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Martin Bennett
11th January 2025 - I am deeply saddened to have to inform you that we lost Martin Bennett this afternoon; a much valued stalwart of the Dove Jazz Festival throughout its 25 year life along with the Dove Jazz Club. He was of course the source of that notable term 'The Centre of the Universe' when relating to Dove Holes. His amazing, unforgettable yearly Sessions in the Beer Tent at our Festivals that required tremendous stamina from Martin, his vast array of Quality Musicians and Guest Performers, not forgetting the never ending list of Jazz Tunes that he was more than familiar with will remain with many, many people for ever! I am comforted to some extent by the fact that as far as I know that Martin died peacefully in hospital surrounded by members of his family after being admitted a couple of days ago. My thoughts as I am sure that yours will be are very much with Sue, Martins family and his numerous close friends who will greatly miss him. Thanks for the countless hours of entertainment and good company that you have provided us with over many years Martin. May you Rest in Peace with the knowledge that you have served the Jazz Community with great distinction over the greater part of your colourful life. - Roger Marshall (Dove Jazz Club). Martin Bennett 12/01/25 - Martin was renowned for his contributions to the New Orleans jazz scene. Initially, he gained recognition as a trombonist, performing with various ensembles, including the Phil Mason Band in the 1990s. Unfortunately, medical issues compelled him to cease playing the trombone. Undeterred, he transitioned to the piano and keyboards, continuing his musical journey with vigour. He led "Martin Bennett's Old Green River Band," a group celebrated for its energetic performances and authentic New Orleans sound. The band has been a staple at numerous jazz festivals and venues across the UK and Europe, earning acclaim for their dynamic stage presence and musical prowess. His versatility extended beyond performance; he has been instrumental in fostering jazz communities, notably contributing to the Dove Holes Jazz Scene since its inception. His charismatic and, at times, eccentric stage persona, combined with his deep passion for jazz, has endeared him to audiences and peers alike. In addition to his musical endeavours, Martin had collaborated with international artists, exemplified by his work with the Anglo-German Connection, which bridges musicians from Manchester and Nuremberg. This initiative underscored his commitment to the global jazz community and his dedication to cross-cultural musical exchanges. Despite personal tragedies, like the loss of his son Russell, another musician, Martin's resilience and unwavering dedication to jazz continued to inspire. His performances remained a testament to his enduring passion for the genre and his ability to adapt and thrive amidst challenges. Fred Burnett with assistance from AI. 13/01/25 - I am so sorry to hear about Martin. I have known him since the early 1990’s hearing him at the annual Dove Festival, in Fuerteventura with the Phil Mason Band and playing with his Old Green River Band on a number of occasions. I considered him and Sue as personal friends who would enjoy sharing a beer or two with Carol and myself in the beer tent at Dove and who would always greet both of us with a big hug. R.I.P Martin 14/01/25 - I'm so sad to hear of Martin Bennett passing away, I was really shocked to read the news on Facebook, "Rest in peace Martin," you were much admired and respected by the musicians throughout the UK and will be greatly missed as one of the great swinging musicians of the British Jazz Scene. I personally have some wonderful memories of playing with you and the encouragement you gave me. My condolences
I send to, Martin's Wife and family, Sleep well Martin in the
arms of our lord Jesus Christ 16/01/25 - My sincere
condolences to Sue, Richard and family of the loss of Martin.
16/01/25 - I first met Martin when I was playing with a band at The Albert pub in Bowness on Windermere. He walked in with his trombone and his family, then later when he was restoring his boat at Glasson Dock and then he moved to Lancaster, I went twice with him to play a jazz festival in Ireland, a fine trombone player. When he was at university in ireland Phil Mason was also there, Martin played banjo then, while he was up here he played with The Red Rose New Orleans Marching Band. Just one funny story, I saw him and Phil Mason walking down a street in Keswick at the jazz festival they looked like a couple of Mexican bandits. RIP old
friend. 17/01/25 - Such a shock to hear of Martin's passing away. He was one of our great jazzmen, a superb musician, always entertaining - trombone, keyboard, vocals - and such a nice guy. He will be sorely missed by his family and our jazz fraternity. Our sincere condolences to Sue and the family. - Terry Birkinhead 17/01/25 - Like every one else we were very saddened to hear of the passing of Martin Bennett. As a member of the Phil Mason Band and with his own Green River Band he entertained us at Jazz Club 90 in Albrighton and at Upton Jazz Festival many times. His trombone and piano playing, along with his singing, added to every session and will be missed by everyone. John and Marie.Howell 26/01/25 = I was sorry to
learn of the death of Martin Bennett and would like to send
condolences to Sue and to Richard. I think I first heard Martin
when he was playing trombone with Phil Mason. Subsequently he
switched to piano and set up his own band which he then named
"The Old Green River Band" (after the 1915 song - definitely NOT
initially recorded by Martin!). 31/01/25 - I only once
had the privilege of playing in a band led by Martin. That was
at a private party on the Cumbrian coast more than twelve years
ago and took place on a bitterly cold night. The venue had two
rooms, and the one we played in was not heated, but the music we
played was hot enough to compensate, as was the warmth of Martin
and Sue's hospitality afterwards! We had travelled there and
back in that lovely old bandwagon whose roof had been
temporarily patched up following low-bridge damage at some
stage, and they insisted I stay the night with them rather than
drive on to North Wales at that hour. By the time I left them
the following morning, I had really been made to feel part of
the family, and I shall always be grateful to them both. Allan Wilcox 06/02/25 - Martin
Bennett's funeral was yesterday, 5th February, at Howe Bridge
crematorium, Leigh. A sad occasion, but the packed chapel was a
worthy tribute to one of our most accomplished and popular jazz
musicians - probably more than 100 friends present. A lovely
service included a brave and moving eulogy from his widow Sue. Terry Birkinhead
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