To celebrate the launch of our Fizzle 2026/27 programme, we have the incredible dynamic duo of Mike Gennaro and Charlotte Keeffe.

Drummer Mike Gennaro burst into improvised music circles in 1999 with the release PORT HURON PICNIC (Spool), a disc with Swedish saxophonist Mats Gustafsson. Then still in his early twenties, Gennaro also made two appearances at the Toronto Jazz Festival, duetting with trailblazing saxophonist John Butcher. Subsequent concert collaborations have included internationally acclaimed improvisers such as Juini Booth, Wilbert de Joode, Veryan Weston, Trevor Watts and Tobi Delius. In 2022 a short German tour saw him performing in duo settings with Eric Boeren, Frank Gratkowski, and Matthias Schubert. Later that year, a week of recording sessions in Berlin produced INITIALS with Brad Henkel on trumpet and a trio recording with bass clarinetist Rudi Mahall and bassist Ben Lehmann entitled SECOND TAKE.

Charlotte Keeffe wears her love for music-making ~ especially freely improvising ~ on her sleeve. Whether performing as a solo artist, with her Sound Brushes (trumpets), or leading adventurous ensembles like her RIGHT HERE, RIGHT NOW (RHRN), she creates bold, expressive spaces for sonic exploration and individual freedom. Creative Freedom For All. Inspired by abstract painters, she refers to her trumpets as Sound Brushes, approaching each performance as a living, dynamic canvas for spontaneous creation.

As a double billing for this special launch gig, we are excited to present a Fizzle first in the form of a Free Improv jam session! Bring your instruments, or simply sit back and enjoy a feast of Birmingham’s finest improvisers.

Free entry for anyone participating in the jam.

Doors @ 1:45pm; Duration ~2h