Kenny Martyn: The Return of the King of Swing

Kenny Martyn performs a tribute to the amazing Benny Goodman.

This highly talented man was born in Liverpool and began playing the clarinet from the age of six years.

Classical masters Sir William Glock, Gervase de Peyer and Lady Evelyn Barbarolli awarded Kenny first prize in various music competitions but it was none other than Frankie Vaughan who spotted Kenny playing swing clarinet on BBC TV which began a long association with the great showman.

At that time, Frankie’s lead alto player was the celebrated Bob Burns, who also played for Benny Goodman. Highly impressed by the then 19 year-old, Bob spent much time practising and discussing the finer points of Goodman technique with Kenny.

Shortly afterwards, during a transatlantic crossing to New York aboard the famous QE2, Kenny was invited to visit Washington in order to discuss a ‘business music plan’. Upon arrival in the USA, Kenny was surprised to find himself dining with Harry Connick’s manager and a certain Mr. Brecker!

Kenny Martyn’s virtuosity on clarinet ensures the timeless legacy of Benny Goodman is heard in a new exciting way by a new generation.

Ticket price: £15 and £12.50 concession.