Ray Gelato – Tenor Saxophone & Vocals
Simon Spillett – Tenor Saxophone
Gunther Kurmayer – Piano
Eleazar Ruiz – Double Bass
Pete Cater – Drums
When two of the UK’s most charismatic and authoritative saxophonists come together, the result is guaranteed to be something special — and this promises to be a standout night at Twickenham Jazz Club.
Ray Gelato is internationally acclaimed as one of Europe’s great swing saxophonists and entertainers. With a sound rooted firmly in the classic jazz tradition and a stage presence that radiates warmth, humour and sheer joy, Ray has spent decades delighting audiences worldwide. His playing embodies the spirit of swing — infectious, uplifting and irresistibly musical.
Alongside him is Simon Spillett, widely regarded as one of Britain’s finest tenor saxophonists. Renowned for his big sound, fearless improvisation and deep connection to the jazz lineage, Simon brings intensity, drive and lyrical imagination to every performance. A passionate champion of straight-ahead jazz, his playing combines technical brilliance with real emotional depth.
Together, Gelato and Spillett form a thrilling frontline partnership — trading ideas, pushing each other creatively and celebrating the great tenor tradition with verve and authenticity. Supported by a superb rhythm section, this is jazz played with heart, humour and unstoppable swing.
Expect hard-driving grooves, blues-drenched solos, spontaneous musical conversations and the kind of on-stage chemistry that can only happen when master musicians meet in the moment. In the intimate setting of Twickenham Jazz Club, this is a rare opportunity to experience straight-ahead jazz at its very best.