WHAT would the Great American Songbook be without the combined talents of the Gershwin brothers, George and Ira?

Their contribution to the canon is incalculable, and if you want to remind yourself just how brilliant they were, you can hear for yourself at a spectacular concert at the Ilminster Arts Centre.

That’s when the Craig Milverton Trio pays tribute to the songwriting duo. For this very special concert, Craig and his band will be joined by talented vocalist Laura Collins and virtuoso jazz guitarist Nigel Price.

Laura is a charismatic and highly acclaimed singer who has trained with top UK vocalists such as Tina May, Norma Winstone, Lee Gibson and Anita Wardell, and she sings with UK jazz greats such as Alan Barnes, Bruce Adams Jean Toussaint and Dick Pearce.

Nigel Price is arguably the best exponent of guitar in today’s UK jazz scene. His style is clear, clean and concise coupled with a towering technique and. He combines bluesy lyricism and breezy swing with blisteringly fast fingers. he is a true master of his instrument which he always demonstrates in the context of the “standard” repertoire.

Craig Milverton is an award-winning jazz pianist who, along with his band, is a regular performer at Ilminster Arts Centre. He is much in demand with his various trios and quartets, with bands such as Digby Fairweather’s Half Dozen and the Bateman Brothers Armstrong Tribute band, and his love and thorough knowledge of jazz music also shines through in his solo shows such as ‘Tribute To Oscar Peterson’ and his ‘Jazz Piano Legends’.

It promises to be an evening of well-known, enjoyable tunes interpreted vocally in a straight-ahead style, with absolutely top-notch musicianship. Advance booking is recommended for what promises to be a beguiling evening of Gershwin magic.

Friday, July 22 at 8pm. £16 (pre-show supper £13 at 7pm, booked in advance).

Box Office: 01460 54973.