Jazz fans gather in Gosport for special event celebrating life of music legend Nat Gonella

Members of Gosport Jazz Club turned out in force for the special event featuring Roger Marks’ Cornish Armada who entertained music fans gathered at Gosport and Fareham Rugby Club.

This commemorative gig is held every year, near to Nat Gonella’s birthday on March 7, as he was a patron and member of the club for many years until his death in 1998.

Vic Pheasant, club chairman, said: ‘When he was alive it was a big party night, we continue that tradition in a small way and hold a toast.

‘He put this club on its feet - he would talk to anybody. We celebrate Nat Gonella because he was a big feature of this club and it’s a bit of a tradition.’

The fortnightly club, which features bands from all around the country, had possession of Nat’s clarinet and presented it to the Gosport Discovery Centre with some other artifacts from his life in 2015.

Gosport Jazz Club originated in about 1978, and is one of the most thriving jazz clubs in the area with around 70 people regularly enjoying the music events.

Vic, who met his wife Sue in a jazz club 60 years ago, said: ‘It’s a great friendly atmosphere. We pride ourselves on being a listening club, all the people here do appreciate their music.’

The non-profit club charges a £10 annual membership and members enjoy the music but also the social aspect, with the club even hosting a big Christmas party for members which last year featured a hog roast.

Jan Almond, vice-chairman, said: ‘It’s a wonderful club for all ages but mainly the older generation. People come from all over.

‘We’re one of the most popular ones, we’re really thriving. It’s a lovely crowd.

‘A lot of jazz clubs are dying on their feet but we’re not, it’s always popular.’

Gosport Discovery Centre will be holding a night dedicated to Nat Gonella on April 22 from 7.30 to 9.30pm, which will feature a lively and amusing talk by musician and bandleader Geoff Hiscott, illustrated with photographs, music and video recordings.