In-demand pianist to open Rye Jazz Festival

Preview: Anthony Strong; Rye International Jazz Festival.

Pianist and singer Anthony Strong will open the festival on August 24.

Anthony, who includes Rod Stewart among his many fans, fell in love with jazz while studying piano at London’s Guildhall School of Music. He breathes new life into jazz standards, such as Cheek to Cheek, firing them with a fresh sense of energy and rhythm.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

His recent release Delovely reached number one in the UK jazz charts. In an exclusive interview with the Observer Anthony spoke of how he is looking forward to opening the festival and what people can expect. “I have never been to Rye before and am really looking forward to it.

“As well as myself there will be a group including bass and drums.

“It has been incredibly encouraging how people have responded to the music with jazz being outside the mainstream.”

Following sell-out shows at the London Jazz Festival, Anthony will be making his debut this year at Jazz Festivals in Italy, Germany, France, Norway, Denmark, Spain, Portugal, Austria and Switzerland.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

He has also played Jerry Lee Lewis in the West End musical Million Dollar Quartet.

Anthony Strong opens the Jazz Festival on Friday, August 24 in the George Hotel Ballroom. Tickets are £15 and can be booked thought the festival website www.ryejazz.com.