The Ipswich School Big Band joined forces with the Ipswich Musicians’ Union Big Band at the end of term to put on a jazz double bill that raised more that £2,000 to maintain St Peter’s Church in Copdock.

More than 150 people packed into Copdock Hall to hear our Big Band play music from Dave Brubeck to Duke Ellington and the IMU Big Band which included Benny Carter and Cole Porter among its repertoire. Mrs Steensma, Director of Music, helped organise the event and said the evening had been a great success. She said afterwards: “I think everyone who came enjoyed a top evening and some great music.

Our youngsters did really well and showcased their talents in front of a very receptive audience. It was also great for the students to see the more experienced Big Band play their stuff and at the end for both bands to play two tracks together. I’m very pleased.”

The money raised will go to the St Peter’s Heritage Trust and is ear-marked to go towards the cost of upgrading the church bells which are in need of some repair.