UMO Helsinki Jazz Orchestra gets a new artistic leadership in autumn 2026.

Thursday, January 15, 2026

The new artistic leadership team will comprise of the chief conductor Ville Vannemaa, the artist-in-residence Michael Mayo and the composer-in-residence Bianca Rantala. Press release attached.

We have received the following press release;

UMO Helsinki Jazz Orchestra gets a new artistic leadership in autumn 2026.

Press release: UMO gets a new artistic leadership – a trio takes over in autumn 2026.

A new era begins for the UMO Helsinki Jazz Orchestra in autumn 2026 as artistic leadership is handed to a trio of leading talents. The artistic leadership team comprises the chief conductor, the artist-in-residence and the composer-in-residence. The trio will be responsible for the orchestra’s long-term artistic vision and the planning of concert-season repertoire, combining Finnish and international jazz, the big band tradition and the composition and performance of bold new music – without losing sight of current trends.

The UMO Helsinki Jazz Orchestra is Finland’s only permanent big band jazz municipal orchestra. The orchestra’s mission is to cultivate and develop the diverse musical tradition of jazz and to provide experiences that arise from the top-level collective know-how, boldness and artistic dedication. Playing almost 100 concerts a year, UMO’s artistic strength lies firmly in its musicians: individuals who together form a unique artistic collective. The orchestra is currently celebrating its 50th anniversary season.

The new artistic leadership trio, i.e. the artistic trio, consists of saxophonist, composer, arranger and conductor Ville Vannemaa as chief conductor, American singer, composer and Grammy nominee Michael Mayo as artist-in-residence, and Estonian-Finnish composer Bianca Rantala as composer-in-residence.   

 
The chief conductor Ville Vannemaa is responsible for developing the orchestra’s sound
Ville Vannemaa (b. 1983) is one of Finland’s most sought-after big band conductors and freelance saxophonists. He has long been a guest conductor of the UMO Helsinki Jazz Orchestra, the Espoo Big Band and the Oulu All-Star Big Band as well as the artistic director of the Turku Jazz Orchestra from 2022 to 2024. Vannemaa studied saxophone and arranging at the jazz department of the Sibelius Academy, and he has extensive experience working with big bands, not only as a conductor but also as a composer, arranger and orchestra musician. Vannemaa’s long experience as a teacher as well as his strong understanding of different musical genres, especially jazz, have strengthened his reputation as an excellent big band rehearser.
As chief conductor, he will be actively involved in the orchestra’s activities and will be responsible for developing its sound. He will plan and conduct at least six productions per seasons. Vannemaa’s term runs from autumn 2026 to spring 2029.
“UMO has held a very special place in my heart ever since I began playing the saxophone as a teenager and listening to jazz. I remember thinking back in the early 2000s, while sitting in the audience at the UMO Jazz House on Pursimiehenkatu, that there was something very unique about this orchestra. At that time, I of course had absolutely no idea that I later would sit in the saxophone section hundreds of times as well as arrange and compose music for this group of wonderful musicians, and eventually stand before the orchestra as its leader. That sense of the uniqueness of both the orchestra and the whole organisation has stayed with me to this day, and I strongly feel it will grow even stronger when I begin my work as chief conductor of the orchestra. I’m also excited to be collaborating with my wonderful partners, Michael and Bianca”, says Ville Vannemaa.

The artist-in-residence Michael Mayo expands the repertoire
American singer and composer Michael Mayo (b. 1992) is one of the leading contemporary vocalists of his generation. He has been prominent in jazz circles since his critically acclaimed debut album Bones (2021) and the follow-up, the Grammy-nominated Fly (2024). In his music, he combines elements of jazz, neo-soul and R&B, and he is particularly known for his innovative and versatile vocal style.
Mayo was only the third vocalist accepted into the prestigious Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz. He has collaborated and performed with, among others, Hancock, Jacob Collier, Gretchen Parlato, and Nate Smith.
As artist-in-residence, he will expand UMO’s repertoire and bring new perspectives as well as an extensive network of contacts. He will plan at least four programmes each season and perform with the orchestra at least twice per concert season. Mayo’s two-year term runs from autumn 2026 to spring 2028.
“I’m genuinely so excited to get the chance to collaborate with the UMO Helsinki Jazz Orchestra. I’ve had so much music swirling in my ears that I’m excited to be able to bring to life such an incredible ensemble. I think we’re gonna have a really special time together, and I look forward to all the music to come”, Mayo comments.

The composer-in-residence Bianca Rantala brings the sound of new music.
Composer, conductor and vocalist Bianca Rantala (b. 1999) is an Estonian-Finnish musician who is active across many fields. Rantala is known for her bold and emotionally charged musical expression, effortlessly moving between different genres, combining intellect with playfulness and bridging jazz and contemporary music. Rantala has written works and hundreds of arrangements for ensembles ranging from choirs and small groups to symphony orchestras. She has conducted several big bands in Estonia and worked as guest conductor in several countries. She has received numerous awards as a composer as well as a singer, including the Composer of the Year prize at the Estonian Jazz Gala.
Rantala’s one-year term as composer-in-residence runs from autumn 2026 to spring 2027. As composer-in-residence, she will bring the sound of new music to UMO as well as the perspective of a composer. New commissions by Rantala will be performed as part of UMO’s repertoire during the season. In addition to composing, Rantala will be involved in the planning of the concert season in her role as composer.
“UMO has been an important beacon for me for a very long time. I grew up in Estonia listening to UMO’s albums and wondering how an orchestra, at once uncompromising, curious and vibrant, could exist just across the small gulf. For me, UMO represented something to aspire to: a community not only following its time but rather setting the tone. The thought of working with this very orchestra feels surreal but at the same time deeply meaningful. UMO has been a cradle of new music and a supporter of bold artists, a role model for many musicians growing up in Finland – but the importance of the orchestra has also been strongly felt outside Finland, especially in Estonia. I’m immensely grateful for the opportunity to lend my voice to this orchestra and to build the future together with Ville and Michael, whom I greatly admire”, says Bianca Rantala.

The artistic trio in dialogue with the orchestra musicians
An advisory artistic committee formed from within the orchestra will share its views on the musical aspects of the orchestra’s work and the repertoire in active dialogue with the trio. The expertise of UMO’s musicians will be particularly leveraged in the independent planning of small-ensemble programmes and concerts performed without a conductor.

The Managing Director is responsible for the big picture
The Managing Director of the UMO Foundation, Henriika Steidel-Luoto, is responsible for the orchestra’s operations and finances. Her role also includes leading overall artistic planning and providing strategic guidance, as well as supplying the artistic team with the necessary support and resources. She ensures that the artistic planning is aligned with the long-term goals of the orchestra.
“Jazz is fluid in nature, like a continuous spiral. It never stops, but carries you along and brings you to new places through interaction. This is the essence we wanted to incorporate in the structure of our artistic management”, explains Managing Director Henriika Steidel-Luoto. “During his term chief conductor will work together with three different composers-in-residence and two principal guest artists. This means that we will not only have a succession of changing voices, but encounters and concurrent working in the spirit of jazz. We want UMO’s own aesthetic, shaped by its own history, to constantly collide in a controlled way with new things, creating something alive and true to ourselves while still remaining surprising and innovative”, Steidel-Luoto continues. “Internationally, UMO is one of the highest-level jazz orchestras. Our top priority is to keep UMO at this level, always relevant and on the move. The artistic leadership model has to support this, which is why it has been built around the idea of movement”, she adds.

A list of UMO’s artistic leaders over the last 50 years is available (in Finnish) here.
https://umohelsinki.fi/2017/03/04/umon-taiteelliset-johtajat-1975-2018/

UMO Helsinki Jazz Orchestra – The Greatest Feats since 1975. Get ready to groove as we mark 50 years of achievements and mastery in jazz! UMO Helsinki Jazz Orchestra celebrates its 50th anniversary season from summer 2025 to spring 2026. Throughout these decades, the orchestra has been at the forefront of Finnish jazz. Over the years, UMO has recorded over 60 albums, received Yrjö and Emma prizes, and even a Grammy nomination. The orchestra has shared the stage with international jazz stars as well as Finnish artists. One thing remains constant: the core of UMO is in new music. Join us for our anniversary season to look back on the past and celebrate our achievements, all while keeping our eyes firmly on the exciting future ahead. Come and celebrate together with the UMO! http://www.umohelsinki.fi

See the concert calendar of UMO Helsinki Jazz Orchestra celebrating its 50th anniversary at http://www.umohelsinki.fi

Milap, Liverpool announce Spring 2026 Programme showcasing some of the finest UK Indo-Jazz.

Wednesday, January 14, 2026

Milap’s Spring programme spotlights some of the UK’s leading Indo-Jazz pioneers, including Zoe Rahman, Arun Ghosh, Sorathy Korwar. Press release attached

We have received the following press release;

Milap announce Spring 2026 Programme showcasing some of the finest UK Indo-Jazz

Following the triumphant return of their renowned Indika Festival, Milap are bringing some of the most acclaimed names in contemporary Indian music to the North West in Spring 2026.

Partnering with Liverpool International Jazz Festival 2026, Milap’s Spring programme spotlights some of the UK’s leading Indo-Jazz pioneers. The season begins with Milap’s annual return to the festival, on Saturday 28th February, with multi-award winning musicians, Zoe Rahman & Arun Ghosh.
An internationally-renowned pianist and composer, Zoe Rahman has firmly established herself as one of the most original and compelling voices in contemporary jazz. Celebrated for her vibrant, distinctive playing style, her music is deeply rooted in jazz, whilst reflecting her classical background. Her career includes collaborations with leading jazz figures such as Courtney Pine and George Mraz, as well as numerous accolades, including the Ivor Novello Impact Award.
Another key player on the UK Jazz scene, Arun Ghosh is a revered clarinettist, composer and innovator of the Indo-Jazz style. Twice awarded ‘Jazz Instrumentalist of the Year’ at the Parliamentary Jazz Awards, Ghosh leads his own ensembles, tours both nationally and internationally and has an impressive catalogue of critically-acclaimed works. With an open-eared aesthetic and philosophy, Ghosh’s work embodies a multi-genre approach where numerous strands of jazz join forces with a myriad of musical influences.
Paving the way for modern Indo-Jazz, the pair will explore their shared British-Bengali heritage in a musical conversation that blends South-Asian and jazz traditions.

Rescheduled to chime with the highly-anticipated UK Tour for his fourth studio album, ‘There Is Beauty, There Already’, Sarathy Korwar takes to the stage of Future Yard in Birkenhead on Saturday 28th March, promoted in partnership with Milap and the venue.
A standout figure on the UK Jazz scene, Korwar is a globally acclaimed percussionist, composer and producer. With ringing endorsements from the The Guardian, Rolling Stone, MOJO Magazine, Songlines and Jazz FM, Korwar has established himself as a defining jazz artist and collaborator - winning MOJO’s Jazz Album of the Year (2019),
placing #2 in The Guardian’s Best Global Albums (2022) and winning Songlines’ Best Album of the Year in 2023.
Audiences can expect a striking, percussion-led exploration of rhythm, voice and electronics. With South Asian temple procession rhythms and contemporary minimalism, this is futuristic Indo-Jazz at its finest.

A luminous talent within the realm of Indian Classical music, Sarangi player Satwinder Pal Singh will be joined by Milap’s Artist in Residence Kousic Sen for a special performance in The Tung Auditorium’s lunchtime concert series, on Wednesday 18th February.
Pal Singh’s work encompasses a rich musical legacy, saturated with many musical influences from his family, while growing up in Punjab. Offering the perfect midday musical respite, Satwinder Pal Singh not only boasts a profound comprehension of the Sarangi, but also possesses an artistic versatility that sees him play multiple bowed instruments from across Northern India, including the Dilruba, Israj and Taus.

Following an exciting return to Manchester for Indika Festival 2025, Milap are bringing South-Asian dance and performing arts back to The Lowry, with ‘Just Enough Madness & Caught In The Net of Rebirth’, on Tuesday 31st March.
Created by and starring the award-winning, UK-based Kuchipudi dancer, Payal Ramchandani and Dutch dance artist and choreographer, Chandenie Gobardhan, the performance is an exploration of the concept of Trimurti - the cosmic cycle of creation, preservation and destruction of the self.
Weaving together poetic text and ritual - accompanied by a striking live musical score by three musicians on percussion, flute and vocal - the pair will express Trimurti through themes of motherhood, miscarriage and post-partum. Drawing inspiration from multiple dance styles - including Kuchipudi, Bharatanatyam, street dance and contemporary - this is a bold new dance-theatre work from two new generation South-Asian female voices.

MILAP SPRING 2026 PROGRAMME

Milap & The Tung Auditorium present
Satwinder Pal Singh & Kousic Sen
Wednesday 18th February, 1pm
FREE TICKETS

Milap & LIJF 2026 present
Zoe Rahman & Arun Ghosh
Saturday 28th February, 1pm
TICKETS
https://capstone.hope.ac.uk/whatson/lijf-2026-and-milap-presents-zoe-rahman-and-arun-ghosh.html

Milap & Future Yard present
Sarathy Korwar
Saturday 28th March, time TBC
TICKETS
https://www.eventim-light.com/uk/a/629dc481da0a110632e6a3c5/e/686e4f2a9191623abb4e5b1d

Milap & The Lowry present
Just Enough Madness & Caught In The Net of Rebirth
Tuesday 31st March, 8pm
TICKETS
https://thelowry.com/whats-on/just-enough-madness-and-caught-in-the-net-of-rebirth-4ss3

About Milap
Milap is the UK’s leading Indian Arts & Culture company, based in Liverpool & Merseyside.
Established 40 years ago in 1985, it has a year round programme of Indian arts in London and Liverpool, and works both nationally and internationally to inspire, educate and entertain. Milap also founded the National Indian Arts Awards in order to recognise the work of countless individuals, schools, teachers, performers, and art organisations, up and down the British Isles, who are working tirelessly to provide generous opportunities to learn or experience Indian arts.
http://www.milap.co.uk

Be sure to follow Milap on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook for all their latest news.

World Heart Beat Embassy Gardens, Nine Elms, London unveils 2026 live music line-up for January, February and March 2026.

Wednesday, January 14, 2026

World Heart Beat Embassy Gardens welcomes in 2026 with a rich programme of blues, jazz, classical, Indian classical and Persian music. Press release including fully detailed schedule attached.

We have received the following press release;

World Heart Beat Embassy Gardens Unveils 2026 Live Music Line-Up

Vibrant cultural hub and boutique concert hall in Nine Elms, World Heart Beat Embassy Gardens welcomes in 2026 with a rich programme of blues, jazz, classical, Indian classical and Persian music to get you through the chilly nights with its welcoming space, warm and friendly café/bar and awesome acoustics from its world-leading d&b Soundscape system. 

With every concert ticket purchased, you are not only enjoying outstanding performances by talented musicians, but also supporting young people at award-winning charity, World Heart Beat Music Academy—many of whom would otherwise be unable to experience the joy of music due to financial or social barriers.

Kicking off in January, the festival season starts with exceptional jazz drummer Jas Kayser, who last year toured with Lenny Kravitz’s ‘Blue Electric Light’ world tour and was nominated for Up and Coming drummer for Modern Drummers Poll, Jas Kayser and Chums (Friday 16 January); followed by a jazz-triple bill from Nnamdi Nachi Cole Trio, Wilf Diamond, Ruben Ross (Saturday 17 January); an exhilarating journey through four distinct works, Poulenc – Sonata Movement 2 and 3, Howells – Sonata Movement 1 and V. Monti – ‘Czardas’ that celebrate expressive breadth and versatility with Mebrakh Haughton-Johnson and Kumi Matsuo (Friday 23 January); a multi-genre vocalist joins distinguished pianist and poet Robert Mitchell in Vladimira Krckova: A Return to the Source (Wednesday 4 February);  two Indian Classical Music maestros come together to share their message of peace Ustad Kamal Sabri & Ustad Tari Khan: Peace through Music Concert (Wednesday 21 February); a vocalist that continues to push boundaries with her latest album weaving poet Rumi’s timeless words into original compositions that blend blues, soul, and Persian influences Rana Farhan: Persian Soul (Saturday 28 February) and jazz-soul vocalist Sarah L King presents her much-anticipated second album in Sarah L King Presents The Light Ahead (Thursday 26 March).

For the second consecutive year, World Heart Beat presents its Piano in the Elms series, inspired by the Elm tree—an enduring symbol of Nine Elms as a timeless symbol of community and connection. Just as the elm embodies resilience, unity, and mystery, the series brings people together through the captivating power of piano music, transcending genres and celebrating harmony. The series starts with Liberian-Norwegian pianist alongside a visual artist working in installation, sculpture, and design objects in Piano in the Elms: Kamilla Arku & Jordan Söderberg (Thursday 12 March); followed by Romanian concert pianist known for his profound musicality, Piano in the Elms: Andrei Gologan (Friday 13 March); Romanian born pianist blending classical, jazz, and Romanian folk influences Piano in the Elms: Cristiana Achim (Thursday 19 March); World Heart Beat Artist in Resident and Dutch-British concert pianist known for his “poetic interpretations” and cross-disciplinary approach to classical music, Piano in the Elms: Cyrill Ibrahim – A Journey of Chopin’s Heart (Friday 20 March).

January

Jas Kayser and Chums, Friday 16 January 2026, 7:30pm (jazz)
Jas Kayser is a drummer, composer and band leader, who was nominated for MOBO Best Jazz Act 2022 and won Jazz FM Breakthrough Act 2021 and Parliamentary Jazz Newcomer 2021. In 2024, Jas was nominated for The Composers Award, Up and Coming drummer for Modern Drummers Poll. Known for blending jazz with Afro-beat and joining Lenny Kravitz’s ‘Blue Electric Light’ world tour last year, Jas’s own eclectic and versatile band, ‘Jas and Chums’, has brought joy and energy to enthusiastic crowds, winning awards and prizes while being featured on television and radio. Her well-crafted and explosive debut EP ‘Unforced Rhythm of Grace’ as well as her 2022 release ‘Jas 5ive’ have been championed by Jamie Cullum on BBC Radio 2, Julian Joseph on BBC Radio 3, BBC Radio 6’s Mary Anne Hobbs, Jazz FM and Jazzwise magazine.

Jazz Triple Bill: Nnamdi Nachi Cole Trio, Wilf Diamond, Ruben Ross, Saturday 17 January 2026, 7:30pm (jazz)
An electrifying triple bill showcasing some of London’s freshest jazz talent, developed at both World Heart Beat and the Julian Joseph Jazz Academy. Nnamdi Nnachi-Cole Trio; Nnamdi is a young pianist with a beautiful flowing integrity of sound and described as one of the newest emerging stars in the London jazz scene; Green-Jakcsi, a talented 17-year-old alto saxophonist from London; Kassa’s growing reputation as an innovative composer with a powerful approach to improvisation has already got many in the London jazz scene; Ellis Gates is a young and upcoming jazz drummer, a two-time finalist of the Zildjian young drummer of the year competition, he has an amazing sound on the drums. Wilf Diamond is a London-based trombonist, pianist and improviser, having performed at venues such as Ronnie Scott’s, The Vortex, EartH Hackney and the Southbank Centre; Ruben Ross is an up-and-coming tenor saxophonist with a deep love for the jazz and saxophone tradition.

Mebrakh Haughton-Johnson & Kumi Matsuo, Friday 23 January 2026, 7:30pm (classical)
British clarinettist, Mebrakh Haughton-Johnson and solo pianist, chamber musician and accompanist, Kumi Matsuo invite you on an exhilarating journey through four distinct works that celebrate expressive breadth and versatility— from Widor’s noble lyricism and Debussy’s impressionistic hues to Horovitz’s jazzy wit and Montgomery’s vibrant modern voice. Saint-Saëns brings refined Romantic charm, and D’Rivera ignites the programme with dance-driven virtuosity, showcasing the clarinet’s expressive range in every direction. 

February

Vladimira Krckova: A Return to the Source, Wednesday 4 February 2026, 7:30pm (jazz)
Multi-genre vocalist Vladimira Krckova, in a rare and powerful partnership, is joined by a distinguished pianist and poet, Robert Mitchell, a kindred spirit whose touch on the keys mirrors and amplifies the profound, narrative quality of their artistry. Together, they will navigate a landscape on the edge of pop, jazz, world, and classical music—a genre-fluid space where raw emotion and sophisticated craft merge. A journey across soundscapes, from American classics like “Blue in Green” to the Brazilian gem “Serenata do Adeus,” and a contemporary reimagining of Baroque and 20th-century arias. The evening will also feature new compositions by Vladimira Krckova from her upcoming album A Woman in a Hurricane, alongside rare musical discoveries, including a surprise Mexican song and a beloved pop classic. 

Ustad Kamal Sabri & Ustad Tari Khan: Peace through Music, Wednesday 21 February 2026, 7:30pm (Indian Classical)
Two Indian Classical Music maestros come together to offer a Peace through Music concert.  Ustad Kamal Sabri is an internationally acclaimed sarangi maestro, composer, and educator, representing the seventh generation of the 400-year-old Moradabad Gharana. Son and foremost disciple of Sarangi Samrat Ustad Sabri Khan Sahab, he is renowned for his mastery as a leading Sarangi Soloist and for his innovative contributions, including the addition of a cello string to the sarangi. Ustad Tari Khan is a world-renowned tabla maestro from Pakistan, celebrated for his electrifying virtuosity and deep command of the Punjab gharana style. 

