The Saint
University of St Andrews sees launch
of new Jazz society
Robert Tennant
Photo Credit: David Graves
St Andrews has a jazz society once more as Jazz Works was founded last
week. President, David Graves, saw the need to re-create the society
which already has over 250 members on Facebook.
Graves is keen to brand the society as something different to its
unsuccessful predecessor - Jazz Scene. The society aims to stimulate the
music scene in St Andrews, which for a university town is found to be sadly
lacking by many students.
The society's planned fortnightly meetings will most probably alternate
between socials and jam sessions. It is the society events, though, that aim
to really grab students attention.
Gigs in town have already been planned with names such as the
St Andrews based Relentless Biscuit, while trips to larger gigs in
Edinburgh will also take place. The Jazz Works launch party was held on
Tuesday March 2 at the Baron theatre on North Street with entertainment
from the much acclaimed Soul Food Café and Kenny Irons. There is also
the possibility of reinstating the Jazz Ball.
For those who play jazz, master classes will be supplied from time to time
by professional musicians in order to improve students instrumental skills.
No names can yet be revealed, however, representatives in the society suggest some big figures will be involved.
Moreover, students do not have to play an instrument to become involved, and many members have joined to simply enjoy the music on offer and take advantage of some of the brilliant events in the pipeline.
Jazz Works hopes to remove the stereotype of jazz as a genre for an older generation. As Graves points out, jazz has influenced virtually every genre of music since its inception.
Jazz Works is as much about exploring the pervasive influence jazz has had on all forms of cult, music or otherwise. This is supported by society clubbing nights with DJs playing jazz- influenced music in clubs for members.
Further information, including scheduled meetings, can be found on Facebook or students can e-mail Dave at jazzworks_st-andrews.ac.uk. Cost of membership is £3.
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