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Jazz School UK

After the success of the Introducing Jazz Ensemble, which has been meeting regularly this year at the Shoefactory, we are setting up a series of regular ensembles to cover the whole range of playing standards, from beginner through to professional. So whether you are an inexperienced improviser looking to acquire the basic skills needed for a Summer School, or a seasoned player looking to hone your skills, we have the playing environment to suit you. Click below to find out about your ensemble:
If you can, come along to our
at the Shoefactory
SEPTEMBER 19
(anytime 11am-1pm or 2-4pm) to find out all about our Jazz Ensembles, individual lessons and Singing Workshops. Free admission. Book your place online or if you have any questions,
Or just drop in on the day, we'll be happy to see you!

This is an arts space created in a Victorian Shoefactory in Rushden, Northamptonshire by musician and writer Nick Weldon and the singer Andra Sparks. The venue is quiet, huge, filled with light, and has three grand pianos, including the lovechild of the Italian Fazioli and the Japanese Yamaha. We know her as Yamioli
LOCATION
The Shoefactory
23b Fitzwilliam Street
Rushden
Northants
NN10 9YW
Google Map of The Shoefactory
Lots of photos and a history of the building and its renovation over at
There is a terrible shortage of adult learning opportunities for players new to Jazz Improvisation. We're offering a series of short courses to fill this gap!
For all instruments, the courses take place once a month, on Sundays, running either between 10.30am and 1pm, or 2pm and 4.30 pm, at a cost of £20 per person. Or make a day of it and stay for both sessions!
The venue is The Shoefactory, and the remaining introducing jazz dates for the 2010 Summer Season are:
SPECIAL JAZZ SCHOOL OFFERS
reduced course fees for players who are members of the Shoefactory at Rushden. Details here
Don't delay, book your places on
introducing Jazz and Summer Jazz courses using our
otherwise
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As well as running our own courses, we are happy to point you towards some other great organisations and events. Here are our picks:
Pianist Rachel Kerry organises some great courses in Wiltshire. Good prices and top tutors!
The Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama Summer School
August 2-8
This is a new course, aimed at advanced players, with opportunities for collaboration and performances in the Brecon Festival.
Two excellent courses over the summer.
August 15-21 (aged over 23)
August 22-28 (aged 14-23)
Interesting courses Europe-wide, with some top players from all round the world
Faculty of international stars!
July 20-25
TEACHING
Nothing but the best! This is your chance to play and learn with the most experienced players and teachers around. Many of the techniques of Jazz are very simple when explained in the right way by the right people. Save yourself hours of solo frustration! Small groups and expert tuition guarantee swift results.
Summer 2010
Malcolm Earle Smith Mainstream Jazz Day
Sunday May 30th
We've had many requests for this one! A chance to explore some of the great jazz standards of the past with one of the country's finest trombonists and singers. An exhilarating day of pure jazz melody and swing! £85 (£75)
Liam Noble Jazz Piano Day
Sunday June 27th
A fascinating insight into the techniques and styles of jazz piano from one of the masters of the instrument! £85 (£75)
Alan Barnes Jazz Saxophone Day
Sunday July 11th
We are very pleased to welcome this wonderful saxophone player to the Shoefactory. Alan combines astounding technical mastery with a deep love and knowledge of the jazz tradition, and is wickedly funny to boot! £85 (£75)
Playing Day 3 Saturday July 31st
Monk and Ellington
Playing Day 4 Sunday September 5th
Cole Porter and Jerome Kern
Learn more about the music of songsmiths we love to improvise with! Expert guidance from our brilliant tutors. For all instruments.
£85 ( £75)
All these courses are aimed at players from improver through to advanced levels. Prices in red are for members of the Shoefactory at Rushden. Details here or
If you are new to improvising, please consider coming along to our regular Introducing Jazz Sessions for all the information and practical experience you need to be able to participate in the normal run of workshops and Summer Schools. Details and dates opposite.