Jon Benns, owner of The Music Trade, Tewkesbury’s music shop, found himself with nothing much to do once the July floods had wreaked havoc on his shop.
“I had a 3 month lay-off which was frustrating to say the least” said Jon “I had to think of something to do or I would have gone mad!”

So Jon and a group of friends decided to produce a CD to raise money for the flood fund.

“Not so much a charity album, more of a self help project!” quipped Jon.

Not only does the CD contain music played, and in some cases written, by Tewkesbury musicians, it was also recorded free of charge at FFG studios in nearby Bredon. The artwork was designed and printed, again at no cost, by Sircombe Design and Print in Tewkesbury. And the CDs themselves are actually being pressed at a factory on Tewkesbury Industrial Estate, for nothing!

“Apart from people’s time, effort, and talent, the recording has not cost us a penny, and from conception to the finished product we’ve done it all right here in Tewkesbury!” added Jon.

The CD, entitled “A Drop in the Ocean”, contains music from Tewkesbury Town Band, The Abbey Organ, local folk, rock, and jazz musicians and many more besides. A complete eclectic mix of styles and ideas…. Much like Tewkesbury itself.

The recording goes on sale on 1st December in Alisons Book Shop, Treens Electrical, The Music Trade and the new Tourist Information Centre at The Cross. Or you will be able to order it by credit card over the phone by dialling 01684 850220, 9:30 to 5:30 Mon - Sat

What else did Jon Benns get up to while The Music Trade dried out? He organised “Let us Entertain You” the annual variety show in aid of The Borough Mayor of Tewkesbury’s charities. This year’s show at The Roses Theatre on Sunday 27th January features the cream of local talent.
“We had a fantastic show last year, and we’ll have to really work hard to match it” said Jon “But I’m determined that it will be at least as good, if not better!”

Several of the Acts booked to perform are also featured on the “Drop in the Ocean” CD and will have no hesitation in performing their tracks from the album in front of a live audience.

Jon also promises several surprises including “Tewkesbury Fire Brigade Formation Dancers”…. “My lips are sealed… you’ll have to wait and see”….

To contact Jon Benns.. email sales@themusictrade.co.uk or telephone 01684 850220