Definitely Not A Golden Clarinet: Jess Gillam

Vibrant, erudite and humble — a wonderful first Jess Gillam gig at Turner Sims, Southampton. With a large band or ensemble, the group use the conventions of concert hall performance (appearing mostly in black clothing), but also add something extra — sparkly DMs, colourful trainers, metallic boots and heaps of percussion, (some with names!)

A charming performer, Gillam explained the story behind each work and yet was able to laugh at themselves as their on-stage chat deteriorated into surrealism and nonsense! At the interval, you could observe the ensemble or group having a nice chat and fun on a sunny summer’s evening outside the venue. This was the vibe — refreshing, celebrating each other and as an audience we celebrated Gillam’s tremendous talent and virtuosity (such as not appearing to take a breath at the end of the last piece!)

A gifted saxophonist — I’ve learnt that saxophones come in many shapes and sizes, and are tuned to a particular note, as well as demonstrating the range of what the instrument can achieve. Added to this was the Lake District focused piece that was played was described as sounding like it was going to finish several times, but no…kept right on going. West Side Story suite sounded great, but was maybe a bit too smooth (I always expect the Jets to sound sharper and more screechy — but loved the clicking and shouts of Mambo). Additionally I want to highlight the terrific use of percussion throughout — including the jig at the end where we got stamping, clapping and reel whoops.

Terrific enlivening performance, sharing of musicology and composers, and all done with unpretentious delivery. But this isn’t just Gillam with a band as the violinists, cellist, bassist (including bass moog), pianist and all the percussion get their moments too, and share their equally excellent talents.