ArrayThe jazz trumpeter Ian Hamer, who died on Sunday aged 73 in Sussex following a heart attack, was also a prolific and versatile composer and arranger. Ian’s performance credentials included recording six albums with the revered saxophonist Tubby Hayes, a host of commercial sessions with the likes of the Beatles and Barbara Streisand, and dates with Jack Parnell, Dizzy Gillespie, John Dankworth, Eric Delaney and Thad Jones.  05.09.06

In a sign of the times and a sure sign of the way the industry is going, Universal Music Group has just launched what they are calling “the largest ever site” for classical and jazz music downloads. The site has been designed not only for music purchasing, but also to offer interactive and educational functions.
08.01.07

One of the most highly regarded jazz pianists in the US is set for two shows in the intimate surroundings of London's Vortex club on Thursday and Friday. Uri Caine, best known for his work with such luminaries as Don Byron and Dave Douglas and for his innovative settings of Mahler and Bach in a jazz context, appears at the Dalston club for two solo piano shows with support slots on Thursday by Tom Arthurs and Richard Fairhurst and on Friday with support from Liam Noble and Paul Clarvis. For booking go to www.vortexjazz.co.uk 17.01.07