Birimgham has been very fortunate that one of Latin America's leading musicians has decided to make his home in the city.
Edgar Macias, the Venezuelan-born piano maestro, has recently returned from an extended visit to South America, with a busy schedule that sees him on stage at Symphony Hall at 5.30pm today as part of the free Commuter Jazz sessions held in the Foyer.
Later tonight he will be joining Steve Ajao at Club Bebop, in Digbeth, for the late night sessions, which are also free and start around 10.30pm.
Edgar was classically trained in Venezuela, performing at a very young age with many of South America's leading Symphony Orchestra, and is an accomplished composer and arranger along with his outstanding technique on the piano
Since arriving in Birmingham, Edgar has made a huge contribution to the jazz scene and has become a regular player with Andy Hamilton, to whose club Edgar will be bringing his Quintet on Thursday, February 17, at Bearwood Corks.
Meanwhile, it is now 35 years since Waterworks Jazz first opened its doors. One of the most enduring and popular Jazz clubs in the region - having relocated to United Services Club, in Gough Street - it continues a proud tradition of bringing the world's finest musicians into Birmingham, including Barney Kessel, Humphrey Lyttelton, Herb Ellis, Chris Barber and Marion Montgomery, when tomorrow it features Papa Joe's All Stars.
Finally a reminder that this Sunday at The Stadium, Kings Heath, Garry Allcock All Stars are hosting a great night of Jazz when USA star vocalist Joe Francis makes his first appearance in Birmingham.
This is sure to be a popular gig, so call 0121 475 7524 to book.
