Steve Waterman Septet at Birley Centre, Eastbourne Photo Credit: Brian O’Connor/ Images of Jazz

Brian O’Connor reports from the second jazz gig at a new venue:


The Birley Centre opened in Eastbourne a couple of years ago. Part of Eastbourne College, it is a small theatre complex devoted to the arts. When it comes to music, classical is dominant. However, thanks to Musical Director Nick Parrans-Smith, ably assisted by Annette Keen, who has been promoting jazz in the area for many years, jazz itself is beginning to be seen and heard. Three months ago Claire Martin and Joe Stilgoe successfully opened what is hoped to become a regular series of gigs. Yesterday, Tuesday, a second gig was performed by the Steve Waterman Septet.

Dave O’Higgins, Dave Barry, Birley Centre, Eastbourne Photo Credit: Brian O’Connor/ Images of Jazz

The line-up consisted of, Steve Waterman, trumpet; Mark Nightingale, trombone; Dave O’Higgins, tenor sax, Alan Barnes, baritone sax, Gareth Williams, piano; Alec Dankworth, bass; and Dave Barry, drums. Unbeatable.

They played tunes mainly from the Tadd Dameron, Benny Golson, and Herbie Hancock era, with one superb 20 minute tribute to Buddy Bolden, Red Vest Man, written by Steve Waterman himself.

An incredible evening, and with the right support this could become a regular and very welcome venue on the jazz circuit.

Alec Dankworth, Dave Barry, Alan Barnes, Mark Nightingale, Steve Waterman,Dave O’Higgins. Birley Centre, Eastbourne Photo Credit: Brian O’Connor/ Images of Jazz