Neil Burns Quartet featuring very special guests Jo Fooks & Buster Birch

Devon-based jazz guitarist Neil Burns is a versatile musician known for his lyrical phrasing, rich harmonic sense, and engaging live performances. Drawing on a wide palette of jazz influences, Neil brings a contemporary yet timeless approach to the guitar, captivating audiences from intimate club settings to larger concert halls. His deep musicality and improvisational flair make him a sought-after collaborator in the UK jazz scene.

Joining him for this special evening is saxophonist Jo Fooks, a former Young Scottish Jazz Musician of the Year. Jo’s career took a remarkable turn when the legendary British trumpeter Humphrey Lyttelton personally invited her to join his band—a testament to her exceptional talent. Citing Humph’s “fun-filled and melodic” approach as a major influence, Jo has developed a big, bright sound often compared to iconic figures such as Stan Getz and Zoot Sims. Her impressive CV includes performances with leading mainstream bands and artists, including Jo Harrop and Scott Hamilton, highlighting her versatility and artistry.

Drummer Buster Birch is an award-winning drummer and composer based in London, renowned for his dynamic approach to jazz and his innovative fusion of live music with silent film. He holds an honours degree in music from the University of London and a postgraduate diploma in jazz performance from the Guildhall School of Music & Drama. His studies also include training at the Drummers Collective in New York City and private lessons with jazz legends Jim Chapin and Joe Morello.

Throughout his career, Birch has performed at major venues across London, including Ronnie Scott’s and the Royal Albert Hall, and has toured over 30 countries. He has recorded nearly 40 albums and has been a member of several world music groups, such as Terza Rima, The Branco Stoysin Trio, and Heads South. His versatility extends to classical music, having performed with the Royal Philharmonic Symphony Orchestra and deputised on West End productions like Blood Brothers.

Rounding out the quartet is Martin Jenkins, a well-known name on the local jazz circuit whose smooth Hammond organ grooves tie the whole group together.

All together, Neil, Jo, Buster & Martin promise a night of inventive, soulful, and compelling jazz at Pier Master’s House—an evening that celebrates both established talent and the enduring joy of live jazz.

Event Info

• Doors: Open from 7:00pm (event takes place upstairs in the function room).
• Food & Drink: The downstairs restaurant is open all day and evening – why not make a night of it and join us for dinner before the show?
• Accessibility: Please note the upstairs function room does not have disabled access, as the building is listed. We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.
• Seating: Unreserved – first come, first served.
• Age Policy: Anyone who looks 25 or under will need valid ID to purchase alcohol.
• Parking: A council pay-and-display car park (with RingGo app option) is located right next to the venue.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

Get App

Host or Publisher Pier Master's House