There can be few more well-loved musicians in the UK than Julian Marc Stringle who (quite some years ago now) was already hailed by the late Sir John Dankworth CBE as ‘the best new clarinettist to arrive on the British jazz scene’. Julian’s love for the clarinet – his first instrument – is equalled by his talents on both alto and tenor saxophones and in recent years he’s achieved a formidable poll-winning reputation leading his own ‘Dream Band’ (regularly headlining at London’s 606 Club) as well as freelancing, over the years, with everybody from Kenny Ball’s Jazzmen to rock icons including Meatloaf and The Spice Girls. Julian (or ‘Jools’ to friends) began leading his own band at the age of twelve, and at 14 years made his first TV appearance on ‘Opportunity Knocks’ where he was introduced by the late clarinet-master Acker Bilk. I’ve been incredibly fortunate that – amid his other activities – Jools co-founded my band ‘Digby Fairweather’s Half Dozen’ in 1995 and over the years we’ve recorded together, toured with George Melly (Britain’s ‘Dean of Decadence’!) and rock star Paul Jones, and played lots of music together. I can’t wait to do it again tonight and of course we’ll be with our wonderful RatPack Rhythm Section: Tim Huskisson(piano) Roger Curphey (bass) and Alan Clarke (drums) ! Address: The Icon Building, Western Esplanade, Southend on Sea, SS1 1EE and (as you may know by now??) the music starts at 8pm! Parking (like the music) is free on the seafront from 6pm and we really look forward to seeing you!!