Ruth Fisher's Jazz Brunch: Imogen Ryall presents The Charles Mingus / Joni Mitchell Songbook

Jazz FM presenter Ruth Fisher hosts a very special jazz brunch in the beautiful Halsey Hall, just opposite Watford Town Hall.

As part of this special brunch show, Ruth will be joined by Imogen Ryall and her band to explore and perform songs from her new album, “Imogen Ryall Sings the Charles Mingus/Joni Mitchell Songbook” released on Rubicon.

A full help-yourself brunch will be served as part of the morning, including a glass of prosecco, with vegetarian/vegan options available. See menu below.

Background to the show

The 1975 album ‘Mingus’ by Joni Mitchell, is the result of a brief 45-minute meeting with Charles Mingus.

At the time, Mingus was suffering the late stages of motor neurone disease, and his wife was keen to get him interested in something creative. She arranged a meeting between her husband and Joni to build on melodies he’d sung into a tape recorder. Subsequently, Sy Johnson scored the tunes and Joni added her own original lyrics. Mingus sadly died before the project was complete with the final recordings being made by Joni & members of Weather Report.

The album was cooly received at the time but now holds a cult status amongst musicians. Among them is British singer Imogen Ryall who considers ‘Mingus’ the foundation stone and springboard of her career, describing it as, “A door opener”.

Band Line-up

Imogen Ryall – voice

Julian Nicholas – tenor, soprano saxophones

David Beebee – piano

Nigel Aubrey Thomas – double bass

Eric Ford – drums

Menu

• Prosecco, Bucks Fizz or non-alcoholic sparkles on arrival
• Bacon, sausage & egg, as well as mushroom & hash-browns
• Bread/toast
• Danish pastry selection (with vegan option available)
• Fresh fruit platter
• Yoghurts
• Unlimited tea, coffee and fruit juice

We are automatically accommodating for up to 5 vegan and 10 vegetarian covers. But do let us know ahead of time your preferences by emailing us at jazz@watfordjazzjunction.com. There is plenty of food so all appetites will be sated!

Space at this event is deliberately limited to just 60 people, so you can be sure of an inclusive and special atmosphere. 

Parking and access

Parking is available on site, accessed from Halsey Road, just off Rosslyn Road. Access to the show is fully disability friendly but do let us know ahead of time with any specific requirements.