Michael Arbenz (Piano)
Andy Sheppard (Saxes)

Swiss born Michael Arbenz, is a classically trained pianist and jazz musician, combines his curiosity for new ideas with the experience of his classical training. Micheal is now 'Head of the Institute for Jazz and Folk Music' at the Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts, in Lucerne, Switzerland.

Michael discovered his love of jazz as a child. His independent approach to jazz tradition and other improvised music led to a very personal approach. Michael along with his twin brother Florian (Drums) formed the trio VEIN in late 2005 and successfully toured throughout Europe, North and South America and Asia and they collaborated with some of the best 'A-List Jazzers' in the world, for example, Greg Osby, Ron Carter, Dave Liebman & Wolfgang Puschnig.

In June 2016 I booked the Vein Trio in Bristol at the Hen & Chicken, The guys had expressed an interest in working with Andy Sheppard. I was able to facilitate that connection, with Andy sitting in on the gig. Andy did several European tours with Vein; now, this duo is a spin off of that association and is their second tour together.

Andy, a former Bristol resident, makes his home nowadays in Portugal. This world class saxophonist continues his stellar career, touring Europe and the world in the company of some of the best musicians on the planet. From Shankar to Christine McGregor, Nigel Kennady to Carla Bley, John Martyn & Gil Evans, he is comfortable in all styles and genres of music. His own multi album compositions and many bands have seen over 30 years at the top of the jazz tree. Andy is also a ECM recording artist

Their performance promises to be a journey through a rich tapestry of sounds, weaving together their extensive experiences and diverse influences. Whether interpreting the works of Bach or Ellington, each piece is given a fresh perspective through their unique musical dialogue. The concert is not only a testament to their technical prowess but also to their deep musical connection, making it a must-see event for Jazz enthusiasts and Classical music lovers alike. Expect an evening filled with innovation, emotion, and exceptional artistry, as these two masters of their craft bring their shared vision to life.

Gordon Giltrap (Acoustic Guitars)
John Etheridge (Electric & Acoustic Guitars)

After the success of their 2024 tour, Guitar supremos Gordon Giltrap & John Etheridge join forces again for an unforgettable evening of top-class musicianship performed by two of the UKs most respected and influential musicians.

These innovative guitarists will be performing many of their incredible tunes with incredible arrangements in what promises to be an electrifying show. Performing material from their respective careers and favourite pieces throughout the landscape of their musical visions and influences.
A concert guaranteed to enthral guitar aficionados, acoustic enthusiasts and music lovers in general, don't miss the chance to see these influential guitarists in action.

Gordon Giltrap is a renowned British acoustic guitarist known for his fingerstyle technique and emotive compositions. With a career spanning several decades, he has released numerous albums showcasing his diverse musical influences, from folk and classical to progressive rock.

John Etheridge is a British jazz fusion guitarist known for his versatile and innovative playing style. He has collaborated with various musicians and bands, including Soft Machine and Stephane Grappelli. Etheridge is recognized for his high technical skill and contributions to the contemporary jazz scene.

Chris While (Vocals, Guitar, Banjo, Dulcimer, Bodhran & Percussion)
Julie Matthews (Vocals, Piano & Keys, Guitar, Mandolin & Bouzouki)

Chris & Julie have played more than 3,000 gigs, appeared on over 100 albums, written hundreds of original songs and reached millions of people around the world. Now, 30 years after their debut, they sound as fresh and vital as ever.

They are two of the best and most hard-working musicians on the world & folk roots scene, both are highly regarded producers, and they record everything that they are involved in at their own studio in a small Pennine town far from the London-centric music industry....They truly are inspirational women.

The duo are renowned for their seamless harmonies and affinity for each other on stage, they are stunning singers, songwriters, musicians and performers whose energy and commitment to their craft and their audience is boundless. Chris and Julie have been nominated ten times in the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards in the 'Best Song, Best Duo & Best Live Act' categories, winning Best Duo in 2009; but it is their longstanding and devoted growing fans that they care most about.

Though internationally acclaimed, they continue to be a leading force on the UK's acoustic/roots arts circuit. Their songs cover life as they see it, from injustice and freedom to matters of the heart and everything in between. Their songs are covered by many singers the world over, but it is 'While & Matthews' musical partnership and obvious joy of performing together that really brings their songs to life. As performers they are unrivalled and their audiences leave their concerts having travelled an emotional journey, entertained and smiling all the way home!