Jazz Suite Artists

Max Turnball
Piano

Max started to teach himself the keyboard by ear at the age of 8. He spent many hours each day experimenting with melody and harmony. The result of which gave him exceptional aural skills which helped him in his sound and composition development. From the age of 13, Max embarked on classical piano lessons which was utilised in his senior school stage band. The Head of Music gave him the accolade as the best pianist they had ever had in the school band and was personally recommended to Cornwall Youth Jazz Orchestra (CYJO) with which Max underwent a 4 year stint. Notably in 1997, he performed at the opening of the Hall For Cornwall with world class jazz trombonist Bill Watrous and the concert was attended by HRH Prince Charles. In 1998 whilst still studying at college, Max was invited by Richard Penrose to replace him at the Star and Garter jazz venue as the Monday evening resident pianist in the band. A position Max sustained for several years. From then on, Max's career accelerated in momentum, and very soon Max was playing several nights a week. In September 1999, Max started his jazz degree, a first of it's kind in Cornwall. Max had personal piano tuition with jazz pianist composer Viv Rodd which enhanced Max's technique, theory and composition skills. In 2002, Max graduated with a 1st class honours degree with 2 Dean's Commendations for outstanding achievement. Max has performed at many festivals: Bude Jazz Festival 1996 (Tommy Whittle) 1999 (Mark Knightingale and Don Rendell) 2006 (Jim Fryer and Enrico Tomaso) Lanhydrock Jazz Festival 1997 (with CYJO to 12,000 people) Glastonbury Festival (1999) Isle of Wight Jazz Festival (2006) Swindon Jazz Festival (2006) Max has also backed legendary saxophonist Pete King at the Acorn Theatre, Penzance and performed extensively throughout the South West including the Barbican Jazz Cafe with various artists. Max has finished recording two albums. The first with jazz saxophonist Dean Masser entitled "Old School". This album features legendary bassist Malcolm Creese and acclaimed drummer Paul Robinson who worked with Nina Simone for 19 years. The second album is a piano-vocal with universally renowned vocalist Jenny Darren.