7th – 8th August 2027 – “The Music of Stevie Wonder” – Channel the infectious energy of saxophonist Derek Nash and soul powerhouse Noel McCalla in this high-energy workshop exploring timeless Stevie Wonder classics. A fantastic opportunity for musicians to work with one of the UK’s top saxophonists as well as one of Britain’s top soul singers.
Derek has been a full-time member of the Jools Holland Rhythm & Blues Orchestra since 2004 and is also a member of the Ronnie Scott’s Blues Explosion. With these bands, he has enjoyed sharing the stage with many great artists including Tom Jones, Eric Clapton, David Sanborn, Jack Bruce, Amy Winehouse, Michael Buble and Sir Paul McCartney. He is one of the most in-demand and respected guest instrumentalists for jazz clubs across the UK and has received numerous nominations in the British Jazz Awards. In the jazz-funk world he has performed with David Benoit, Brian Culbertson, Ernie Watts, Mezzoforte, Nelson Rangell and Don and Dave Grusin.
Noel’s career began in the 1970s with the highly acclaimed band Moon, with whom he recorded two albums for Epic Records. When Moon disbanded in 1976, Noel released a solo album, ‘Night Time Emotion’ produced by Trevor Rabin. Shortly after, he toured America with Sniff and the Tears, where his voice became integral on the hit single, ‘Driver’s Seat’. In the early 80s, Noel formed his own band (Contact, latterly renamed McCalla) with whom he released two albums ‘Push and Pull’ and ‘Got From the Smoke’. It was Noel’s long association with the brilliant Morrisey Mullen Band that earned him acclaim as “one of Britain’s best Soul Singers” (Blues and Soul Magazine) and, for more than 19 years, Noel’s searing, soulful vocals were featured with the iconic Manfred Mann’s ‘Earth Band’. He also provided vocals on Mike Rutherford’s highly acclaimed album, ‘Smallcreep’s Day’, and is often featured with jazz funk band, Mezzoforte.

Open to saxophone, trumpet, trombone, bass, guitar, keys and drums.
Playing level: As a guide, you’ll need an instrumental ability of Grade 4 standard or above.
Derek endorses Vandoren and Fusion Bags.
7th – 8th August 2027 – “The Music of Stevie Wonder” – Channel the infectious energy of Derek Nash and soul powerhouse Noel McCalla in this high-energy workshop exploring timeless Stevie Wonder classics. A fantastic opportunity for musicians to work with one of the UK’s top saxophonists as well as one of Britain’s top soul singers.
Open to saxophone, trumpet, trombone, bass, guitar, keys and drums.
Playing level: As a guide, you’ll need an instrumental ability of Grade 4 standard or above.
Derek endorses Vandoren and Fusion Bags.

Derek has been a full-time member of the Jools Holland Rhythm & Blues Orchestra since 2004 and is also a member of the Ronnie Scott’s Blues Explosion. With these bands, he has enjoyed sharing the stage with many great artists including Tom Jones, Eric Clapton, David Sanborn, Jack Bruce, Amy Winehouse, Michael Buble and Sir Paul McCartney. He is one of the most in-demand and respected guest instrumentalists for jazz clubs across the UK and has received numerous nominations in the British Jazz Awards. In the jazz-funk world he has performed with David Benoit, Brian Culbertson, Ernie Watts, Mezzoforte, Nelson Rangell and Don and Dave Grusin.
Noel’s career began in the 1970s with the highly acclaimed band Moon, with whom he recorded two albums for Epic Records. When Moon disbanded in 1976, Noel released a solo album, ‘Night Time Emotion’ produced by Trevor Rabin. Shortly after, he toured America with Sniff and the Tears, where his voice became integral on the hit single, ‘Driver’s Seat’. In the early 80s, Noel formed his own band (Contact, latterly renamed McCalla) with whom he released two albums ‘Push and Pull’ and ‘Got From the Smoke’. It was Noel’s long association with the brilliant Morrisey Mullen Band that earned him acclaim as “one of Britain’s best Soul Singers” (Blues and Soul Magazine) and, for more than 19 years, Noel’s searing, soulful vocals were featured with the iconic Manfred Mann’s ‘Earth Band’. He also provided vocals on Mike Rutherford’s highly acclaimed album, ‘Smallcreep’s Day’, and is often featured with jazz funk band, Mezzoforte.

Alternatively if you have any questions on the suitability of this course for you we will be happy to help. Contact us at hello@abworkshops.com or by calling 07711 998058 and we will be happy to discuss your needs further.