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11th December 2025 at 7.30pm (doors open 6.45pm)
Trailblazing ‘cellist and composer Shirley Smart
is bringing her mix of jazz, folk and Middle Eastern music to entertain and amaze for a fun, fascinating evening in this intimate, friendly venue.
If you were at Shirleys previous concerts here, you’ll know this is not one to miss.
Drawing on a background of 10 years living in Jerusalem and working with the overlapping worlds of jazz, Arabic, Turkish and North African music, her trio brings these influences together in an evening of vibrant melodies, grooves, swing and lively improvisation. Showcasing her unique ability to explore the potential of the cello in a jazz context, performing multiple roles as bassist, lead and soloist on the instrument, and featuring also some of the UK's leading lights in world-influenced jazz - John Crawford on piano, and Demi Garcia Sabat on percussion, this dynamic group promises and evening of inspired music-making.
‘Smart’s playing, both with and without the bow, is exceptional throughout....a stunning pizzicato solo, her playing reminiscent of a top jazz bassist. And she’s pretty handy with the bow too!’ The JazzMann
'As a cellist-composer she morphs seamlessly from Stephane Grappelli like swing and Bird-like bebop...a charming kaleidoscope and jazzy showcase of her global folk music-inspired compositions' Jazzwise
The concert will start at 7.30pm – you are welcome to join us for a drink when doors open at 6.45pm.
Wine, soft drinks (and mince pies) are on the house throughout the evening.
11th December 2025 at 7.30pm (doors open 6.45pm)
Trailblazing ‘cellist and composer Shirley Smart
is bringing her mix of jazz, folk and Middle Eastern music to entertain and amaze for a fun, fascinating evening in this intimate, friendly venue.
If you were at Shirleys previous concerts here, you’ll know this is not one to miss.
Drawing on a background of 10 years living in Jerusalem and working with the overlapping worlds of jazz, Arabic, Turkish and North African music, her trio brings these influences together in an evening of vibrant melodies, grooves, swing and lively improvisation. Showcasing her unique ability to explore the potential of the cello in a jazz context, performing multiple roles as bassist, lead and soloist on the instrument, and featuring also some of the UK's leading lights in world-influenced jazz - John Crawford on piano, and Demi Garcia Sabat on percussion, this dynamic group promises and evening of inspired music-making.
‘Smart’s playing, both with and without the bow, is exceptional throughout....a stunning pizzicato solo, her playing reminiscent of a top jazz bassist. And she’s pretty handy with the bow too!’ The JazzMann
'As a cellist-composer she morphs seamlessly from Stephane Grappelli like swing and Bird-like bebop...a charming kaleidoscope and jazzy showcase of her global folk music-inspired compositions' Jazzwise
The concert will start at 7.30pm – you are welcome to join us for a drink when doors open at 6.45pm.
Wine, soft drinks (and mince pies) are on the house throughout the evening.