More muttering from me as I rolled over and went back to sleep unaware my wife Alison had swept out of the tent and run off!. Roused much later at 9-15ish only to find that our camera crew (Alison) had hot footed it back to Leeds throwing a bit of consternation and not least panic into the day. Andrew (our editor) who had risen was at a loss due to this turn of events. Still we have a job to do so after breakfast (made by Eve) we set about our revised itinerary. Whilst Eve was busy around our pitch Andrew and I had a stroll through Burton Agnes's magnificent grounds which was coming slowly to life. People all ready setting out their seats, blankets and picnics in anticipation of an afternoons entertainment.
Text message from Alison (camera crew) saying our youngest daughter had gone into labour - hence the dash back home, followed by instructions on how to use her treasured camera. A quick dash back to base and run through said directions then we three were ready for a busy schedule.
Eve and Andrew would be taking interviews whilst I had some how become cameraman (God help us). Just so you know that today's events were taking place in different venues, main stage in the beautiful lawns with fountains gently flowing in the large fish pond,whilst in the great hall a series of three performances starting at 12 noon which this intrepid trio had to cover. Thankfully timings at both venues meant it could just be done.
Firstly we covered Ben Beattie and the Jazz Age playing in the Great Hall, a sumptuous setting surrounded with oak panelling, majestic fireplace (Adams!), portraits hung all around. What better place to hear classic jazz.
Next stop main stage in time for Zezo Olimpio Trio who soon had the festival throng swaying and foot tapping as Bossa-Novas swirled around the grounds. Zezo playing his vintage Fender-Rhodes piano entertained us with his own compositions which brought a hearty response from the audience.
Back we go to the Great Hall where RevRay and Jenny Bray who run the East Yorkshire jazz evenings and courses had gathered students and friends for our listening pleasure. An extremely talented group of musicians and singers.
Thirsty work this, so snatched drink of tea plus cake. Very welcome it was too. Next on the agenda the amazing Anita Wardell who's voice is an instrument of its own. During her performance a text from Alison informing us that we have a new granddaughter weighing in at 6lb 11 oz.(that's 8 now). Great Hall again last act today Kate and Manny taking us on a musical nostalgic tour of the greats Gershwin through to Sinatra.
Now we can relax a bit. Good job too. Not being used to toting a camera about my arms are aching. Still needs must. Rest of the action will be on the main stage so no dashing about (till to-morrow). Up on stage for the next hour and half the legendary Skip McDonald better known as Little Axe we settled down whilst his raucous blues rolled over the grounds. Alison rejoined us at last so I hand over the camera - with a sigh of relief I must add. Al Wood Big Band took over for the next two hours with guest vocalist Saffron Byass (one of the festival organisers)
This blog seems to be turning into an essay. Bear with us, there is so much going on I don't want you to feel left out. Last act on main stage a trombonist with a unique versatility for this underrated instrument. The incredible Dennis Rollins. Catch him if he's playing near you - well worth seeing.
After all this we still had the late night session in the beer tent. First up storyteller, musician and writer Miles Cain, followed by Helen Turner and Sharon Winfield collectively know as Two. Finally rounding up this days events Bandiqui singing into the late hours with modern songs.
Well dear readers it's been a long day. So much going on and not forgetting our new arrival Analise Nicola.
Did I mention the rain? No! Well it did, yet no one left. Instead in true festival style out came the brolly's. The tent looms so good night all.
Denis Heaton YGG
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