Formed a little over two years ago within Monmouth U3A and originally known as the U3A Jazz Combo, 2RiversJazz currently comprises a sextet playing jazz standards, classic ballads and show songs, many from the Great American Songbook with songs by Gershwin, Cole Porter, Ellington and other well known composers featuring strongly in our developing repertoire. The heart beat of the band is the rhythm section of piano, bass and drums supporting and embellishing the solos of our front line of vocalist, clarinet and tenor sax.

In simple terms, we just play for fun. There is something magical about ensemble work – the sense of listening, responding and co-creating in real time. We play to improve, yes of course, but also to laugh and, at times, get annoyed at our mistakes. Finally, we aim to have the satisfaction of producing some well executed songs.

Whilst we play for fun, we do occasionally venture out for a public performance and are pleased to be participating in Monstock 2026. We hope that our enjoyment in playing together is contagious and that, when you hear us play, you too will share that enjoyment.