Swinging jazz came to town as the BBC Big Band played in the cathedral to a large and appreciative audience, as part of Worcester's Three Choirs Golden Jubilee Fringe 2002.

Within the context of the concert most of the band members were heard as virtuoso soloists, demonstrating the exceptional expertise which combines to produce the fabulous sound of the whole.

Michael Garrick, conductor extraordinary, added a lively dimension as he directed the proceedings, or played the piano or organ.

Various movements of Garrick's own compositions included several from Jazz Praises, with a section of the Worcester Festival Chorus singing the vocal parts. Kyrie, though classical in the concept of its meditative, slow choral section, was composed with innovative harmony, alongside some brilliant brass. The Agnus Dei, in complete contrast, heard the chorus crying in despair, with a solo trombone, trumpet and others agitating.

In Music For A Wedding the organ was used to inspired effect. Dazzling changes of rhythm and a big finish gave credence to the theme.

Morning Blue, based on a jazz improvisation solo invented by Coleridge Goode in 1988, was amazing in its originality of melody and accent. Coleridge was present in the cathedral to hear his idea replayed with particularly spectacular solo electric guitar, and double bass.

Classics by Duke Ellington included his incredible steam train impression Happy Go Lucky Local, the awesome beauty of Creole Love Call and the evening's piece de resistance It Don't Mean A Thing, involving innumerable wonderful effects and an array of fantastic solos.

Julian Joseph, a well-known jazz musician himself, introduced the programme, which will be broadcast on BBC Radio 3 at 4pm on Saturday, August 31.

Jill Hopkins