A JAZZ legend is set to cross the Atlantic to perform in what will be his debut gig in Cumbria on January 12 after 30 years of touring the world.

The county’s jazz scene is getting off to a supersonic start for 2011 with the arrival of American saxophonist Scott Hamilton, who plans to visit for the first time in his career.

Scott is recognised worldwide as the premier exponent of the tenor saxophone in the swing style, and since he first burst onto the scene in the ’80s he has had more than 32 albums.

During his UK tour Kendal Jazz club has managed to lure him to the Lakes to perform a concert on January 12.

Scott said: “I’m very excited about coming. This will be my first time in the Lake District and I have always wanted to see something of the area.

“Unfortunately, I have a very tight schedule while I’m over here so if I want get to do any sightseeing so I will have to come back sometime when I’m not touring.

“I’m not sure what the audience can expect. When I get up on stage I never really know what I will play.

"I perform a lot of the same songs every night but I never have any set list to play.

“Its a big passion of mine performing and I always hope that each time it will be one of those sets that I can really get into.”

Club secretary Jim Hadfield said all the members were over the moon about Scott’s visit to Cumbria.

He said: “We are all absolutely excited about his arrival.

“He is a really big signing for us and we are hoping for a sell-out night.”

Jazz fanatics can expect an evening in a similar style to jazz marvels including Ben Webster, Coleman Hawkins as well as Zoot Sims and Don Byas.

Kendal Jazz Club, at the Beer Hall, in Staveley on Wednesday, January 12. Doors open at 7pm for an 8pm start, and admission is £10 — pay on the door (no advance tickets).