Suzanne Fonseca

Suzanne -  started on piano and recorder around the age of seven before taking up the flute and joining the Salford Youth Orchestra when in her early teens. Looking around for another instrument to play and, influenced by her dad who was a keen fan of George Chisholm, she chose the trombone. Among other inspirations were Frank Rosolino and Roy Williams as well as such as Chet Baker and Stan Getz. She soon mastered the seven slide positions and, whilst at college, began playing in a Big Band. One of the local pubs had regular jazz sessions featuring a mainstream group, the Jazz Bandits - led by Frank Fonseca. Suzanne was encouraged to sit-in. This gradually developed until she became a regular member. A financial analyst for a major company, she is at present, on maternity leave but still managing to keep up the practice so necessary especially on a brass instrument. Many young women these days are increasingly involved in both brass bands and orchestras but very few, as yet, seem to manage to encompass and develop the feeling for- and ability to play - jazz. The Pendle Jazzmen members are delighted to welcome Suzanne as a special guest. - Colin Mason

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