Take Five in Roath

So let me get this right... in 1968 Joe Morello, legendary American sticksman in the Dave Brubeck Quartet, held a drum clinic at a church hall in Roath, Cardiff? Apparently so (see pic).

'68 was the year the Dave Brubeck Quartet broke up so maybe Morello was at a bit of a loose end. Quite a coup for Gamlin's who at that time were holding a series of workshops featuring famous musicians. Who better to demonstrate percussive skills than the man whose drum solo on Take Five made it one of the most instantly recognisable jazz pieces ever.

To see this musical icon in action you simply walked into Gamlin's on St Mary Street picked up a free ticket then hopped on a bus to St Peter's church hall, Roath. There, at 7.45pm, you would find Morello doing a nifty bit of drumming and chatting about his career. Sounds terrific.

I wonder how many people actually turned up to see him? Jazz has always been popular in Cardiff but at that time rock and soul music were very much in the ascendancy. If you were one of those discerning punters who attended Morello's drum clinic do let me know how it went.

If you want to pay homage to this obscure jazz event you will find the aforementioned church hall on St Peter's Street, Cardiff. Just stand outside the building, put on your shades, and absorb those cool vibes.