Author: Jeremy Kahn

Sad News

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Dear All

It is with very great sadness that Josh and I write to let you know that Martin [Kemp] passed away on Saturday evening. Many of you know Martin well and have played music and gigs with him regularly. Martin ran the Grafham jazz weekends for many years before Josh and I took on this role in 2019.

There are no words to express the loss of such a kind and gentle person, and a wonderful musician who loved music, Classical and Jazz, his whole life. His passing leaves a huge hole in our lives. But we want to celebrate his life and everything he was, remembering all the wonderful things he did and all his wonderful qualities. There will be a service for him and we will let you know the details once it is arranged.

Josh and Ruth xx

Celebrating 50th Anniversary of Grafham Jazz Courses in January 2022

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2022 is the 50th year of the Grafham Jazz Courses and to celebrate we’re inviting special guest tutor Pete Churchill. The weekend runs from Thursday 27th Jan (long weekend) / Fri 28th (short weekend) to Sun 30th January. Pete will be with us on the Saturday. For some great jazz and groove, fantastic food and a supportive environment, and spectacular scenery, book your tickets now, on 01480 810 521.

September Weekend, 2021

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We are really excited that we are able to run the September Jazz weekend 24-26 September 2021.

The tutors will be Josh, Nick and Ruth. We’re thrilled to be able to get together and make music together again. Booking is through the Grafham Water Centre on 01480 810521.

We’re really looking forward to seeing everyone again.

Some changes at Grafham Jazz

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A very Happy New Year to everyone! We are starting the new year with some new and exciting updates to the Jazz Course at Grafham Water.

After two decades running Jazz at Grafham, Martin is handing over the Course Director role to Josh Kemp. Martin will still be there, playing and mentoring.

Tutor Nick Tomalin at the piano
Nick Tomalin

We are also pleased to announce a fantastic new course tutor for the January Jazz Weekend – Nick Tomalin. Nick is a hugely experienced pianist and composer living and working in London. He studied at Leeds College of Music and the Guildhall School of Music and Drama.

During his twenty-year career, Nick has performed at many prestigious jazz venues in London, including the 606 Club, the Jazz Café, The Vortex, and Ronnie Scott’s. As well as performing and recording with his own band, Nick has appeared as a sideman for Mark Lockheart, Stan Sulzman, Jim Mullen, John Etheridge, Mark Nightingale, and Alan Barnes amongst many others. Nick also has a wide experience as a jazz educator, running the Jazz Education branch of the E17 Jazz Collective for many years.