Hello...

I recall my first visit to The (Old) Stables way back in 1972/73 for an Easter All-Music Course. Tutors included Ken Gibson and Mike Gibbs. This was my first ever course and I was going through major changes in my personal life. Shortly after this course I found myself on tour with John Dankworth's Orchestra! Subsequently I worked (as a semi pro) with John's sextet and the big band and did some teaching on the Easter and Summer courses where I learnt as much as I taught, especially from the likes of Don Rendell, John Williams, Jack Brymer, Judith Pearce, and of course JD! This continued through the 70s when I finally turned professional in 1978, working once again with John and having benefitted a great deal from my association with both Wavendon and JD (and Cleo!) and the many other great musicians with whom I worked and taught alongside via that connection. It seems it's all about connections - the information and knowledge that I got from that period has helped me sustain a professional career in music for more than 25 years. Fond memories indeed!

Pat Crumly

www.pcjazz.co.uk