Rana Farhan: Persian Soul, Saturday 28 February 2026, 7:30pm (blues/jazz)
Rana Farhan grew up in Tehran, lives in New York, sings in Persian and English, sounds like Billie Holiday, adores blues and jazz, and is — in almost every other way — a unique cultural product of both her native Iran and her adopted country, the United States. Rana continues to push boundaries with her latest album, Persian Soul, released on March 28, 2025. This 10-track collection returns to the poetry of Rumi, weaving his timeless words into original compositions that blend blues, soul, and Persian influences in Rana’s signature style. With Persian Soul, she invites listeners on a fresh journey through love, longing, and transcendence — a testament to her ever-evolving artistry and fearless genre-defying spirit.

March

Piano in the Elms: Kamilla Arku & Jordan Söderberg, Thursday 12 March 2026, 7:30pm (classical)
Liberian-Norwegian pianist Kamilla Arku draws on her diverse background as inspiration for her work as a performer, scholar and educator; she has performed as a soloist and chamber musician in the US, Europe and Africa. Recent highlights include performances for Chamber Music Society at Lincoln Center, Lyric Opera of Chicago, MoMA PS1, the Royal Opera House, the International Florence Price Festival, and Works & Process at the Guggenheim. Jordan Söderberg Mills is a Canadian visual artist working in installation, sculpture, and design objects; his work explores ideas of identity, perception and the sublime, playing with the borders between physical and digital realities, and pushing the material possibilities of light. 

Piano in the Elms: Andrei Gologan, Friday 13 March 2026, 7:30pm (classical)
Deeply connected to the traditions of the past and eager to shape the future of classical music, Andrei Gologan is earning an international reputation as a thought-provoking concert pianist. His poetic interpretations have garnered the support of legendary pianists such as Sir András Schiff and Richard Goode, leading to invitations from some of Europe’s most prestigious festivals and concert halls, including the Herkulessaal in Munich, Wigmore Hall in London, the Schleswig-Holstein Festival, and Heidelberger Frühling.

Piano in the Elms: Cristiana Achim, Thursday 19 March 2026, 7:30pm (classical)
Bucharest-born classical pianist, composer and educator, Cristiana Achim is recognised as a standout talent of her generation. Graduating with First Class Honours in 2024 from the Royal College of Music in London, under the tutelage of Professor Nigel Clayton, she earned both a Bachelor of Music and a Master of Performance degree. An exceptional classical pianist whose repertoire spans classical, jazz and folk music, Cristiana creates a vivid solo piano show rooted in folklore, combining virtuosity, warmth and expressive freedom. She continues to inspire and nurture the next generation of musicians as a dedicated piano teacher at the World Heart Beat Music Academy. 

Piano in the Elms: Cyrill Ibrahim – A Journey of Chopin’s Heart, Friday 20 March, 7:30pm (classical)
Chopin’s Heart is an intimate solo piano experience exploring the inner world of Frédéric Chopin — his exile, his loves, and the extraordinary journey of the physical heart he left behind. The programme centres on the Heroic Polonaise, a powerful expression of Chopin’s longing for Poland, and the monumental Third Sonata, one of his most personal and emotionally revealing works. These are interwoven with pieces by other composers that reflect themes of memory, identity, and belonging, creating a musical narrative that follows Chopin’s path across countries and across the fault lines of his own life. An immersive and atmospheric concert that invites audiences to experience the beating heart behind the musical genius, Cyrill Ibrahim.

Sarah L King Presents The Light Ahead, Thursday 26 March, 7:30pm (jazz)
Jazz-soul vocalist Sarah L King presents her much-anticipated second album, The Light Ahead. Produced by ECN Music with Claire Martin OBE at the helm, Sarah and her trio of world-class musicians (plus guests) bring eight exciting original songs and four surprise covers from her album, released in March 2026. With her soulful vocals and world class musicians, Sarah’s music regularly features on Jazz FM and BBC3. Appearing regularly at Pizza Express Soho, 606 Club and Hampstead Jazz Club, Sarah has just toured Stockholm with her Swedish trio and is fresh from her Sold-Out show at the EFG London Jazz Festival 2025.

Venue Details
Address: World Heart Beat Embassy Gardens, 3 Ponton Rd, Nine Elms, London SW11 7BD
Tel: 0204 547 1075



http://www.worldheartbeat.org

About World Heart Beat
In 2023, World Heart Beat opened World Heart Beat Embassy Gardens, a state-of-the-art digital music education and concert venue in Nine Elms, featuring a 200-capacity auditorium and industry-standard recording studio. Through our Music Leader and EMERGE training programmes, and GLA-funded South London Music Mentors, programme we are supporting Black, culturally diverse, female and LGBT+ South London talent to find their path in the music industry. 
Wandsworth-based World Heart Beat Music Academy was founded in 2009 to meet the need for affordable music education, from grassroots to professional level, for South Londoners, no matter what their age, background or skills. Fronted by award-winning musician and educator Sahana Gero MBE, World Heart Beat is a leading music educator and hub – supported by Arts Council England as an NPO, and known for its inclusive global music programmes, youth-led approach and contribution to a more diverse and representative music sector. 
The charity provides music tuition and performances opportunities for c.446 young people each year outside of school hours. World Heart Beat’s mission is to provide opportunities for all, with an ‘open door’ approach that welcomes any young person interested in learning music. This commitment sees them providing bursaries and free instruments to more than half of the students that come through their door.

Newcastle Arts Centre - Jazz Programme January, February, March 2026.

Wednesday, January 14, 2026

Newcastle Arts Centre has announced its jazz programme for early 2026. Events take place at the Black Swan venue within the Centre. Fully detailed schedule attached.

We have received the following information;

Our 2026 is wasting no time with providing you with up-and-coming artists and audience favourites from the North East Jazz scene.

We’re programming Jazz stretching across Latin, Blues, Folk-infused, traditional and contemporary. Alongside our long-standing Tuesday Jam and our Jazz Jam Sandwich for contemporary world Jazz, our Jazz Cafe Presents… programme has something for all lovers of Live Music.

And we are very happy to share that all our Jazz events - Jams and Gigs - are now…Free to attend!

Squabble
Tuesday 27th January
Presenting the Hammond organ jazz trio, Squabble.
Performing standards of the jazz world centred around the iconic sound of the Hammond organ, this well versed trio comprises Sid White on drums, Jude Murphy on double bass and Steve Chambers on the all important organ.

Liam & Shayo
Tuesday 24th February
Introducing a fresh fusion of traditional and contemporary jazz from young duo Liam Oliver and Shayo. With Liam on guitar backing up the gorgeous vocals provided by Shayo, these two are developing a big name in the local jazz scene, brimming with soul and emotion.

Jude Murphy & Dan Stanley
Tuesday 24th March
Established duo in the North East Jazz scene Jude Murphy & Dan Stanley’s music is laid back and classy. Jazz, Latin and blues driven by Dan’s stunning guitar work, Jude’s mellow vocals and stylish double bass playing. The duo’s set offers classics from Miles Davis and Kenny Burrell, catchy Brazilian numbers such as Corcovado, Waters of March, and the highly danceable Fato Consumado.

Bede Trio
Tuesday 31st March
Folk influenced Jazz from a local trio performing on bass, piano and sax, and celebrating the launch of their new album. The Bede Trio perform their own original work as well as some fresh arrangements of Northumbrian and Scandinavian folk songs.

Not forgetting our regular
Tuesday Jam
EVERY 1ST & 3RD TUES of the month
The Black Swan’s long standing Jazz Jam with house trio, who invite all jazz instrumentalists and singers to join them and jam together.
All listeners welcome too.

Upcoming Tuesday Jams…

20 January
Ben Lawrence (keys), Paul Grainger (bass), Joe Deans (drums)

3 February
Joe Steels (guitar), Paul Grainger (bass), Abbie Finn (drums)

17 February
Stu Collingwood (keys), Paul Grainger (bass), John Hirst (drums)

3 March
Jacob Egglestone (guitar), Paul Grainger (bass), Bailey Rudd (drums)

Alongside our music programme, we also have on WEDNESDAY & FRIDAY nights…

Black Swan Pub Quiz
EVERY WED
Doors open 7pm
Quiz from 8pm-10:15pm
£1 per person to enter. Up to 6 members per team
Music / Bonus Challenges
New Specialist Subject every week / Prizes …
And of course
The Wheel of Plenty!
Hosted by long-time quiz leader Danny “Eyeballs” Gaffney

Salsa Classes & Club
with SalSeduce
EVERY FRI
Doors 7pm
Absolute Beginner Salsa 7:30pm
Improver/Intermediate Class & Second Beginngers 8:30pm
Club Salsa 9:15pm – 12 midnight
£10 entry (Student rates available.) All abilities welcome

Newcastle Arts Centre,  67 Westgate Road Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SG .

https://newcastle-arts-centre.co.uk

Upstairs at Ronnie Scott’s,  London, February – April 2026.

Monday, January 12, 2026

Following a year-long redevelopment, Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club is set to unveil its new upstairs music venue: Upstairs at Ronnie’s, which will open on February 6th. Line up for Feb, March & April att.

We have received the following press release;

Frith Street, Soho, London, January 9 2026

Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club’s newly reimagined first-floor venue, Upstairs at Ronnie’s, will open in four weeks, marking the next chapter for the iconic Soho institution.

Following a complete refurbishment, Upstairs at Ronnie’s has been transformed into a purpose-built 140-capacity auditorium, combining an intimate, world-class performance space with cutting-edge acoustics and state-of-the-art Yamaha and D&B Audio systems.

The opening programme presents a rich and diverse mix of jazz, contemporary soul, acoustic R&B, gospel, musical theatre, hip-hop, global music, classical performances and more. Highlights include the brand-new Ronnie Scott’s Gospel Choir, led by the legendary Daniel Thomas, the club’s new Piano Trio Series featuring shows from Joe Webb, Ashley Henry, Bill Laurance, Charlie Stacey and more, and the first-ever Vocal Jazz Jam hosted by pianist Jamie Safir and a rotating line-up of vocalists Natalie Williams, Emma Smith, and Georgia Cécile. Olivier Award winner Cassidy Janson will bring a celebration of musical theatre classics with a jazz twist, while British alternative soul singer Tawiah will perform intimate sets of her acclaimed work. The club’s Late Late Show, hosted by Tomorrow’s Warriors, will shine a spotlight on emerging talent, and for the very first time at Ronnie Scott’s, a Classical Series will feature the Ronnie Scott’s Classical All Stars reimagining iconic works. The Close Up Classical Series pairs notable cultural figures in conversation with James Pearson and Lizzie Ball, with upcoming guests including film composer David Arnold and actress Juliet Stevenson.

Upstairs at Ronnie’s promises to become an essential part of Soho’s cultural landscape, offering an intimate, world-class venue for music lovers and performers alike.

Tickets for Upstairs at Ronnie’s are on sale now and available at http://www.ronniescotts.co.uk.

Upstairs at Ronnie Scott’s
February – April 2026

Following a year-long redevelopment, Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club is set to unveil its new upstairs music venue: Upstairs at Ronnie’s. The space has been completely transformed as part of a major revamp of the entire building. Rebuilt as a purpose-designed, intimate auditorium, it honours the club’s six-decade legacy while looking firmly to the future. More info HERE.

Full details of upcoming concerts at Upstairs at Ronnie Scott’s can be found below. Highlights include the brand-new Ronnie Scott’s Gospel Choir led by the legendary Daniel Thomas, the club’s new Piano Trio Series featuring the likes of Joe Webb, Ashley Henry, Bill Laurance and Charlie Stacey, the first-ever Vocal Jazz Jam hosted by pianist Jamie Safir and a rotating line-up of vocalists Natalie Williams, Emma Smith and Georgia Cécile, Olivier Award winner Cassidy Janson’s celebration of musical theatre classics with a jazz twist, British alternative soul singer Tawiah, a Late Late Show hosted by Tomorrow’s Warriors, and for the very first time at Ronnie Scott’s a Classical Series featuring the Ronnie Scott’s Classical All Stars reimagining iconic classical works, and The Close Up Classical series which sees notable cultural figures in conversation with James Pearson and Lizzie Ball (upcoming guests include film composer David Arnold and actress Juliet Stevenson).

FEBRUARY 2026

Friday 6th February 2026
5pm – 8.45pm (£35)
Dana Masters Duo
The very first public performance at Upstairs at Ronnie’s comes from soul and jazz singer Dana Masters. Raised on soul, gospel, and R&B, she blends these roots with jazz to tell powerful stories inspired by her heritage and her Civil Rights activist grandmother. Now based in the UK and Ireland, Masters is a dynamic performer who spent six years with Van Morrison’s band and has performed for audiences including the Pope and the Clintons. Her music is rich with joy, sorrow, and inspiration - deeply personal and universally moving.

Friday 6th February 2026 *LATE LATE SHOW*
11.15pm (£15)
Viva Cuba Late Late Show
Viva Cuba celebrates the enduring connection between Cuba and Ronnie Scott’s. In the 1980s, Arturo Sandoval and Irakere brought the sound of Cuban summer to the club, and Ronnie Scott himself made frequent trips to Havana and co-founded the Havana Jazz Festival, which continues to thrive today. This event is a vibrant tribute to Cuban music and culture, featuring performances from Jesus Cutino Band, Sarabanda, Carlos Miguel y su Dimension, Camina Band, Son Yambu, Havana All Stars, Javier Camilo, and CubaVida Band.

Saturday 7 th February 2026
5pm – 8.45pm (£45)
The Betty Black Revue
Betty Black is the fiery new alter ego of Elisabeth Troy, the voice behind UK garage classic Crazy Love and a collaborator with Roni Size, Primal Scream, and Incognito. In this explosive live launch, she celebrates the golden era of soul with the debut of her album Journey Through Soul Vol. One - a high-energy tribute to the sounds of the 50s, 60s and 70s. Expect a powerhouse performance with a killer band, dazzling style, and pure funk and soul vibes.

Saturday 7 th February 2026 *LATE LATE SHOW*
11.15pm (£15)
The Get Down
The team behind Funky Nation returns with The Get Down. Expect jazz, funk, soul, rare groove and house with DJ Mike Vitti plus guests. A respected DJ, presenter and promoter, Mike plays across the UK and Europe and hosts shows on Mi-Soul Radio and the BBC. Guest DJ on 7th February: Jon Jules.

Sunday 8th February 2026
1pm – 6.45pm (£40)
Ronnie Scott’s Gospel Choir led by Daniel Thomas
A soul-stirring night with the brand-new Ronnie Scott’s Gospel Choir, led by the legendary Daniel Thomas. This monthly celebration features powerful gospel favourites, spirited solos, and uplifting harmonies from some of the UK’s finest voices. With a career that includes collaborations with Luther Vandross, Elton John, and James Brown, Daniel Thomas brings unmatched energy and a touch of church to every show.

Monday 9 th February 2026
5pm – 8.45pm (£40)
Ronnie Scott’s Classical All Stars present Gershwin and The American Classics
Introducing The Ronnie Scott’s Classical All Stars, a new seven-piece ensemble reimagining iconic classical works with the flair and storytelling the club is known for. Directed by James Pearson and featuring virtuoso violinist Lizzie Ball, their debut Upstairs at Ronnie’s performance offers fresh takes on Gershwin, Copland and Bernstein, culminating in a full performance of Rhapsody in Blue, over 100 years since its UK premiere.

Tuesday 10th February 2026
5pm – 8.45pm (£35)
Piano Trio Series: Joe Webb
2025 Mercury Prize ‘Album of the Year’ nominee Joe Webb is one of the UK’s most exciting young pianists. With his trio, featuring Will Sach and Sam Jesson, he’ll perform music from their acclaimed debut Hamstrings & Hurricanes alongside brand-new material. Blending 90s Britpop energy, a love of football, and jazz piano tradition, Webb is fast becoming a standout voice in UK jazz.

Tuesday 10th February 2026 *LATE LATE SHOW*
11.15pm (£12)
Late Late Show hosted by Tomorrow’s Warriors: Allexa Nava
Upstairs at Ronnie’s launches a new monthly residency with Tomorrow’s Warriors Emerging Artists, showcasing the next generation of UK jazz talent. For over 30 years, Tomorrow’s Warriors has nurtured stars like Ezra Collective, Moses Boyd, Nubya Garcia and more, making this residency a front-row seat to the future of jazz.

Wednesday 11th February 2026
5pm (£40)
Natalie Williams and Emma Smith: The Swinging Sisters
Natalie Williams and Emma Smith pay vibrant tribute to the legendary female jazz vocalists who inspired them. Featuring electrifying scatting, sharp banter, and soulful moments, their set is backed by the dynamic arrangements of the Jamie Safir Trio. This marks the start of a new series celebrating the voices that shaped jazz history.

Wednesday 11th February 2026
8.45pm (£15)
Vocal Jazz Jam
Launching February 2026, Ronnie Scott’s presents its first-ever Vocal Jazz Jam every Wednesday Upstairs, hosted by pianist Jamie Safir with rotating vocalists Natalie Williams, Emma Smith, and Georgia Cécile. This new series gives rising jazz singers a chance to shine on one of the world’s most iconic stages. Expect a high-quality showcase of London’s finest jazz voices.

Thursday 12th February 2026
5pm – 8.45pm £35
Louise Marshall
Louise Marshall is a powerful and versatile UK vocalist known for her soulful voice and magnetic stage presence. With over 20 years in jazz, soul, and pop, she’s a key member of the Jools Holland Rhythm & Blues Orchestra and has worked with icons like David Gilmour and Chaka Khan. Blending jazz roots with soul and gospel, Marshall delivers performances rich in storytelling and emotional depth.

Thursday 12th February 2026 *LATE LATE SHOW*
11.15pm (£12)
The Late Late Show with Cosmic Fusion
UK drummer Jon Onabowu leads a dynamic lineup of young, fiercely talented musicians for a night of electrifying jazz fusion. With their own fresh spin on fusion classics dating back to the ‘70s, Cosmic Fusion push their musical boundaries to the limit, delivering high-energy performances that both thrilling and accessible.

Friday 13th February 2026
5pm – 8.45pm (£35)
Heidi Vogel
Samba soul meets contemporary London jazz as Heidi Vogel blends Brazilian influences with original material and jazz classics. Known for her work with The Cinematic Orchestra, Vogel has performed at major venues like the Royal Albert Hall and opened for Erykah Badu. She’s collaborated with artists including Thundercat, Soweto Kinch, and Xhosa Cole, and her acclaimed debut album Turn Up the Quiet showcases her unique mix of Bossa Nova and jazz.

Friday 13th February 2026 *LATE LATE SHOW*
11.15pm (£15)
Viva Cuba Late Late Show
Viva Cuba celebrates the enduring connection between Cuba and Ronnie Scott’s. In the 1980s, Arturo Sandoval and Irakere brought the sound of Cuban summer to the club, and Ronnie Scott himself made frequent trips to Havana and co-founded the Havana Jazz Festival, which continues to thrive today. This event is a vibrant tribute to Cuban music and culture, featuring performances from Jesus Cutino Band, Sarabanda, Carlos Miguel y su Dimension, Camina Band, Son Yambu, Havana All Stars, Javier Camilo, and CubaVida Band.

Saturday 14th February 2026
5pm – 8.45pm (£40)
Imaani’s Soul Providence Band
British soul powerhouse Imaani, best known for her long-standing role with acid jazz legends Incognito, brings her rich, expressive voice to the stage with her own band, Soul Providence. With a career spanning over two decades and collaborations with icons like Nile Rodgers and Chaka Khan, she delivers a dynamic set of original songs, soul classics, and Incognito favourites.

Saturday 14th February 2026 *LATE LATE SHOW*
11.15pm (£15)
The Get Down
The team behind Funky Nation returns with The Get Down. Expect jazz, funk, soul, rare groove and house with DJ Mike Vitti plus guests. A respected DJ, presenter and promoter, Mike plays across the UK and Europe and hosts shows on Mi-Soul Radio and the BBC.

Sunday 15th February 2026
1pm – 6.45pm (£40)
Marcus Bonfanti
Award-winning singer, guitarist and songwriter Marcus Bonfanti brings his Blues Review to Ronnie Scott’s. A two-time British Blues Award winner, Bonfanti will perform music by legends like Muddy Waters, Blind Boy Fuller and Taj Mahal. With a career that’s seen him work with Eric Clapton, Van Morrison, and Ronnie Wood, expect a powerful night of blues from one of the UK’s finest.

Monday 16th February 2026
5pm – 8.45pm (£35)
Classical Kicks Ensemble
Classical Kicks returns to Ronnie Scott’s for a special night led by Lizzie Ball, founder and Co-Director of Ronnie Scott’s Classical. One of London’s first alternative classical nights, Classical Kicks is known for its genre-crossing, high-energy performances. Joined by Gabi Swallow, Miloš Milivojevic, and James Turner, the group will perform works by Piazzolla, Bartok, Gershwin, and de Falla, alongside new arrangements by Callum Au, James Pearson, and Andrew Cottee.

