Benet McLean Quintet with a Very Special Guest

Event information

Benet McLean, a fantastic violinist, is returning to Highams Park Jazz Club, but this time with his own quintet. Violinist and pianist Benet McLean is one of the most highly regarded contemporary musicians in British jazz. His musical depth and exploration of the boundaries between musical genres make him a unique and constantly evolving artist. Inspired in his teens by the great bebop artists of the 1940s, Benet's playing today reflects his early inspirations while also embracing many other musical influences.

Previously known best for his outstanding piano playing, Benet has released several critically acclaimed albums on piano. However in recent years, he has returned to the violin, fast emerging as a dynamic and innovative jazz violinist. His debut solo album on violin, Green Park, was released in November 2023 and has been met by praise from both critics and radio alike.

A gifted composer and arranger, live work with his own band focuses on violin-infused high-energy grooves interspersed with lyrical ballads, often augmented with pedals and effects, with exciting performances that showcase the breadth of his innovative violin style. Collaborations have included heading up the string quartet on Partikel’s acclaimed String Theory album and working on string sections with producer Troy Miller on albums by Laura Mvula and Mahalia. His violin playing is also featured on several other albums including Pyramid by Dan Goldman’s ElecTrio, Counteraction by Partikel, and the debut solo albums of trumpeter Andy Davies (Rise Of The Spider Monkey) and keyboardist Benjamin Croft (10 Reasons To...). He has also performed on violin with artists outside of jazz including Nightmares on Wax.

Benet has been playing music since the age of 3 years old when he first persuaded his parents to buy him a violin, and he undertook several years of classical training before turning his attentions to jazz. Some of the many other artists Benet has played or toured with, both in jazz and other fields, include Omar, Soweto Kinch, Binker Golding, Daniel Casimir, Julian Joseph, Steve Williamson, Orphy Robinson, Jean Toussaint, Cleveland Watkiss, TY, Roachford, Jay Phelps, Tommy Smith, Sir Simon Rattle, Kevin Haynes (see album Ori Ire), Maxi Jazz (Faithless) and Loose Tubes.

Benet also teaches and is a professor of jazz violin at the London Performing Academy of Music (LPMAM).
“...When listening to Benet McLean it is readily apparent that his is an important jazz violin voice up there with Ponty, Debski and Urbaniak. I am particularly happy because Benet reckons that when he was a kid my playing across the genres was of some encouragement to him. Now is an exciting time because from the chrysalis of his modern jazz mastery an inspirational and completely original style is emerging. Check it!”

Benet McLean pushes the boundaries of the violin in jazz with unparalleled modernism. His rendition of Bobby Watson’s "Fuller Love" is captivating, and his original compositions showcase a brilliance, allowing his dynamic, hand-picked band of talented young players to shimmer. His use of the iconic B3 Organ at the heart of the ensemble combines perfectly with the timbre of his violin and the tenor saxophone of Duncan Eagles. This latest offering sparkles and glistens with the magic of his expansive artistry. Profound, ethereal, and pulsating with raw energy, the essence of this musical titan resonates in every track, capturing your undivided attention and admiration.
JULIAN JOSEPH

Excellent !
JEAN LUC PONTY

Do not miss this fantastic concert. Get your tickets now to secure your place.

Line Up:
Benet Mclean : violin
Ben Treacher : sax
Special Guest : piano
Rio Kai : double bass
Robert Fordjour : drums


Tickets:£15

Date and time:
12 October Saturday
8.30pm
doors open at 8pm

Venue:
All Saints Church
Church Avenue
Highams Park
London
E4 9QZ

Buses and trains:
We are a four-minute walk from Highams Park overground station, which is on the Liverpool Street to Chingford line. We are also two overground stops from
Walthamstow Central underground station at the end of the Victoria line. Alternatively, the 275, 212 & W16 bus routes will bring you within a short walk of All Saints church. If you are coming by car, there are no parking restrictions at the weekend in the surrounding streets.

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Contact:
info@highamsparkjazzclub.com

Refund Policy
1) Agreement:
By purchasing a ticket from Highams Park Jazz Club, you are acknowledging and accepting the terms outlined in our Refund Policy.

2) Non-Refundable Policy:
All tickets are generally non-refundable, except under specific circumstances:

a. Highams Park Jazz Club Cancellation:
Refunds will be processed only if Highams Park Jazz Club cancels a session due to reasons such as health concerns for the artists, emergencies, or if the venue is incapable of providing a secure and safe environment for both the artists and the audience.

b. Artist Replacement:
Highams Park Jazz Club reserves the right to replace an artist in case of health problems or emergencies. Such changes will be promptly communicated via our website www.highamsparkjazzclub.com, Facebook, and Instagram. Customers have the option to not attend the session with the replaced artist and may appeal for a refund.

3) Refund Process:
In the event of a session cancellation by Highams Park Jazz Club, a full refund will be processed within 7 days after the scheduled gig date. Ticket holders will be notified via email, and we may request their bank account details for the refund process.

4) Customer Responsibility:
Stay informed about updates by regularly checking our website and following our social media accounts. Any changes or cancellations will be communicated through these channels.
Highams Park Jazz Club reserves the right to update this policy. Please review periodically for changes.

Thank you for choosing Highams Park Jazz Club. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.