Jazzman returns to Newbury Royal British Legion for series of 'Happy Music' shows

TOP jazzman Pete Allen returns with his band to his hometown to start a new series of monthly shows on Sunday afternoons at the Royal British Legion Club in Pelican Lane, Newbury.

Starting this Sunday, the sessions will run from 2.30pm to 5pm, with an admission at the door of £15.

Doors open at 1.30pm and pre-show Sunday lunches are available from noon.

Born in Newbury, Pete formed his professional jazz band in 1978 and has continued to entertain audiences at festivals, theatres and clubs around the world with his slick presentation of ‘Happy Music’ featuring a team of talented and respected musicians James Clemas – piano, Roger Marks – trombone, Jim Newton – drums and Dave Hanratty – bass, along with Pete on clarinet, saxophones, banjo and vocals. All the musicians will be travelling up from the South West, including Pete who now resides in Liskeard, Cornwall.

His band have made many TV and radio appearances over the years and released over 100 albums. In 1992 Pete was awarded with an Honorary Citizenship of New Orleans for his services to British music. Next year he will celebrate 45 years as a bandleader with a special jazz weekend at the Donnington Valley Hotel.

The Band at the Legion will play a selection of happy songs and instrumentals presented with lots of fun, with tributes to some of the great legends of jazz, including Louis Armstrong, Fats Waller and Sidney Bechet.

For further details call Jane on (0118) 981 2598 or visit www.peteallenjazz.com

For your table reservation call Dave direct at the club on 07555 364775.