The jazz scene around the conservatoires is always a source of inspiration and optimism, and there is nowhere better in the world right now than the Royal Academy of Music in Marylebone Road.

Next Monday’s gig (19th Jan) caught my eye.

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With the likes of Stuart Hall and Paul Clarvis to inspire these bright-eyed and bushy tailed young musicians, and a fascinating theme this promises to be a super rhythmically charged evening, with a lot of percussion.

Plus the classical percussionists of RAM, who have their own source of inspiration in the wonderful Neil Percy of the LSO, a real pro among pros.

And with modest genius Nick Smart in charge of proceedings, you know you will be in very good hands right from the first downbeat.

Not just a paddle in the warm waters of the Mediterranean, but you’re promised a quick 747 down into South African townships too….

Not bad for a winter evening in London!

“Academy Jazz and Percussion”
An evening of jazz-infused music from North Africa, Eastern Europe and South Africa.This showcase marks another chapter in the growing list of collaborations between the jazz and percussion departments at the Academy. This time they explore some of the influential small group music from the Balkans, Turkey, Greece, Armenia and Lebanon.In the second half, a stirring Big Band set looks back at some of the key figuresof South African jazz including Abdullah Ibrahim, Dudu Pukwana and Chris McGregor. The programme will present music arranged and led by our special guest Stuart Hall, along with Dave Hassell, Paul Clarvis and Nick Smart.”

Monday 19 January7:30pmDuke’s Hall, RAM
Tickets £6 (concessions £4)