The inaugural Sandown Jazz & Blues Festival took place amidst the glorious weather of 12th-16th September, with a spread of musical styles presented in several venues and out on the street.
The Wight Hotel was ‘festival HQ’, hosting jazz/blues variety evenings and mainstage performances by Carla Richee, Chaz Williams and The Nick Page Quartet.
Browns Café hosted 2 great afternoons of music, including a brilliant performance by the Isle of Wight Youth Jazz Orchestra.
Several local pubs majored on the ‘blues and beyond’ theme, with local bands delighting drinkers. Out at Sandown Airport on Sunday afternoon, Laurie McVay and the High Rollers reached for the sky with 2 sets as sensitive as they were storming.
Organiser and local musician, Stephen J. Parkes, is said to be delighted with this first stab at what could easily become a firm favourite event in The Bay Area.
Photo and report by Bob White – Festival Photographer
