Two very different nights of top class music are being lined up as part of the spring programme at Hitchin’s Market Theatre.

First up, on Wednesday, February 17, the return of the Sun Street venue’s monthly jazz nights will see acclaimed clarinet player Julian Stringle showing off his skills.

Julian cites jazz legends like Benny Goodman and Artie Shaw among his influences, but also draws on classical composers like Delius.

His highly melodic music and unique sound connects with a younger audience while his soul, original writing and virtuoso technique excites the jazz buffs.

The late Johnny Dankworth called him the best clarinetist to emerge in British jazz for decades, and for the Hitchin gig he will be joined by Dominic Ashworth on guitar and Chris Dodd on bass.

Tickets are £13, find out www.markettheatre.co.uk.

Wednesday, March 2, will see Irish folk troubabour Joe Giltrap come to town.

The singer/songwriter’s career spans four decades, and as part of acclaimed duo Irish Mist he has shared the stage with the likes of The Fureys, The Dubliners and The Pogues.

The multi-intrumentalist has also recorded with American folk legend Tom Paxton.

Tickets for Joe’s gig are £15, also available now from www.markettheatre.co.uk.