Jools Holland Rhythm and Blues Orchestra star performing in Welwyn Garden City

Saxophonist Derek Nash will spearhead the opening concert of the year in Screen 2 of the Garden City Cinema complex at Campus West.

Derek Nash’s Picante will play Herts Jazz Club tonight (Sunday) from 8.15pm.

A club spokesman said: “We launch our new season with a slight diversion from our regular programming.

“Multi-award winning saxophonist Derek Nash takes time off from the Jools Holland Rhythm and Blues Orchestra to make a welcome return to the club, this time bringing with him his new Latin/Salsa band Picante.

“This exciting sextet provides a platform for some of the greatest exponents of this music in the UK.

“Expect an evening of lively entertainment, well executed arrangements and an irrepressible Latin beat.”

Joining Derek on saxes will be guitarist Dominic Ashworth, pianist Neil Angilley, Davide Mantovani on bass, Robin Jones on drums and percussionist Marc Cecil.

Advance tickets cost £3 students, £8 members, £10 concessions and £11 full.

Book in advance as walk-ups cost £5 students, £9 members, £12 concessions and £13 full on the night.

Book online at www.hertsjazz.co.uk/gigs.html or call the box office on 0300 3039 620.

Please note the start time of 8.15pm is for this gig only.

The season continues at the Hawthorne Theatre the following Sunday – January 10 – with the Nikki Iles / Stan Sulzmann Duet.

Stan has had a rich and varied career, playing with musicians as diverse as Kenny Wheeler, Larry Grenadier and Gwilym Simock, as well as a prolific output as bandleader.

Pianist Nikki Iles won the John Dankworth Special Award at the BT British Jazz Awards in 1996.

She also recorded a duo CD, Treasure Trove, with Sulzmann.

Almost 20 years later, Stan and Nikki have recently released their acclaimed new offering, Stardust, which celebrates a shared passion for songs.

* For more information, visit www.hertsjazz.co.uk or follow Herts Jazz on Twitter @hertsjazz