Bristol International Jazz & Blues Festival, which takes place from March 7 to March 9, has launched a unique programme of music masterclasses. The festival’s “In Session With…” series will provide aspiring musicians of all levels and abilities with a unique opportunity to learn from the greats.

Festival headliners including Pee Wee Ellis and Fred Wesley, Osibisa and Steely Dan solo guitarist Elliott Randall will lead a series of workshops in the Folk House throughout the weekend. Workshop attendees will also receive a free ticket for their tutors’ concerts at Colston Hall.

Workshops include:

• A funk masterclass with Pee Wee Ellis and Fred Wesley, star members of James Brown’s original horn section
• Tips and tricks from Elliott Randall, Steely Dan’s premier guitarist and the man behind the legendary “Reeling in the Years” guitar solo
• African drum and dance techniques with Osibisa, the godfathers of Afrobeat, who shot to fame in the 60s with chart toppers like Sunshine Day and Dance the Body Music
• Chord melody/solo playing with Howard Alden, one of the world’s great jazz guitar virtuosos
• “Getting into the moment” with local saxophone legend Andy Sheppard

Following the massive success of Bristol’s first ever International Jazz & Blues Festival last year, around 10,000 people are expected to attend this year’s event from March 7 to March 9. Celebrating the city’s long and proud association with jazz, Bristol International Jazz & Blues Festival will feature over 60 events at Colston Hall, the “In Session With…” series at the Folk House and a special screening of The Night James Brown Saved Boston at the Watershed.

Find out more about the workshops featured in the “In Session With…” programme. 

To book a place on any of the “In Session With…” workshops call 0844 887 1500.