Sky Arts At returns to one of the hottest events on the jazz calendar for a behind-the-scenes look at the world famous Cheltenham Jazz Festival. Boasting a star-studded line-up of guests, the 2010 festival includes Paloma Faith, Elaine Paige, John Scofield, Sir Michael Parkinson, Curtis Stigers, Buddy Greco, Stewart Lee, Craig Charles and the jazzman of the moment Jamie Cullum featuring as Guest Director.

 

  

Video: Watch Sky Arts At The Cheltenham Jazz Festival 2010 >>

 

 

From 28 April to 3 May 2010 Cheltenham will be treated to six days of cool vibes of the best-known jazz and the freshest new sounds of contemporary jazz with more concerts, international legends and festival fun than ever before.

For the first time in the festival's history, Director Tony Dudley Evans has invited a Guest Director to join him at the helm: jazz superstar Jamie Cullum. As well as starring in his own sure-to-sell-out gig on the Sunday night, Jamie has chosen a diverse range of musical talent to feature; from dynamic young group Fringe Magnetic to a battle of the beats club night with jazz drummer Seb Rochford and beatbox pioneer Schlomo via the beautiful vocals of Norwegian group Beady Belle.

Joining Jamie in bringing star-quality to this packed programme of talent is the first lady of musical theatre Elaine Paige. Famed for her countless successes in the West End, the star of Evita and Cats celebrates her love of jazz classics with a headline performance on the Town Hall stage and a gala performance at the Daffodil Restaurant.

For jazz aficionados the programme features some of the best international jazz legends, including US composer and musician Carla Bley with her Lost Chords quartet; John Surman in a greatly anticipated collaboration with the Nikki Yeoh Trio; and the unique pairing of jazz bassist Dave Holland with Spanish flamenco guitar maestro Pepe Habichuela. Guitar genius John Scofield features in a headline set over the Bank Holiday Weekend performing his acclaimed jazz improvisations.

A rare festival highlight is the collaboration between retro soul starlet Paloma Faith and The Guy Barker Orchestra in a performance that can only be seen in Cheltenham.

Cheltenham Jazz Festival also aims to showcase emerging new talent with the Pillar Room programme, including: trioVD, Troyka, Empirical, FLY Trio, Polar Bear, Kit Downes, Liam Noble and Christine Tobin. In a brand new partnership, the festival has joined forces with the Norwegian Embassy to showcase the best up-and-coming Norwegian talent, with performances from stellar Norwegian bands Food, Farmers Market and Beady Belle.

For more information visit cheltenhamfestivals.com/jazz