Jazz Preview: Who said big bands were dead, asks Crocker

“There are a lot more quality musicians than there were, say, 20 years ago,” says Steve. “I think people will look back at this period and realise how rich in talent it was. It’s not going too far to call it a golden age.”

He cites the influence of Leeds College of Music – “not all students leave town when they graduate and while they are here they make an enormous contribution” – and believes that the popularity of jazz workshops shows a rising interest in learning to play in a supportive environment.

Steve is particularly excited by the big bands enlivening the jazz scene in Leeds.

“There’s the younger generation of leaders typified by James Hamilton, Kim Macari, Tommy Evans and Colin Byrne, the veterans Tony Faulkner and Ronnie Bottomley and youth bands like the Leeds Jazz Rock Orchestra directed by Brendan Duffy and the Garforth Jazz Rock Orchestra directed by Dave Evans.

“That’s before you look at community big bands such as the North Leeds Jazz Orchestra and the Mike Booth Big Band. Who said that big bands were dead? In Leeds they are very much alive.”

Meanwhile, the irrepressible Crocker has unveiled a crowded autumn programme for Seven Jazz – 25 bands, 15 workshops and jam sessions – which includes the American saxophonist Seamus Blake on September 22. Plus a jazz , blues and salsa day at Chapel Allerton festival on September 4.