Charles Mingus Centenary Celebration – featuring Arnie Somogyi’s “Scenes in the City” Jazz at NAC

Led by Arnie Somogyi, one of the UK’s foremost double bassist, ‘Scenes in the City’ is a repertoire, rather than a tribute band, combining the talents of some of the leading jazz musicians on the British scene.

Somogyi’s first jazz record was Mingus’ landmark 1959 album, “Ah Um”. Unknown to him, a connection to one of the most colourful figures in jazz had occurred years earlier when Arnie’s Dad met the legendary bass player and composer in the gents’ toilet at Ronnie Scott’s.  Not much was said and Arnie’s Dad didn’t look down! The band has gone on to perform at some of the UK’s best-known jazz venues, including Ronnie Scott’s and the Pizza Express Jazz Club in Soho, and was extended to a 14-piece big band for a headline slot at the Herts Jazz Festival in 2016.

Drawing its repertoire from the music of the great jazz composer and bassist, “Scenes in the City” embodies the freedom of interpretation and drive that characterise the music of one of the most important and colourful figures in jazz.

The band will be presenting music some of the music featured on Mingus’ eponymous classic album “Charles Mingus presents Charles Mingus” as well as other classic Mingus compositions. It would have been his 100th birthday this year so come along to this special gig for JAZZ at NAC.

FEATURING:

Tony Kofi is a multiple award-winning British Jazz

Neil Yates is regarded as one of the UK’s most accomplished jazz trumpeters.

Clark Tracey has over 40 years’ experience playing alongside some of the most important artists in jazz at home and abroad.. He has been awarded “Best Drums” title six times in the British Jazz Awards.