Tuesday 17th February 2026
5pm – 8.45pm (£35)
Joanna Eden
Joanna Eden returns to Ronnie Scott’s with her band to celebrate her 7th album The Road to Paysandu, a heartfelt blend of original songs and classics by Joni Mitchell, Sondheim and Bacharach. Fresh from a Proms duet with Sam Smith, Eden is joined by Latin jazz stars Lafone, Guillermo Hill, and drummer George Double for a night of soul, groove and joy.

Tuesday 17th February 2026 *LATE LATE SHOW*
11.15pm (£12)
Marlon The Pannist
Marlon Hibbert is a leading contemporary steelpan artist, founder of Endurance Steel Orchestra and the first steelpan graduate of Guildhall. Influenced by jazz, calypso and his Caribbean heritage, he has performed at major festivals and venues including Love Supreme, We Out Here and the Royal Albert Hall.

Wednesday 18th February 2026
5pm (£40)
Natalie Williams & Jamie Safir Trio: Double Standards
Natalie Williams & Jamie Safir Trio take you on a dazzling journey through Broadway’s golden years, from the 1920s to the 1960s. Expect timeless classics by Porter, Gershwin, Kern, and Berlin, alongside hidden gems from Cy Coleman, Hoagy Carmichael, and more - all interwoven with witty, behind-the-scenes tales from showbusiness history. In a rare departure from her acclaimed soul career, this is a special opportunity to hear Williams return to her first love: the Great American Songbook.

Wednesday 18th February 2026
8.45pm (£15)
Vocal Jazz Jam
Launching February 2026, Ronnie Scott’s presents its first-ever Vocal Jazz Jam every Wednesday Upstairs, hosted by pianist Jamie Safir with rotating vocalists Natalie Williams, Emma Smith, and Georgia Cécile. This new series gives rising jazz singers a chance to shine on one of the world’s most iconic stages.

Thursday 19th February 2026
5pm – 8.45pm (£35)
Brendan Reilly presents ‘Sampled’
Join US-born singer-songwriter Brendan Reilly and his all-star band as they explore the original songs, some long forgotten, that have been sampled in iconic dance and hip hop tracks. A standout vocalist across soul, jazz, and dance, Reilly has worked with Quincy Jones, Disclosure, and Pete Tong’s Ibiza Classics, and is a longtime member of Ronnie Scott’s resident band Soul Family.

Thursday 19th February 2026 *LATE LATE SHOW*
11.15pm (£12)
The Late Late Show with Cosmic Fusion
UK drummer Jon Onabowu leads a dynamic lineup of young, fiercely talented musicians for a night of electrifying jazz fusion. With their own fresh spin on fusion classics dating back to the ‘70s, Cosmic Fusion push their musical boundaries to the limit, delivering high-energy performances that both thrilling and accessible.

Friday 20th February 2026
5pm – 8.45pm (£45)
Piano Trio Series: Bill Laurance
Five-time Grammy-winning pianist and composer Bill Laurance is known for blending classical training with bold genre-crossing creativity. A founding member of Snarky Puppy, his work spans film scores, collaborations with the WDR Big Band and Metropole Orkest, and music for Apple. His recent albums Where You Wish You Were (with Michael League) and Affinity (a tribute to Bill Evans) showcase his signature versatility and profound musical vision.

Friday 20th February 2026 *LATE LATE SHOW*
11.15pm (£15)
Viva Cuba Late Late Show
Viva Cuba celebrates the enduring connection between Cuba and Ronnie Scott’s. In the 1980s, Arturo Sandoval and Irakere brought the sound of Cuban summer to the club, and Ronnie Scott himself made frequent trips to Havana and co-founded the Havana Jazz Festival, which continues to thrive today. This event is a vibrant tribute to Cuban music and culture, featuring performances from Jesus Cutino Band, Sarabanda, Carlos Miguel y su Dimension, Camina Band, Son Yambu, Havana All Stars, Javier Camilo, and CubaVida Band.

Saturday 21st February 2026
5pm – 8.45pm (£35)
Big Trippin
Big Trippin, led by bassist Giulio Xavier Cetto and former Mars Volta/Thundercat drummer Thomas Pridgen, is a high-energy California quartet blending jazz, hip hop, funk, and rock. Known for their improvisation-driven shows and party-starting grooves, they return in raw instrumental form with original music and fusion melodies over house and hip hop-inspired rhythms.

Saturday 21st February 2026 *LATE LATE SHOW*
11.15pm (£15)
The Get Down
The team behind Funky Nation returns with The Get Down. Expect jazz, funk, soul, rare groove and house with DJ Mike Vitti plus guests. A respected DJ, presenter and promoter, Mike plays across the UK and Europe and hosts shows on Mi-Soul Radio and the BBC.

Sunday 22nd February 2026
1pm (£40)
Cassidy Janson & Friends present All That Jazz
Olivier Award winner Cassidy Janson’s All That Jazz returns to Ronnie Scott’s for a new season of Sunday Brunch shows celebrating musical theatre classics with a jazz twist. Featuring top West End guests and a stellar live band, each show blends powerhouse vocals, intimate chat, and reimagined show tunes, plus brunch and a mimosa or two. Best known for Beautiful and Leading Ladies, Janson brings star quality to every performance.

Sunday 22nd February 2026
6.45pm (£40)
Steve Ray Ladson
Steve Ray Ladson, a versatile musician from South Carolina, blends blues, roots, and country in his unique style called ‘Blackgrass Brothercana.’ A skilled vocalist and multi-instrumentalist, he’s worked with Grammy-winning Blind Boys of Alabama and Robert Randolph.

Monday 23rd February 2026
5pm – 8.45pm (£45)
Close Up Classical with Juliet Stevenson
Acclaimed actress Juliet Stevenson kicks off the new Close Up Classical mini-series. In intimate conversations with Lizzie Ball and James Pearson, she shares the classical music that has shaped her life, alongside stories and anecdotes. Lizzie, James, and the Ronnie Scott’s Classical All Stars will perform her chosen pieces.

Tuesday 24th February 2026
5pm – 8.45pm (£45)
Tawiah
Tawiah is a unique voice in alt-soul and film composition, known for her raw, honest sound and acclaimed projects Starts Again and Ertha. A sought-after collaborator with artists like Dev Hynes and Mark Ronson, she’s also composed for major TV series and global brands. This special show premieres her deeply personal new album LOTS, exploring themes of home, love, and renewal. Expect an intimate, soulful evening from an artist in full creative bloom.

Tuesday 24th February 2026 *LATE LATE SHOW*
11.15pm (£12)
NEONE The Wonderer
NEONE the Wonderer is a fast-rising jazz–grime fusion artist blending experimental beats, live musicians and neo-soul influences. Following standout performances at Brick Lane and London Jazz Festival, his immersive live shows create a charged, genre-defying sound not to be missed.

Wednesday 25th February 2026
5pm (£40)
Natalie Williams & Jamie Safir Trio: Double Standards
Natalie Williams & Jamie Safir Trio take you on a dazzling journey through Broadway’s golden years, from the 1920s to the 1960s. Expect timeless classics by Porter, Gershwin, Kern, and Berlin, alongside hidden gems from Cy Coleman, Hoagy Carmichael, and more - all interwoven with witty, behind-the-scenes tales from showbusiness history. In a rare departure from her acclaimed soul career, this is a special opportunity to hear Natalie return to her first love: the Great American Songbook.

Thursday 26th February 2026
5pm – 8.45pm (£45)
Vanessa Haynes
One of London’s finest vocalists, Vanessa Haynes brings her powerful, soul-drenched voice to the stage with a mix of originals and classic covers. Known for fronting jazz-funk legends Incognito for over 14 years, the Trinidad-born singer has also performed with icons like Chaka Khan and Van Morrison.

Thursday 26th February 2026 *LATE LATE SHOW*
11.15pm (£12)
The Late Late Show with Cosmic Fusion
UK drummer Jon Onabowu leads a dynamic lineup of young, fiercely talented musicians for a night of electrifying jazz fusion. With their own fresh spin on fusion classics dating back to the ‘70s, Cosmic Fusion push their musical boundaries to the limit, delivering high-energy performances that both thrilling and accessible.

Friday 27th February 2026
5pm – 8.45pm (£40)
Vula
Vula, one of the UK’s most powerful and versatile vocalists, takes centre stage for a night of soul, R&B and more, joined by the stunning Music Box Strings. Known for her work with Basement Jaxx, Sam Smith, Pete Tong, and Quincy Jones, Vula also curates a popular Late Late Show residency spotlighting rising stars and surprise guests.

Friday 27th February 2026 *LATE LATE SHOW*
11.15pm (£15)
Viva Cuba Late Late Show
Viva Cuba celebrates the enduring connection between Cuba and Ronnie Scott’s. In the 1980s, Arturo Sandoval and Irakere brought the sound of Cuban summer to the club, and Ronnie Scott himself made frequent trips to Havana and co-founded the Havana Jazz Festival, which continues to thrive today. This event is a vibrant tribute to Cuban music and culture, featuring performances from Jesus Cutino Band, Sarabanda, Carlos Miguel y su Dimension, Camina Band, Son Yambu, Havana All Stars, Javier Camilo, and CubaVida Band.

Saturday 28th February 2026
5pm – 8.45pm (£45)
Tony Momrelle
Tony Momrelle is one of the UK’s leading soul voices, celebrated for his powerhouse vocals and rich blend of soul, jazz, and funk. After 16 years as lead singer of acid-jazz legends Incognito, he’s carved out a standout solo career, drawing inspiration from icons like Donny Hathaway and Stevie Wonder. With over two decades of global touring and collaborations with legends such as Whitney Houston, Chaka Khan and Sade, Momrelle brings a fresh, soulful sound that’s both timeless and contemporary.

Saturday 28th February 2026 *LATE LATE SHOW*
11.15pm (£15)
The Get Down
The team behind Funky Nation returns with The Get Down. Expect jazz, funk, soul, rare groove and house with DJ Mike Vitti plus guests. A respected DJ, presenter and promoter, Mike plays across the UK and Europe and hosts shows on Mi-Soul Radio and the BBC.

MARCH 2026

Sunday 1st March, 2026
1pm & 6.45pm (£40)
Ronnie Scott’s Gospel Choir led by Daniel Thomas
The club’s new monthly residency with the Ronnie Scott’s Gospel Choir, led by the incredible Daniel Thomas. Expect joyful, soul-stirring gospel favourites, powerful solos and uplifting harmonies from some of the UK’s finest gospel musicians.

Monday 2nd March 2026
5pm – 8.45pm (£35)
Ronnie Scott’s Classical All Stars present Symphonic Sounds - Part One
The Ronnie Scott’s Classical All Stars launch Symphonic Sounds, reimagining orchestral masterpieces for just seven musicians. Highlights include Mozart’s Eine Kleine Nachtmusik, Vaughan Williams’ The Lark Ascending with violinist Lizzie Ball, and Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2, performed by James Pearson in a bold new
arrangement.

Tuesday 3rd March 2026
5pm – 8.45pm (£35)
Jo Harrop
Jo Harrop effortlessly blends jazz, blues, and soul with a warm, smoky voice that capitates audiences worldwide. Discovered by Iggy Pop, she’s released four acclaimed albums, including When Winter Turns To Spring (Parliamentary Jazz Awards Album of the Year 2023) and The Path Of A Tear (produced by Larry Klein). From the Royal Albert Hall to Dizzy’s at Lincoln Center, Harrop draws on jazz, Americana, folk, and Latin influences to create an unforgettable sound.

Tuesday 3
rd March, 2026
11.15pm (£12)
Late Late Show with Tomorrow’s Warriors: Shanise Hall
The second Late Late Show with Tomorrow’s Warriors Upstairs at Ronnie’s features rising South London trumpeter Shanise Hall. Mentored by Gary Crosby OBE, she draws on her Jamaican heritage and influences such as Roy Hargrove, and has collaborated with leading UK jazz artists including Ezra Collective and Blue Lab Beats. A thoughtful composer and compelling bandleader, Hall is an exciting emerging voice in UK jazz — catch her before she breaks through.

Wednesday 4th – Wednesday 11th March 2026
5pm (£40)
Georgia Cécile & Jamie Safir Trio: Great American Songbook
Award-winning vocalist Georgia Cécile returns to Ronnie Scott’s for the club’s new Vocal Jazz Series, honouring influences like Sarah Vaughan, Carmen McRae and Nancy Wilson. Joined by the Jamie Safir Trio, she brings fresh, soulful energy to Great American Songbook classics, moving effortlessly from intimate storytelling to expressive power through Safir’s beautifully crafted arrangements.

Wednesday 4th March 2026
8.45pm (£15)
Vocal Jazz Jam
Launching February 2026, Ronnie Scott’s presents its first-ever Vocal Jazz Jam every Wednesday Upstairs, hosted by pianist Jamie Safir with rotating vocalists Natalie Williams, Emma Smith, and Georgia Cécile. This new series gives rising jazz singers a chance to shine on one of the world’s most iconic stages. Expect a high-quality showcase of London’s finest jazz voices.

Thursday 5th March 2026
5pm – 8.45pm (£35)
Sharlene Hector
Sharlene Hector is one of the UK’s top soul, R&B, and pop vocalists, known for her role as lead singer with Basement Jaxx and nearly two decades with Ronnie Scott’s Soul Family. She has performed with Emeli Sandé, Alicia Keys, and Gregory Porter, and starred in West End shows like Hairspray, Standing At The Sky’s Edge, and A Strange Loop. Currently playing Clio in Disney’s Hercules at Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, her upcoming performance will showcase songs from gospel, R&B, soul, and musical theatre, alongside stories from her diverse and illustrious career.

Thursday 5th March 2026 *LATE LATE SHOW*
11.15pm (£12)
The Late Late Show with Cosmic Fusion
UK drummer Jon Onabowu leads a dynamic lineup of young, fiercely talented musicians for a night of electrifying jazz fusion. With their own fresh spin on fusion classics dating back to the ‘70s, Cosmic Fusion push their musical boundaries to the limit, delivering high-energy performances that both thrilling and accessible.

Friday 6th March 2026
5pm – 8.45pm (£45)
Luke Smith - Up Close and Personal
Acclaimed keyboardist and producer Luke Smith (George Michael, Yusuf/Cat Stevens, Amy Winehouse) presents Up Close and Personal. Joined by top UK session musicians, he delivers an intimate mix of jazz, gospel, funk, and soul through improvisation, original compositions, and inventive covers.

Friday 6
th March 2026 *LATE LATE SHOW*
11.15pm (£15)
Viva Cuba Late Late Show
Viva Cuba celebrates the enduring connection between Cuba and Ronnie Scott’s. In the 1980s, Arturo Sandoval and Irakere brought the sound of Cuban summer to the club, and Ronnie Scott himself made frequent trips to Havana and co-founded the Havana Jazz Festival, which continues to thrive today. This event is a vibrant tribute to Cuban music and culture, featuring performances from Jesus Cutino Band, Sarabanda, Carlos Miguel y su Dimension, Camina Band, Son Yambu, Havana All Stars, Javier Camilo, and CubaVida Band.

Saturday 7th March 2026
5pm – 8.45pm (£35)
Neo Nights: Lizzie Berchie & Dayo Bello
Neo Nights is a live series celebrating contemporary R&B through intimate performances and storytelling. East London’s Lizzie Berchie fuses R&B, neo-soul, jazz, and reggae, inspired by artists from Ella Fitzgerald to Cleo Sol.

Saturday 7th March 2026 *LATE LATE SHOW*
11.15pm (£15)
The Get Down
The team behind Funky Nation returns with The Get Down. Expect jazz, funk, soul, rare groove and house with DJ Mike Vitti plus guests. A respected DJ, presenter and promoter, Mike plays across the UK and Europe and hosts shows on Mi-Soul Radio and the BBC.

Sunday 8th March 2026
1pm (£40)
Cassidy Janson & Friends present All That Jazz
Olivier Award winner Cassidy Janson’s All That Jazz returns to Ronnie Scott’s for a new season of Sunday Brunch shows celebrating musical theatre classics with a jazz twist. Featuring top West End guests and a stellar live band, each show blends powerhouse vocals, intimate chat, and reimagined show tunes, plus brunch and a mimosa or two. Best known for Beautiful and Leading Ladies, Janson brings star quality to every performance.

Sunday 8th March 2026
6.45pm (£35)
Acantha Lang
GRAMMY®-nominated New Orleans singer Acantha Lang brings powerful classic soul, drawing inspiration from legends like Aretha Franklin. Her debut album Beautiful Dreams (2023) reached #3 on the UK Jazz & Blues Chart, and she has captivated audiences at SXSW, CBS Saturday Morning, and the Barbican’s Memphis Soul Revue.

Monday 9th March 2026
5pm – 8.45pm (£40)
Close Up Classical with David Arnold
Film composer David Arnold, famed for scoring James Bond films including Tomorrow Never Dies and Casino Royale, is also a successful producer and songwriter, working with artists such as KD Lang, Iggy Pop, and George Michael. The Close Up Classical series features intimate chats with VIP musicians and actors about
classical music that inspires them, followed by performances from Lizzie Ball, James Pearson, and the Ronnie Scott’s Classical All Stars.

Tuesday 10th March 2026
5pm – 8.45pm (£40)
Ian Shaw
Award-winning jazz vocalist Ian Shaw brings his new show “Stephensong: Ian Shaw Sings Stephen Sondheim”, to Ronnie Scott’s Upstairs. Joined by pianist Barry Green, Shaw honours Sondheim through interpretations shaped by his major influences, including Mark Murphy, Dianne Reeves, and Sarah Vaughan.

Tuesday 10th March 2026 *LATE LATE SHOW*
11.15pm (£12)
Happy Garden
Happy Garden is a 6-piece nu-jazz band blending lush harmonies, Afro rhythms and organic grooves to create immersive, nature-inspired soundscapes that are both grounding and uplifting.

Wednesday 11th March 2026
5pm (£40)
Georgia Cécile & Jamie Safir Trio: Great American Songbook
Award-winning vocalist Georgia Cécile returns to Ronnie Scott’s for the club’s new Vocal Jazz Series, honouring influences like Sarah Vaughan, Carmen McRae and Nancy Wilson. Joined by the Jamie Safir Trio, she brings fresh, soulful energy to Great American Songbook classics, moving effortlessly from intimate storytelling to expressive power through Safir’s beautifully crafted arrangements.

Wednesday 11th March 2026
8.45pm (£15)
Vocal Jazz Jam
Launching February 2026, Ronnie Scott’s presents its first-ever Vocal Jazz Jam every Wednesday Upstairs, hosted by pianist Jamie Safir with rotating vocalists Natalie Williams, Emma Smith, and Georgia Cécile. This new series gives rising jazz singers a chance to shine on one of the world’s most iconic stages. Expect a high-quality showcase of London’s finest jazz voices.

Thursday 12th March 2026
5pm – 8.45pm (£35)
Daniel Pearce presents House and Home
With over 1.3 billion streams and five UK No.1 singles, Daniel Pearce takes centre stage at Ronnie Scott’s. From euphoric, dance-fuelled house to soulful, reflective tunes, his headline show House and Home showcases the voice behind hits like Ride It and I Got You.

Thursday 12th March 2026 *LATE LATE SHOW*
11.15pm (£12)
The Late Late Show with Cosmic Fusion
UK drummer Jon Onabowu leads a dynamic lineup of young, fiercely talented musicians for a night of electrifying jazz fusion. With their own fresh spin on fusion classics dating back to the ‘70s, Cosmic Fusion push their musical boundaries to the limit, delivering high-energy performances that both thrilling and accessible.

Friday 13th March 2026
5pm – 8.45pm (£35)
AYRA featuring Janette Mason and Juliet Roberts
Soul legend Juliet Roberts and acclaimed pianist Janette Mason - 2025 Parliamentary Jazz Awards Instrumentalist of the Year nominee - lead AYRA, a deep, heartfelt project blending soul, funk, and R&B. Joined by special guest Bex Gold and top musicians like bassist Yolanda Charles and trumpeter Lily Carassik, they deliver original music rooted in rich musical careers spanning pop, jazz, dance, and soul.

Friday 13th March 2026 *LATE LATE SHOW*
11.15pm (£15)
Viva Cuba Late Late Show
Viva Cuba celebrates the enduring connection between Cuba and Ronnie Scott’s. In the 1980s, Arturo Sandoval and Irakere brought the sound of Cuban summer to the club, and Ronnie Scott himself made frequent trips to Havana and co-founded the Havana Jazz Festival, which continues to thrive today. This event is a vibrant tribute to Cuban music and culture, featuring performances from Jesus Cutino Band, Sarabanda, Carlos Miguel y su Dimension, Camina Band, Son Yambu, Havana All Stars, Javier Camilo, and CubaVida Band.

