Yesterday was apparently the first day of spring, and what better way to herald the change into the new season with the first Jazz @ 5 on the Gulbenkian Theatre’s foyer stage.

Featuring the robust pianistic skills of second-year Economic student, Niji Adeleye, and saxophonist with the Concert and Big Bands, Tim Pickering, both of whom were making their debut, and Jazz @ 5 stalwart Andrew Kitchin on guitar, the programme kicked off with a lively blues.

Over the course of set the stage was graced with songstresses Steph Richardson (who, when not singing jazz or studying Drama, can also be found performing and conducting with the Chamber Choir), Ruby Mutlow (familiar as singer with the Big Band), and Jo Gray. A deft rendition of Too Darn Hot from Steph, a French version of I Go Sailing from Jo and a vibrant I Wish I Knew (How It Feels To Be Free) were just some of the standards in the programme, alongside some instrumental pieces showing Niji’s immense creativity, Andrew’s skilful solo-ing and some robust melodic improvisation from Tim.

Well received by an enthusiastic (and numerous) crowd, the event was a great success: well done to all the performers.