Since its inception in 2013, Jazz on The Pantiles has risen in popularity, showcasing some of the top jazz musicians in the country.
These music evenings have become a huge draw for enthusiasts of the genre and present many benefits for The Pantiles and for Tunbridge Wells as a whole, attracting locals as well as new visitors alike.
Next week, expect to hear the gentle moaning of a saxophone echo through the town, as bands once again take to The Pantiles’ bandstand. Considering that April is also Jazz Appreciation Month, there’s perhaps no better time to explore this hypnotic musical genre and its recent synonymity with our wonderful asset.
All that jazz
Jazz Appreciation Month was established with the aim to raise awareness of the phenomena that is jazz music; one of America’s most popular cultural achievements and global exports. Regardless of age or gender, jazz can and does appeal to everyone and often becomes a lifelong passion for fans.
During the month of appreciation, people are encouraged to attend jazz concerts, learn how to play musical instruments or simply listen to jazz at home or in the car. You could simply tune into Jazz FM on your radio!
The Pantiles in full swing
This year, Jazz on The Pantiles begins on 5th May, where The Pantiles will be welcoming wonderfully talented Latin band Pollito Boogaloo. Described as the most danceable Latin band on the South coast, Pollito Boogaloo has its roots in Colombian Cumbia, Vallenato, Salsa and a host of Latin American Styles.
The Tunbridge Wells Hotel, The Kirthon Indian and La Casa Vecchia are all participating. From authentic Bangladeshi food, to Mediterranean delights; this delectable variety of cuisines create the ultimate alfresco dining experience.
Music in the summer sun
Speaking to the Times of Tunbridge Wells, Julian Leefe-Griffiths who runs the summer-long jazz season at The Pantiles said: “We are really looking forward to bringing The Pantiles alive again with some excellent Jazz nights, we have a really exciting season coming up. I work with the jazz impresario Lionel Shell, who many in the town know from his smart suits and colourful shoes. This year Lionel has booked a great line up with regulars such as Derek Nash, Dave Ital and Vince Dunn, plus some new and emerging acts for the stage.”
Julian added: “It’s quite a labour of love to organise the Jazz which has been running in its current format for over 10 years. Jazz on The Pantiles has really become an iconic summer event in the town, which everyone seems to love attending. This year has been particularly challenging, getting the show back on the road again, but we have help from our excellent headline sponsor Dandara together with Brooks McDonald, Thomson Snell and Passmore and the supportive Royal Tunbridge Wells Together. My thanks must also go out to two new sponsors this year. Batcheller Monkhouse and AXA Health.”
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Emerging from the COVID-19 pandemic, we recognise that by supporting Jazz on The Pantiles, we are able to reinstate consumer confidence, build momentum and drive footfall to our asset. It is also a great opportunity to work closely with our tenants and help them prosper.
