The East Midlands jazz community has been built by people with a passion for the music and a determination to make things happen.
Today, mjazz pays tribute to three people whose commitment has helped shape jazz across our region over many years: Charles Simmonds, Geoff Wright and Peter Bowden.
We were deeply saddened by the recent passing of Charles Simmonds, leader of Northampton Contemporary Jazz and a valued member of the mjazz Board.
Charles was a tireless advocate for contemporary jazz, helping bring adventurous and inspiring live music to audiences across Northamptonshire and the wider East Midlands.
Through Northampton Contemporary Jazz and mjazz, he championed musicians, encouraged collaboration and made an important contribution to the cultural life of the region.
Everyone at mjazz sends their deepest condolences to Charles's family, friends and colleagues.
After more than four decades at the forefront of jazz in Derby and the East Midlands, Geoff Wright is stepping down from the mjazz Board.
As a co-founder of both Derby Jazz and mjazz, Geoff has been one of the driving forces behind contemporary jazz in our region.
He has commissioned new work, supported emerging musicians and created opportunities for generations of local, national and international artists.
Jazz in Derby simply wouldn't be where it is today without his vision and persistence.
Also stepping down from the mjazz Board is Peter Bowden, representing Leicester Jazz House.
As Chair of Leicester Jazz House, Peter has combined his own love of playing and improvising with a commitment to creating opportunities for other musicians.
His work has helped nurture Leicester's jazz scene, build audiences and strengthen collaboration across the East Midlands.
Lucy Reid, Chair of mjazz, said:
“The East Midlands has developed one of the UK's strongest regional jazz networks because of people like Charles, Geoff and Peter. They have devoted countless hours, often as volunteers, to creating opportunities for musicians, building audiences and ensuring jazz remains an important part of our cultural life.”
Charles, Geoff and Peter remind us that thriving music scenes don't just happen. They are built over many years by people willing to give their time, energy, ideas and enthusiasm.
As mjazz looks to the future, we want to build on those foundations — supporting exceptional live jazz, developing the next generation of artists and promoters, and ensuring the East Midlands remains a great place to make, hear and enjoy jazz.
Thank you Charles, Geoff and Peter.
