Musicians, VIPs and business guests rubbed shoulders at a reception staged by the Bristol office of accountancy, investment management and tax group Smith & Williamson and national law firm Ashfords to mark the launch of the Bristol International Jazz and Blues Festival 2017.
Nearly 250 people attended the event at the Colston Hall – the main venue for the festival – with invited guests including festival representatives and performers such as Bristol jazz musician and composer Andy Sheppard and festival trustee, legendary saxophonist Pee Wee Ellis.
Head of Ashfords’ Bristol office, Chris Dyson, said: “The Bristol Jazz Festival was a huge success, highlighting the city’s culture and drawing interest from far and wide. We are proud to be supporting one of the most significant events in the region’s calendar.”
Smith & Williamson Bristol office managing partner Mike Lea added: “It was a real treat to be involved with this incredible festival for a second year, this time as joint headline sponsors with Ashfords.
“It was a very enjoyable event and a privilege to be part of the festival which is growing in reputation and popularity and just seems to go from strength to strength.”
Now in its fifth year, Bristol Jazz & Blues Festival ran over four days and included a back-to-back programme of performances from renowned blues artists and internationally-acclaimed jazz musicians, including award winning singer Macy Gray, Quantic Live with Alice Russell, Mud Morganfield (son of Muddy Waters), Andy Sheppard’s Metropolis live score, Jason Rebello and a big band tribute to the legendary Dizzy Gillespie.
Pictured, from left: The Festival’s Denny Ilett and Colin Gorrie with the Lord Lieutenant of Bristol Peaches Golding, Ashfords Bristol managing partner Chris Dyson and Smith & Williamson Bristol managing partner Mike Lea
