Band Profile

Band Info

The Great Northern Jazz Band. The Great Northern Jazz Band was formed in 1991 by Dennis Armstrong and David Jenkins. With the exception of David, all the musicians lived in the north of England, or came from there. Over the years that “qualification” has lapsed, and many fine musicians from around the country have played with the band. They came together to do short tours, largely for their own enjoyment. The emphasis is on collective playing traditional jazz in a relaxed and swinging manner. Ex-members of the band include Barry Weston, Terry McGrath, Mike Lunn, Bob Frettloehr, Annie Hawkins, Roger Myerscough, Ian McCann, Mike Sayles, and a number of welcome and worthy “deps”. The band is increasingly popular as both listeners and dancers appreciate their special sound. Dennis is the only remaining player from the 1991 team, but Malcolm Hogarth, the Band Manager, has been with them since 1992.