The North Leeds Charity Beer Festival 2026

Stroke of Genius Big Band is a Leeds-based swing and jazz ensemble that has been entertaining audiences across Yorkshire since 2013. The band performs a lively mix of Glenn Miller-style 1940s nostalgia, classic big band swing and well-known modern favourites, delivering the powerful brass sound, rich saxophone sections and driving rhythm that define the golden age of big band music. The band was founded by trumpet player Enrico Marchesi, who after surviving a stroke brought musicians together to raise funds and awareness for the Stroke Association. What began as a personal journey of recovery and gratitude has grown into a well-loved community big band with a strong charitable purpose. Stroke of Genius regularly performs at community concerts, festivals, charity events and outdoor summer performances, particularly in parks and bandstands around Leeds and the wider Yorkshire region. Their energetic performances, engaging stage presence and feel-good repertoire make them popular with audiences of all ages. Alongside entertaining audiences, the band remains committed to supporting charitable causes and has raised more than £26,000 for the Stroke Association through performances and fundraising concerts. With vibrant brass, swinging rhythms and an infectious sense of fun, Stroke of Genius Big Band keeps the spirit of classic big band and swing music alive while bringing people together through live music and community events.

Topaz is a lively contemporary jazz group from Leeds led by saxophonist and vocalist Cathy Ibberson. The band blends smooth jazz, soulful vocals and upbeat rhythms to create a relaxed yet energetic sound that appeals to jazz lovers and casual listeners alike. Featuring a talented line-up of local musicians, Topaz delivers a rich live sound with saxophone, brass, guitar, bass and drums combining to produce an engaging mix of jazz standards, contemporary grooves and feel-good favourites. Their performances are known for their warmth and energy, with the band encouraging audiences to dance, sing along and become part of the atmosphere. Topaz regularly performs at concerts, festivals and community events across the Leeds area and was a popular hit at the Chapel Allerton Arts Festival last year, where their vibrant set had audiences on their feet. With strong musicianship, infectious rhythms and a genuine love of live performance, Topaz brings a fresh and accessible take on contemporary jazz. Now appearing at the North Leeds Charity Beer Festival for the first time, Topaz promises an upbeat performance full of great music, good vibes and plenty of opportunity for the crowd to join in.

Elevation Avenue takes great songs that everyone will know and love, and give them a modern infectious twist! Our set includes timeless funk hits from Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, Prince, and James Brown, reggae music from Bob Marley, through to classic rock such as Areosmith, Rolling Stones, Jimi Hendrix, and Santana. There’s also a lot of modern stuff like The Red Hot Chilli Peppers, Daft Punk and Bruno Mars to bring the set right up to date!