The John Hallam Jazztet

The Jazztet was formed in 1999 originally for the purposes of a recording commitment, but stayed together afterwards to become a popular and very much ‘in demand’ outfit. As leader, John has successfully managed and fronted his Jazztet to date, thrilling audiences with a wide range of musical offerings. CD recordings, the first in 2000, have been well received, bolstering the Jazztet’s popularity. A mixture of mainstream and contemporary/innovative jazz showcases the musical expertise of these highly-respected musicians, not least that of John’s reeds playing. The Jazztet frequently plays with a renowned guest which, of course, enhances an already talented band. The winners are in the audience!

Band Members

John Hallam– clarinet/saxophones/flute/jazztet leader

John started playing clarinet at fourteen, and soon afterwards, the alto saxophone and flute
Jointly formed a jazz band while at school
Member of the Blue Lotus Jazz Band until the mid sixties
Following appearance at London’s 100 Club, formed long-lasting and influential friendship with clarinettist, Dave Jones
Twenty-one year stint with the Smoky City Jazz Band began in 1968
Became freelance professional musician in 1989
During 1999, formed his own Jazztet
In these varying outlets, John has played alongside many well known musicians from both sides of the Atlantic
Clarinet influences: Benny Goodman, Artie Shaw, Barney Bigard, Ed Hall, Pee Wee Russell, Eddie Daniels, Sandy Brown, Archie Semple, Dave Jones and Acker Bilk
Saxophone influences: Eddie Mellor, Lester Young, Ben Webster, Stan Getz, Paul Desmond, Art Pepper, Lennie Niehaus and Gerry Mulligan
Not surpringly, John is a very accomplished and versatile musician and a firm favourite with all audiences.

The supporting players in the Jazztet line-up can vary from engagement to engagement, but typically for Jazz on the Low appearances John will have the backing of Gordon Robinson’s silky trombone, Vinny Parker’s wonderful piano playing, Ken Leigh’s sympathetic drumming and the relaxed bass of Dave Capp. However, in 2005 famous American pianist Jeff Barnhart teamed up with John to give Club members a special treat, and this could well become an annual event. Jeff is well known and appreciated at UK jazz festivals and a regular star attraction at Keswick and Bude. On his own web site, Jeff is described as a highly regarded pianist, vocalist, bandleader, recording artist, composer, pedagogue and entertainer. Some addition to the Jazztet!