Drumming legend to hit Rye festival

This week also sees the launch of the festival website at www.ryejazz.com where you can find out more about artists and book tickets.

The festival is set to take place in a number of venues in Rye from August 23 – 27, including Tilling Green Community Centre.

Festival director Ian Bowden commented: “We are delighted to have attracted superb artists to perform at the festival this year with music across the genres of Jazz, Blues, Soul, Gospel, Funk and World Music.

“Headline acts include Anthony Strong, one of the rising starts of British Jazz. Anthony performs with his trio at the George in Rye on Friday August 24.

“We are also thrilled to have secured legendary drummer Ginger Baker, from Cream who will be performing with his Jazz Confusion at Rye College on Saturday August 25.

“London based IDMC Gospel Choir take you on an uplifting journey at St Marys Church on Sunday August 26.

“Other events include a Jazz Breakfast with bass player Herbie Flowers and Mike Hatchard, three “Afternoon Courtyard Sessions” at the George Hotel, numerous local and regional bands perform at venues including the Ypres Castle Inn, the Queens Head, the Standard Inn, the Old Borough Arms, The Ship Inn and many others.

“There will be free street entertainment thought the weekend, acoustic sessions at the old Butter Market and a Cuban Marching Band winding their way through the streets bringing a vibrant and colourful atmosphere.

“A core vision of the festival is to educate and inspire so we are pleased to be facilitating a number of educational projects, these workshops will be announced soon.

“There will be a special Youth, Arts and Music Project involving young people from the local community. This project offers inclusion, inspiration and learning and takes place at the Tilling Green Community Centre.

“View the website to learn more about this project. We would be pleased to hear from members of the community that would like to part.

“We are delighted to have secured Clive Emson land and property auctioneers as our festival headline sponsor for this inaugural year.

“I would also like to thank the many other local companies that have kindly shared our vision and are supporting our exciting programme.

Tickets for the festival’s events can be purchased online or directly from the festival organisers, as well as this there are many free unticketed events. The full festival programme and contact details can be found at: www.ryejazz.com