Policy Statement
This event is being organised by a local committee of musicians and jazz fans.Our aim is to promote jazz on the Isle of Wight. Members of the committee will not receive any financial reward. Inspected accounts will be made available on request.
The committee will cover the cost of the main venues and headline acts. This will be funded by sponsorship, ticket sales and other fund-raising activities.
Any subsequent profits will go towards funding future events.
We will encourage other performances during the period. However, we will not act as agents. It will be the responsibility of the performers and venues to negotiate between themselves.
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Review
Newport jazz festival goes down a storm
ORGANISERS of the fourth Newport Jazz Weekend are hailing it an outstanding success.
The cream of British jazz musicians played at venues around Newport during the four-day event, sponsored by the Isle of Wight County Press and Red Funnel.
A huge range of styles, bands and singers performed from last Thursday to Sunday, including Island favourites, Gramophone Party and Edana Minghella, sister of the late film director, Anthony.
Among the mainland stars were singer, Aydenne Simone, who appeared with the Keith Ingham Trio at Quay Arts on Saturday, and Roots and Herbs at Newport Minister, also on Saturday, celebrating the legendary band leader, Art Blakey.
Fringe events were held across Newport along with masterclasses by renowned musicians to encourage young people to get involved playing jazz.
Event director, Jim Thorn, said the event had surpassed all expectations. "The attendance over the four days was incredible with a significant number of those coming from the mainland. Four of ticketed gigs were sell-outs, and the Back to Basie and Sax Appeal gigs at Medina Theatre drew substantial crowds.
"Just as importantly, there were big crowds for nearly all the gigs in pubs and restaurants. The overall attendance at ticketed gigs was around 1,800 and the total attendance, including local fringe gigs, was more than 3,000."
He added: "Encouraging the participation of young musicians in jazz is a vital part of the festival. There were two workshops run by Gary Plumley, Dennis Rollins and Nick Page, and very encouraging attendance by young jazz fans at the main gigs.
"Plans will be under way very soon for the 2016 event, which will take place at the same time next year."
Reporter: