The Pete Allen Jazz Band > > 4 November '25 @ Pizza Express | Soho <<
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# THE PETE ALLEN JAZZ BAND
ALBUM LAUNCH - New Orleans Wiggle - Jazz Magic
4th November 20:00 | £20 + £2 booking fee
PIZZA EXPRESS JAZZ CLUB (SOHO)
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The Pete Allen Jazz Band, one of Britain’s most enduring and accomplished traditional jazz ensembles, continues to delight audiences with its vibrant interpretations of New Orleans, classic, and mainstream jazz. Led by clarinettist and saxophonist Pete Allen - whose career spans over 46 years - the band is a living testament to the vitality and versatility of jazz.
Pete Allen’s distinguished career includes representing England at the Sacramento Dixieland Jazz Jubilee, leading the Worldwide All Stars alongside Louis Armstrong alumni Barrett Deems and Jack Lesberg, and receiving Honorary Citizenship of New Orleans for his contribution to British music and tourism. With over 100 recordings to his name and a legacy of BBC broadcasts and European tours, Allen remains a central figure in UK jazz.
Their latest release, New Orleans Wiggle - Jazz Magic on the Upbeat Jazz label, has been praised for its eclecticism and musical excellence. As Barry Clare of Just Jazz noted, “The music is the very definition of the word ‘eclectic’ and the playing is of the highest order.
Pete Allen (clarinet, saxophone)
Roger Marks (trombone)
Chris Hodgkins (trumpet)
Trevor Whiting (clarinet, saxophone)
Jim Newton (drums)
Dave Hanratty (bass)
James Clemas (piano)
Max Brittain (banjo, guitar)
The current line-up features some of the finest musicians in British jazz:
Max Brittain (banjo/guitar) – A seasoned performer with global touring credits, Max has played with Humphrey Lyttelton, Jamie Cullum, and American legends Barney Kessel and Herb Ellis.
Jim Newton (drums) – A versatile and sensitive drummer with a career spanning over six decades, known for his dynamic ensemble work and inventive solos.
Roger Marks (trombone) – A lyrical and expressive player with deep roots in both traditional and mainstream jazz, founder of the Armada Jazz Band.
Trevor Whiting (clarinet/saxes) – Inspired by Sidney Bechet, Trevor brings decades of experience as a soloist and sideman, including work with Ken Colyer and the Big Chris Barber Band.
Chris Hodgkins (trumpet) – A respected performer, broadcaster, and advocate, Chris rejoined the band after 45 years, bringing his rich experience and lyrical trumpet style.
Andrew Clancy (piano) – A self-taught pianist with deep roots in Dixieland and swing, Andrew has played with many of the UK’s top jazz names and brings warmth and flair to the ensemble.
Andy Crowdy (double bass) – A versatile bassist with a global footprint, Currently with Joe Brown, Andy combines rhythmic drive with melodic finesse, drawing on influences from the Beatles to McLaughlin.
Whether performing in concert halls, jazz clubs, or festivals, the Pete Allen Jazz Band offers audiences a masterclass in ensemble playing, improvisation, and the enduring joy of live jazz. Their performances are rich in history, humour, and heart - appealing to seasoned aficionados and curious newcomers alike.
To guarantee seating with the MeetUp group, members must confirm booking directly with Pizza Express and contact the event organiser through this app with any queries.