Jazz Leeds presents: John Etheridge and Sweet Chorus 70th birthday tour @Seven Arts, Thursday 23 May

John Etheridge

John Etheridge guitars, Christian Garrick violin, Dave Kelbie guitar, Andy Crowdy bass

John Etheridge has been seen in many contexts, his duo with the great classical guitarist John Williams, various incarnations of The Soft Machine and The Zappatistas. This band, Sweet Chorus, was formed as a personal tribute to his former bandleader and mentor – Stephane Grappelli arguably the greatest jazz violinist of the 20th Century. Etheridge accompanied Grappelli on numerous world tours and appeared on 4 discs, including two with Yehudi Menuhin and Grappelli – the famous partnership which had such phenomenal success in the 70s.

Other than John’s guitars and the amazing violin of Chris Garrick, a relationship described as one of the most potent in European jazz, the band is propelled by the drive of Dave Kelbie (ex of Django a la Creole) and UK bassist Andy Crowdy. 

Expect a dazzling and varied display of acoustic jazz, a mix of standards, American swing, Latin American and original compositions played with wit, humour and John’s affectionate reminiscences of Stéphane Grappelli.

“I never wanted to be a star, just a respected musician like John Etheridge!” – Sting

John Etheridge and Sweet Chorus 70th birthday tour @Seven Arts, Thursday 23 May 8pm £18/16 25’s and under half price.Tickets on the door or advance here
www.ticketsource.co.uk/jazzleeds

Venue address 31 Harrogate Road Leeds LS73PD

Support (8-8.30) is from “Fluid Puzzle” with Marcus Cain – Bass, Emil Karlsen – Drums, Lewis Downs – Guitar