Simon Deeley

SIMON DEELEY - COMPOSER, PIANIST, JAZZ TUTOR

Simon Deeley grew up in the North Worcestershire village of Clent Nr. Kidderminster. He started his musical studies with piano lessons at aged seven. Up until his mid twenties, his studies were focused on classical music, however, alongside his classical work, he always had an interest in jazz, blues and rock music. This strong interest (in these other styles) became an ever increasing passion and focus for him as a developing performer which, in his late twenties,culminated in him starting to work with local jazz musicians, and then going on to play at well known jazz clubs and music venues in the B'ham and West Midlands area. During his time on the Midland's jazz scene he played alongside some of the best known and acclaimed players on the scene, including - Bryan Corbett, Casey Greene, Percy Pursglove, Steve Ajao, Chris Gumbley and Andy Derrick.

In 2000, Simon started the well known Jazz at the Bonded Warehouse club, which he ran continuously for sixteen years, and which regularly saw top Midlands players plus nationally acclaimed artists performing there.

Alongside his performing career he has continuously worked as a piano teacher. In this field, he has for many years now, specialised in jazz and improvisation tuition, having some twenty years ago, devised his own course of development in this genre.

Simon's other important focus is on composition. Right from his earliest beginnings as a jazz performer, he has always composed and presented his own music. And composing is now the most important part of his career. Since his move to the Welsh Borders in 2014, his focus has been on writing which, has resulted in the production of four albums and an EP of his music - Crossing Borders (2016),From The Blue Hills (2017), Afan's Dance (2019), Indigo Horizon (EP 2021) and String Rise Azure Traces (2023).

Now based in the Welsh Border town of Presteigne, Simon continues to compose, perform, record and teach. 

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