For fans of Richard Shepherd, a regular performer at the Odiham Jazz Festival, don't miss the chance to see him play with the Jay Craig Orchestra Richard is one of the starry line-up of players for the 1940s Big Band Concert.

For more details and how to book visit The Winchester Festival Website.

Richard will also be playing in Pete Long's Gillespiana at the Goodwood Vintage Festival in the Torch Club on Saturday 14th August. For more information go to the Vintage Festival Website.

In August 2004 singer Jacqui Dankworth was booked to perform at the Chalkpit at the Jazz Picnic in aid of The Neurofibromatosis Association. She was due to bring Trumpeter Lynley Hamilton with her but a week before the Picnic rang me to say that Lynley had problems with his lip and wouldn’t be appearing. She felt bad at letting me down and I said it wasn’t a problem – I’d get a dep!

At such short notice this proved impossible so I let her know, two days before the Picnic that we’d manage with Richard and his Quartet and no second instrumentalist. She said, replied that “I hate to let you down –hang on a minute – I’ll ask my Dad!” Two minutes later she said –“ Don’t worry – Dad’ll do it”!! I relayed this to Richard ( then 18!) who promptly choked on his curry on realising that he was to perform with the great Sir John Dankworth.

On the evening of the Picnic – just before all was due to start a large chauffeur driven car made it’s way slowly down the field and stopped behind the stage. The great man emerged in floral shirt and panama at a jaunty angle and said to the young Quartet – “You open while I warm up!” Richard led the opening number, and was delighted to be told on John joining him on stage – “You’re like Bix Beidebecke – you can’t ever play a wrong note!” Praise indeed! Then he began to play. His phenomenal skill and versatility combined with his creativity were matchless on the up tempo numbers and the two saxes traded witty musical repartee. Here it should be said that many a lesser older musician would try to upstage the youngster but John inspired rather than attempting to outplay. When he accompanied his daughter on her vocal numbers his restraint and sensitivity, matched only by his glorious sound and his intricate use of harmony when soaring on the solo passages were proof that this man’s reputation was justly deserved and the words “Inspired” and “Genius” were not overstating the case.

The audience loved it. My lasting memory was of Jacqui in the break, preparing him a plate of healthy chicken and salad from the buffet I had provided for the musicians. John, spotting a large bowl of Eton Mess said “I’ll have some of that instead please“ and on finishing beamed at me and said “Good fun this gig – have you got any more pud – good grub that!" and devouring another plate of cream, meringue and raspberries!!

When the evening ended to deafening applause I thanked him profusely for honouring us with his presence and he said “No problem – I enjoyed it” What a star. He will be sorely missed both as a great musician and a great human being. Our thoughts are with Jacqui, Dame Cleo and his family.

25/26 August 2007

This popular bank holiday weekend event will again be held in the spectacular setting of the Odiham Chalk Pit, thanks to the kind generosity of Ted and Eileen Pither and family. This year will be extra special, on account of the 25th anniversary of the NfA, and definitely one not to be missed!

To celebrate we will reach for the Stars! This year on Saturday, 25th August we will have a whole constellation – thanks to the generosity of The UK’s leading Jazz musicians – all internationally acclaimed performers who we are pleased to welcome back to Odiham for a reunion Birthday Bash. “There’s such a great atmosphere at the Chalk Pit, and the audience is so appreciative of the Jazz that it’s just a really fun gig” was the consensus among them. To make up a band from the country’s finest – each an acclaimed virtuoso frontliner – is something that most events can only dream of. For this our 25th Anniversary – the dream comes true. Come and share it with us.

This year listen to the country's reigning jazz stars plus two phenomenal female vocalists, two living legends and a rising star. World class Trio Dave Newton (Piano) Andy Cleyndert (Bass) and Allan Ganley (Drums) featuring emerging young saxist Richard Shepherd from Hook, with special guest instrumentalists Alan Barnes (Sax), Mark Nightingale (Tromobone),Steve Waterman (Trumpet) & guest star vocalists Miss Lee Gibson, Miss Jacqui Dankworth and Mr Frank Holder (vocals and percussion). Could you beat this line up?! Frank (who discovered Cleo Laine!) was a tremendous hit last year and we can’t wait to see him again!

There are some fabulous raffle prizes including evenings with music, dinner and wine from some of the best Jazz Clubs including Chelsea’s 606 Club and the prodigious Ronnie Scott’s in Soho. The NfA will also be auctioning some ‘must have’ formula one items and a chance to take part in ‘Kestrel Daytime on Kestrel FM. There will also be a separate raffle running on both days for a flight in a hot air balloon generously donated by Peregrine Travel.

This wonderful evening, full of surprises, will conclude with a spectacular firework display. Ticket Price £20.00 (under 5s free). Terrific value for money!

Sunday 26th August will see the Lunchtime Jazz ’n’ Barbecue with a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere. The Phil brown Swingtet, formerly The Basin Street Six, who have been with us since the NfA charity shop opening in 1998 are back by popular demand, together with extra entertainment in the form of The Peter Clancy Band

The Sunday barbecue provided by RAF Odiham will be even more fantastic this year on account of our anniversary AND it’s included in the ticket price! £17.50 (under 11s free). What a bargain! Many thanks to the RAF for providing the barbecue and power and light for the weekend. There will be another raffle on Sunday and a surprise item to be auctioned!

On both days gazebos, chairs and tables are available, bookable in advance or guests many bring their own tables and chairs or rugs if they prefer. Guests may bring their own picnic on Saturday or take the easy option and pre-order direct from Cresson Creative. A reasonably priced bar (don’t miss the real ale!) and tea & coffee will be available on both days.

The NfA local team are looking forward to putting on this special event and Odiham Town Manager, Peter Fountain, who is a terrific support, said “The Odiham Town Manager Group is delighted to be part of the ' Team ' and particularly this year the 25th anniversary. The OTMG bit is but a small part of a much bigger operation and it is a pleasure to work with the same dedicated volunteers year on year to produce a quality event.” We will also be celebrating 10 years of fundraising in the area and five years of Jazz in the Chalk Pit.

Tickets are only available in advance and will sell out quickly so buy yours now!. For details of a special anniversary package please call Margaret Green on 01256 704448. Tickets can be purchased from Katharine Jane or Richard Ward Opticians in Odiham, The Village Gallery in Hook, Pet Kingdom in Hartley Wintney, the Village Shop in South Warnborough or by phoning Margaret.

These events are not formal concerts but excellent occasions to relax with friends, chat, listen to the music and eat your meal at your leisure – all in a stunning setting. Enjoy! We look forward to seeing you there. All proceeds from the Jazz Weekend will go towards supporting those living with Neurofibromatosis (Nf) in Hampshire and surrounding areas.