A VERY special session is scheduled for Saturday (23rd February) when John Petters presents “Hoagy, Bix & Bing” at the ARC, St John’s Arts Centre, St John’s Walk, Market St, Old Harlow CM17 0AJ.

The show turns the spotlight on three key innovators of 20th century music and particularly, hot jazz.

Bix Beiderbecke, a tragic, early white, jazz cornetist and pianist, carved out an individual style, very different to the blues based sounds of the African American jazz stars such as Louis Armstrong. Louis loved Bix’s approach to Jazz.

Bix had a pure tone, which was unique although often attempts were made to copy it.

Self taught, he was not a good reader and found himself struggling in the brass section of the lumbering Paul Whiteman orchestra in the 20s – which was also the home territory of songwriter and pianist Hoagy Carmichael and young crooner, Harry Lillis Crosby. He influenced both greatly. Sadly Bix was to succumb to alcoholism and died a tragic and lonely death at the age of 28 in 1931.

Carmichael, born in Indiana in 1899, was destined to be a lawyer, but the draw of jazz was stronger and he developed a talent as a songwriter. He was only an average pianist and a mediocre singer, but his songs were exquisite. Many of them inspired by improvisations which came tumbling out of Beiderbecke’s horn.

“Stardust”, “Georgia on my Mind”, “Rocking Chair”, “ Lazy Bones” are just a few of the Carmichael songs which became part of the American Songbook.

Bing Crosby, born in 1903, was the biggest star of the last century. He sold more records than any other artiste – with “White Christmas”.

A jazzer at heart, he was one of the first white jazz singers to pick up on the phrasing of both Louis Armstrong and Bix.

For Saturday’s session, John Petters has assembled a specially selected group of fine musicians, steeped the idiom.

Trumpeter Jon Graham and clarinettist Tim Huskisson comprise the front line, whilst Jim Douglas, guitar, Martin Litton, piano and Keith Donald form a first rate rhythm section.

John Petters will be handling the vocals as well as his usual position at the drums.

The session starts at 3pm and admission is £12 on the door.

Details call 01406 365 731