Hexham Jazz Festival 2023 hailed a success

The Hexham Jazz Festival 2023 featured six shows at both Hexham Abbey and the Queen's Hall, a film screening at the Forum, as well as workshops.

Organisers said the three-day festival, now in its second year, was enjoyed by around 500 people.

Jazz FM's Breakfast presenter, Nigel Williams, compèred the concerts, which began on Friday evening with virtuoso pianist Paul Edis and the Ushaw Ensemble, followed by Rachel Sutton and her supporting band.

Saturday evening began with Freddie Benedict, followed by a stunning performance from jazz star Jo Harrop.

The final performance on Sunday evening at the Queen's Hall began with an exciting set from local Borealis. Internationally-acclaimed singer Claire Martin OBE, accompanied by pianist Jamie Safir, closed the festival.

The festival was organised by the Hexham jazz committee - Roy Dallison, Andrew Rigg and George Robinson - in association with the Hampstead Jazz Club, and supported by Northumberland County Council, Hexham Town Council and Hexham Rotary.

Andrew confirmed the jazz festival will return in 2024.

He said: "Please come along next year to enjoy the music, food, company and hospitality.

"The festival's profits also support critical cancer research at Newcastle University’s Centre for Cancer."

Claire Martin and Jamie Safir. Picture: John Lyons (Image: John Lyons)

Rachel Sutton. Picture: John Lyons (Image: John Lyons)

Freddie Benedict. Picture: John Lyons (Image: John Lyons)

It has been confirmed the jazz festival will go ahead again next year (Image: John Lyons)

Emma Rawicz. Picture: John Lyons (Image: John Lyons)