Here you can learn about the New River Dixielanders that have been performing together at since 2017.
Mark
Mark is the token antipodean in the New River Dixielanders. You’ll always get his honest “Aussie” opinion as well as some amazing clarinet playing – probably the loudest you’ll ever hear! As well as playing in military bands, Mark also runs his own instrument hire and repair company.
Paul
Paul is a freelance musician, teacher band leader in his own right leading the Art Deco Orchestra, a group that faithfully recreates the popular jazz and dance music of the 1920’s and 30’s. He studied trumpet at the London College of Music and has performed at Knebworth, the Royal Albert Hall, on cruise liners and on the Royal Variety Performance.
Roy
Completing the frontline, Roy is one of the most experienced jazz and big-band trombone players around. His encyclopaedic knowledge of classical and jazz music is second to none. Roy’s extensive credits include the BBC Elstree Concert Band, the Urban Big Band, City of London Symphonic Winds, Tricity Vogue and the Kix Jazz Orchestra.
Phil
Phil is the band’s leader and founder member. He plays the sousaphone for the New River Dixielanders but is also an accomplished bass-trombone player. Phil is the driving force behind the band, determined to put on a show, he makes sure we always give our best to entertain the public.
Simon
On percussion, Simon is a full time drummer and drum teacher. He has recorded for BBC radio, at Abby Road Studios and performed on stage at the London Palladium. He has played some of the great shows including We Will Rock You, Billie Elliot, Avenue Q and The Full Monty at regional theatres in and around London.
We have also built up a larger group of skilled friends, each one an experienced dixieland jazz band musician in their own right, who can boost our numbers or step in if required. All the musicians we use are personally recommended by us and are known to be able to perform to our high standards.
Dixieland Jazz bands and Trad Jazz bands can range in size from three to eight musicians. At Dixieland’s core are the clarinet, trumpet and trombone that often improvise in unison to create its unique sound. These instruments are supported by a rhythm sections of drums and a sousaphone to provide the bass. If you want a bigger sound then we can also provide piano, banjo, guitar, accordion and/or double bass to the band.