SHE’S a one-woman dynamo, a teacher who has inspired many to work those vocal chords.

Jenny Goodman spends her days working at the Lawrence Batley Theatre but has also encouraged many people to use their voices.

Now she is gearing up to get people singing in time for Marsden Jazz Festival which for Jenny, is home territory.

On Wednesday evenings from September 15, Jenny is offering a series of workshops to tone up your vocal chords in jazzy/bluesy style so you too can be a festival star. The group will then perform at the festival on the Saturday afternoon.

The festival runs from October 8-10 and this year there are more ways than ever to join in the music.

Jenny has booked jazz and swing specialist Faith Watson from Manchester to do a one day workshop on Saturday September 25 in Marsden.

“Faith is a fabulous teacher and has steeped herself in teaching and arranging jazz and swing standards in amazing harmonies since 1988 – it’s a real pleasure to be able to welcome her to the valley,” says Jenny.

This is the second year Jenny has offered the workshops and they were a huge success. Ask Pat Daniels.

“It was just a wonderful experience.” says Pat.

“You canŠenjoy learning to sing great songs, perform as part of the festival,Š even getting applause from the crowd and then Šget famous on YouTube!Š Jenny makes possible what you always dreamed of but never thought you could do.”

For those whose taste runs to a different style of music, look out for a festival workshop on October 9 offered by Huddersfield Contemporary Music Festival. It’s a chance for musicians to explore John Zorn’s influential improvisation piece, COBRA .

“We're delighted to be working with Marsden Jazz Festival this year on the Cobra workshop; it promises to be great fun for instrumentalists of all abilities!” says Heidi Johnson, hcmf/s Learning and Participation Officer.