The world premier of Martin's "Spirit of Django Orchestral Suite" took place on November 19th at the Floral Pavilion Theatre, New Brighton, England.

The piece was commissioned by the Guitar Festival of Great Britain to commemorate the festival's 20 anniversary and celebrate 100 years since the birth of Django Reinhardt.

Based on themes written by Martin Taylor and orchestrated by Guy Barker the 50 minute long piece featured Martin as guitar soloist, his group Martin Taylor's Spirit of Django, the Guy Barker Big Band, and the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra.

"The creation of this orchestral piece by Guy Barker and myself is the highlight of my musical career, we look forward to performing it many times in future with some of the world's great orchestras"

Guy Barker is well known as a virtuoso jazz trumpeter, having recorded extensively with artists including Sting and has also written music for, and acted in, several movies including "The Talented Mr Ripley.

"Guy and I did our first gig together when we were 14 years old and have remained great friends ever since. It's wonderful for us now to be able to collaborate together on this incredible project" said Martin

Plans are now being put in place to record the suite sometime next year.

To keep up to date with future performances of the Orchestral Suite, and Martin's other tour dates and recordings, go to http://www.martintaylor.com/