Saturday 14th March 2026
5pm – 8.45pm (£40)
Piano Trio Series: Ashley Henry
Pianist and vocalist Ashley Henry brings his unique fusion of jazz, soul, hip hop, and fusion.
Known for his powerful piano skills and rich vocals, Henry blends melodic jazz with black radical music traditions, delivering bold storytelling and vibrant live energy.

Sunday 15th March 2026
1pm (£30)
Frances Madden
London-based singer-songwriter Frances Madden, returns with her new EP Next Flight Home, produced by Grammy-winner Cameron Craig. Madden has toured with Dionne Warwick and Gregory Porter, and her album Beautiful World earned five songwriting nominations.

Sunday 15th March 2026
6.45pm (£35)
Adam Bałdych
Violinist Adam Bałdych and pianist Helge Lien blend Scandinavian melancholy with Slavic passion in their acclaimed collaborations. Known for their intimate yet energetic jazz, they’ve released celebrated albums like Brothers and Bridges and performed across Poland and Norway.

Monday 16th March 2026
5pm – 8.45pm (£35)
Ronnie Scott’s Classical All Stars present Cinematic Sounds - Part One
The Ronnie Scott’s Classical All Stars will perform iconic film scores from Hollywood’s Golden Age (1930-1950), including The Wizard of Oz, Casablanca, and Gone with the Wind. James Pearson will discuss leitmotifs and the creative process behind these classic soundtracks.

Tuesday 17th March 2026
5pm – 8.45pm (£35)
Iain Mackenzie & Ross Stanley - Two For The Road
Vocalist Iain Mackenzie and pianist Ross Stanley pay tribute to big band swing legends and jazz pianists with reimagined, improvised arrangements of classics by Sinatra, Bennett, Nat King Cole, and more. This intimate performance showcases two of London’s finest musicians in a close musical conversation.

Tuesday 17th March 2026 *LATE LATE SHOW*
11.15pm (£12)
Late Late Show with Tendayi & Friends
Experimental jazz meets trip-hop as Tendayi & Friends take over Upstairs at Ronnie’s. Fresh from Love Supreme and Brick Lane Jazz Festival, expect late-night Afro-UK rhythms, funk, soul and genre-blurring grooves from some of London’s finest players. A boundary-pushing UK jazz session not to miss.

Wednesday 18th March 2026
8.45pm (£15)
Vocal Jazz Jam
Launching February 2026, Ronnie Scott’s presents its first-ever Vocal Jazz Jam every Wednesday Upstairs, hosted by pianist Jamie Safir with rotating vocalists Natalie Williams, Emma Smith, and Georgia Cécile. This new series gives rising jazz singers a chance to shine on one of the world’s most iconic stages. Expect a high-quality showcase of London’s finest jazz voices.

Thursday 19th March 2026
5pm – 8.45pm (£35)
Miss Baby Sol
Miss Baby Sol is a British soul artist from the Democratic Republic of Congo known for her genre-blending, sensual sound. Influenced by Nina Simone and Grace Jones, her music blends soul, jazz, and reggae and collaborations include Paloma Faith, Jamie Cullum, Laura Mvula, and Florence + the Machine.

Thursday 19th March 2026 *LATE LATE SHOW*
11.15pm (£12)
The Late Late Show with Cosmic Fusion
UK drummer Jon Onabowu leads a dynamic lineup of young, fiercely talented musicians for a night of electrifying jazz fusion. With their own fresh spin on fusion classics dating back to the ‘70s, Cosmic Fusionbpush their musical boundaries to the limit, delivering high-energy performances that both thrilling and accessible.

Friday 20th March 2026
5pm & 8.45pm (£35)
PYJÆN
Join PYJÆN for the launch of their new single “C’est La Vie”, featuring virtuoso accordionist Anatole Muster and taken from their upcoming third album. Blending high-energy jazz, groove and electronic textures, PYJÆN deliver an emotional, genre-spanning sound from one of the UK’s most exciting jazz outfits.

Friday 20th March 2026 *LATE LATE SHOW*
11.15pm (£12)
Viva Cuba Late Late Show
Viva Cuba celebrates the enduring connection between Cuba and Ronnie Scott’s. In the 1980s, Arturo Sandoval and Irakere brought the sound of Cuban summer to the club, and Ronnie Scott himself made frequent trips to Havana and co-founded the Havana Jazz Festival, which continues to thrive today. This event is a vibrant tribute to Cuban music and culture, featuring performances from Jesus Cutino Band, Sarabanda, Carlos Miguel y su Dimension, Camina Band, Son Yambu, Havana All Stars, Javier Camilo, and CubaVida Band.

Saturday 21st March 2026
5pm – 8.45pm (£35)
Piano Trio Series: Charlie Stacey
Charlie Stacey, a leading UK keys player and Tomorrow’s Warriors alumnus, is known for his unmatched improvisation and genre versatility. Performing with his new trio, he presents material from his upcoming EP The Light Beyond Time.

Sunday 22nd March 2026
1pm (£40)
Cassidy Janson & Friends present All That Jazz
Olivier Award winner Cassidy Janson’s All That Jazz returns to Ronnie Scott’s for a new season of Sunday Brunch shows celebrating musical theatre classics with a jazz twist. Featuring top West End guests and a stellar live band, each show blends powerhouse vocals, intimate chat, and reimagined show tunes, plus brunch and a mimosa or two. Best known for Beautiful and Leading Ladies, Janson brings star quality to every performance.

Sunday 22nd March 2026
1pm – 6.45pm (£40)
Marcus Bonfanti
Award-winning singer, guitarist and songwriter Marcus Bonfanti brings his Blues Review to Ronnie Scott’s. A two-time British Blues Award winner, Bonfanti will perform music by legends like Muddy Waters, Blind Boy Fuller and Taj Mahal. With a career that’s seen him work with Eric Clapton, Van Morrison, and Ronnie Wood, expect a powerful night of blues from one of the UK’s finest.

Monday 23rd March 2026
5pm – 8.45pm (£40)
Close Up Classical with Harriet Constable and Vivaldi’s Hidden Heroines
Harriet Constable, bestselling author of The Instrumentalist, the first exposé on the female orphans for whom Vivaldi wrote his concertos, joins Lizzie Ball and James Pearson in this series of intimate talks with VIP musicians and personalities. The performances feature music by Vivaldi, Telemann, Bach, and more.

Tuesday 24th March 2026
5pm – 8.45pm (£35)
UK Jazz Plus with Kitty Liv and Anoushka Lucas
Curated by Martha D Lewis, UK Jazz Plus presents two groundbreaking jazz singers at Ronnie Scott’s. Anoushka Lucas, an award-winning singer, songwriter, actor, and playwright, returns to premiere her second album, Make Believe, ahead of its 2026 release. Kitty Liv offers original tunes full of grooves and charm, delivering an authentic live experience.

Wednesday 25th March 2025
8.45pm (£15)
Vocal Jazz Jam
Launching February 2026, Ronnie Scott’s presents its first-ever Vocal Jazz Jam every Wednesday Upstairs, hosted by pianist Jamie Safir with rotating vocalists Natalie Williams, Emma Smith, and Georgia Cécile. This new series gives rising jazz singers a chance to shine on one of the world’s most iconic stages. Expect a high-quality showcase of London’s finest jazz voices.

Thursday 26th March 2026
5pm – 8.45pm (£45)
Vanessa Haynes
One of London’s finest vocalists, Vanessa Haynes brings her powerful, soul-drenched voice to the stage with a mix of originals and classic covers. Known for fronting jazz-funk legends Incognito for over 14 years, the Trinidad-born singer has also performed with icons like Chaka Khan and Van Morrison.

Thursday 26th March 2026 *LATE LATE SHOW*
11.15pm (£12)
The Late Late Show with Cosmic Fusion
UK drummer Jon Onabowu leads a dynamic lineup of young, fiercely talented musicians for a night of electrifying jazz fusion. With their own fresh spin on fusion classics dating back to the ‘70s, Cosmic Fusion push their musical boundaries to the limit, delivering high-energy performances that both thrilling and
accessible.

Friday 27th March 2026
5pm – 8.45pm (£40)
Vula
Vula, one of the UK’s most powerful and versatile vocalists, takes centre stage for a night of soul, R&B and more, joined by the stunning Music Box Strings. Known for her work with Basement Jaxx, Sam Smith, Pete Tong, and Quincy Jones, Vula also curates a popular Late Late Show residency spotlighting rising stars and surprise guests.

Friday 27th March 2026 *LATE LATE SHOW*
11.15pm (£15)
Viva Cuba Late Late Show
Viva Cuba celebrates the enduring connection between Cuba and Ronnie Scott’s. In the 1980s, Arturo Sandoval and Irakere brought the sound of Cuban summer to the club, and Ronnie Scott himself made frequent trips to Havana and co-founded the Havana Jazz Festival, which continues to thrive today. This event is a vibrant tribute to Cuban music and culture, featuring performances from Jesus Cutino Band, Sarabanda, Carlos Miguel y su Dimension, Camina Band, Son Yambu, Havana All Stars, Javier Camilo, and CubaVida Band.

Saturday 28th March 2026
5pm – 8.45pm (£40)
Summer Pearl
Ronnie Scott’s presents Summer Pearl, one of London’s most compelling voices in contemporary soul and jazz. Known for deeply personal and politically charged music, Pearl has sold out shows across Europe and performed at major festivals like the EFG London Jazz Festival and Montreux.

Sunday 29th March 2026
1pm (£25)
Catherine Lima - The Allure of Miss Lee
Jazz vocalist Catherine Lima and her quartet present The Allure of Miss Lee, celebrating Peggy Lee’s distinctive, bluesy style. Featuring hits like Fever and Black Coffee alongside lesser-known songs, Lima’s warm, expressive voice brings Lee’s music to life with sultry and joyful moods inspired by legends like Ella Fitzgerald and Anita O’Day.

Sunday 29th March 2026
6.45pm (£35)
Lokkhi Terra Descargas
Lokkhi Terra blend Bangladeshi, Cuban and Afrobeat roots into a vibrant global sound. Praised by Songlines as “probably the world’s best Afrobeat–Cuban–Bangladeshi group,” they’ve been breaking musical boundaries since their 2010 debut. Terra Descargas, created for Ronnie Scott’s, brings Latin, Afro- and Indo-jazz together in high-energy jam-session style. Led by pianist Kishon Khan with Oreste “Sambroso” Noda, Pat Illingworth, Frank Portuondo, Justin Thurgut and special guests.

Monday 30th March 2026
5pm – 8.45pm (£35)
Her Ensemble
Her Ensemble, led by Ellie Consta, highlights overlooked music by female composers from 450 BC to today. This program features piano trio works by Amy Beach, Reena Esmail, Lili Boulanger, and jazz-inspired pieces by Florence Price. Joined by soloists Laura van der Heijden and Junyan Chen, the ensemble celebrates women’s contributions to music in an uplifting event for International Women’s Month.

Tuesday 31st March 2026
5pm – 8.45pm (£35)
Inês Loubet
Inês Loubet is a Portuguese singer-songwriter and producer blending Latin jazz, Tropicália, and soulful grooves. She has captivated audiences at major festivals and venues, establishing herself as a rising voice in contemporary jazz and world music.

Tuesday 31st March 2026 *LATE LATE SHOW*
11.15pm (£12)
Late Late Show with Lewis Daniel
South London saxophonist and composer Lewis Daniel blends jazz, hip-hop and gospel with electronic influences, creating thoughtful, forward-leaning music rooted in his Caribbean heritage. A rising voice in contemporary jazz, he’s received support from Jazz FM and BBC 6 Music and has worked with artists including Florence + The Machine, Chaka Khan and House Gospel Choir.

APRIL 2026

Wednesday 1st April 2026
5pm (£40)
Natalie Williams & Jamie Safir Trio: Double Standards
Natalie Williams & Jamie Safir Trio take you on a dazzling journey through Broadway’s golden years, from the 1920s to the 1960s. Expect timeless classics by Porter, Gershwin, Kern, and Berlin, alongside hidden gems from Cy Coleman, Hoagy Carmichael, and more - all interwoven with witty, behind-the-scenes tales from showbusiness history. In a rare departure from her acclaimed soul career, this is a special opportunity to hear Natalie return to her first love: the Great American Songbook.

Wednesday 1st April 2026
8.45pm (£15)
Vocal Jazz Jam
Launching February 2026, Ronnie Scott’s presents its first-ever Vocal Jazz Jam every Wednesday Upstairs, hosted by pianist Jamie Safir with rotating vocalists Natalie Williams, Emma Smith, and Georgia Cécile. This new series gives rising jazz singers a chance to shine on one of the world’s most iconic stages. Expect a high-quality showcase of London’s finest jazz voices.

Thursday 2nd April 2026
5pm (£35)
David Helbock Duo
Austrian jazz pianist David Helbock, acclaimed worldwide and award-winning, teams up with versatile bassist and cellist Julia Hofer for a dynamic duo. Their new ACT Music album blends originals and groovy jazz, showcasing inventive rhythms, effects, and a unique interplay between piano, bass, and cello.

Thursday 2nd April 2026
8.45pm (£35)
SAHRA
SAHRA is a Berlin-born, London-based singer, songwriter, and arranger whose rich, flawless voice and artistic storytelling with mystical flair have been captivating audiences at every turn. Having collaborated with artists including Orphy Robinson, Dele Sosimi, Cleveland Watkiss MBE, and Ashley Henry, she is quickly establishing
herself as one of the UK’s most exciting emerging voices in jazz-inflected neo-soul and R&B.

Friday 3rd April 2026
5pm & 8.45pm (£35)
Gabriel Gosse
French guitarist and vocalist Gabriel Gosse, named one of France’s top three guitarists by Jazz Magazine, blends jazz, funk, and electronic textures with soulful lyricism. His new album MOJO features collaborations with Emile Parisien and Philippe Katerine, showcasing a fresh, dynamic, and forward-looking sound.

Saturday 4th April 2026
5pm – 8.45pm (£45)
The Betty Black Revue
Betty Black is the fiery new alter ego of Elisabeth Troy, the voice behind UK garage classic Crazy Love and a collaborator with Roni Size, Primal Scream, and Incognito. In this explosive live launch, she celebrates the golden era of soul with the debut of her album Journey Through Soul Vol. One - a high-energy tribute to the sounds of the 50s, 60s and 70s.

Sunday 5th April 2026
1pm – 6.45pm (£40)
Ronnie Scott’s Gospel Choir led by Daniel Thomas
A soul-stirring night with the brand-new Ronnie Scott’s Gospel Choir, led by the legendary Daniel Thomas. This monthly celebration features powerful gospel favourites, spirited solos, and uplifting harmonies from some of the UK’s finest voices. With a career that includes collaborations with Luther Vandross, Elton John, and James Brown, Daniel Thomas brings unmatched energy and a touch of church to every show.

Monday 6th April 2026
5pm & 8.45pm (£40)
Chineke! String Quartet
Chineke! String Quartet, featuring some of the UK’s finest chamber musicians, performs works by Eugenio Toussaint, William Grant Still, and Dvořák’s ‘American’ Quartet. Founded by Chi-Chi Nwanoku, Chineke! champions diversity in classical music and showcases overlooked and contemporary Black and ethnically diverse composers.

Tuesday 7th April 2026
5pm & 8.30pm (£30)
TC.KYLIE x The Hourglass
Making her Ronnie Scott’s debut, TC.KYLIE x The Hourglass deliver cinematic jazz, acid grooves, and retro gaming-inspired soundscapes. Led by Hong Kong-born composer and keyboardist TC.KYLIE, the band blends Eastern and Western influences, lush harmonies, and improvisational fire from her debut album RE:birth よみ がえり. A night of vibrant, genre-defying jazz awaits.

Wednesday 8th April 2026
5pm (£40)
Emma Smith & Jamie Safir Trio: The Gershwin Songbook
Emma Smith and Jamie Safir present an evening dedicated to the timeless music of George & Ira Gershwin. With expressive vocals and intricate arrangements, Emma reimagines classics like “Embraceable You” and “A Foggy Day,” balancing reverence, wit, and improvisation. Joined by versatile pianist Jamie Safir, expect vintage glamour, masterful storytelling, and top-tier musicianship.

Wednesday 8th April 2026
8.45pm (£15)
Vocal Jazz Jam
Launching February 2026, Ronnie Scott’s presents its first-ever Vocal Jazz Jam every Wednesday Upstairs, hosted by pianist Jamie Safir with rotating vocalists Natalie Williams, Emma Smith, and Georgia Cécile. This new series gives rising jazz singers a chance to shine on one of the world’s most iconic stages. Expect a high-quality showcase of London’s finest jazz voices.

Thursday 9th April 2026
5pm & 8.45pm (£30)
Piano Trio Series: Dominic J Marshall
Pianist Dominic J Marshall presents his new album Fire Breathing Lion in trio with special guests, blending jazz, electronic, classical, soul, funk, and hip-hop. Dominic, pianist for The Cinematic Orchestra since 2015, has performed worldwide, including Montreux Jazz Festival and Glastonbury, and co-wrote their hit Lessons.

Friday 10th April 2026
5pm & 8.45pm (£35)
The Bukky Leo Sextet
Bukky Leo, a veteran of London’s jazz and African music scenes, brings decades of experience from performing with Fela Kuti and Tony Allen to his Black Egypt project. His latest album, Burning Manifestation, blends straight-ahead jazz with Afrocentric grooves, featuring top London players including Seb Rochford.

Sunday 12th April 2026 *LUNCHTIME*
1pm (£40)
Cassidy Janson & Friends present All That Jazz
Olivier Award winner Cassidy Janson’s All That Jazz returns to Ronnie Scott’s for a new season of Sunday Brunch shows celebrating musical theatre classics with a jazz twist. Featuring top West End guests and a stellar live band, each show blends powerhouse vocals, intimate chat, and reimagined show tunes, plus brunch and a mimosa or two. Best known for Beautiful and Leading Ladies, Janson brings star quality to every performance.

Monday 13th April 2026
5pm & 8.45pm (£40)
Ronnie Scott’s Classical All Stars present Cinematic Sounds - Part Two: Back To the Future
The Ronnie Scott’s Classical All Stars reimagine iconic film music from the 1950s to today, featuring scores by Bernard Herrmann, John Williams, Ennio Morricone, and more. Expect virtuosity, flair, and surprising arrangements in a chamber-sized setting.

Tuesday 14th April, 2026
5pm & 8.45pm (£40)
Philippe Lemm Trio
The Philippe Lemm Trio, one of today’s most dynamic jazz groups, present Echo The Sun, an evocative album blending jazz and world rhythms. Known for their spontaneity, emotional depth, and masterful interplay, the trio reimagines standards while celebrating resilience, warmth, and the beauty of fleeting moments.

Wednesday 15th April 2026
8.45pm (£15)
Vocal Jazz Jam
Launching February 2026, Ronnie Scott’s presents its first-ever Vocal Jazz Jam every Wednesday Upstairs, hosted by pianist Jamie Safir with rotating vocalists Natalie Williams, Emma Smith, and Georgia Cécile. This new series gives rising jazz singers a chance to shine on one of the world’s most iconic stages. Expect a high-quality showcase of London’s finest jazz voices.

Thursday 16th April 2026
5pm & 8.45pm (£35)
Sumudu Jayatilaka
London-based singer-songwriter Sumudu Jayatilaka, known for performing with Burt Bacharach, Van Morrison, Sting, and Jools Holland, returns to jazz standards with her new album For All We Know. A multi-instrumentalist and sought-after session singer, Sumudu has also contributed to film and TV soundtracks including Raya and the Last Dragon and Cruella.

Friday 17th April 2026
5pm & 8.45pm (£40)
Imaani’s Soul Providence Band
British soul powerhouse Imaani, known for her work with Incognito and collaborations with Nile Rodgers and Chaka Khan, brings her band Soul Providence to Ronnie Scott’s. Expect a dynamic mix of original songs, soul classics, and fresh interpretations, delivered with her signature rich, expressive vocals.

Saturday 18th April 2026
5pm & 8.45pm (£40)
Renato Paris
BRIT School graduate Renato Paris is a rising star of the London jazz scene, blending jazz, R&B, and improvisation with soulful flair. A sought-after collaborator with artists like Moses Boyd and Maverick Sabre, he leads his own band while pushing creative boundaries as one of the UK’s most original emerging voices.

Sunday 19th April 2026
1pm – 6.45pm (£40)
Marcus Bonfanti
Award-winning singer, guitarist and songwriter Marcus Bonfanti brings his Blues Review to Ronnie Scott’s. A two-time British Blues Award winner, Bonfanti will perform music by legends like Muddy Waters, Blind Boy Fuller and Taj Mahal. With a career that’s seen him work with Eric Clapton, Van Morrison, and Ronnie Wood, expect a powerful night of blues from one of the UK’s finest.

Monday 20th April 2026
5pm & 8.45pm (£35)
Elena Urioste and Tom Poster present UriPosteJukeBox
#UriPosteJukeBox, created by Elena Urioste and Tom Poster, is an award-winning interactive concert blending classical gems, Great American Songbook arrangements, and hits from across the decades. Audiences vote on what to hear, making each show a unique, playful live jukebox experience.

