John Hackett Band with special guests Beatrix Players Acoustic

The John Hackett Band embodies the spirit of progressive rock. From John’s pastoral flute textures, through the funky interplay between drummer Duncan Parsons and bassist Jeremy Richardson to the intricacies of Nick Fletcher’s lead guitar the group embrace pop, rock, jazz, classical, funk and all stops in-between, from the tenderest of ballads to hair-raising instrumental workouts!

Following the release of acclaimed second album, Red Institution in 2025, JHB celebrated their 10th anniversary in 2026.  Their tour of the UK, Belgium, Germany and The Netherlands, thrilled audiences with brand new tracks alongside ‘Classic Hackett’ material from the heyday of progressive rock. 

John Hackett has been a much-loved and admired figure in the progressive rock scene since the mid-70’s; best-known for his flute work with his brother, former Genesis guitarist, Steve Hackett on albums such as Voyage of The Acolyte, Please Don’t Touch and Spectral Mornings as well as his own solo pieces Checking Out Of London, Another Life and The Piper Plays His Tune.

Described by Steve Hackett as “probably the best jazz-rock guitarist in the country”, Nick Fletcher’s reputation grows and grows.  Unforgettable performances with JHB plus a slew of solo albums have seen him ranked in the Top 10 guitarists by Prog Magazine.

The band is known for its sensitive and dynamic collaborations and are delighted to be sharing the stage with such diverse and imaginative talents as Heather Findlay, Olga Dikajee, and EBB.

"John Hackett Band delivered an eclectic, technically accomplished performance that embodied the core spirit of prog rock. It moved from lyrical flute passages to dynamic instrumental flourishes. Together, the band created a sound that was intricate and engaging, fusing elements of rock, jazz, classical, and funk, but never lost cohesion. They revealed a depth of musical understanding that comes not only from skill but from years of collaboration and individual artistry." Zoe Lett, 14th May 2025, The Courier - Voice of Newcastle Students
 
“The John Hackett Band has created a harmonious album full of exciting contrasts. Music between prog-rock and quiet, classical-tinged songs, between pop and even folk. As the Canterbury scene was, so is the album: quintessentially British… a successful, timeless album, far removed from all current popular music, which shows the light side of jazz rock and progressive rock.” Genesis-News.Com

BEATRIX PLAYERS
Join Amy Birks, founding member and vocalist of the award-winning progressive rock band Beatrix Players, for a special acoustic performance alongside Matthew Lumb and Oliver Day.

Stripping back the band's signature cinematic sound, this intimate trio set highlights the beautiful songwriting, rich harmonies, and expressive musicianship at the heart of Beatrix Players' music. Expect a carefully curated selection of songs from the band's acclaimed back catalogue, alongside previews of new material from the forthcoming album, Songs from the Early Hours.

Praised for Amy Birks' captivating vocals and the band's atmospheric, emotionally resonant performances, Beatrix Players continue to push creative boundaries while remaining rooted in powerful storytelling and memorable melodies. This rare acoustic show offers a unique opportunity to experience the songs in their most personal and evocative form.