3 October 2006
Local musicians are being called upon to showcase their talents at a leading performance venue, as a local jam night kicks of the opening of the Eastbourne Beer Festival on Thursday 12 October.
The popular weekly jam night which regularly attracts up to 100 people, comes to the festival for one evening only and is open to all budding musicians to turn up and join in on stage at the Winter Garden’s Gold Room.
Eastbourne Borough Council Spokesperson for Tourism, Councillor David Elkin said “We are keen to encourage local talent so this is a great opportunity for budding musicians to gain some valuable stage experience, show off your talents and for others to simply come along to support local music and enjoy a great atmosphere.”
The jam night which takes place every Thursday at the Smugglers Inn in Pevensey was originally launched some 10 years ago by local musicians, including Geri and Tony Lyons, Tim Joss and partner Sheila Davies, who were all keen to encourage local musical talent. However following the sad deaths this year of both Sheila and most recently Geri, the current organisers Tim Joss and David Dowling have vowed to continue their good work and will be dedicating the evening to both ladies, as well as collecting money for MacMillan Nurses and St Wilfrid’s Hospice.
Musicians of any ability are welcomed to this fun evening and can jam either with their own band or with others, using the drums, guitar and PA system provided or by bringing their own instruments. The session usually attracts a wide range of musical tastes with musicians ranging from 18 – 80 years old performing on guitar, drums, keyboard, sax, harmonica and even the banjo.
As well as Thursday nights jam session, drinkers at the festival can look forward to a varied programme of rock, jazz, blues, folk and acoustic sets from local musicians, plus the return of festival favourite, the Oompah Band which performs on two nights. The South Coast Stompers return with their style of New Orleans Jazz while Band of Two bring an Irish folk flavour, and flying the flag for local music will be performances from Big Al, Engine Clutch and Gearbox, Shades of Blue, Tri-Star and singer/songwriter Marcella Aldous.
On Saturday afternoon visitors can also join in the fun as both Long Man Morris and Hunters Moon Morris dancers provide a traditional atmosphere, or have a go at pub games such as Shuffleboard, Toad in the Hole, Shove Ha’penny and Bar Skittles.
To book a slot on stage at the jam night contact Dave Dowling on 07966 681812 or alternatively turn up on the evening, doors open at 6pm. For more information on Eastbourne Beer Festival visit
www.eastbournebeerfestival.co.uk or telephone 01323 412000.
