Sax man Mike Hope is guest of North Wales Jazz Society

Oct 28 2010 Chester Chronicle

ACCLAIMED saxophonist Mike Hope pays an eagerly awaited return visit to the Royal British Legion, Llay, Wrexham to perform for the many jazz lovers who missed his New Year appearance at the venue due to the atrocious wintry weather.

Mike, who became hooked on big band music after hearing the legendary Buddy Rich Orchestra, a few years later attended his first Syd Lawrence concert, and his future was mapped out before him.

Mike Hope studied music at Leeds University and, following a year’s placement at the University of North Texas, in 1996 was a finalist in the All British Young Jazz Musician of the Year Competition.

At about this time he began writing for his own band - Mike Hope’s Jazzmahoot.

The highlight of this time came when he was asked to play at the Olivier awards accompanying actor Kevin Spacey as he sang I’ve Got a Crush On You to Judi Dench.

Admission £6, concessions £5.

Further information is available on 01745 812260 and at www.northwalesjazz.org.uk.