About
With an ever-expanding repertoire of jazz classics, The Grand Central Trio can provide the perfect sound to create a vintage vibe at any event. Additionally, The Grand Central Trio perform some modern pop songs arranged in a ‘Jazzy’ way for those who want the sounds of a vintage jazz band, whilst being able to dance along to some songs they recognise.
Tom Belbin - Saxophone
Tom is an exciting Jazz Saxophonist from Portsmouth. He is a First-Class graduate from The University of Chichester, and has played at hundreds of venues all over the UK. Included are the prestigious events Cheltenham Jazz Festival, Soho Pizza Express Jazz Club, and The Royal Festival Hall. Tom’s influences vary from contemporary jazz fusion players Kenny Garrett and Gerald Albright, to jazz bebop greats Charlie Parker and Cannonball Aderley. He has performed in many bands, frequently crossing between genres, including funk, jazz, pop, blues and swing. Also, Tom performs regularly across the country as a vastly experienced jazz pianist
Nick Reynolds (Head of Jazz at Chichester University) had this to say about Tom.
‘Tom is a talented and versatile saxophone player with a great future ahead of him. His impressive technique is matched by a mature sense of musicianship and he has a comprehensive understanding of how to fluently negotiate a broad range of repertoire. Tom’s outlook is highly professional and he is sensitive to the requirements of the different settings he performs in.’
Ian Mayes - Bass and Acoustic Guitar
Ian is an experienced guitarist and bassist from London, who is fast approaching 20 years of playing. Growing up Ian often played on the open mic night scene around South London, cutting his performance skills in the competitive environment from an early age. Since then he has performed all over the south of the U.K, including for the Oxford Fashion Studio, The Savoy hotel, Bart’s (Chelsea), Mr Fogg’s Residence (Mayfair) and much more. In 2013 Ian moved to the South Coast to study the jazz course at Chichester University, where he gained a First Class (Hons) degree in Jazz, before moving on to study a Masters in jazz performance at Southampton University.
Richard Carter - Drums
Richard’s talent for drumming has seen him play with some of the south coasts top musicians, including touring the country with his acclaimed originals band Core of IO. His wide range of styles bring a deep level of understanding and knowledge to his jazz drumming, allowing him to replicate the great, recognisable sounds of swinging jazz with ease. Often requested for sets by musicians all over the south coast, Richard is fast becoming one of the most recognisable faces on the local music scene, and takes his craft seriously with his professional and reliable attitude.
Since completing his degree at Chichester University, Richard has gone on to become the drum tutor for the University. Richard has also recorded in top London Studios (Pinewood, Metropolis) with many different producers and audio engineers.
Our High Standard Promise
The Grand Central Trio only uses equipment of the highest standard. With all our electrical devices pat tested, and the band being covered by public liability insurance, our clients can rest easy that they are in safe hands.
Our dedication to ensuring all performances are to the highest standard means you can enjoy your special day with no worries. We strive to look our best at every event, and our reliable attitude ensures that our customers are always satisfied. Read some of our previous customer reviews here to see what they had to say.
Get in touch today!
We receive regular enquiries and bookings, so it’s best to get in contact with us as early as possible. If you are interested in having a jazz band perform at your next event then please use the contact page here to get in touch.
To hear the professional sounds that you can expect from booking the Grand Central Trio for your special occasion click here.
