The SCJE has come some way since its informal public rehearsals in the Tron Theatre bar a few years ago. Now a disciplined big band, which looks the part all in black, it embraces an admirably open musical policy that provides a varied picture of orchestral jazz's possibilities.

An opening selection from the US, including Bob Berg's urban boogaloo Friday Night at the Cadillac Club and Bob Mintzer's more reflective, flutey Timeless, spotlighted the crisp execution and focused soloing that typifies the ensemble's approach.

New works from within the ensemble's wider family are also encouraged, with pianist David Patrick's rhythmically forthright The Enigma honouring Igor Stravinsky and former saxophonist Raymond MacDonald returning to draw out an invigorating, spontaneous piece from the conductor's podium.

The main event, though, was that rare beast, certainly in jazz, a tuba concerto. Written by saxophonist Barbara Thompson, Life in the Fast Lane requires much mobile playing, long notes, growling and singing effects more typically associated with a New Orleans trumpeter. The RSAMD's own James Gourlay expertly handled the part, latterly leading the ensemble in a flowing, easy-on-the-ear fusion reminiscent of Thompson's own group, Paraphernalia.