MEET THE BAND



RICH HUGHES



Piano



Rich is a pianist whose career bridges genres, bringing a fresh spark to everything from swinging jazz to timeless classical works. From intimate clubs to grand concert halls, choir accompaniment to theatre stages, and creative workshops to international festivals, his path reflects a lifelong dedication to music in all its forms.


He has shared the stage with leading jazz artists, including Alex Clarke, Greg Abate, Simon Spillett, B.D. Lenz, and Ray Gelato, performing at venues such as London’s Pizza Express Jazz Club, Ronnie Scott’s Upstairs, and the Royal Festival Hall. His festival appearances range from the world-famous Umbria Jazz Festival to events across the UK, and he has performed live on BBC Radio 4’s Woman’s Hour.


Known for his inventiveness, energy, and ability to connect with audiences, Rich blends classical expressiveness and lyricism with jazz spontaneity.



SIMON SMITH



Bass



Simon Smith is a versatile upright and electric bass player whose rich tone, rock-solid groove, and more than 30 years of professional experience have taken him from intimate jazz clubs to the world’s most prestigious stages and festivals. Growing up in the Midlands and largely self-taught, he quickly became an in-demand presence on the local scene.


Simon’s career has spanned the UK, Europe, and the US, including a five-year stint in Los Angeles. His recording credits include Stevie Nicks, Sarah McLachlan, Wilson Phillips, Glen Ballard, and Dave Stewart, while his live work has taken him to Lincoln Center, Glastonbury Festival, South by Southwest, and La Bâtie Festival in Geneva.


Beyond the stage, Simon composes and produces original music for arts organisations. A solid and adaptable player, he combines unwavering groove with moments of inspired soloing, bringing energy and musical sensitivity to every performance.



STEVE STREET



Drums



Steve’s musical journey began at the age of ten in his local brass band, progressing through school ensembles to the county orchestra and brass band. Early exposure to big band jazz, thanks to his father, sparked a lifelong passion for the genre.


Steve studied at London’s Drum Tech under Francis Seriau and occasional lessons with Jim Chapin, drawing inspiration from drumming legends such as Gene Krupa, Roy Haynes, Buddy Rich, and Elvin Jones — the latter of whom he once opened for at Ronnie Scott’s. Early in his career, Steve toured Europe and recorded for London’s Black Lion and Next Step labels.


As a freelance musician, Steve’s versatility has seen him perform concerts and educational workshops with the CBSO, Sony award ceremonies with Ralph Allin, BBC’s “Friday Night is Music Night”.


Steve has toured with Kenny Ball and his Jazzmen, tap dancer Will Gaines and appeared on numerous recordings and radio broadcasts. He continues to bring his signature drive and creativity to every performance, connecting with audiences wherever he plays.





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