TIM KLIPHUIS

at the Thaxted Festival

27.06.10

To Thaxted Church, steeped in musical tradition, for a wonderful concert by Dutch violinist Tim Kliphuis.

He must be tired of the “second Stéphane Grappelli” label, but it's true – that easy swing to the fiddle, those familiar standards ornamented, bent and improvised around. Satin Doll, After You've Gone, a colourful Caravan. Sweet Georgia Brown, too, of course, featuring a great dialogue between the violin and the inspired bass of Len Skeet, who's played with the great Grapelli himself. And, as a nightcap, a magical Berkeley Square.

But Tim's speciality – and possibly the reason for this Thaxted gig – is his way with the classics. They get the same affectionate makeover: a witty, swing Humoreske, Grieg's Norwegian Dance and a spell-binding Debussy Clair de Lune.

With Skeet and Kliphuis on the stand were pianist David Newton, his heels on the wooden platform the only percussion, and guitarist Colin Oxley.