Alan Barnes’ A Christmas Carol is a sparkling jazz suite inspired by Charles Dickens’ much-loved Christmas story. Written for jazz ensemble, the music brings the characters and atmosphere of Victorian London vividly to life, combining swinging rhythms, rich harmonies, blues, ballads and playful arrangements. Barnes’ distinctive writing captures both the warmth and humour of Dickens’ tale, while darker, more atmospheric passages evoke Scrooge’s ghosts and his journey towards redemption. Full of character, invention and infectious swing, the suite offers a fresh and thoroughly jazz-inflected take on a timeless Christmas classic. Expect great tunes, superb musicianship and plenty of festive spirit.

Alan Barnes alto Saxophone clarinet and bass clarinet
Bruce Adams Trumpet
Mark Nightingale Trombone
Karen Sharp Baritone Saxophone and clarinet
Robert Fowler tenor Saxophone and clarinet
David Newton Piano Simon Thorpe Bass
Clark Tracey Drums