The Ben Holder Quartet is a stellar line-up of incredible musicians, blending an energetic mix of traditional jazz and swing with Ben‘s own infectious originals, which hark back to the fun and swing of the 1920s and 1930s.

Ben Holder is one of the most gifted and exciting young jazz violinists in the UK. Taught classically from the age of six, he studied at the Birmingham Conservatoire.

During his classical studies, Ben began listening to jazz – classic masters such as Benny Goodman and Oscar Peterson – and of course, the great jazz violinists.

The group is one of the most exciting swing bands to emerge in recent years. Led by the fiery enthusiasm of Ben Holder, who not only wows on violin but also on vocals, the quartet is strengthened by the talent of some top notch musicians.

We invited Ben to introduce them:

• The phenomenal Jez Cook on guitar – Jez has spent decades playing with the likes of John Etheridge and teaching his skills to others. He is not only a great player but also a great listener – which is key, given the the Quartet’s penchant for breakneck speeds and energetic arrangements.

• The suave talent of Paul Jefferies on double bass – Paul is an accomplished, sophisticated player who loves and plays a broad range of jazz.  His versatility and musical ability make him the perfect bass choice for the Quartet, enabling it to stretch its repertoire right across the jazz spectrum.

• The breathtaking drumming of Malcolm Garrett – Mal has played with a long list of incredible line-ups, including the The BBC Big Band and The Sid Lawrence Orchestra and he was also the late Ken Dodd’s choice drummer. His sensitivity and sheer talent are to behold – and he never struggles to keep the tempo going.

The Ben Holder Quartet masterfully mix old jazz favourites with some more recent material and leave audiences up and down the country shouting for more.