WILL Barnes is bringing his trio to Calstock Arts for a performance which begins at 8pm on Saturday, November 21.

This contemporary jazz ensemble led by the guitarist and composer is formed around Barnes’ compositional vision.

They blend melodic guitar-led writing with open improvisation, drawing on modern jazz, post-bop, and cinematic atmospheres. The band has become known for their close musical rapport and responsive live playing.

They aim for a distinct, contemporary voice that reflects the landscapes and narratives that inspire Barnes’s writing.

​Releases to date include the debut Source of the Severn and the follow-up Outside the Light. Across both records, the group explores atmosphere, place and emotional arc without sacrificing swing, technical finesse or accessible melodic content.

​On stage, the trio presents immersive sets that move between carefully arranged pieces and extended improvisation. At the centre of the project, Will combines a composer’s attention to narrative with a player’s commitment to conversation - leading to an ensemble that aims to be both expressive and approachable.

Alongside Barnes are Aidan Thorne (bass) and Ross Hicks (piano), who have collectively toured globally playing with some of the top artists and groups on the jazz scene today.

Aidan, who is a prominent figure on the music scene in Wales, is a double bass, electric bass player and composer based in Powys. He leads his own band, Duski, alongside a number of duo projects. Aidan has performed internationally at many of the top jazz festivals.

Meanwhile, Ross is a Cardiff based Jazz pianist and graduate of the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama. He is a prominent figure in the Welsh and Southwest music scene, playing with a host of different artists and leading his own trio.

To book tickets, visit: calstockarts.org/event/21-november-will-barnes-trio/