Jazz Preview: Have sax, will travel – hopefully for Norwegian star

Bollani was to have appeared with the Danes, Jesper Bodilsen on bass, and Morten Lund on drums, but Dean Clough had to admit defeat as the Icelandic problem showed no signs of receding.

"Although we explored alternative routes to England for Stefano, Jesper and Morten, we had to give up in the end," said a spokesman.

Leeds College of Music remained upbeat about Aagre, who lives near Oslo, and is scheduled to appear at The Venue with some of Norway's finest young musicians, including bassist Audun Ellingsen who is an LCM graduate.

With almost a week to go and the possibility of clearer skies, the likelihood is that the concert will take place which is good news for admirers of Aagre's flowing command of the soprano saxophone.

A product of Norway's burgeoning jazz scene, she studied classical and jazz saxophone in Birmingham and with David Liebman in New York.

At 32, she has a growing following at home and abroad which will doubtless be increased by her new album, Cycle of Silence.

At least one Yorkshire venue is breathing easily about the appearance of a visitor from overseas.

The Dutch violinist, Tim Kliphuis, is already over here and will be making his scheduled appearance at Wakefield Sports Club tonight alongside the magnificent Dave Newton on piano, and bassist Len Skeat.