Biography...
Julie Horton (Vocals)
She began singing jazz and blues aged 14 at school in Gosport. With no formal music qualifications she learned her craft by guesting with local musicians in jazz clubs and wine bars until gigs came flowing in and there has been no stopping her since.
Julie enjoys singing sultry torch songs such as 'Loverman' and ‘Sweet Substitute’ as well as evocative blues tunes like ‘St Louis Blues’. She also enjoys latin standards ‘Desafinado’and more popular tunes like ‘Moondance’ and ‘This Masquerade’. She can swing an up tempo number with exuberance and gusto as well as melting you with her sensitive sexy voice.
Some have described her as having a voice resembling that of Lena Horne, so pop along to some of her gigs and decide for yourself...
Alex Forsyth (Saxophone & Flute)
Alex has been a full-time player and teacher since 1989, achieving a Licentiate Diploma in Jazz Saxophone Performance from the Guildhall School of Music in 1998.
As well as jazz, Alex has been involved in diverse musical projects over the years ranging from the big band/experimental folk music of Paul James’ Hittites to performance poetry with writer Ben Okri. Alex is currently the jazz co-ordinator for the LMFL Summer School.
Andrew Batchelar (Alto & Tenor Sax)
Andrew has recently joined Chi Jazz playing Alto and Tenor saxophones. Whilst learning orchestral clarinet at school, he discovered jazz and pop and as a result started learning alto and then tenor saxophone, playing in various semi-pro groups. His experience ranges from pop group to small jazz ensemble, from saxophone quartet to jazz big band, playing a variety of styles, but always with a preference for rhythm, melody and easy listening.
Noel Jay (Piano and Keyboards)
Biography coming soon...!
Matt Tween (Bass)
Started learning guitar at the age of 12 and after several years of playing with various bands and duets, found himself being asked to play bass with a local covers band. After purchasing a cheap bass guitar and amplifier to help out until they found a real bassist, agreed to join.... that was over a decade ago and has never looked back.
In 2004, Matt started learning Jazz at Chichester College, and it wasn't long before the need for a double bass became too great.
Now some years later, after having played some of the well-known Jazz venues and festivals with various outfits, he performs as the regular bassist for 'ChiJazz'.
John Clarke (Drums)
Inspired by three years of tutoring from legendary British Jazz drummer John Marshall, John embarked on a varied professional career in music at 22 which has included working as a touring, recording and session musician in UK and Europe with numerous named pop/rock acts and producers.
In recent years a lifelong love of Jazz coupled with the opportunity of working with one of the busiest Jazz bands in the South finally confirmed John’s decision to develop his preferred performance style.