Two top performing Sandbach musicians are helping to run an innovative project set to put the town and wider area firmly on the musical map. 

Jazz music is renowned for its improvisation, syncopated rhythms, complex chords, and swing and is loved all over the world.

The complex style of music originated in the African American communities of New Orleans in the early 20th century .

But now a Sandbach venue is the home to the town's first 'jazz jam' sessions where musicians can rock up and play alongside some of the best in the business. 

Local saxophonist, Rob Cope is running the Sandbach Jazz Jams with support from saxophonist and composer, Andy Scott

"Together we wanted to create a space whereby practising musicians of all levels had a home to perform and enjoy others' music, a community within which to try out new ideas, develop creative networks and above all relax and enjoy live music with friends," said Jaki.

"Our venue's space, atmosphere and location suits the sessions perfectly and our audience is always encouraging and appreciative.

"It couldn't be a more perfect combination as Matt and I are musicians and therefore have real understanding of live music, events and collaborating with other musicians.

"Andy Scott and Rob Cope are local Sandbach musicians. We really are truly honoured that they are supportive of local live music as they are both so highly acclaimed."

Andy performing at a previous jazz event at the Swan & Chequers. (Photo: Andy Scott)

The Swan & Chequers' jazz jam sessions, launched on Tuesday this week (October 1st), have already proved a massive hit, drawing musicians from Southport to Knutsford. 

"There's no other pub in Sandbach with the capacity to hold such events other than the Swan & Chequers," said Andy Scott, who plays all over the world and teaches at the Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM). 

"People travelled from Knutsford and Southport for the first jazz jam session and there was a great atmosphere. 

"We moved to the town 17 years ago and have always wanted a venue like the Swan & Chequers to perform in. It's the perfect location. 

Andy Scott. (Photo: Ron Milsom)

"There's nowhere in Sandbach like this and we're hoping the jazz events will grow and grow. Musicians can come along and play jazz music in a relaxed, comfortable setting." 

The monthly jazz jam sessions run from 8 pm until 10 pm on the first Tuesday of the month this week featured a house band consisting of Rob Cope on saxophone, Misha Gray on Piano, Gavin Barras on bass and Josh Savage on drums. 

But music is nothing new to the Swan & Chequers' Matt and Jaki Hurst who run the pub. Both are musicians and the couple met while playing music at an event. 

With live music now being a firm feature at the pub, maybe in time music lovers will even get the chance to hear Matt, who plays the trumpet and Jaki, a saxophonist perform?

Sandbach Nub News is proud to announce that the Swan and Chequers is the latest sponsor of our news service.

The Swan and Chequers will help us deliver the high-quality journalism that Sandbach deserves - no clickbait or intrusive ads, just the latest updates on what's happening in our town.

It is thanks to the generosity of organisations like the Swan and Chequers that we can continue our mission to revive local news, both in Sandbach and across the UK.

If you haven't tried the new Swan and Chequers, make sure you add it to your list for that extra sparkle!

Further details, look at their Facebook page here