Tangent

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Tangent is Avril & Stuart Johnson - two musicians with a wealth of experience and a sensitive understanding of music appropriate for particular and special occasions.

Over a period spanning five decades, they have worked in every likely context, from major international conferences and five-star hotels to intimate private gatherings and commissioned works, as well as in many conventional concert, studio and broadcast settings.

Tangent plays high-quality live music - no computers, no backing tracks – suitable for;       

  • Private functions of all types: Weddings, civil partnerships, retirements, anniversaries, special occasions.
  • Corporate hospitality
  • Conferences.
  • Product launches.
  • Anything out-of-the-ordinary; anywhere!

The music can be as prominent or subdued as clients desire, always serving to complement the occasion and merging seamlessly with formal and informal proceedings.

Tangent’s repertoire is instrumental, drawn  from within the traditions of 20th century popular music, comprising jazz, soul, funk, pop, &  subtle background music.

All equipment needed to ensure a safe and trouble-free event can be provided. This normally includes a digital piano where there is no quality house instrument, and an appropriate PA system. Lighting can be added if required.  When terms are agreed,a simple and concise contract is issued with all costs included, giving clients peace of mind, a clear schedule for the day and confirmation of any agreed special requests. Tangent has comprehensive public liability insurance cover,  and all electrical equipment is tested annually in accordance with current legislation.

Photography:Jonathan Pearson

Photography: Jason Chambers

 

Also available in marzipan.

Whilst Tangent usually works as a piano & saxophone duo, larger ensembles can be organised to suit most budgets and circumstances. Those most commonly arranged are;

  • Dance band with vocalist, covering old-time and modern styles.
  • Jazz quartet or larger.

Typically these groups would include in their performances material from the great 20th century popular songwriters (Gershwin, Porter, Berlin, Lennon/McCartney, etc) through to equally great Motown numbers, much-loved pop and dance tunes from the 1950s to the present and classics from the jazz repertoire.

Other configurations are possible, and specially commissioned work can be undertaken. We are happy to discuss any specific requirements, and to provide references if required.

For further information on how Tangent could enhance your event, email tangent@stuartjohnson.co.uk

Photography:Jonathan Pearson

Download Tangent brochure .pdf  here.   

Click here for Tangent soundclips. Scroll to Audio Player

And here's the first of a series of one-camera video experiments from the contemporary jazz end of the duo repertoire; an on-the-fly version of Joni Mitchell's classic 'Black Crow'. More to follow

When a vocalist is required,  Tangent works with a number of male and female singers. There is a sample selection of recent material on the audio player. Which vocalist is booked in response to any request depends entirely upon individual availability and likely repertoire, best matching singer to songs. This can be discussed with clients as appropriate at the time of inquiry. 

Some Tangent testimonials.

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 We had a wonderful day and want to do it all again now! Thank you both for making it so special.  Beverley & Neil

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Many, many thanks for Friday night - you were absolutely brilliant; just what I'd wanted and just what I'd expected.  Suzie

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We all very much enjoyed your part in the wedding. It went down really well with the guests and your music was fantastic. Thank you for helping make our day very special.  Matthew & Sarah

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The Ball raised £15800, which as much more than expected. It all went to plan and was hugely enjoyed by all. Thank you for entertaining us and setting the atmosphere for the event. Your band is fantastic. Best wishes from the Ball Committee

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Thank you for your hard work, preparation, and a memorable performance that has made our day so special.  Chris & Catherine

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We are so glad we chose you to play at our wedding and will definitely recommend you.   Emma & John

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Your music set exactly the right atmosphere - we only wish we could have relaxed and heard more of it!  Graham & Christine

The Quintet; New Year's Eve 2008. Dave Turner, Avril, Stuart, Tim Franks, Brian Dales.

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Gallery

Jazz by Moonlight Festival, Wakefield, June 2013. (Photography Cade Lumley)

 

Stuart & Avril meet legendary American jazz quartet, The Yellowjackets........

.......and the great bassist John Patitucci.

Back down to earth: Soundcheck at a corporate function.......

Distance no object: Andhra Pradesh, India; January 2011.

 

Working with jazz-funk quintet Chameleon, 2012.

 

Avril with Lighthouse - Tim Garland, Asaf Sirkis, Gwilym Simcock. Cheltenham Jazz Festival 2012.

Monterey Jazz Festival, September 2012.

Photography Tomas Ovalle

 Oak panels, black tie........one...

Photography ©Tina Luke

......two.....

 

Photography; Ian Wood

Tangent

Not to be confused with these guys.......

Archaeologists Georgia Embla Amalveor & Ebenezer Luxulyan begin disinterring the Giant Gnome of Gwennap, May 2008.