Last night I was playing piano in a jazz band at The Bowlers Rest in Leith, Edinburgh. You can just see the back of my head in the photo – but you could certainly hear me if you were there!
There were six of us in the band – which was advertised as The Proffs in the pub: Nikki MacLeod (Guitar), Joe Smith (Electric Bass), myself (Piano), Helena Redman (Flute), Katherine Wyers and Jim Francey (Saxophone).
I haven’t enjoyed playing a gig as much in years: partly is was the terrific front line, partly the great atmosphere in the pub, partly the audience (actually listening!), partly that I was playing a real piano – so no worries about the sound to use, and partly that Joe drove me there so I could have a drink. Leith Juice, and a wee dram at the end.
Jazz is meant to be fun to play, as well as fun to listen to. And I really believe this time it was fun for all.
It’s too late for me to be a famous jazz player – I’ve no ambitions there – but I’m definitely looking for more fun gigs like this one!
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