A string of jazz and blues musicians will perform at one of the country’s oldest cathedrals.

After a successful debut last year, the Jazz and Blues Festival returns to Rochester Cathedral with performances from the James Taylor Quartet and the BBC Big Band.

The event was introduced last autumn and saw sell-out concerts by the likes of Ronnie Scott’s Big Band and Billy Childish.

This year, the line-up has been curated by composer, band leader and Hammond organ player James Taylor.

James, who was born and raised in Rochester, is known for being part of garage rock band The Prisoners and acid jazz group the James Taylor Quartet.

“As a local boy born and bred and a lifelong professional musician, I’m so excited that Rochester now has its own Jazz and Blues Festival,” says James. “It’s such a privilege to contribute to the ever-expanding cultural life of this town, especially with the cathedral at its heart.

“The public has welcomed this musical initiative so warmly, and it’s thrilling to see audiences of over 700 packing the nave.”

The James Taylor Quarter will kick off the festival will a live performance inside the historic building, followed by concerts by the BBC Big Band, who will recreate swing versions of well-known TV theme tunes and movie soundtracks, and jazz pianist Jason Rebello, who has collaborated with Sting and Jeff Beck.

The Laurence Cottle Big Band will celebrate their career with a 50th anniversary concert and, on the final night, Tim Garland’s Lighthouse Trio will be joined by the Britten Sinfonia Strings for a headline show.

The Rochester Jazz and Blues Festival will be at Rochester Cathedral from Tuesday, November 12 to Saturday, November 16. You can book tickets online here.

You can also find the full festival programme on the Rochester Cathedral website.