Ben Martin Quartet plays Cole Porter [Jazz]

“A soloist of immaculate taste and lyricism” – John Fordham (The Guardian)

“A seriously good saxophonist” – Richard Williams (The Guardian)

Cole Porter, born on June 9, 1891, in Peru, Indiana, is one of the most celebrated American composers and songwriters, renowned for his sophisticated, urbane style and memorable contributions to the Great American Songbook. Porter’s musical journey began early; his mother recognised his talent and ensured he received classical training in piano and violin. He later attended Yale University, where he honed his craft and contributed songs to several student productions.

Porter’s early career was marked by both success and struggle. His first Broadway production, “See America First” (1916), was a flop, but he found more success in Paris during the 1920s. There, he immersed himself in the expatriate social scene and developed his distinctive style characterised by witty lyrics, intricate rhymes, and a blend of jazz and classical influences. His European sojourns heavily influenced his later work, contributing to the sophisticated and cosmopolitan feel of his music.

The turning point in Porter’s career came with the 1928 Broadway hit “Paris” which featured the song “Let’s Do It, Let’s Fall in Love”. This success was followed by a string of popular shows, including “Fifty Million Frenchmen” (1929) and “The New Yorkers” (1930), which produced standards such as “You Do Something to Me” and “Love for Sale”. The 1930s saw Porter at the height of his powers, producing works like “Gay Divorce” (1932), which introduced the classic “Night and Day”, and “Anything Goes” (1934), a production noted for its enduring hits “I Get a Kick Out of You” and “You’re the Top”.

Porter’s career was temporarily derailed by a serious horse-riding accident in 1937, which left him in constant pain and partially disabled. Despite these challenges, he continued to produce successful shows, including “Kiss Me, Kate” (1948), his most successful work, which won the first Tony Award for Best Musical. The show, based on Shakespeare’s “The Taming of the Shrew”, included memorable numbers like “So in Love” and “Too Darn Hot”.

Throughout his career, Porter was celebrated for his lyrical wit, sophisticated melodies, and the ability to capture the essence of the high society he often depicted. His music reflected a unique blend of playfulness and emotional depth, making his work timeless. Cole Porter’s legacy endures through the countless recordings of his songs by artists from various genres, confirming his status as a pivotal figure in American musical history. He passed away on October 15, 1964, leaving behind a repertoire that continues to enchant and inspire.

Line up
Ben Martin – saxophones
Andrew ‘Woody’ Wood – drums
Martyn Spencer – double bass
Matthew Ratcliffe – piano