THE Rhythm Station at Rawtenstall, which attracts a number of jazz devotees from our area to its Tuesday night concerts, continues to stage excellent performances featuring local and national musicians and singers.

One has to applaud the efforts of the management and its booker, Denis Dundon, for their tireless efforts to maintain this outpost of musical sanity in a world gone almost completely barmy.

For example, on Tuesday the brilliant Italian pianist Rosanno Sportiello makes his long-awaited return to the Rhythm Station and, with a full house assured, it has been decided to make the event all-ticket.

Universally accepted as “a genius”, Sportiello’s technique has been described as “phenomenal” and he has become one of the most in-demand performers in the world on the jazz festival and club circuits.

He will be supported during the evening by the venue’s regular trio: Dennis Freedman (piano), Steve Berry (bass) and Jimmy Scaife (drums).

The admission price has been pegged at £10, which is hardly excessive for a player of Sportiello’s reputation and quality.

Call Mr Dundon on 0161 796 0275 for tickets, further information about this gig, and details about other forthcoming events at The Rhythm Station.

This includes that of another popular visitor, the terrific jazz guitarist Jim Mullen and his new group of backing musicians, the Rod Mason Trio. It’s around a 30-minute drive to Rawtenstall from Bolton, but well worth the time and effort.