A CHARITY album inspired by the lives of some of Hartlepool's most famous musicians will be launched tomorrow.

Musician Mick Donnelly, 43, of Balmoral Road, Hartlepool, has recorded the charity album in aid of Hartlepool and District Hospice.

The CD, called A Celebration of Life, is the culmination of a year's work by Mr Donnelly and was inspired by Hartlepool trumpeters Kip Heron and Russ Nicholson.

He said: "A Celebration of Life embodies the spirit of two of Hartlepool's greatest musicians, both of whom we have lost in the past ten years.

"Kip Heron died in 1987, aged 81, and was described by many as the godfather of Hartlepool jazz, and Russ Nicholson, who passed away two years later, played lead trumpet with some of England's most famous big bands."

Mr Connelly, a music teacher at Barnard Castle School, County Durham, was inspired to create the album of popular big band numbers in honour of the musicians.

With the help of his band, Musicians Unlimited, and 12 local people, who were sponsored to take part in the project, he was then able to turn this dream into reality.

The tracks, including numbers such as Fly Me To the Moon, Mack the Knife and Hey Big Spender, were recorded in front a live audience at the Studio, Tower Street, Hartlepool, earlier this year.

"We not only wanted to honour Kip and Russ but we also wanted to help local people.

"And as a strong supporter of the Hospice, I decided to make them the beneficiary.

The Big Band BBQ CD launch takes place at Hartlepool Historic Quay, tomorrow, at 7pm. It will feature a live performance of the album, bonus performances from other local musicians and a gourmet BBQ.

Tickets for the event and copies of the CD can be purchased by ringing the hospice on (01429) 855555.

Published: 15/07/2004