Martin Burley and Global Rhythm

Global Rhythm, Ipswich's annual free festival which showcases the best of world and roots music and dance in the perfect setting of Christchurch Park was in its sixth year this July. The main stage has been renamed in memory of Martin Burley to recognise and celebrate his contribution to the musical life of Ipswich. Martin, who sadly died earlier this year, was a founding member of Peppery Productions and a musician himself, playing in the blues/jazz/Americana duo The Hofners. He also presented a Peppery world music programme on Ipswich Community Radio (105.7fm). A family man and retired teacher, Martin was always recognisable at music events by his trademark white cloth cap. His legacy to our town is the establishment of Ipswich as a host to world-class bands and musicians performing ska, country, Afrobeat, reggae, Bollywood, Latin jazz, Congolese rhumba, folk, bhangra (and so much more).