Tuesday 21st April 2026
5pm & 8.45pm (£35)
DoomCannon
DoomCannon, the project of MOBO-nominated South London multi-instrumentalist Dominic Canning, presents his second album Somewhere In Between. Blending jazz, funk, and hip-hop, the deeply personal record explores self-healing, growth, and resilience with emotional honesty and powerful grooves.

Wednesday 22nd April 2026
8.45pm (£15)
Vocal Jazz Jam
Launching February 2026, Ronnie Scott’s presents its first-ever Vocal Jazz Jam every Wednesday Upstairs, hosted by pianist Jamie Safir with rotating vocalists Natalie Williams, Emma Smith, and Georgia Cécile. This new series gives rising jazz singers a chance to shine on one of the world’s most iconic stages. Expect a high-quality showcase of London’s finest jazz voices.

Thursday 23 April, 2026
5pm (£30)
Nishla Smith
Vocalist and songwriter Nishla Smith, one of UK jazz’s most distinctive voices, presents songs from her upcoming album it’s getting late you’d better go home. Blending gospel, bossa, blues, and sophisticated harmony, she’s joined by a hand-picked quintet for an evening of elegant songwriting, subtle improvisation, and luminous storytelling.

Thursday 23 April, 2026
8.45pm (£35)
Piano Trio Series: Matyas Gayer
Hungarian pianist Matyas Gayer, a two-time Montreux Jazz Piano Competition finalist, teams up with British jazz legends Dave Green (bass) and Steve Brown (drums). The trio’s repertoire blends original compositions, jazz standards, classical pieces, and Hungarian folk, showcased on their acclaimed album Westbourne Park, a Times Top 20 Jazz Album of 2024.

Friday 24th April 2026
5pm – 8.45pm (£40)
Vula
Vula, one of the UK’s most powerful and versatile vocalists, takes centre stage for a night of soul, R&B and more, joined by the stunning Music Box Strings. Known for her work with Basement Jaxx, Sam Smith, Pete Tong, and Quincy Jones, Vula also curates a popular Late Late Show residency spotlighting rising stars and surprise guests.

Saturday 25 April 2026
5pm – 8.45pm (£45)
Tony Momrelle
Tony Momrelle, former lead singer of Incognito, is one of the UK’s premier soul voices. With a rich blend of soul, jazz, and funk, and collaborations with Whitney Houston, Chaka Khan, and Sade, he delivers a timeless yet contemporary sound.

Sunday 26th April 2026
1pm & 6.45pm (£40)
Buena Vista All Stars
The Buena Vista All Stars bring the magic of Cuban music to Ronnie’s, performing son, bolero, danzón, and cha-cha-cha. Expect vibrant guitars, piano, trumpet, percussion, and passionate vocals celebrating love, longing, and life in Cuba.

Monday 27th April 2026
(£45 – £65)
Bill Evans & the Vansband
Saxophonist and producer Bill Evans, who launched his international career with Miles Davis at 21, has recorded 27 solo albums and collaborated with legends from Herbie Hancock to Mick Jagger. Leading projects like Soulgrass and the Bill Evans Band, he blends jazz, groove, and American roots, with his 2024 release Who I Am showcasing his wide-ranging musical vision.

Tuesday 28 April, 2026
5pm – 8.45pm (£35)
Rick Simpson presents Kid A Revisited
Rick Simpson’s band celebrates the 20th anniversary of Radiohead’s Kid A, performing the album in full with ten original arrangements alongside other Radiohead material. Joined by Tori Freestone, James Allsop, Dave Whitford, and Will Glaser, the project blends jazz, electronic, and inventive reinterpretations of the iconic record.

Wednesday 29th April 2026
8.45pm (£15)
Vocal Jazz Jam
Launching February 2026, Ronnie Scott’s presents its first-ever Vocal Jazz Jam every Wednesday Upstairs, hosted by pianist Jamie Safir with rotating vocalists Natalie Williams, Emma Smith, and Georgia Cécile. This new series gives rising jazz singers a chance to shine on one of the world’s most iconic stages. Expect a high-quality showcase of London’s finest jazz voices.

Thursday 30th April 2026
5pm – 8.45pm (£45)
Vanessa Haynes
One of London’s finest vocalists, Vanessa Haynes brings her powerful, soul-drenched voice to the stage with a mix of originals and classic covers. Known for fronting jazz-funk legends Incognito for over 14 years, the Trinidad-born singer has also performed with icons like Chaka Khan and Van Morrison.

Jazz in the West Midlands, January 13th - 18th 2026.

Monday, January 12, 2026

A roundup of jazz, funk & soul gigs to check out this week in the West Midlands area. Listings supplied by Dave Fuller of Music Spoken Here, Worcester.

The Week Ahead

A roundup of jazz, funk, blues and soul gigs to check out this week in the West Midlands area.



Tuesday 13

Digbeth Jazz: FORJ
The Night Owl, 17-18 Lower Trinity Street, Birmingham B9 4AG

Corner Pocket Jazz & Blues Club: Walter Smitty and the Unviables
The Westwood Club, Westwood Heath Road, Coventry CV4 8GP



Wednesday 14

Stratford Jazz: Detroitwich Funk Machine
Rother Street Arts House, 14 Rother St, Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 6LU

Bedford Street Jazz Jam with Ray Butcher
Bedford Street Bar, 4 Bedford Street, Leamington Spa CV32 5DY

Sutton Coldfield Trad Jazz Club: Tad Newton’s Jazz Friends
Boldmere Sports & Social Club, 323 Boldmere Road, Sutton Coldfield B73 5HQ

Blues Club: The Swaps // Stevie Watts // Rachel Croft
Temperance, 33 Bath St, Leamington Spa CV31 3AF

Henry Newman Jazz Experience
The Trumpet, 58 High Street, Bilston, Wolverhampton WV14 0EP



Thursday 15

Free Lunchtime Jazz: RBC Musicians
Eastside Jazz Club, Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, 200 Jennens Road, B4 7XR

Mike Hughes, Alan Jeffs, Peter Robinson, Roger Keay
Alsager Golf & Country Club, Audley Rd, Alsager Stoke-on-Trent ST7 2UR

The Jazz Room: The Heart of New Orleans
The Jam House, 3-5 St Pauls Square, Birmingham B3 1QU





Friday 16

Birmingham Jazz: Frank Harrison Trio
1000 Trades, 16 Frederick St, Birmingham B1 3HE

B:Music Free Jazz Fridays: Home/Lands
Jennifer Blackwell Performance Space, Symphony Hall, Centenary Square, Birmingham,  B1 2EA

B:Music: The Magic of Motown
Symphony Hall, Centenary Square, Birmingham,  B1 2EA

Tru Groove
The Jam House, 3-5 St Pauls Square, Birmingham B3 1QU



Saturday 17

Blues Club with Al-Bert
The Hare & Hounds, High Street, Kings Heath, Birmingham B14 7JZ

Germa Adan and Xhosa Cole
Ludlow Assembly Rooms, Market Square, Ludlow SY8 1AS

Tru Groove
The Jam House, 3-5 St Pauls Square, Birmingham B3 1QU

Downstairs at The Grand *
The Grand Hotel, 1 Church Street, Birmingham B3 2FE

Sunday 18

Jazzamatazz: Kevin Grenfell’s Jazz Giants
The Ansty Club, Grove Road, Coventry CV7 9JD

Fat Chops Big Band ft Pete Long
Yardley Wood Social Club, 118 School Road, Birmingham, B14 4JR

John Evans Jazz Experience
The Trumpet, 58 High Street, Bilston, Wolverhampton WV14 0EP

The Jazz Room: Tribute to Soul
The Jam House, 3-5 St Pauls Square, Birmingham B3 1QU

* Indicates known regular event but no lineup published by the promoter at time of writing. Click the link for latest details.

Have a great week!
Dave Fuller
Instigator, Music Spoken Here
http://www.musicspokenhere.club

Peter Slavid - ‘European Modern Jazz’ on the radio playlist,  first broadcast 11/01/2026.

Monday, January 12, 2026

Broadcaster & journalist Peter Slavid has forwarded details of the music played on his UK & European Jazz radio show on 11/01/2026, which is available via a number of UK & international radio stations

Peter Slavid writes;

Hi folks,

Happy New Year to you all!

My first show of 2026 is now available at https://www.mixcloud.com/ukjazz/first-broadcast-january-11th-2026/ and shortly on Amazon, Apple and other podcasts as “Peter’s Eurojazz Podcast”

Tres Pantalons
The Shirker
Live from the Shed
self

stefano boggiani
Sun Eats Mouth
Andvake
Losen

Kristof Bacso Triad
Mandala
Let it go
BMC

Amaury Faye Nolan Quartet
Rust
Rust
Hypnote

TOIY
Full Moon Blanket
TOIY
Aut Records

Ole Morten Vågan & Trondheim Jazz Orchestra;
Far Out Suite
This is Wuppertal
Jazzland

Vytis Nivinskas
Ritual
Rituals & Transformations
No Business Records

Ovella Negre
La Dama de Mallorca
Va De Mescles
Segell microscopi

Fink Floyd
S.O.M
We Bring Back Jazz
Trouble in the East

Jonas Sorgenfrei
Jungle After Dusk
Cracks in the Silence
Unit Records

Bévort 3
Simplicity
A Cup of Joe
self

Baptiste Herbin/ Minino Garay
Footprints
Los Arregladores
Continuo

Krugly Band Orchestra
Summertime
Porgy & Bess
Leo

European Modern Jazz on the radio;

At any time:
http://www.mixcloud.com/ukjazz.

Weekly:

http://www.hayesfm.org.uk 91.8 FM – West London Community Radio Sundays 12.00

http://www.purebeatradio.co.uk Sundays 7pm

http://www.listen.camp/ Sundays 4pm onward

Later as “Peter’s Eurojazz Podcast” on Apple, Amazon, Deezer and other podcast sites.

The Jazz Photography of William Ellis to be Celebrated in Liverpool.

Thursday, January 08, 2026

An internationally celebrated music photographer from Liverpool will be exhibiting work in his home city from 3rd February to 15th April 2026 at The Capstone Theatre Foyer. Press release attached

We have received the following press release;

The Jazz Photography of William Ellis to be Celebrated in Liverpool

NB: This photographic exhibition will run in The Capstone Theatre Foyer from Tuesday 3rd Feb - Sun 15th April 2026, coinciding with Liverpool International Jazz Festival 2026. There will be a Private View event on Thursday 26th February 2026 at 6pm with the photographer, William Ellis, in attendance.

An internationally celebrated music photographer from Liverpool will be exhibiting work in his home city this February.

William Ellis’ photographs of iconic artists have appeared in The Times, The Guardian, New Statesman and on the BBC, magazines and record covers and he is a co-author of the forthcoming book Rethinking Miles Davis published by Oxford University Press.

His work has been exhibited in the United States, Canada, Cuba, South Africa, Europe, China and the Far East. They are in numerous private collections and those of National Portrait Gallery, London, the Archive of Contemporary Music, New York, The American Jazz Museum, Kansas City MO, and on display at Birdland, New York.

His reggae project One Love, produced in his role as Visiting Research Fellow in Photographing Popular Music Culture at Birmingham City University is in the archives of the University of the West Indies, Kingston, Jamaica.

From 3rd February to 15th April 2026, Ellis’ images of musicians such as Herbie Hancock, Clark Terry and Dizzy Gillespie will be exhibited at The Capstone Theatre, coinciding with the Liverpool International Jazz Festival. Visitors will be able to see photographs of these music legends on stage, in rehearsal spaces, even in their own homes, revealing details about performance practices, instrumentation, fashion and interpersonal dynamics.

Creative Director of the Liverpool International Jazz Festival, Neil Campbell said:
“Jazz is an art form rooted in improvisation and spontaneity - photography shares this instantaneous nature of creation in capturing for us an in-the-moment impression which provides a visual context that enriches our understanding and appreciation of the music’s cultural and social environment.”

There will be a Private View event on Thursday 26th February at 6pm with William Ellis in attendance. All are welcome to attend and pre-booking is not required. For more details please visit The Capstone Theatre website.
https://capstone.hope.ac.uk/whatson/lijf-2026-song-for-my-father-the-jazz-photography-of-william-ellis.html

The Capstone Theatre
Liverpool Hope University
Creative Campus
17 Shaw Street
Liverpool
L6 1HP

Royal Albert Hall announce first season of Late Night Jazz for 2026.

Thursday, January 08, 2026

London's Royal Albert Hall has unveiled the line-up for its first season of the popular Late Night Jazz series for 2026, with 11 shows running from January through to April. Press release attached.

We have received the following press release;

Royal Albert Hall announce first season of Late Night Jazz for 2026

Following a hugely successful 2025 programme, the Royal Albert Hall has unveiled the line-up for its first season of the popular Late Night Jazz series for 2026, with 11 shows running from January through to April. Boasting everything from 13-piece big band ensembles such as The Sam Every (little) Big Band and eight-piece neo-soul groups like Orchard to intimate singer-songwriter solo artists (Gigi Wilde and HillarynxiHillarnun), the latest season continues to showcase some of the most exciting artists of the London jazz scene.

Kicking off the new year in style on Thursday 22 January is The Sam Every (little) Big Band, where the group will be celebrating the iconic Ella Fitzgerald by reimagining the songstresses’ greatest hits with their own original arrangements. The following week, on Thursday 29 January, New Zealand-born Arjuna Oakes will be taking to the Elgar Room stage with his unique blend of soul, jazz, electronica and funk following the release of his successful debut album, While I’m Distracted, last year.

Matt Todd, Director of Programming at the Royal Albert Hall, said, “This past year has seen our most diverse range of jazz sub-genres and artists yet gracing the Elgar Room stage, and this latest season shows how we intend to carry on building this legacy. We’re incredibly excited to continue providing a platform to upcoming artists such as Robyn’s Rocket and Ankora with their innovative approaches to writing and performing, while also welcoming groups like The Sam Every (little) Big Band who honour and reimagine the deep roots of jazz in their own unique way.”

Robyn’s Rocket brings her pioneering inclusive-conscious show to the Hall on Tuesday 3 February, showcasing experimental musicians from the learning disability and autism art scene, including her notorious ‘space trumpet’ – which involves creating ethereal layers of loops with her instrument mixed with various effects. Then on Valentine’s Day (Saturday 14 February), Sophia Thakur, dubbed, “the poet of this generation” by the BBC, will be blending jazz with poetry and rhythms, hot on the heels of her debut single My City, released last September.

The following week, on Thursday 19 February, ORII COMMUNITY will present a night of innovative future-jazz fusion alongside a special guest set from South London singer-songwriter Hillarynx. Closing out the month, Tom Ford will perform new material from his upcoming debut album, goodbye, forever on Thursday 26 February. Set up as a stripped back guitar-bass-drums trio, Tom will be re-interpreting the music in line with his love of 80s post-punk and new wave.

In the first of three shows curated by Sarathy Korwar this year, March sees The Forever Presence draw from the rich tradition of spiritual jazz, weaving ambient electronic textures and contemporary classical arrangements on Thursday 5 March. The meditation-inducing group have been championed by the likes of Clash Magazine, BBC 6 Music, Jazz FM, and alternative US radio stations KEXP and KCRW.

Following the release of her raw, honest, and cinematic debut project, Life at the Kitchen Table, and a recent sell-out headline performance at St Matthias Church, Gigi Wilde will bring her soulful and tender sound to the Elgar Room on Thursday 12 March. Joined by her full band, Gigi will delve into the Hall’s musical archives to bring alive music from the past, weaving compelling stories together into one evening of songs. Meanwhile, on Thursday 19 March, acclaimed jazz talent development charity Tomorrow’s Warriors will present two all-female ensembles, jazz-fusion, funk, and R&B outfit Frontline and eight-piece group Ankora, plus a special DJ set from Olivier award-winning composer and Tomorrow’s Warriors Music Leader, Romarna Campbell, as part of the Hall’s month-long celebration of International Women’s Day. The Harfoush Jazz Band, led by singer Ahmed Harfoush, will commemorate legendary Egyptian vocalist Abdel Halim Hafez under the name of their latest project titled The Egyptian Jazz Projekt on Monday 30 March where the group will be performing Hafez’s studio and film work from the 1950s and 60s in a new jazz and Latino style.

Concluding the series is eight-piece neo-soul group Orchard on Thursday 9 April, as they celebrate the launch of their second EP. The group’s music melds heavy grooves, warm horn lines and blistering improvisation, which saw their 2025 debut EP, Where We’re Calling From, gain support from Soweto Kinch’s on BBC Radio 3 show Round Midnight, and YolanDa Brown on Jazz FM.

Tickets for The Egyptian Jazz Projekt will be available on Friday 9 January. Tickets for all other Late Night Jazz shows are now available from the Royal Albert Hall website.
https://www.royalalberthall.com/tickets/calendar?Venue=Elgar+Room

Listings info:

Royal Albert Hall
Kensington Gore
London SW7 2AP
http://www.royalalberthall.com / 020 7589 8212

Late Night Jazz: The Sam Every (little) Big Band
Elgar Room
Thu 22 Jan, 9:30pm
Tickets: £15

Late Night Jazz: Arjuna Oakes
Elgar Room
Thu 29 Jan, 9:30pm
Tickets: £15

Late Night Jazz: Robyn’s Rocket
Elgar Room
Tue 3 Feb, 8pm
Tickets: Pay What You Can - £5/£10/£15

Late Night Jazz: Sophia Thakur
Elgar Room
Sat 14 Feb, 9pm
Tickets: £15

Late Night Jazz: ORII COMMUNITY and Hillarynx
Elgar Room
Thu 19 Feb, 9:30pm
Tickets: £15

Late Night Jazz: Tom Ford
Elgar Room
Thu 26 Feb, 9:30pm
Tickets: £15

Late Night Jazz: The Forever Presence (curated by Sarathy Korwar)
Elgar Room
Thu 5 Mar, 9:30pm
Tickets: £15

Late Night Jazz: Gigi Wilde
Elgar Room
Thu 12 Mar, 9:30pm
Tickets: £15

Late Night Jazz: Ankora and Tomorrow’s Warriors Frontline
Elgar Room
Thu 19 Mar, 8pm
Tickets: £15

Late Night Jazz: The Egyptian Jazz Projekt (with Arts Canteen)
Elgar Room
Mon 30 Mar, 9:30pm
Tickets: £15

Late Night Jazz: Orchard
Elgar Room
Thu 9 Apr, 9:30pm
Tickets: £15

About the Royal Albert Hall
The Royal Albert Hall is the world’s most famous stage. For 154 years, it has played host to legendary artists, from Giuseppe Verdi to Beyonce.

Chesterfield Jazz Club - Programme for January to June 2026

Thursday, January 08, 2026

Chesterfield Jazz Club has announced its programme for the first half of 2026. Performers include Martin Speake, Terri Shaltiel, Karen Sharp, Caroline Boaden, Pat McCarthy, Tommaso Starace.

Wendy Kirkland of Chesterfield Jazz Club writes;

All concerts for the first half of the year are on the http://www.ticketsource.co.uk/wendykirkland page, with descriptions of our artists. It’s a great mix of favourite and fresh artists to the club: Martin Speake, Karen Sharp, Pat McCarthy and Tomasso Starace are making a comeback while Terri Shaltiel and Caroline Boaden are playing for you, our wonderful audience for the first time.
The word has got out about the quality of the reception and experience for musicians and I’m getting more enquiries from them than ever! We can only offer 12 slots a year so have to choose carefully….

See http://www.ticketsource.co.uk/wendykirkland for dates and musician biographies.

From;
https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/wendykirkland

Chesterfield Jazz Club presents Martin Speake, saxophone
Olde House Chesterfield
Chesterfield
Thu 15 Jan 2026, 8:00PM

Chesterfield Jazz Club presents Terri Shaltiel, vocalist
Olde House Chesterfield
Chesterfield
Thu 19 Feb 2026, 8:00PM

Chesterfield Jazz Club presents Karen Sharp, saxophone
Olde House Chesterfield
Chesterfield
Thu 19 Mar 2026, 8:00PM

Chesterfield Jazz Club presents Caroline Boaden, drums
Olde House Chesterfield
Chesterfield
Thu 16 Apr 2026, 8:00PM

Chesterfield Jazz Club presents Pat McCarthy, guitar
Olde House Chesterfield
Chesterfield
Thu 21 May 2026, 8:00PM

Chesterfield Jazz Club presents Tommaso Starace, saxophone
Olde House Chesterfield
Chesterfield
Thu 18 Jun 2026, 8:00PM

Tickets are available online now, but if you prefer a physical ticket, these will be at Parson’s and Dunn newsagents, Chatsworth Road, across from Lidl

http://www.chesterfieldjazz.com

Guildford Jazz - Programme for February 2026.

Wednesday, January 07, 2026

Mick Thomas has forwarded details of forthcoming events at Guildford Jazz. Performers include Steve Waterman, Denny Ilett, Pete Long, Jo Harrop.

