Simon Pearson Memorial Concert
This show celebrates a remarkable musician beloved by so many who knew him, drummer Simon Pearson, who passed away unexpectedly in 2023 at only 54 years of age. Simon was a part of London’s musical firmament working across an eclectic variety of styles for decades, building a reputation not just as an outstanding player of taste and skill, but as a lovely man who was a pleasure to be around.
Simon performed at the 606 often with pianist John Crawford. Indeed, John described Simon as having “astonishing technique”, saying his playing was such that “he was unique- every groove was played with a beautiful, understated subtlety which made him so in demand”. Along with John and his band featuring guitarist Guille Hill, bassist Alec Dankworth & vocalist Linley Weir, the programme will also include performances by other musicians Simon collaborated with through his career: Terry de Castro/Astrid Williamson (Goya Dress), guitarist Deirdre Cartwright with bassist Alison Rayner, trumpet/flugel player Loz Speyor, bassist Dave Jones & more. This evening will be an outpouring of affection in Simon’s honour - gone much, much too soon.
Read John Crawford's tribute to Simon in London Jazz News: (londonjazznews.com/2023/09/12/simon-pearson-1969-2023-a-tribute-by-john-crawford/ )
Photo credit: Tatiana Gorilovsky