Nottingham Jazz – Nottingham, England 2026

Overview

The Nottingham Jazz 2026 series celebrates the enduring legacy of the Nottingham Jazz Orchestra (NJO), Nottinghamshire’s longest-running 17-piece big band, originally formed in the 1970s and renowned for its masterful interpretations of classic jazz charts from legends like Count Basie, Duke Ellington, and Stan Kenton. This monthly concert series at the Royal British Legion in Beeston transforms the intimate venue into a vibrant hub of swing, bebop, and contemporary big band energy, drawing jazz enthusiasts for evenings of sophisticated solos, tight arrangements, and infectious rhythms that echo the golden age of British jazz.

As a cornerstone of the local scene, the NJO collaborates with top UK vocalists and musicians, offering not just performances but also workshops that nurture emerging talent. With a vast library of over 1,500 charts, each event promises a fresh dive into the genre’s depth, from high-energy swing to heartfelt ballads, all in a welcoming space that fosters community and appreciation for live improvisation. It’s a must for purists and newcomers alike, blending history with high-octane live music in Nottingham’s heartland.

Event Highlights

• Main activities or performances: Monthly big band concerts featuring the NJO’s 17-piece ensemble, with guest vocalists delivering swing standards, bebop anthems, and modern jazz fusions; highlights include dynamic solos on saxophone, trumpet, and trombone amid full-throated brass sections.
• Special traditions or features: Signature monthly residency since the 1970s, with themed nights like vocal showcases or holiday specials; occasional workshops on swing singing and big band techniques to engage audiences and budding musicians.
• Unique attractions for visitors: Intimate venue setting with a full bar for pre-show mingling, free parking, and disabled access; post-concert jam sessions in the lounge for informal networking with players and fans.

About This Event

• Monthly big band jazz concert series showcasing classic and contemporary jazz arrangements.
• Organized by the Nottingham Jazz Orchestra, Nottinghamshire’s longest-running 17-piece ensemble since the 1970s.
• Held in Beeston, Nottingham—a vibrant suburb with easy access to the city center and Nottinghamshire countryside.
• Features live performances from a library of over 1,500 charts by icons like Duke Ellington, Count Basie, and Quincy Jones.
• Includes guest vocalists and occasional workshops for skill-building and community engagement.
• Attracts jazz aficionados, students, and families for affordable, high-quality evenings of live music.
• Emphasizes accessibility with student discounts and a welcoming, non-intimidating atmosphere.

Why Attend

The Nottingham Jazz 2026 series is an irresistible call to the timeless allure of big band swing, where the NJO’s polished precision and guest vocalists’ charisma transport you to smoky lounges of yore, all within Nottingham’s cozy confines—ideal for unwinding after a week with sophisticated sounds that stir the soul. Each monthly outing delivers a masterclass in jazz dynamics, from explosive brass choruses to intimate ballads, fostering a sense of shared euphoria in a venue that’s as much community hub as performance space.

Beyond the music, it’s a gateway to Nottingham’s jazz heritage, blending education through workshops with pure entertainment that sparks conversations and repeat visits. Whether you’re a student snagging half-price seats or a devotee dissecting Ellington charts, attending here cultivates appreciation for improvisation’s magic, leaving you energized and humming classics long into the night—a perfect antidote to fleeting trends in an era craving depth.

Date & Duration

• Dates: Monthly concerts throughout 2026 (exact dates TBD; based on 2025 pattern, e.g., first event February 1, 2026—check nottsjazz.co.uk for updates).
• Duration: 1 evening per event (typically 19:30–22:00, ~2.5 hours).

Venue / Location

• City: Nottingham, England.
• Main Venue: The Royal British Legion, a historic club hall with stage and lounge.
• Notable Areas: Main performance hall for big band sets, lounge for post-show mingling, full bar, and free car park; disabled access throughout.
• Google Maps Address: 16 Hall Croft, Beeston, Nottingham, NG9 1EL.

Ticket Information

• How tickets are sold: Online via nottsjazz.co.uk or on the door (card/cash accepted); advance purchase recommended for workshops.
• Admission: Paid; student/under-18 discount available.
• Ticket Price Range: $13–$26 USD (£10 standard; £5 for students with ID—confirm for 2026 via site).
• Special Seating/VIP Options: Reserved seating for workshops; no formal VIP, but lounge access post-show; group discounts for schools/clubs via email.

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Contact Information

• Email: billylawton@mac.com (general inquiries); derek@nottsjazz.co.uk (management).
• Phone: +44 7781 610305 (Derek Lawton).
• Website: nottsjazz.co.uk.
• Social Media: @nottinghamjazzorchestra (Instagram, Facebook, YouTube) for clips and updates.
• Key Staff: Derek Lawton (management); ensemble led by core NJO musicians.
• Press/Volunteers: Press via email; volunteer opportunities for setup/jam sessions—contact Derek.
• Note: Response time ~24–48 hours; English support; mailing list for dates.

Getting There

• Nearest Airports: East Midlands (EMA, ~15 miles, 30-min drive); Birmingham (BHX, ~45 miles, 50-min drive/train).
• Public Transport: Train to Beeston Station (from London ~1.5 hours), 10-min walk; buses 18/25 from Nottingham city center (~20 min).
• Parking: Free on-site car park at venue.
• Access: A52 from Nottingham to Beeston; sat-nav NG9 1EL; disabled parking available.

Accommodation Options

• Luxury Hotels: Dakota Nottingham (~5 miles, sleek urban retreat with spa).
• Mid-Range Hotels: Holiday Inn Express Beeston (~0.5 miles, modern with breakfast).
• Budget Options: Travelodge Nottingham Beeston (~1 mile, affordable basics).
• Other Options: Airbnbs in Beeston (~£70–£120/night); B&Bs like The Victoria for cozy stays.
• Booking Tip: Book near Beeston Station for monthly ease; Euro Travelo for train + hotel.

Reviews

• NJO’s swing nights are electric—tight band, stellar guests, and that classic big band roar!
• Affordable jazz bliss: £5 student entry unlocked a world of Ellington magic monthly.
• Beeston’s hidden gem—intimate hall, free parking, and solos that linger all week!