Mick Thomas writes;

Steve Waterman Trio at Guildford Jazz,The Guildford Institute, Guildford, Surrey
Date: Monday, February 2, 2026
More details
Steve Waterman Trio
Monday 2 Feb from 14.00 to 15.00 (doors open 12.00) at the Guildford Institute, Ward St, Guildford GU1 4LH
This year marks the centenary of the birth of Miles Davis and our featured guest is Steve Waterman, one of the UK’s top jazz trumpet players and for whom Miles was a critical influence. The winner of numerous British Jazz awards, Steve has worked with such jazz luminaries as John Surman, Carla Bley, Andy Sheppard, Tony Coe and Don Weller and has also recorded many critically acclaimed CDs. Joining Steve will be Alex Hutton on piano and Marianne Windham on bass.
For more details and to book tickets visit https://www.guildfordjazz.org.uk

Denny Ilett & Pete Long’s R & B.Bop at Guildford Jazz, The Guildford Pavilion, Guildford, Surrey
Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2026
More details
Denny Ilett & Pete Long’s R & B.Bop
Wednesday 11 Feb from 20.00 to 22.15 (doors open 19.00) at the Guildford Pavilion, Woodbridge Rd, Guildford GU1 4RP
Guitarist/vocalist Denny Ilett has worked with leading US & UK stars, such as James Brown’s saxophonist Pee-Wee Ellis and members of Goldfrapp, Portishead &
Mannfred Mann. Saxophonist/singer Pete Long’s CV includes work with Jools Holland, Tom Jones and Lionel Richie. These master musicians join forces in a new and exciting band, blending the Bebop of Charlie Parker with the Rhythm & Blues of T-Bone Walker and Louis Jordan to produce a treasure-trove of captivating rhythms and intoxicating melodies.
For more details and to book tickets visit https://www.guildfordjazz.org.uk

Jo Harrop at Guildford Jazz, The Guildford Pavilion, Guildford, Surrey
Date: Thursday, February 26, 2026
More details
Jo Harrop
Thursday 26 Feb from 20.00 to 22.15 (doors open 19.00) at the Guildford Pavilion, Woodbridge Rd, Guildford GU1 4RP
A welcome return to the Pavilion for world-class jazz vocalist Jo Harrop, renowned for her achingly beautiful music delivered in a warm, smoky voice that’s said to be
able to “melt even the chilliest of hearts” Jo has received rapturous reviews for her first four albums, including winning ‘Album of the Year’ at the 2023 Parliamentary
Jazz Awards, and has graced some of the world’s most prestigious stages, including The Royal Albert Hall and The Lincoln Centre in New York.
For more details and to book tickets visit https://www.guildfordjazz.org.uk

Saxophonist Oscar Lavën unleashes Elegant Calamity.

Wednesday, January 07, 2026

Saxophonist and multi-instrumentalist Oscar Lavën releases Elegant Calamity, the follow-up to his internationally admired debut, Questions in Red, on Thick Records on Friday 16th January 2026.

We have received the following press release;

Saxophonist Oscar Lavën unleashes Elegant Calamity

Saxophonist and multi-instrumentalist Oscar Lavën releases Elegant Calamity, the follow-up to his internationally admired debut, Questions in Red, on Thick Records on Friday 16th January 2026.

An effervescent presence on New Zealand’s currently vital jazz scene, Lavën (pronounced Lah-venn) is a double graduate from the New Zealand School of Music and brings his degrees in jazz and classical music to bear on both the music and the personnel featured on Elegant Calamity.

“I wrote Elegant Calamity in pursuit of a sound that allows the personalities of the eclectic mix of musicians to shine through,” he says. “These players represent different corners of the vibrant New Zealand art music scene and I hope listeners around the globe will be able to appreciate this through this album.”

Bringing together string players alongside woodwinds, brass and a five-piece rhythm section, Lavën has produced what he describes as “music that blends forward-facing boldness with a certain shade of cinematic nostalgia”.

Influences including trumpeter Dizzy Gillespie’s Afro-Cuban experiments, Ennio Morricone’s atmospheric film soundtracks and bandoneon master Astor Piazzolla’s nuevo tango can be detected, as can the sophistication of Duke Ellington’s jazz orchestra and bassist Charles Mingus’ mighty gospel-infused excitement.

The compositions were made possible through trumpeter Michael Costeloe’s groundbreaking Jazz Orchestra Composer Series, which offers musicians both freedom to create imaginatively and a platform to perform. Elegant Calamity was recorded live at the intimate Bedlam & Squalor venue in Wellington with the audience needing little encouragement to become involved. It was engineered and mastered by Alistair Isdale.

“This was a very spirited, joyful process from beginning to end,” says Lavën. “I hope people will enjoy listening to Elegant Calamity as much as we enjoyed playing it.”

Famous blues club launches weekly live gigs at Black Country indoor market.

Wednesday, January 07, 2026

Henry’s Blueshouse will be running the weekly gigs at West Bromwich Indoor Market from Friday 16 January, with Rich Dickinson's Driving Force lined up for the official launch. Press release attached.

We have received the following press release;

Famous blues club launches weekly live gigs at Black Country indoor market

A famous blues club is launching a free night of live music at a Black Country indoor market every Friday to help support the local night-time economy.

Henry’s Blueshouse will be running the weekly gigs at West Bromwich Indoor Market on Friday 16 January, with Rich Dickinson’s Driving Force lined up for the official launch.

The live music will play from 7 to 10pm and stallholders will stay open until 9pm to offer tasty street food, cocktails and other drinks to make sure the audience don’t go hungry or thirsty.

The roots of Henry’s Blueshouse stretch back to 1968 when Jim Simpson of Big Bear Music opened it at The Crown pub on Station Street in Birmingham city centre.

The legendary venue’s most famous early band was Earth, whose members Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi, Geezer Edwards and Bill Ward went on to form Black Sabbath, initially managed by Mr Simpson.

The club, which also once featured the likes of Jethro Tull, Status Quo, and Thin Lizzy, already runs live gigs every Tuesday at Snobs Bar on Broad Street, Birmingham.

Mr Simpson said:
“We’re thrilled to be extending Henry’s to the Black Country and look forward to seeing music fans join us every Friday. A big thanks to Sandwell Council for forming this new partnership with us to bring regular live blues to West Bromwich High Street. We already have a great line-up of bands for January and February, and will soon have bookings stretching into the spring and beyond.”

Councillor Peter Hughes, Sandwell Council’s cabinet member for Regeneration and Infrastructure, said:
“We were really proud to open the new West Bromwich Indoor Market in 2025 and to welcome many thousands of visitors eager to discover the fantastic range of stalls and items on offer. Supporting businesses big and small is a key part of this, and we’re excited to have these music events with Henry’s Blueshouse coming soon on Friday evenings, to entertain visitors and create a wonderful, inviting atmosphere for everyone.”

Henry’s Blueshouse will run at West Bromwich Indoor Market from 7 to 10pm every Friday, with live blues, street food and drinks available. The bands appearing in January and February are:

    16 January: Rich Dickinson’s Driving Force

    23 January: Jamie Thyer & The Worried Men

    30 January: Slide Boy Roy

    6 February: The Shufflepack

    13 February: Honeyboy Hickling Blues Band

    20 February: The Shakedown Brothers

    27 February: Chickenbone Blues Band

The first band on 16 January is led by Rich Dickinson, who has a long pedigree in the blues industry and has toured with many big names including Blackfoot, Frank Marino’s Mahogany Rush and Skinny Molly. Rich also helped launch the Hendrix Signature series Marshall amp, based on Jimi’s original that he owned.

For full listings of Henry’s Blueshouse gigs, and to sign up to a weekly Henry’s Bluesletter, visit http://www.bigbearmusic.com/hbhouse/.

Knats - new single and UK tour dates January - May 2026.

Saturday, January 03, 2026

Newcastle contemporary jazz act Knats have released a new single "Take A Seat On The Settee" and will be performing live around the UK from February to May. Press release attached.

We have received the following press release;

KNATS COLLABORATE WITH GEORDIE NOISE ROCK BAND LOTS OF HAND FOR NEW SINGLE “TAKE A SEAT ON THE SETTEE” OUT VIA GEARBOX RECORDS
RECENTLY ON TOUR WITH GEORDIE GREEP (BLACK MIDI) + EDDIE CHACON

“jaw-dropping brilliance” - Jazzwise

“For all the ink spilt over the UK jazz renaissance, it’s been notable that most of the scene’s activity to date has been confined to London. Offering an overdue corrective is Knats” - Uncut

“they gleefully rewire jazz with a hard-as-nails rhythm section, drum’n’bass energy and punk aggression.” - The Guardian

“Though Knats currently live in London, they do not play London jazz. They’re from the West End of Newcastle upon Tyne, in the far north of the U.K., and pride themselves on playing Newcastle’s homegrown Geordie jazz, known for its deep, danceable drum’n‘bass grooves and infectious, aggressive melodies.” - DownBeat

“an inventive collection of sophisticated horn-led grooves enhanced by piquant funk, Latin, classical, and drum and bass elements” - Record Collector

“there is an honesty and dynamism to this music that is likely to put Newcastle firmly on the map as a source of exciting new jazz sounds.” - Jazz Journal

Newcastle Upon Tyne jazz trailblazers Knats have released a new single titled “Take a Seat on the Settee”. The new song comes on the heels of an incendiary year for the band which includes releasing their critically acclaimed debut album via Gearbox Records (Cahill//Costello, Liza Lo, Abdullah Ibrahim, Elliot Galvin), as well as supporting Geordie Greep (black midi) and playing as the backing band for R&B legend Eddie Chacon on UK tours. They also played a sold out Jazz Refreshed headliner, supported Str4ta at a sold Jazz Cafe, performed at the BBC Proms, and recently collaborated with Mike Keat of The Cuban Brothers and Simon Bartholomew of The Brand New Heavies on a track titled “Beauty & The Beast (Peace)”.

This latest track sees the quintet collaborating with local Geordie noise-rock pals lots of hands, and once again highlights the scope of their compositional chops. Written by Knats’ Stanley Elvis Woodward, “Take a Seat on the Settee” is a tongue in cheek, genre-fluid piece combining elements of warped orchestral art-rock with harmonic ideas from the likes of Satie and Shoenburg. The result is something equal parts surreal and seductive, as warbled vocals dance around explosive horn and sax breakouts, uncanny keys, hazy guitar lines, and deceptively intricate drums. Speaking about the storyline Woodward says it “details a lad telling his mam about all the naughty stuff he did when he was younger.”

HEAR / SHARE “TAKE A SEAT ON THE SETTEE” HERE
https://bfan.link/take-a-seat-on-the-settee

Led by two lifelong best friends from Newcastle, Stan Woodward (bass) and King David-Ike Elechi (drums), Knats pride themselves on making “Geordie Jazz”, with sophisticated arrangements, strong melodies and danceable grooves. The band have developed an enviable word-of-mouth ascent, as well as earning Spotify playlist covers and plaudits from the likes of the Guardian, Jazzwise, Record Collector, Uncut, DownBeat, MOJO, and more. Their recent debut album marked the beginning of the Knats’ sound, proper. It is a materialisation of the musical journey Stan and King have been on together over the past 10 years, drawn directly from their experiences growing up in the West End of Newcastle upon Tyne—overcoming hardship and figuring things out on their own. Eventually, they found their missing link: the virtuosic young Geordie trumpet player, Ferg Kilsby, who, with his slick melodic ideas, completes the full sound that is Knats.

In its entirety, their album is dedicated to Knats’ loved ones; Stan’s composition and recent single “Tortuga (For me Mam)” shows his love and appreciation of his Mam, while “Se7en”, a darker tune, expresses his emotional relationship with his Dad, formerly “DJ Se7en”. “Adaeze” is a tribute to King’s late sister, taken from a gospel folk tune, incorporating West African percussive breaks and instrumentation. Acting as a message to all those who may know someone suffering with mental health to check on those around them and be that helping hand they might need.

The Knats album represents many things, but most importantly that Newcastle is not to be overlooked.

“Knats” is out now via Gearbox Records
https://knats.bandcamp.com/album/knats

Single credits:
Composed - Stanley Elvis Woodward
Words - King David Ike Elechi/Cooper Robson/Billy Woodhouse
Vocals - Billy Woodhouse/ Elliot Dryden
Bass/Guitar - Stanley Elvis Woodward
Drums - King David Ike-Elechi
Trumpet/Flugalhorn - Ferg Kilsby
Tenor Saxophone - George Johnson
Piano/Keys/Synth - Sandro Shargorodsky
Recorded - Blast Studios by Andy Bell
Mixed - Andy Bell

TOUR DATES;

21 Jan – 100 Club Jazz Festival, London, UK
22 Apr – The Hope & Ruin, Brighton, UK
23 Apr – Voodoo Daddy’s, Norwich, UK
24 Apr – Where Else, Margate, UK
27 Apr – Quarry, Liverpool, UK
28 Apr – The Copper Bar at Band On The Wall, Manchester, UK
29 Apr – Hyde Park Book Club, Leeds, UK
30 Apr – Hare & Hounds, Birmingham, UK
01 May – The Glad Café, Glasgow, UK

https://x.com/knatsncl

https://www.instagram.com/knatsncl/

https://www.facebook.com/knatsncl/?_rdr

Derby Jazz - Concert Programme for January, February and March 2026.

Saturday, January 03, 2026

Derby Jazz has announced three headline concert events for early 2026 with performances by Charlotte Keeffe's Right Here Right Now, Josephine Davies' Satori w. Alcyona Mick, and The Pocket Ellington.

We have received the following information;

Three great gigs at Derby Jazz this January, February and March

FRIDAY JANUARY 16th
Charlotte Keefe’s
RIGHT HERE, RIGHT NOW
Chapel Street Arts
Chapel Street DE1 3GU
£15 tickets available on the door.
‘Charlotte Keeffe is one of the most exciting improvisers in the UK, and her shows are in equal parts energetically joyous and delicately moving’ ~ Cheltenham Jazz Festival
Charlotte Keefe - Sound Brushes (trumpet & flugelhorn) + compositions
Ashley John Long - double bass
Ben Handysides - drums
Moss Freed - guitar
Charlotte Keeffe’s RIGHT HERE, RIGHT NOW is a breeding ground for squelchy, sploshy, splashy music-making ~ a space where gestures, textures, colours, and emotions are continuously unearthed! Her passionate approach to freely improvising music has been described by the UK’s biggest selling Jazz magazine, Jazzwise, as ‘avant grade for all!’
Keeffe is inspired by abstract paintings and describes her trumpet and flugelhorn as Sound Brushes. ‘Keeffe shows notable strength of character as she runs the sonic and emotional gamut…’ ~ Kevin Le Gendre, Jazzwise

FRIDAY FEBRUARY 13th
Josephine Davies SATORI with Alcyona Mick
Chapel Street Arts
Chapel Street DE1 3GU
£15 tickets available on the door.
SATORI (Josephine Davies;tenor saxophone, Dave Whitford;bass, James Maddren;drums) with the addition of Alcyona Mick;piano is an exciting and dynamic band with exceptional abilities of collaborative free-play and improvisation. They have a great advantage over many bands in the exceptional beauty of Josephine’s compostions
The band’s live sets currently feature music from their fourth album 2024’s “Weatherworks”. Compositions inspired by her roots in the Shetland Islands.
“Definitely a band to watch.” ★★★★1/2 (Downbeat Magazine)
​“Winning immediacy.” ★★★★ (Mojo Magazine)
​“Refreshingly imaginative and invigorating.” (All About Jazz)
​“Inventive, Lyrical.” (Jazzwise Magazine)
​“Spiritual, Spiralling, Joyful.” (UK Vibe)
​“Fluent, Imaginative.” ★★★★ (The Jazz Mann)
​“Irrepressible Tunefulness.” (Downbeat Magazine)
​“Highly recommended.” (Culture Jazz FR)

FRIDAY MARCH 13th
The POCKET ELLINGTON with Tony Kofi, Alan Barnes & Dave Green
Chapel Street Arts
Chapel Street DE1 3GU
£25 tickets available on the door.
The Duke Ellington Orchestra was one the pillars on which the house of jazz was built. Born out of saxophonist Tony Kofi and pianist, arranger Alex Webb’s shared love of that music, The Pocket Ellington manages what ought to be impossible – creating a classic Ellingtonian sound with just four horns and a rhythm section. But with the help of Alan Barnes, veteran bassist Dave Green and powerhouse drummer Winston Clifford this band delivers. Great charts from the 1930s and 1940s – Main Stem, Rain Check, Cotton Tail, Chelsea Bridge and others – are presented in clever new arrangements which evoke the period but also offer solo space to these top-flight musicians. The repertoire also includes pieces from artists and arrangers who were influenced by the Duke – Charles Mingus, Thelonious Monk and Gil Evans. It’s a big sound from a pocket band.
Alex Webb (piano)
Tony Kofi (tenor sax)
Alan Barnes (alto and baritone saxes, clarinet)
Simon Finch (trumpet)
Davis Lalljee (trombone)
Dave Green (bass)
Winston Clifford (drums)

Tickets via;
https://mjazz.co.uk/derby-jazz-whats-on/

See also;

https://www.facebook.com/Derbyjazz

https://www.instagram.com/derby.jazz/

https://x.com/derbyjazz

The Green Note, Camden Town, London - Newsletter 02/01/2026.

Friday, January 02, 2026

The Green Note has forwarded its latest newsletter with details of its full programme for January 2026.

January Highlights

Hello Green Note Music Lovers,

Happy New Year and welcome to 2026!  We hope you had a wonderful festive break and are ready for another year of incredible live music! We’re excited to reopen tomorrow and we’re kicking the year off at Green Note with a fantastic couple of weeks of performances, bringing together artists from across the world for intimate, unforgettable shows. We’re proud that our small stage is host to such an international line-up, and this month in particular we have a truly global offering for you!

Highlights include the extraordinary meeting of Senegalese kora master KADIALY KOUYATE and Chinese pipa virtuso GAO HONG (Tue 6th Jan) - following the success of their 2023 collaborative album - praised with a 5-star review from Songlines and winner of two Gold Medals at the Global Music Awards - the duo brings their spellbinding fusion of West African and Chinese classical traditions to our stage for their first UK show!

We’re delighted to welcome back genre-blending MAYDAN ENSEMBLE (Fri 9th Jan), who blend modern jazz with Arabic, Anatolian and Persian folk music. We’re also thrilled to welcome back the exuberant Eastern European gypsy-jazz of DUNAJSKA KAPELYE (Fri 16th Jan), alongside fiddle-led folk music from the mountains of America from JOE MANSFIELD & THE TEMPERANCE TWO (Fri 16th Jan). Later in the month our stage plays host to Argentinian tango from the heart of Finland with the LITTLE HEART FINNISH TANGO ORCHESTRA (Fri 23rd Jan), and the joyful harmonies and vintage roots sounds of THE TRAVELLING JANES (Sat 24th Jan). As always, we recommend booking early to avoid disappointment.

This is just a selection of the many incredible artists who will be gracing our Green Note stage(s) in the coming weeks, so please do check out our EVENTS PAGE for the full listings. 

And if you can’t decide what to book for, check out our SPOTIFY PLAYLIST for a taster of what’s coming up in January!
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1ka7XfxK5AsTrZexoDUIMf?si=PswIlisSQSWDIFX6vNQK4A&nd=1&dlsi=7fa0199c0d944fea

We still have some special limited edition merch available in our Green Note online shop - from T-shirts and hoodies to mugs, tea towels, posters and more! These items are only being made once - when they’re gone, they’re gone (some items are already sold out!) so grab them quick!
https://www.greennote.co.uk/shop/

And if you don’t yet have plans for this weekend, we still have some tickets left for top London-based New Orleans jazz & R&B outfit TIM PENN & THE SECOND LINE - a brilliant way to kick off the New Year!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nGp4jeh-PAw

We hope to see you soon!
Lots of love,
Immy & Risa xx

COMING UP IN THE NEXT COUPLE OF WEEKS…

Tim Penn
& The Second Line
Sat 3rd January
A heady gumbo of of things Louisianan! Featuring the music of Fats Domino , Dr John, Allen Toussaint and Professor Longhair and more!

Heidi Vogel
Sat 3rd January
THE BASEMENT BAR
“Surely one of the great jazz voices of modern times” Vamos London
**SOLD OUT**

BERNARD BUTLER
Sun 4th January
Bernard returns to much-loved Green Note to continue annual tradition and as an opportunity to try new songs and new directions.
**SOLD OUT**

BERNARD BUTLER
Mon 5th January
Second date added due to popular demand!
**SOLD OUT**

Kadialy Kouyate
+ Gao Hong
Tue 6th January
An evening of intricate interplay, storytelling, and a genre-defying blend of traditions that bridge continents and celebrate the universal language of music.

Noum
Wed 7th January
Mixing originals with heavily adapted trad songs from throughout Europe and the Mediterranean, weaving in storytelling that engages, amuses and connects.

Josh Flowers
+ Amelia Coburn
Thu 8th January
Returning musician sings songs for the long ride home, driven by storytelling, humour and nostalgia

Thor Jensen
Thu 8th January
THE BASEMENT BAR
Thor’s solo show is a product of his journey to the present. The songs presented are a mix of his original material and songs from some of his favourite songwriters and composers.

