NC Jazz presents the second in a series of special live jazz events, bringing top UK talent to Northamptonshire Bringing jazz to The Duke, Stanwick smooth sounds, sharp edges. NC Jazz continues its mission of keeping live jazz thriving in the region, hosting a superb run of ticketed performances at The Duke, Stanwick. These intimate shows bring acclaimed touring musicians from across the UK straight to Northamptonshire audiences, helping keep this vital music alive and accessible. Our second gig is on the 12th June 2026 – Karen Sharp Quartet. Multi-award winning saxophonist Karen Sharp is joined by three of the UK’s premier jazz artists, Colin Oxley, Simon Thorpe and Matt Fishwick. Their music reflects a shared love of creativity, interplay and group improvisation with a deep respect for the jazz tradition demonstrated with exquisite tunes by the likes of Steve Swallow, Jim Hall, Bill Evans, Warne Marsh and Simon Thorpe. In 2018 Karen, Simon and Colin recorded their first album together, ‘Another Place’. They have been performing regularly ever since both as a trio and with augmented ensembles, exploring new and exciting routes through jazz material from the past and present. With their second album due for imminent release the trio are busy performing, forming new musical memories and solidifying their unique, ensemble sound. “a session of impeccable performances of elegant compositions” – Jazz Journal “they don’t come much better than this” – The Guardian “Nothing routine or predictable here…calm yet authoritative” – Peter Vacher “Delightful” – London Jazz News Door at 7:30p.m. The band is normally on at 8:30. Line up: Karen Sharp – Saxes Colin Oxley – Guitar Simon Thorpe – Bass Matt Fishwick – Drums