Bill writes: “I have been coming to the jazz courses at Grafham Water since January 2001. I first went a little concerned that my musical shortcomings might slow down the class and annoy the tutors. It was a relief to discover that everything was accepted with patience and humour. Soon I felt that I was an integral part of the ensemble and enjoying a weekend of non-stop jazz which continued late into the night.Then it dawned on me that I was hooked. I remember the moment well….a cold January morning and we – the usual bunch of exhausted deadbeats in Martin’s class – were attempting to provide tasteful backing for Kate singing Bewitched Bothered and Bewildered. The sun sparkled on the frost outside, boats circled round and round on Grafham Water, and Martin let fly with a great tenor solo standing on one leg. Magic!”

Lorelei writes: “The tutors at Grafham are fantastic and so are the students.“At first I worried because I was going to be the youngest, and that no one else would be my age. But as soon as I arrived I felt welcomed and I didn’t care if I was the youngest or not! The staff are helpful, the food is amazing, the sessions are intense but enjoyable, and everyone gets a say in what they want to do. The tutors concert is aways entertaining.

“I have made a lot of friends, so I count down the days until the next course, when I can see them all again! The accommodation is roomy and clean. One of the things that inspires me at Grafham is the view of Grafham Water, on the first morning. Come to Grafham!!”

Mike writes: “I have been attending the Grafham Jazz course since I was 15 years old. The weekends have given me a chance to play with a whole range of like-minded people. They’ve offered opportunities which otherwise I may not have had.“Now studying Jazz at Leeds College of Music, I still make an effort to get my way back to Grafham, as the relaxed atmosphere and friendly workshops are like nothing I have experienced anywhere else.”