Trevor Watts to open the new Hastings Jazz Festival

Trevor, who lives in Hastings, will be playing with accomplished pianist Veryan Weston.

Trevor was a leading figure in the avant-garde movement in the 60’s and 70’s collaborating with musicians such as Archie Shepp and Don Cherry.

A versatile musician, he has since played all over the world with his own projects such as Moire Music, which fused jazz and African music.

Trevor and Veryan will be playing at the Stade Open Space on Saturday from 7.30pm.

It is the curtain raiser for the new free Jazz Festival organised by Hastings Winkle Club.

The programme, which features many top class Jazz and Bluesy Soul bands, continues on Sunday from 1pm on the Stade. The afternoon’s programme will include such well known and respected names as The Mike Hatchard Quartet and Tony O’Malley who was formerly with 10cc and is a regular at the famous Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club.

There will also be live music and events in many pubs in the Old Town.

Chair of the Winkle Club’s Fundraising Committee, Pauline Lindsay said: “We are so grateful to our Sponsors whose generosity has made all this possible and to the pubs and clubs who are also hosting supporting events. This has the makings of a really great weekend.”

The Festival is free but the Winkle Club will be out and about over the weekend collecting money for local charities and good causes.

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