DISAX Live
Welcome! Music is all about connection, energy and finding the right vibe. I mainly play Big Band and Jazz, performing on tenor and baritone sax, flute and vocals. You’ll often find me playing across Gloucestershire and beyond with The JayCee Big Band, Crescendo Big Band, Cygnet Quartet and Cygnet Duo, but I also work as a freelance "sax for hire".
I also enjoy getting involved in new projects. If you need a multi-instrumentalist or a sax player for freelance work, sessions or live gigs, get in touch and let’s make some music.
Cygnet Quartet
Renowned for their vibrant energy and sophisticated musical interplay, the Cygnet Jazz Quartet delivers a captivating blend of classic swing, modern jazz artistry, and timeless standards. the Cygnet Jazz Quartet delivers an immersive acoustic experience defined by rich improvisational flair and sophisticated interplay. Featuring the exceptional jazz piano of Emma Breese or Chris Keir, the solid, driving groove of bassist Graham Niblett, the nationally recognised drumming of Paul Arthurs, and expressive saxophone-led arrangements, the quartet brings effortless elegance and an authentic, swinging pulse to every stage.
"Memorable evening at Beoley Jazz Club last night, Cygnet Quartet were incredible, Diane Arthurs, vocals and reeds, husband Paul on drums, Emma keyboard and Graham on bass provided a rich and variable sound. Wide ranging, excellent content. An evening you didn't want to end but leaving such wonderful memories." (John M Smith)
The Musicians
Diane Arthurs
Tenor and Baritone Saxes, Flute and Vocals
Emma Breese
Piano
Chris Keir
Piano
The Album
Recorded live on a summer's evening in 2024, the weather was hot and the music was hotter! Cygnet Quartet take you around the world and through the 20th Century.
Graham Niblett
Bass
Paul Arthurs
Drums
Reviews
A Night of Pure Jazz Magic
"On a freezing night we were treated to a variety of jazz music played with some great melodic arrangements and wonderful vocals by the four talented musicians of Cygnet Quartet. Their line-up was Diane Arthurs (vocals, tenor & baritone saxophone and flute), and rhythm section of Paul Arthurs (drums), Emma Breeze (Piano) and Graham Niblett (bass guitar)."
Outstanding
"... all four musicians showed real virtuosity and contributed to an outstanding evening's entertainment. Thoroughly enjoyable!"(Stuart L.)
A Professional Show
"We enjoyed two ‘shoe’ themed- tunes with the 1952 Gerry Mulligan song recorded with Chet Baker, ‘Walk-in’ Shoes’, and the Charlie Parker’s 1951 composition, ‘My Little Suede Shoes’... " (Paul L.)
A True Jazz Experience
"Playing more modernistic jazz of bossa nova, show music, and jazz standards with rhythm and great arrangements...Diane gave some super vocals during the evening " (Boldmere Sports and Social)
"Great Witcombe ’s ‘Jazz and Picnic in the Park’ fund-raising event: The Cygnet Duo entertained us with a wonderful variety of music, including “Lullaby of Birdland”, “My Little Suede Shoes”, “Flamingo”, “Somebody Loves Me” and “Take the A Train”. The duo played flute, tenor saxophone, baritone saxophone and sang beautifully. We will definitely invite them again next year". Christine D.
"We have had some lovely feedback from your performance here at Richmond Village Wood Norton." Louise K.
"I booked Cygnet Duo for our daughter’s wedding and thoroughly enjoyed the variety of music performed. The pieces were thoughtfully chosen and most appropriate for the occasion. Many comments from family and friends were made complimenting the duo. Would definitely book them again." Sarah M
"Cygnet have played jazz at the BMI, Upton St Leonards, Gloucester on a regular basis over the past year. All are accomplished musicians and it is a treat to hear them play." Paula Q.
Cygnet Duo
For smaller settings, the Duo (Piano, Saxes, Flute & Vocals) allows for an more conversational style of playing. We enjoy the freedom of tailoring the music to the occasion, whether that means soothing swing ballads, Great American Songbook classics, or the soulful grooves of Grover Washington. From our regular spots at The Ivy Montpellier Brasserie to private celebrations, we simply love providing the right soundtrack for the moment.
"I booked a table at the Ragged Cot for my husband’s birthday, as he loves jazz and the Cygnet Duo were performing. They were brilliant! Diane plays the saxophone beautifully, and her voice is amazing! I’ll certainly look out for them again!" Sally S.
"We always time our visit to ensure that Cygnet are playing when we eat at The Ivy" John G.
Upcoming Gigs
Gig Enquiries
Invite your audience to enquire about private performances and corporate ensemble bookings.