THURSDAY evening has been a busy time for jazz in York for many years, largely due to the long-running residency at The Old White Swan which ended in 2013. One of the regular bands at the pub were Bejazzled.

The core duo of Tim New on woodwind and Don Lodge on guitar were joined by many musicians over the years, but tonight you can find them performing as a duo at The Pavilion Hotel, Fulford Road. Music starts at 7pm and non-residents are welcome to enjoy a drink or some food in this cosy venue. The hotel has a strong musical connection as John Barry, grew up in the building.

On the other side of the city in Poppleton, pianist Karl Mullen brings an excellent band to the Red Lion Hotel at 8.30pm. Karl will be known to many not only as an accomplished jazz musician but also as the boogie-woogie pianist who entertains tourists and residents on the streets of York.

Alan Barnes has a reputation among the jazz fraternity as one of the hardest-working musicians on the scene. A regular feature on the jazz club and festival circuit, he’ll be joined by fellow woodwind specialist, John Hallam at Boston Spa Jazz Club this Saturday at 8pm.

If you find yourself wanting to stay home of an evening after a hard day at work, then maybe Sunday afternoon is your opportunity to go and watch some live jazz. The family-friendly restaurant Kennedy’s Bar on Little Stonegate host a jazz session every Sunday between 1pm and 4pm. Kate Peters will be singing a selection of swing and funk classics this week, joined by myself on bass and Martin Longhawn on piano.

Making a second appearance on Sunday, York native Longhawn will be playing in a trio format at The Phoenix Inn at 8pm. Having forged a reputation as an incredibly able and versatile pianist, he will be demonstrating his abilities on the organ as he weaves around the powerhouse guitar playing of Nik Svarc. The trio is completed by the equally capable drummer Steve Hanley. The band will play a set of original, rock-influenced compositions.

Another fine organist in York is Bob Smeaton who runs the more traditional outfit, One Foot In The Groove. Comprising sax, guitar and Hammond organ, they will play a variety of Jimmy Smith, Jack McDuff and Jimmy McGriff material at the Victoria Vaults, Nunnery Lane on Tuesday. Marlaina Kelli is guesting on vocals.

Musicians can join the ever-popular Phoenix Inn jam night on Wednesday from 8.30pm. Professionals and amateurs are welcome to play a couple of their favourite tunes and listeners are guaranteed an evening of eclectic entertainment.

If you’re looking for a more concert-like atmosphere on Wednesday evening, the University of York is the place to be. The Elliot Galvin Trio will be performing a set of original compositions incorporating jazz, classical, pop and art music from 7.30pm in the Sir Jack Lyons Concert Hall.