Maydan Ensemble
Fri 9th January
The Maydan Ensemble of the North London Jazz Collective is a special new quartet that blends modern jazz with Arabic, Anatolian and Persian folk music

Cellicious
Fri 9th January
THE BASEMENT BAR
Enjoy this Cellicious ride from originals to Be bop to the Blues and Bach again!

Lana Shelley
Sat 10th January
Unique, warm, chocolate sauce Jazz-infused vocals, straight to the point lyrics and upbeat groovy band are guaranteed to leave you buoyant and full of good time, soul energy!

Bandini
Sat 10th January
THE BASEMENT BAR
Jazz, blues, rock and gypsy incorporated into a unique sound… “The bastard son of Tom Waits and Cab Calloway”

Danny Addison
Sun 11th January
Blending elements of alt-rock with cinematic soundscapes, along with evocative storytelling and unique cadence

Harry Diplock Sessions
Sun 11th January
THE BASEMENT BAR
The music of Django Reinhardt and Stephane Grappelli… Joined monthly by some of the best gypsy jazz musicians from across Europe, come for an evening of improvisation and surprises!

The Beadling
Tue 13th January
THE BASEMENT BAR
Expect adventures into seventeenth century broadside ballads, traditional English, Medieval, and Nordic folk music.

Ren Harvieu
& Romeo Stodart
Tue 13th January
Expect a rich tapestry of brand new material woven with reimagined favourites from their own catalogues, a chance to experience two kindred spirits share their craft and chemistry with honesty, humour, and heart

Ren Harvieu
& Romeo Stodart
Wed 14th January
Expect a rich tapestry of brand new material woven with reimagined favourites from their own catalogues, a chance to experience two kindred spirits share their craft and chemistry with honesty, humour, and heart
**SOLD OUT**

Candidate
Thu 15th January
Compared to the Go-Betweens and the Beta Band, Stewart Lee favourites CANDIDATE have been described by Q Magazine as ‘the bridge between lo-fi Americana and archaic Britfolk.’

Phoebe & Tom
Thu 15th January
THE BASEMENT BAR
With playful melodies, sharp lyricism and an undercurrent of mischief, the duo blend folk-inspired harmonies with jazz-inflected twists in performances filled with humour, heart and a touch of the dreamlike.

Dunajska Kapelye
Fri 16th January
Traditional Gypsy and Eastern European tunes shot through with searing jazz improvisation…

Joe Mansfield & the Temperance Two
Fri 16th January
THE BASEMENT BAR
Driving fiddle-led folk music from the mountains of America

Matinée Show: Rebet Asker-Greek Roots Series
Sat 17th January
Greek Rebetiko… a series of songs from a selection of the greatest Greek composers…

The Vagaband
Sat 17th January
Extraordinary blend of Americana, toe-tapping folk-jazz and soulful rock… “constantly delights and surprises…” ***** Americana in Technicolour

Dom Pipkin
Sat 17th January
THE BASEMENT BAR
“One of the worlds’s finest exponents of the music of New Orleans…. a true piano talent” Blues In Britain magazine

Open-mic hosted by Rob Thom
Sun 18th January
Well-established, relaxed and friendly open mic…

Kav Temperley
Sun 18th January
The unmistakable voice of Eskimo Joe, brings an intimate evening of songs and stories to Green Note in London.

Sam Casey Quartet
Sun 18th January
THE BASEMENT BAR
A chordless jazz quartet playing swinging standards

Matt Tighe & Tad Sargent
Mon 19th January
Highly acclaimed duo on the traditional and Irish music scene

Tavi Nights
Mon 19th January
THE BASEMENT BAR
A night that brings poets and musicians into a shared space of expression, healing, and celebration

The Kimberleys
Tue 20th January
‘Even if you think you know a song inside out you’ll find something here to make you think again‘ – Folking.com

Maria Mihailik
Tue 20th January
THE BASEMENT BAR
A musical blend of folk styles and contemporary themes in a confessional, intimate way.

Rose Cousins
Wed 21st January
“The simplicity of these songs is deceiving; as sparse as they feel, her voice draws you in until you realize you are at the heart of the storm.” The Guardian

Jaz Delorean
Wed 21st January
THE BASEMENT BAR
Tankus the Henge frontman presents his solo work, taking inspiration from bar-room piano players of the Old West, the mournful melodies of his Cypriot ancestry and a patchwork of comic and tragic stories

Carus Thompson
Thu 22nd January
“A treasure in the Australian musical landscape” The Dwarf, Australia

Jaz Delorean
Thu 22nd January
THE BASEMENT BAR
Tankus the Henge frontman presents his solo work, taking inspiration from bar-room piano players of the Old West, the mournful melodies of his Cypriot ancestry and a patchwork of comic and tragic stories

Little Heart Finnish Tango Orchestra
Fri 23rd January
Celebrating the journey of the sinuous rhythms of Argentinian Tango music from the steamy nightclubs of Buenos Aires to the cool shades of the Finnish pinewoods…

Matt Holborn Trio
Fri 23rd January
THE BASEMENT BAR
Join violinist Matt Holborn and his trio for an evening of swinging jazz violin

The Travelling Janes
Sat 24th January
All-women international ensemble bringing the joyful roots of jazz and blues back to life!

The FoBo Jug Band
Sat 24th January
THE BASEMENT BAR
A ragtime country-blues outfit sure to get your feet stomping!

Matinée: Robb Johnson
Sun 25th January
“Britain’s finest songwriter since Richard Thompson” (Venue) / “An English original” (Robin Denselow, The Guardian).

Showman and Coole
Sun 25th January
A unique evening of old-time fiddle tunes and original songs inspired by bluegrass and folk.

Webb City
Sun 25th January
THE BASEMENT BAR
Celebrates the early piano trio line up featuring rhythm guitar in place of drums, united by a joint love for the trios of Oscar Peterson, Nat ‘King’ Cole trio and Art Tatum

Open-mic hosted by Rob Thom
Tue 27th January
Well-established, relaxed and friendly open mic…

Daniel Cainer
Wed 28th January
‘An extraordinary performer. Laugh-out-loud funny, heartbreakingly poignant, utterly charming, highly recommended’ Edinburgh Festivals Guide

Beth Keeping
Thu 29th January
Pop songs with all the storytelling goodness of country. An cosy evening of music from Beth’s new EP ‘coming into the light’

Bossa Nova - Tribute to João Gilberto by Mario Bakuna
Thu 29th January
THE BASEMENT BAR
A concert dedicated to João Gilberto - the “father of Bossa Nova”

Mazaika Duo
Fri 30th January
A unique, humorous and uplifting take on Russian Folk and Gypsy, Tango, Klezmer, Gypsy Jazz, Balkan Beat, and more!

Ewan Bleach
Fri 30th January
THE BASEMENT BAR
1920s and 30s jazz and blues

Pagoda Project
Sat 31st January
​Inspired by the folk traditions of the UK, this is music and song cut through with experimentation, boldness, humour and risk

Congo Faith Healers
Sat 31st January
Down and dirty savage swamp infested gypsy blues

Green Note, 106 Parkway, London, NW1 7AN

http://www.greennote.co.uk

Marcus Bonfanti
Sat 31st January
THE BASEMENT BAR
“Utterly spellbinding” The Times / “The next British blues guitar hero” The Guardian

SMOKE Jazz Club, New York City - Programme for January 2026.

Thursday, January 01, 2026

SMOKE Jazz Club has announced its schedule for January 2026. Performers include Joshua Redman, Brad Mehldau, Cyrus Chestnut, Carla Cook, Nicholas Payton, Buster Williams, Lenny White.

We have received the following press release;

SMOKE Jazz Club Kickstarts the New Year with Joshua Redman Quartet, Leading Pianists Brad Mehldau and Cyrus Chestnut, and More

Joshua Redman Quartet (Jan 7-11)

Brad Mehldau (Jan 14-15)

Brad Mehldau Trio (Jan 16-18)

Cyrus Chestnut Trio with special guest Carla Cook (Jan 21-25)

Steinway Spiriocast @ SMOKE with Cyrus Chestnut Solo Piano (Jan 25)

Nicholas Payton / Buster Williams / Lenny White (Jan 28-Feb 1)

NEW YORK, NY — Hailed as the “#1 Jazz Club in New York City (SecretNYC),” SMOKE Jazz Club today announced an exciting line-up to kickstart the New Year starting with the highly anticipated club debut of Joshua Redman leading his stellar Quartet (Jan 7-11). The month continues with two of today’s leading pianists in rare solo and trio performances: Brad Mehldau (Jan 14-18) and Cyrus Chestnut (Jan 21-25). SMOKE’s new Steinway Spiriocast concert series continues with a Sunday afternoon solo piano show by Cyrus Chestnut on Steinway’s Spirio | r grand piano.

January 2026 also marks the introduction of SMOKE’s earlier evening showtimes. Under the new schedule, first sets will begin at 6:00 p.m., with second sets following at 8:00 p.m., and the additional Friday and Saturday third sets at 10:00 p.m. For the complete and most updated January schedule, please visit http://www.smokejazz.com. As always, all Friday night concerts are livestreamed!

About SMOKE
Located on Manhattan’s Upper West Side at the junction of Broadway and 106th Street (aka Duke Ellington Boulevard), Smoke Jazz Club is one of New York City’s premier live music venues. Renowned for offering top-notch programming of accessible, timeless jazz featuring legendary performers, modern masters, and rising stars, Smoke stands apart with its candlelit dining room, stellar acoustics, and classic American cuisine. Founded in 1999, SMOKE also boasts a GRAMMY-nominated label, Smoke Sessions Records, and a celebrated streaming concert series, Smoke Screens.

JANUARY 2026 @ SMOKE Jazz Club
(schedule subject to change)
When: Wednesday-Sunday @ 6:00 p.m. + 8:00 p.m. and additional 10:00 p.m. (Fri & Sat only). Doors open at 4:00 p.m. (unless otherwise noted).
Where: SMOKE Jazz Club, 2751 Broadway (between 105/106th Streets), New York, NY, Train: 1 to 103rd Street.
Tickets: General $25+. Livestream $15 (Fri only). For more information and to make reservations, please visit http://www.smokejazz.com.

Wed-Sun Jan 7-11 JOSHUA REDMAN QUARTET SMOKE Jazz Club debut
Joshua Redman – tenor saxophone
Paul Cornish – piano
Philip Norris – bass
Nazir Ebo – drums
Joshua Redman has been such a brilliant saxophone improviser for more than three decades that his unerring flawlessness at a spontaneous art almost becomes a tic. – The Guardian
Joshua Redman leads his acclaimed new quartet in an auspicious SMOKE debut. This group features pianist Paul Cornish, bassist Phillip Norris, and drummer Nazir Ebo. Redman is an artist who resonates deeply in the jazz world as a gifted improviser, a charismatic performer, and an insightful thinker on the nature and meaning of music. After graduating summa cum laude from Harvard University, Redman deferred plans for law school and moved to New York City, immersing himself once again in the world of the arts. Here he worked with some of the greatest musicians of all time – Charlie Haden, Elvin Jones, Jack DeJohnette, Joe Lovano, McCoy Tyner, Clark Terry, Milt Jackson, and his father, Dewey Redman, to name just a few. In 1991, he won the Monk Competition, which served as a launching pad for a remarkable and vibrant career over the past 30-plus years.
His latest Blue Note album, Words Fall Short, is an exciting new chapter in his story, featuring his latest compositions and this quartet. Everything Jazz calls it, “Poignant, beautiful, hopeful music. Music that – as magicked by Redman, one of jazz’s greatest living saxophonists, composers, and band leaders – is required animating, needed hearing. Note: This Joshua Redman Quartet series will not host late-night 10:00pm sets.

Wed-Thu Jan 14-15 BRAD MEHLDAU
Brad Mehldau – piano
“Mehldau is the most influential jazz pianist of the last 20 years” – The New York Times
“Universally admired as one of the most adventurous pianists to arrive on the jazz scene in years.” – The Los Angeles Times.
Mehldau has been a transformative artist since the early 1990s. Mehldau has had a powerful influence on a generation of musicians and has attracted a large and devoted audience. One of the most lyrical and intimate voices of contemporary jazz piano, he has forged a unique path, which embodies the essence of jazz exploration, classical romanticism, and pop allure. From critical acclaim as a bandleader to major international exposure in collaborations with Pat Metheny, Renee Fleming, and Joshua Redman, Mehldau continues to garner numerous awards and admiration from both jazz purists and music enthusiasts alike. His forays into melding musical idioms, in both trio and solo settings, have yielded brilliant reworkings of songs by contemporary songwriters like The Beatles, Cole Porter, Radiohead, Paul Simon, Gershwin, and Nick Drake, alongside the ever-evolving breadth of his own significant catalogue of original compositions. With his self-proclaimed affection for popular music and classical training, “Mehldau is the most influential jazz pianist of the last 20 years,” writes The New York Times.

Fri-Sun BRAD MEHLDAU TRIO featuring ALEX CLAFFY AND MARCUS GILMORE
Brad Mehldau – piano
Alex Claffy – bass
Marcus Gilmore – drums
Brad Mehldau continues this five-night run at SMOKE with an adventurous piano trio featuring bassist Alexander Claffy and drummer Marcus Gilmore.

Wed-Sun Jan 21-25 CYRUS CHESTNUT TRIO with special guest CARLA COOK “BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION WEEK”
Cyrus Chestnut – piano
Special guest Carla Cook – vocals
“The best jazz pianist of his generation.” – Time
Pianist Cyrus Chestnut, a virtuoso renowned for his soulful brilliance, celebrates his birthday by leading this exceptional trio featuring guest vocalist Carla Cook. Chestnut’s playing, deeply rooted in gospel and blues, infuses each performance with profound emotional depth. As The New York Times notes, his “crisp articulation and blues-inflected harmony evoke another era… multifaceted and dynamic,” seamlessly blending tradition with fresh innovation to captivate audiences. Chestnut’s artistry has earned him widespread acclaim as one of the most distinctive and compelling jazz pianists of his generation. As The New York Daily News aptly describes him, he is “the rightful heir to Bud Powell, Art Tatum, and Erroll Garner.”

Sun Jan 25 @ 3:30 p.m. CYRUS CHESTNUT SOLO | STEINWAY SPIRIOCAST @ SMOKE
Cyrus Chestnut – piano
As part of the club’s new Steinway Spiriocast @ SMOKE concert series, Cyrus Chestnut will perform an intimate solo Sunday live concert on the cutting-edge Steinway Spirio | r Grand piano, while simultaneously streaming the live performance to Steinway Spirios in select venues and private homes across the world. The series underscores SMOKE’s ongoing commitment to presenting authentic, world-class jazz while embracing innovation in performance and audience engagement. Past Steinway Spiriocast SMOKE shows have included Joey Alexander and George Cables with more to be announced soon.

Wed-Sun Jan 28-Feb 1 NICHOLAS PAYTON / BUSTER WILLIAMS / LENNY WHITE
Nicholas Payton – trumpet, piano & keyboards
Buster Williams – bass
Lenny White – drums
“Payton dazzled the audience, simultaneously playing his trumpet and a Fender Rhodes. It’s his signature, resonant sound… Payton’s genius virtuosity captivated both faithful fans and anyone in the NPR crowd just discovering his music for the first time.—NPR
Multi-instrumental virtuoso and visionary Nicholas Payton reunites the group from his Couch Sessionsalbum, featuring two of the greatest ever: bassist Buster Williams and drummer Lenny White. Based in his hometown, New Orleans, Payton is a master trumpeter and pianist steeped in acoustic jazz, post-bop, and the music of his hometown, but who also explores other lanes encompassing the entirety of Black American Music. He has recorded and performed with Wynton Marsalis, Dr. Michael White, Christian McBride, Joshua Redman, Roy Hargrove, Doc Cheatham, and Joe Henderson, among many others, and is widely considered one of the most important artists of our time. In a review, the Chicago Tribune reports, “No descriptive label or category could be affixed to Payton’s solos, which were as brashly original as they were technically imposing.”

Kings Place, London in February 2026.

Friday, December 19, 2025

Kings Place has announced its programme for February 2026 including some performances that are likely to be of interest to jazz listeners. Press release attached.

We have received the following press release;

Kings Place in February: Olivia Chaney, Sir Willard White, Neave Trio and more

KINGS PLACE IN FEBRUARY

Memory Unwrapped Artist in Residence Olivia Chaney presents debut outing of new folk-rock band

News from Nowhere, Sir Willard White collaborates with the Brodsky Quartet and Neave Trio present UK premiere from Jennifer Higdon

Olivia Chaney follows on from her Grammy-nominated album The Queen of Hearts with new arrangements of classic folk songs

Legendary bass Sir Willard White performs a genre-spanning programme with the Brodsky Quartet, in the first concert of a series celebrating the Quartet’s longstanding relationship with Kings Place

Neave Trio pair UK premiere of Jennifer Higdon’s A Vast Palette with works by Piazzolla

MEMORY UNWRAPPED | CLASSICAL, CONTEMPORARY CLASSICAL, FOLK

Memory Unwrapped, the latest in Kings Place’s award-winning year-long series, continues in February 2026. It invites audiences on a journey with artists delving into the past to reimagine the future, uncovering how memory and music can spark transformation and inspire change.
Step into a 19th century musical salon where music meets conversation with acclaimed trumpeter Matilda Lloyd as narrator and performer alongside the Goldmund Quartet [6 Feb]. Grammy-nominated ensemble, Neave Trio, takes the audience on a journey through memory, love and loss in a programme of Romantic-era piano trios [12 Feb]. Neave Trio returns the following day to perform the UK premiere of Jennifer Higdon’s A Vast Palette alongside music by Piazzolla with live dancers [13 Feb]. Renowned bass Sir Willard White joins the Brodsky Quartet for a nostalgic concert celebrating Sinatra and the Hollywood Quartet of the 1950s [20 Feb]. Kings Place Resident Quartet, Piatti Quartet, perform folk-inspired music including traditional melodies, inherited songs and communal memories [5 Feb]. Pianist Keval Shah and contralto Jess Dandy give the London premiere of their highly acclaimed show ‘Eternity in an Hour’, fusing Indian and European cultures through music, poetry and philosophy [21 Feb]. Multi-instrumentalist, folk artist and Memory Unwrapped Artist in Residence Olivia Chaney assembles an illustrious group of British musicians for her new folk-rock band News from Nowhere, who present new electric arrangements of classic folk songs in their debut outing [27 Feb].

OTHER HIGHLIGHTS | JAZZ, CLASSICAL, CONTEMPORARY CLASSICAL, CONTEMPORARY, FOLK, SPOKEN WORD

The Kings Place Jazz Orchestra returns with special guest, vocalist Claire Martin OBE, presenting ‘Love In Full Swing’ with music made famous by Ella Fitzgerald, Peggy Lee and others [14 Feb]. One of the leading British period-instrument ensembles, Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment, returns with its Bach, the Universe & Everything series in which it stages cantatas by the Baroque composer alongside contemporaneous works [22 Feb]. Miré - a trio of composer-performer-improvisers - presents a virtuosic programme of music from their debut EP Revelries [20 Feb]. The top brass ensembles from the UK’s most prestigious music colleges come together to celebrate brass player Philip Jones [21 Feb]. Icelandic pianist Eydís Evensen presents her new album, Oceanic Mirror, capturing the ocean in all its power and variety [26 Feb]. Miranda Sykes and Hannah Martin – two of today’s leading British folk singers – join forces as SykesMartin for an exploration of roots music [12 Feb]. Paddi Benson, Grace Lemon and James Patrick Gavin make their collective Kings Place debut, retelling the ballroom dances that took place at Bethlem Hospital (Bedlam) throughout the 19th century [26 Feb]. One of the UK’s most captivating jazz singers, the award-winning Emma Smith, performs songs from her acclaimed album Bitter Orange as well as reimagined jazz classics [5 Feb]. Grammy Award-winning jazz musicians, saxophonist Tim Garland and pianist Geoffrey Keezer, showcase one of the few handmade mezzo-soprano saxophones in the world for the launch of their new album, Mezzo [25 Feb]. And Kings Place spotlights folk and roots music with a taste of the festival, FolkEast in the City, across three concerts featuring Bristol-based group Hedera, multi-instrumentalist duo Honey & The Bear and Durham trio The Young’uns [7 Feb]. Music teacher Nathaniel Dye MBE, who became famous after his cancer diagnosis and subsequent efforts to raise awareness of the disease, will lead a star-studded line-up of musicians, comedians and frontline politicians in solidarity with cancer sufferers [4 Feb]. Austrian lutist David Bergmüller blends the sound of his unique instrument with electronic textures [4 Feb]. And violinist Pekka Kuusisto partners with the Norwegian Chamber Orchestra and singer-songwriter Sam Amidon for a concert of remembrance and renewal [24 Feb].

