A big band is set to raise notes for a local hospital thanks to a Rotary-organised concert in next month.

Tickets have gone on sale for Midlands Youth Jazz Orchestra, which returns to the town for the first time since the pandemic.

Widely acclaimed as one of the UK’s top big bands, it is unbeaten in the BBC National Big Band Competition since the mid-eighties, as well as winning the Dutch National Big Band Competition, beating adult bands from across Europe.

Musical Director of Midland Youth Jazz Orchestra, Dr. John Ruddick, MBE, said: “MYJO has recently performed a successful concert at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire's Eastside Jazz Club, with special guest Percy Pursglove, and the band is looking forward to performing once again in Redditch.

“We have always enjoyed our times there and look forward to another successful evening. We are also pleased to be helping to raise funds for The League of Friends of Alexandra Hospital. Our thanks go to Philip Roberts and his team at Redditch Rotary for all their help in organising this concert.” 

MYJO has toured extensively, including performances at the world famous Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland and Disneyworld in the USA, as well as The Royal Albert Hall and The Barbican. 

Rotary Club of Redditch President Philip Roberts, said: "We are delighted that MYJO is available to perform for us again. Before the pandemic, the Rotary Club of Redditch promoted their performances in Redditch for several years, each time raising funds for local charities such as Carers Careline and Batchley Support Group. 

“These concerts are also an opportunity for us to showcase and support the work of MYJO in developing its young musicians, aged 18-25, many of whom go on to pursue careers in the music industry. As an example, their most recent concert in Redditch included Xhosa Cole, winner of BBC Young Jazz Musician 2018, a tenor saxophonist now firmly established with three solo albums to his credit.” 

He added: “Our decision to support The League of Friends of Alexandra Hospital comes from our recognition of the huge contribution they have made in enhancing the work of 'The Alex' over many years, and their willingness to help promote the event and help out on the night.” 

The concert, on June 13th, will take place at the Tudor Grange Academy theatre, a purpose-built performance space which will be ideal for MYJO's powerful big band sound.

Ticket enquiries via: myjoredditch@gmail.com