JAZZ MAN DRUMS UP HOSPICE CASH

By Emily Pearce - Friday, May 9, 2008

Jack Botha, from Ventnor Middle School, getting a few tips from top jazz drummer Arthor von Blomberg, at the Medina Theatre workshop. Picture by PETER BOAM.

MUSIC
A CHARITY concert in aid of the Earl Mountbatten Hospice has raised £2,500.
Renowned jazz musician and record producer Arthor von Blomberg appeared at Medina Theatre on April 23 with his spectacular 16-piece swing band, the Gene Krupa Orchestra — so called in homage to the pioneering jazz drummer — and a host of internationally famed musicians, including saxophonist Richie Cole, big band singer Cassie Miller and Lee Thornburg, previously of Supertramp and Tower Of Power.
Arthor, who first came to the Island several years ago as a guest of record producer Robert Stigwood, said: “We really wanted to give people a great show and we would love to do more things like this on the IW.”
Before the concert, Arthor and the other artistes hosted a workshop for talented young musicians. One lucky Cowes High School student, 16-year-old saxophonist Matthew Johnson, was then invited to appear on stage later that evening.
Elaine Sheldrake, community arts co-ordinator at Medina High, said: “The workshop was an amazing opportunity for the students to jam with top class musicians and it was a real eye-opener for them. Along with Platform One and all the Battle Of The Bands competitions, the Island is becoming a great place for young musicians.”
Arthor added: “Around 60 students came to the workshop and the band played a couple of numbers before going round and working with them. They were very attentive and we were happy do it. There should be as many opportunities like this for young people as possible.”
Karen Eeles, community fundraiser at the hospice, said: “The concert was really enjoyable and a very different way of fundraising for us. We plan to organise an opera concert with Arthor in June.”

JAZZ MAN DRUMS UP HOSPICE CASH

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