THE cool sound of jazz will be heard in St Peter’s Church, Powick, for an extra special Sunday evening session, next month.

And hitting the right notes with the trumpet and the audience will be none other that BBC Big Band star, John Ruddick who received the MBE for services to music.

A spokesman said: “People are in for a real treat as the 17-piece Martineau Big Band makes a rare visit to Worcestershire, playing music from the 1930s to the present day.

“There will be the chance to swing in the aisles to some great numbers from the band whose last scheduled Jazz In The Church appearance at St Peter’s was cancelled due to snow when, ironically, one of the songs they were due to perform was Let It Snow.”

Which just goes to show the power of music!

The spokesman added: “The musicians are led by award-winning BBC Big Band trumpeter, John Ruddick MBE. They come from all over the West Midlands and practice in Birmingham every week.

“Famed as the musical director of the Midland Youth Jazz Orchestra, 11 times winners in the BBC National Big Band Competition, Mr Ruddick is a highly talented trumpet player in his own right, having backed singers such as Peggy Lee and the Supremes.”

He plays with several Birmingham based Big Bands, including Fat Chops and Garry Allcock’s All Stars and was awarded his MBE for services to music.

Apart from the chance to enjoy a memorable evening of music with top musicians, there’s another sound reason to take a pew

The spokesman said: “Jazz In The Church, at 7.30pm on Sunday, May 6, is among several events at St Peter’s, Upton Road, Powick, to help raise money for the urgent restoration of the church.

“The event offers the chance to do something different on a Sunday evening.”

Tickets are £6, include light refreshments and are available from 01905 830266, or by e-mail from: wjazzjam@gmail.com