Shirley’s trio draws on her eclectic background to bring together her jazz, blues and world music influences.
Shirley Smart is recognised as one of the UK’s most versatile and creative cellists. Her trio draws together the vibrant and eclectic mixture of influences resulting from 10 years present living in Jerusalem before establishing herself on the UK scene. Joined by John Crawford, one of the UK’s leading jazz pianists, who shares her interest in Latin and world influenced jazz, and long term collaborator, and flamenco master Demi Garcia Sabat, their first album ‘Long Story Short’ was released in 2018 to critical acclaim.
“Smarts playing is particularly remarkable throughout. She readily demonstrates a wide range of techniques incorporating an understanding of improvisation drawn from a jazz background and her extensive knowledge of Arabic maqam..” Songlines
“..some of the most inventive use of the cello I’ve heard for some time.” Kind of Jazz
Tickets available from blackmountainjazz.co.uk
