Andy Sheppard Trio

Line-up

Andy Sheppard - tenor and soprano saxophones

Rita Marcotulli - piano

Michel Benita - double bass

About

Andy Sheppard Trio marks an unprecedented encounter between saxophonist and composer Andy Sheppard, Italian jazz icon pianist Rita Marcotulli and one of the most prominent bassists on the European circuit, French bassist Michel Benita - three highly individual musicians who have all had a big role in shaping the sound of European jazz today.

In this new trio, Sheppard has had the opportunity to develop an entire programme of new compositions, taking a spirited fresh approach to his writing, honouring jazz in its tradition but allowing free space for interpretation.

Collectively exploring the possibilities of improvisation and interplay, the music is anchored in structure whilst open to lyricism and taking on different directions. Michel Benita’s unique approach to his instrument has carved his reputation as one of the most original and versatile bassists in the field, whilst the acclaimed pianist Rita Marcotulli has long been internationally renowned as an icon of Italian jazz.

All three musicians have shared the stage on several occasions, throughout the past thirty years, including meetings in larger ensembles. Remarkably, it is however the first time the three musicians have recorded together. Recorded at Lugano's Auditorio Stelio Molo, produced by Manfred Eicher, their album is to be released on ECM in 2026.

Listen

Ticket deals

£5 OFF: if you buy 2 or more tickets to this event you will automatically be emailed a unique discount coupon that can be used when purchasing any other Jazz Nights show during the WJJ Festival run at the Pump House (14-16 May) or for Ruth Fisher's Sunday Social event on 10 May at St John's Church.

15% OFF: if you buy 5 or more tickets to the same show, you can apply a discount coupon - FIVEorMORE - when checking out to receive a 15% discount on your entire basket.

SAVE £40: when you purchase a full festival pass priced at £132 for all 6 of our main festival shows (Emma Rawicz 17 April, Gala Show with Emma Smith 9 May, Sunday Social 10 May, and our Jazz Nights Series of shows 14-16 May. Just click here.

Information

Doors open from 7.00pm and the show starts at 7.30pm.

We commence with a support act for up to 25 minutes followed by the main show around 8.30pm. We expect to finish by about 10.00pm.

Full bar available from 7.00pm and during the interval. NB - card only no cash.

Free parking is available on site, and nearby in Century Retail Park (please check conditions of parking on arrival - usually 4 hours for free). The Pump House Theatre and Arts Centre is 4-minute walk from Watford High Street Overground Station.

Access

For disability access, please contact us at jazz@watfordjazzjunction.com to confirm a seat. We have 2 wheelchair friendly spaces available, each at the general admission rate of £27.50 with an additional carer's seat for free if required.