The Claire Harper Quartet is an established band whose repertoire, due to the quality and diversity of the professional musicians involved, covers a wide range of Jazz styles from the 1930s and '40s swing to modern day soul and Jazz-Funk.
Catering for both large corporate functions and smaller private engagements, the Claire Harper Quartet is a professional and experienced ensemble, able to provide exactly what is required for any particular occasion. At every performance the quartet is a complete success, pleasing organizers and guests alike at dinner dances, corporate functions and audiences at Jazz clubs throughout the Essex and London area. Also available for solo / duo or quintet (with saxophone) work.
The quartet has recorded two albums, 'The Claire Harper Quartet' and 'Cry Me A River' (Recorded by Derek Nash at 'Clowns Pocket Recording Studios' in July and August 2001).
The Musicians:
Claire Harper
Claire is a singer / pianist. In June 2001 Claire returned from a very successful 5 months appearing at the World Trade Centre Hotel in Dubai (U.A.E.) as their resident piano vocalist. She is now continuing to work with the quartet and on her own solo project with many gigs in the Essex / London region including a weekly residency at 'The Boat Yard' restaurant in Old Leigh, as well as 'Jazz at Pizza Express' restaurants.
Sam Edwards
Sam studied classical music at the Colchester Institute for two years before graduating with a First in Jazz and Contemporary music from The City of Leeds College of Music. Sam works in many areas of the music industry including touring, recording, arranging and composing. His many credits include: Boney M, Brotherhood of Man, George McRae, The Contours, J.T.Q. and The Glenn Miller Orchestra. As a musical director he has worked with 'Reach Out', 'Sisters of Soul', 'Newpalm Productions' (11 years) and 'Born to Perform' amongst others.
Zak Barrett
Zak studied at the Royal Northern College of music in Manchester, graduating in 1999. He then moved to Essex where he has since been working as a professional saxophone & clarinet player. Zak really is one of the true young rising stars of Jazz music; he runs his own band, the incredible, 'Zak's Fellowship Of Funk' and is always busy freelancing throughout the Essex & London region.
Andy Staples
Over the last 8 years Andy has amassed an impressive CV with appearances on Top of the Pops, Blue Peter and The James Whale Show. He has toured and recorded with many shows and artists including, 'Summer Holiday', 'Mikey Graham' (Boyzone), 'Sean Maguire' and 'Slo-Mo' amongst others. His freelance work has enabled him to show off his talents, being able to play in any musical style with the utmost respect and understanding of the music.
Marc Cecil
Marc graduated from Middlesex university in 1998 where he studied Jazz and world music, specializing in Swing, Brazilian and Cuban styles. He has since returned as a tutor, directing a Brazilian Batucada Ensemble. As well as working extensively on the Jazz / Function circuit as a drummer / Musical Director, his performance credits include work with The Platters, Paul Daniels, The Carpenters Story, Reach Out and Sisters of Soul plus several T.V. and recording sessions.
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