaver Street Studio gig we will be playing our usual fare of modern jazz, swing, latin and some funk to keep you entertained.
Amazing! And lastly, if you had to pick one amazing famous musician to call your #1, who would it be?
Tough question. I have many favourite musicians, but in jazz my absolute favourite is saxophonist Charlie Parker, who changed the course of jazz with his innovative bebop style back in the 1940s.
It’s bound to be a fabulous morning, so head down for free and come support this incredible local talent. We’ll see you on 11th June!
