Jazz Evening Review 2026

The sun had clearly been saving itself for the occasion. On Saturday 11th July 2026, Walkfares played host to our third annual Jazz Evening and with temperatures soaring, blue skies overhead, and over 60 guests joining us in the garden, it turned out to be everything we could have hoped for and more.

The Perfect Summer Evening

From the moment the gates opened at 4pm, the atmosphere was electric. Guests arrived to the sound of background jazz drifting across the garden, glasses of Pimms and cold drinks in hand, and it wasn't long before the lawn was filled with the hum of conversation and laughter.

The weather truly made the evening. With the warmth of a proper British summer day lingering well into the night, the garden felt like exactly the right place to be and our guests clearly agreed. Deckchairs were claimed, blankets spread out, and the relaxed, unhurried mood that only a warm summer evening can bring settled over Walkfares from the very first note.

The Music

The live performances were the heart of the evening. Our jazz quartet: Mateo Grilo on keyboards and vocals, Zak Barrett on saxophone, Tamir Smith on bass, and James Green on drums - delivered three outstanding sets that had guests on their feet, swaying along, and calling for more.

By the time the final notes rang out, the applause said it all.

Cold Drinks, Food & Good Company

On a day as warm as this one, our bar offering went down an absolute treat. Whether it was a cocktail, a cold beer, a glass of wine, a hot dog, or a charcuterie platter in the sunshine, guests were well looked after throughout the night.

The food and drink kept flowing right through until 10pm, and, as always, the best ingredient of all was the company. It was wonderful to see so many familiar faces, to welcome new ones, and to spend an evening together doing nothing more complicated than enjoying great music and great company.

Raising Money for Farleigh Hospice

Of course, the evening was about more than just a good time. We are absolutely delighted to announce that the Walkfares Jazz Evening 2026 raised £720 for Farleigh Hospice.

Farleigh Hospice provides outstanding care and support to people living with life-limiting illnesses and their families across mid Essex. The work they do is invaluable, and every penny raised on the night will go directly towards that support.

To everyone who bought a ticket, purchased a drink, or simply came along and joined in the spirit of the evening, thank you. This total is down to you.

Thank You

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who made the evening what it was:

• The band — Mateo, Zak, Tamir and James for a truly memorable performance
• Our brilliant volunteers who helped set up, run the bar, serve food, and keep everything ticking along smoothly
• Every single guest who came through the gates, brought the energy, and made Walkfares feel like the best place in Essex to be on a Saturday night

See You Next Year?

If Saturday's evening is anything to go by, we'd be mad not to do it again. Watch this space for news of the Walkfares Jazz Evening 2027 - and if you missed this year, make sure you don't miss the next one.

Until then, thank you Boreham. What a night. 🎷☀️