The Savoy Jazzmen
Hugh Gerrard died in March 2005
The Merseyside Jazz scene stands up well against any in the world. There is probably more traditional jazz played on Merseyside than in any similar sized area in the world, including New Orleans, where the music originated, and the cities it spread to in the early 1920's including New York, St Louis and Chicago.
The Savoy Jazzmen are one of the 'Premier League' North West bands. They were formed from a group of musicians performing around the Liverpool area in late 1950's and became established as a working band in May 1960. They became one of the resident bands at the Mardi Gras Jazz Club and the Downbeat club. The Band also has played at the famous Cavern Club and a brick with the Band's name on is on the wall opposite the Cavern commemorating these sessions.
For many years now the band has played at weekly residences both north and south of the River Mersey and has a strong following in both areas. Currently the band has weekly residences at the Ship Inn, Market Street, Hoylake, (Mondays) and the Widnes Rugby Union Football Club, Heath Road, Widnes ( Tuesdays). You are welcome to come along to either (or both!) of these venues where a good time is had by all.
The Savoy Jazzmen are available for weddings, birthday and anniversary celebrations, corporate events. They are also a marching band and play at Festivals, Shows, Carnivals and even funerals.
CORNET & VOCAL Photograph shows the Late Hugh Gerrard - a subtle and sensitive musician who
played some wonderful solos, has his own distinctive vocal style.
CLARINET & ALTO SAX AND VOCAL, Brian Legan - a powerful and inventive master of the Albert system clarinet and another fine vocalist.
TROMBONE & VOCAL Dave Renton - a stalwart of the Merseyside jazz scene and a delightful tailgate ensemble player and soloist with an immense repertoire of vocals.
STRING BASS & SOUSAPHONE Peter Swensson - a founder member of the Savoy Jazzmen and a powerful player in the New Orleans style.
BANJO Geoff Walker - a veteran of both the North East and North West jazz scenes and a master of the New Orleans banjo style.
DRUMS Brian Woods - steeped in the authentic style of New Orleans drumming and who drives the band along.