Description

The Middlesbrough Jazz and Blues Orchestra have been together since the summer of 2005.

They're well known in Teesside for playing at bandstands across the area including South Park, Ropner Park, Albert Park, and the new Redcar Bandstand.

The band was formed by Andrew Kerensky, a local music teacher who wanted to establish a big band in the area.

They describe themselves as "a happy bunch of musicians who enjoy making music in a group setting".

"We are open to musicians of all ages who are keen to play great music in a band setting, and the only way to improve is to come along regularly!" Explains band leader Andrew Kerensky

"We're made up of all the sections you'd expect from a big band... there's woodwind and brass - including a huge sousaphone.

"And then we also have the rhythm section, which is everything else, including guitar, piano, drums, double bass, bass guitar and vocalist!"

Description

Fully restored to its Victorian splendour, Ropner Park is a real delight at any time of year. You can stroll by the lakeside or along tree-lined avenues and admire the beautiful floral displays. There’s a fabulous play area, tennis courts, bowls club and large grassed areas for games and picnics.

The splendid pavilion houses a café and toilets. The café is run by the Friends of Ropner Park, who also organise a programme of concerts on the bandstand and run other events in the park. The Friends have made a big contribution to the restoration and on-going success of the park, and they welcome new members.

The Ropner Park Cafe is managed by Friends of Ropner Park and is subject to opening times changing at short notice.

Park opening hours shown are for the warmer seasons: The park will close at 5pm between 21st October and 21st March Each year.

Ropner Park,

Stockton-on-Tees,

County Durham,

England,

TS18 4EF.