CLASSICAL | CONTEMPORARY CLASSICAL  

Thu 5 Feb | Hall Two 7.30pm
PIATTI QUARTET
SONGS MY MOTHER TAUGHT ME
Memory Unwrapped
William Alwyn Seven Irish Tunes
Ralph Vaughan Williams Six Studies of Folk Songs
Philip Sheppard [new work] (*Folk inspired commission for Piatti Quartet)
Pablo Casals Song of the Birds
Charlotte Harding Iorsa
Antonín Dvořák Songs my mother taught me, Op. 55, No. 4
Ernest John Moeran String Quartet No. 2 in E flat, R98
Michael Trainor and Emily Holland violin | Miguel Sobrinho viola | Jessie Ann Richardson cello
Experience a richly woven journey through folk-inspired music with Kings Place Resident String Quartet, the Piatti Quartet, as traditional melodies, inherited songs, and communal memories spring to life through the intimate sonority of strings. Featuring a brand-new folk-infused commission from Philip Sheppard, written especially for the quartet and heard tonight for the first time.
£20; Half-price concessions; £10 Under-30s

Fri 6 Feb | Hall One 7.30pm
MATILDA LLOYD & GOLDMUND QUARTET
Memory Unwrapped
JS Bach Concerto in D (after Vivaldi), BWV 972
Haydn String Quartet in E flat, Op. 33, No. 2, The Joke; Trumpet concerto in E flat [Hob. Vlle: 1]
Marianna von Martines La tempesta: Alfin fra le tempeste
Pauline Viardot Chanson de la Pluie; Havanaise
Fauré Le papillon et la fleur
Schubert String Quartet No.14 in D minor, ‘Death and the Maiden’, D. 810 – II. Andante con moto
Gershwin Three Preludes (arr. Michael Thomas)
Matilda Lloyd trumpet |  Florian Schötz and Pinchas Adt violin
Christoph Vandory viola |  Raphael Paratore cello
Step into the spirit of a 19th-century musical salon – a space where music meets conversation and every note tells a story. The trumpet steps into the role of host and narrator, guiding the audience on a journey through the brilliance of Bach, elegance of Haydn and dynamism of Gershwin. Notably, the programme features works by two female composers who held salon concerts, Marianna von Martines and Pauline Viardot.
£20 – £40; Half-price concessions; £10 Under-30s

Thu 12 Feb | Hall One 7.30pm
NEAVE TRIO
MUSICAL REMEMBERANCES
Memory Unwrapped
Clara Schumann Piano Trio in G minor, Op. 17
Rachmaninoff Trio élégiaque No. 1 in G minor
Brahms Piano Trio in B, Op. 8
Anna Williams violin |  Mikhail Veselov cello |  Eri Nakamura piano
Grammy-nominated ensemble Neave Trio invite you on an intimate journey through memory, love, and loss in this deeply expressive programme of Romantic piano trios, after their release of their album of the same title in 2022. Reflecting memory, legacy, and emotional depth through piano trios that span cultures and eras, this programme draws together three towering voices of the Romantic and late-Romantic tradition. 
£20 – £40

Fri 13 Feb | Hall One 7.30pm
NEAVE TRIO
PIAZZOLLA FOUR SEASONS OF BUENOS AIRES
Memory Unwrapped
Piazzolla Four Seasons of Buenos Aires; Oblivion; Libertango
Jennifer Higdon A Vast Palette (UK premiere)
Piazzolla Oblivion
Piazzolle Libertango
Anna Williams violin |  Mikhail Veselov cello |  Eri Nakamura piano | David & Kim Benitez dance
Grammy-nominated ensemble Neave Trio bring their dynamic artistry to this electrifying programme, blending the sultry passion of tango with vibrant contemporary colour. At the heart of the evening is Piazzolla’s Four Seasons of Buenos Aires - a bold, sensual reimagining of Vivaldi’s beloved seasons through the lens of Argentine tango. The programme also features the UK premiere of A Vast Palette by Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Jennifer Higdon, a dazzling diptych that bursts with energy and contrast.Rounding ou the evening are two of Piazzolla’s most iconic works: the hauntingly beautiful Oblivion and the irresistible Libertango, with live dancers, David & Kim Benitez of Tango Movement adding flair and movement to the music’s evocative pulse.
£25 – £50

Fri 20 Feb | Hall One 7.30pm
BRODSKY QUARTET & SIR WILLARD WHITE
Memory Unwrapped
Krysia Osostowicz and Ian Belton violin |  Paul Cassidy viola
Jacqueline Thomas cello |  Sir Willard White bass
Sir Willard White joins the acclaimed Brodsky Quartet for an evocative, nostalgic programme celebrating Sinatra, the Hollywood Quartet and timeless classics from Gershwin to Copland, Britten, Barber, Kern, Schubert and more. This concert pays homage to the working relationship between the Hollywood Quartet and Frank Sinatra in the 1950s which resulted in the classic Close to You album.
£25 – £55; Half-price concessions; £10 Under-30s

­Fri 20 Feb | Hall Two 8pm
MIRÉ
REVELRIES
Colin Alexander cello |  Héloïse Werner voice |  Kit Downes chamber organ
A trio of composer–performer–improvisers, Miré, invite you into their world with a shadowy, mesmerising yet playful and virtuosic programme of music from their debut EP Revelries on Delphian Records, where their own compositions become the subject of focused experimentation. Miré are long-time musical collaborators whose shared intuition gives rise to a soundscape that is fluid, exploratory and deeply immersive.
Generously supported by the Cockayne Foundation.
£23; Half-price concessions; £10 Under-30s

Sat 21 Feb | Hall One 6pm
Brass Spectacular A Celebration of Brass Chamber Music in memory of Philip Jones
This celebrated biennial concert shines a spotlight on the brilliance and versatility of brass chamber music. Bringing together the finest brass ensembles from the eight major UK music colleges, it offers audiences a chance to hear the next generation of outstanding brass players on one stage. The event is presented in memory of Philip Jones, the visionary founder of the Philip Jones Brass Ensemble. Presented in association with The Musician’s Company.
£20; £10 Under 30’s

Sat 21 Feb | Hall Two 7.30pm
Keval Shah and Jess Dandy
Eternity In An Hour
Memory Unwrapped
Keval Shah and Jess Dandy give the London premiere of their highly-acclaimed show Eternity In An Hour. Indian and Western philosophies converse in this unique concert, a fusion of cultures, perspectives and soundscapes. Indian-American composer Reena Esmail’s Godsongs, sits at the heart of a programme which highlights the ways in which Western and Eastern philosophies converge and diverge.
£25

Sun 22 Feb | Hall One 11.30am
ORCHESTRA OF THE AGE OF ENLIGHTENMENT
Bach, the Universe & Everything
Clemens O Maria vernans rosa
JS Bach Was Gott tut, das ist wohlgetan (‘What God does is well done’), BWV 100
Sofia Kirwan-Baez soprano | Angharad Rowlands alto | Hugo Brady tenor
Peter Edge bass | Steven Devine director/organ | TBC guest speaker
Was Gott tut, das ist wohlgetan is a remarkable cantata that appears to have been performed at an unspecified special occasion in Leipzig in 1734. The occasion may have been a wedding as the chorale upon which it is based was a well-known wedding song in the city. The result is a work where the opening fantasia is followed unusually by four arias for the quartet of vocal soloists and include solos for flute and oboe d’amore.
£21; Half-price concessions

Tue 24 Feb | Hall One 7.30pm
Pekka Kuusisto, Sam Amidon and the Musicians of the Norwegian Chamber Orchestra
Platoon Presents at Kings Place
Violinist Pekka Kuusisto and the Norwegian Chamber Orchestra bring Willows to the stage, a quietly radical programme of music from their new album featuring Vaughan Williams’ The Lark Ascending, Ellen Reid’s Desiderium, Caroline Shaw’s Plan & Elevation, and songs by Sam Amidon arranged by Nico Muhly. A concert of remembrance, renewal, and musical storytelling.
Tickets: £30-£33-£35-£37

CONTEMPORARY

 
Wed 4 Feb | Hall Two 7.30pm
David Bergmüller
Austrian musician David Bergmüller shows how the lute can sound in the 21st century. With his new album Know Thyself, shaped by minimalist grooves, subtle loops, and delicate electronic textures, he brings the lute into a wide range of new contexts, blending its tone poetically with synthesizer sounds and sonic effects.
Tickets: £30

Thu 26 Feb | Hall One 8pm
EYDÍS EVENSEN
Presented with Bird On The Wire
The Icelandic pianist and composer Eydís Evensen presents her new album Oceanic Mirror for XXIM/Sony. The album captures the ocean in all its power and contradictions, speaking to elemental truths about loss, reincarnation, and the cycles of life. On 29th August, she released the feature single Challenger Deep, a single that finds hope even in the darkest depths – a reminder that light can still be imagined in the deepest dark.
£20; Half-price concessions; £10 Under-30s

FOLK  

Sat 7 Feb | Hall Two 4.00pm
HEDERA
FolkEast Spotlight
Hedera is a chamber folk project from Bristol. They perform original and traditional pieces inspired by music from England, Scotland, France, Bali, Georgia, Bulgaria, Ethiopia and beyond, translated through a prism of experimental minimalism and contemporary classical influences. Their eponymous debut album is a collection of twelve original & traditional tunes that reflect their craft due for release in February 2026.
£18; Half-price concessions; £10 Under-30s

Sat 7 Feb | Hall One 5.45pm
HONEY AND THE BEAR
FolkEast Spotlight
Honey & The Bear comprise UK Folk and Roots multi-instrumentalists Lucy and Jon Hart. Weaving stories into song, with a strong focus on their Suffolk roots, community and family, they are able to bring a tear to your eye in one moment, and in the next, have you up on your feet. This show will feature regular band guest Archie Churchill-Moss (diatonic button accordion), whose immense talent adds extra drama and artistic flair. 
£18 – £22; Half-price concessions; £10 Under-30s

Sat 7 Feb | Hall One 7.30pm
THE YOUNG’UNS
FolkEast Spotlight
One night in Stockton On Tees, three teenagers heard strange sounds coming from the backroom of a pub. They went in. They heard people singing songs they’d never heard before. Songs without instruments. Songs in their own accents. Songs about places they knew. Folk songs. They joined in. Because they were the youngest ones there by several decades, they were soon labelled ‘the Young’uns.’ 
£22 – £26; Half-price concessions; £10 Under-30s

Thu 12 Feb | Hall Two 8pm
SYKESMARTIN
SykesMartin is the exciting collaboration from two of British folk’s finest voices. Miranda Sykes and Hannah Martin join forces to present a set of songs that take them back to their shared roots. Having played together on numerous occasions, including in Steve Knightley’s Wake the Union band, and at the Royal Albert Hall, they knew that they shared an instinctive ear for harmony and skilled instrumental improvisation.
£20; Half-price concessions

Thu 26 Feb | Hall Two 8pm
Paddi Benson, Grace Lemon & James Patrick Gavin
Future Folk: Contemporary Sounds from Traditional Roots
Making their first collective appearance at Kings Place, Paddi Benson, Grace Lemon & James Patrick Gavin’s debut project is a conceptual retelling of the patient ballroom dances that took place at Bethlem Hospital (Bedlam) throughout the 19th century. It is a blurred lines composition, in which the two sets of pipes speak to and layer upon one another almost like the right and left hand of a piano, rather than two distinct instruments.
£15.50; Half-price concessions; £10 Under-30s

Fri 27 Feb | Hall One 7.30pm
News from Nowhere (Feat. Olivia Chaney)
Electric Folk
Memory Unwrapped
This is the debut outing for Olivia Chaney’s glamorous new folk-rock band, which she’s calling (for now) News from Nowhere. Picking up where her acclaimed album The Queen of Hearts left off,  Olivia and her band will continue the trans-Atlantic conversation that Offa Rex began through special arrangements of English and American folk classics, including Silver Dagger, Black is the Colour, and The Cuckoo.
£22 – £30; £10 Concessions

JAZZ

Thu 5 Feb | Hall One 7.30pm
Emma Smith
BITTER ORANGE TOUR
Known for her dynamic artistry, virtuosic ‘chops’ and effortless command of the stage, Emma Smith has forged a formidable reputation as one of the global jazz scene’s most electrifying performers. Audiences can expect music from her critically acclaimed album Bitter Orange – a cinematic blend of wit, warmth, swing and heartbreak – alongside fresh interpretations of beloved standards from the Great American Songbook.
£23 – £43; Half-price concessions; £10 Under-30s

Sat 14 Feb | Hall One 7.30pm
KINGS PLACE JAZZ ORCHESTRA WITH CLAIRE MARTIN
LOVE IN FULL SWING
Kings Place Jazz Orchestra (KPJO) proudly presents Love In Full Swing, featuring special guest vocalist Claire Martin OBE. Join KPJO for a concert filled with orchestral jazz, both old and new, from some of the genre’s finest composers, on a theme of romance, heartbreak, and love. Featuring music made famous by Ella Fitzgerald, Peggy Lee, Richard Rodney Bennett and many more.
£25 – £50; Half-price concessions; £10 Under-30s

Wed 25 Feb | Hall Two 8pm
TIM GARLAND AND GEOFFREY KEEZER
MEZZO
Grammy Award-winning musicians Tim Garland (UK) and Geoffrey Keezer (USA) launch their new album entitled Mezzo. The transatlantic meeting started 25 years ago with Garland’s Made By Walking album and continued with three albums with the Storms/Nocturnes trio. There are only 20 handmade Mezzo-Soprano saxophones in the world; Mezzo will be the first jazz album to showcase this instrument.
£25; Half-price concessions

SPOKEN WORD

Wed 4 Feb | Hall One 8pm
Not Today Cancer!
A Variety Show in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support
To mark World Cancer day, and the anniversary of Nathaniel Dye MBE’s one year to live prognosis, he is joined by a star studded lineup of musicians, comedians and frontline politicians, to tell the world that we stay strong and cancer will not defeat us.
Tickets: £22

ABOUT KINGS PLACE
Kings Place is an adventurous music and arts venue with an ambition to inspire local community and promote the power of the arts in our society.  Its venues enable learning, discovery, debate and experiences that are powerfully intimate, enabling human connection between artists and audiences. 
The dedicated and supportive team programmes a series of festivals and events, developing cross-arts collaborations and artistic relationships that deliver unforgettable live experiences.
The award-winning concert series, Unwrapped, is its flagship programme, exploring big ideas and overarching themes across the year. Kings Place is also the UK’s home of live podcasting as creators and hosts of the London Podcast Festival. 
As a registered charity Kings Place does not receive regular public funding. Income is generated through ticket sales, donations, grants, and the staging of world-class conferences and events.

Kings Place, 90 York Way, King’s Cross, London N1 9AG

http://www.kingsplace.co.uk

SMOKE Jazz Club, New York City - Programme for February 2026.

Friday, December 19, 2025

SMOKE Jazz Club has announced its schedule for February 2026. Performers include Joe Lovano, Miguel Zenón, Theo Croker, Bill Charlap. Press release including full line-up details details attached.

We have received the following press release;

February at Smoke Jazz Club includes Joe Lovano, Miguel Zenon, Theo Croker and More

Announcing SMOKE Jazz Club’s February 2026 Line-up Including Joe Lovano, Miguel Zenón, Theo Croker, and Valentine’s Week with Bill Charlap Trio

Joe Lovano Quartet (Feb 4-8)

Bill Charlap Trio (Feb 11-15)

Theo Croker Quartet (Feb 18-22)

Miguel Zenón Quartet (Feb 25-Mar 1)

Hailed as the “#1 Jazz Club in New York City (SecretNYC),” SMOKE Jazz Club today announced an exciting line-up for the month of February 2026. Joe Lovano, one of the world’s most celebrated musicians, makes his SMOKE Jazz Club debut as a leader followed by a special Valentine’s Week concert series with the acclaimed Bill Charlap Trio. Genre-defying trumpeter Theo Croker returns to SMOKE with his stellar Quartet. February ends with the unique voice of saxophonist Miguel Zenón at the helm of his Quartet. For the most updated February schedule, please visit SMOKEjazz.com. As always, all Friday night concerts are livestreamed!

About SMOKE
Located on Manhattan’s Upper West Side at the junction of Broadway and 106th Street (aka Duke Ellington Boulevard), Smoke Jazz Club is one of New York City’s premier live music venues. Renowned for offering top-notch programming of accessible, timeless jazz featuring legendary performers, modern masters, and rising stars, Smoke stands apart with its candlelit dining room, stellar acoustics, and classic American cuisine. Founded in 1999, SMOKE also boasts a GRAMMY-nominated label, Smoke Sessions Records, and a celebrated streaming concert series, Smoke Screens.

FEBRUARY 2026 @ SMOKE Jazz Club
(schedule subject to change)
When: Wednesday-Sunday @ 6:00 p.m. + 8:00 p.m. and additional 10:00 p.m. (Fri & Sat only). Doors open at 4:00 p.m. (unless otherwise noted).
Where: SMOKE Jazz Club, 2751 Broadway (between 105/106th Streets), New York, NY, Train: 1 to 103rd Street.
Tickets: General $25+. Livestream $15 (Fri only). For more information and to make reservations, please visit http://www.smokejazz.com.

Wed-Sun Feb 4-8 JOE LOVANO QUARTET
Joe Lovano – tenor saxophone
Leo Genovese – piano
John Menegon – bass
Lamy Istrefi Jr. – drums
“The titan among us.” – DownBeat
Saxophonist Joe Lovano makes his highly anticipated SMOKE debut as a leader of his own quartet with pianist Leo Genovese, bassist John Menegon, and drummer Lamy Istrefi Jr. One of the most prolific, beloved, and decorated artists of our time, Lovano is known for fearlessly finding new modes of artistic expression. He is a Grammy Award winner with 14 other nominations and has won DownBeat’s Critics and Readers Polls countless times as Tenor Saxophonist, Musician of the Year, and Jazz Album of the Year. He has also received numerous awards from JazzTimes and the Jazz Journalists Association for Tenor Saxophone, Album of the Year, and Musician of the Year. His recording and performing credits include collaborations with a long list of jazz greats, including Tony Bennett, Abbey Lincoln, McCoy Tyner, Hank Jones, and Ornette Coleman, among many others. NPR calls him “one of the jazz world’s most celebrated musicians,” while The Guardian says he is a “giant American elder of jazz reeds-playing” who seems “to be simmering all his decades of timeless tunes and exquisite passing phrases down to essences.”

Wed-Sun Feb 11-15 BILL CHARLAP TRIO
Bill Charlap – piano
David Wong – bass
Kenny Washington – drums
“The premiere mainstream piano trio of our day.” – The New Yorker
Grammy Award-winning pianist Bill Charlap leads his acclaimed piano trio featuring bassist David Wong and drummer Kenny Washington.
Known as a master interpreter of the American Popular Songbook, Charlap brings unexpected insight to each reading. Time magazine says, “No matter how imaginative or surprising his take on a song is, [Charlap] invariably zeroes in on its essence.” Considered one of the leading artists of our time, he has performed with artists from Phil Woods and Tony Bennett to Gerry Mulligan and Wynton Marsalis, among many others. The New Yorker called him “a lyrical repository.”

Wed-Sun Feb 18-22 THEO CROKER QUARTET
“In a field teeming with talented young lions, the bright sound of trumpeter Theo Croker still sticks out.” – All About Jazz
Theo Croker returns to SMOKE with his stellar Quartet (names tba soon). Croker is a Grammy Award-nominated trumpeter and genre-defying, generation-defining artist who rejects boundaries and lets his voice ring through the music. The grandson of legendary trumpeter Doc Cheatham, Crocker is a leading figure on the contemporary music scene, renowned for his entrancing melodies and innovative approach. He was a student of Donald Byrd, a protégé of Wynton Marsalis, and a veteran of performances with such jazz greats as Dee Dee Bridgewater, Jimmy Heath, the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra, Gary Bartz, Kassa Overall, and many more. Well-versed in the swing, bop, and modal styles of acoustic jazz, Croker’s own music reveals a love of organic funk, soul, and hip-hop. JazzWise reports, “Croker is a spiritualist and a politically minded artist and has long since turned his musical gaze towards a crossover culture where jazz, drum beats, reverberating, ethereal trumpet sounds, elements of hip-hop and club electronics, Afrofuturism, sampled voices and ritual tribal chants meet organically and combine to create a gripping, spacey concoction.” The Wall Street Journalcalls his music “timeless and of the moment.”

Wed-Sun Feb 25-Mar 1 MIGUEL ZENÓN QUARTET
Miguel Zenón – alto saxophone
Luis Perdomo – piano
Hans Glawischnig – bass
Varun Das – drums
“One of the most esteemed and singular-voiced alto saxophonists in jazz” – Downbeat
Alto saxophonist Miguel Zenón leads his heralded quartet that features pianist Luis Perdomo, bassist Hans Glawischnig, and drummer Varun Das. Originally from San Juan, Puerto Rico, Zenón is a master at blending innovation and tradition. Widely considered one of the most groundbreaking and influential saxophonists and composers of his generation, he has also developed a unique voice and perfected a fine blend of jazz and his many musical influences. Among the many musicians Zenón has performed with are Charlie Haden, Fred Hersch, Kenny Werner, David Sánchez, Danilo Perez, Kurt Elling, and Bobby Hutcherson. He was chosen as alto saxophonist of the year and jazz artist of the year by the JazzTimes Critics’ Poll; is the recipient of multiple GRAMMY nominations; and was named a Guggenheim and MacArthur Fellow. On his selection by the MacArthur Foundation, they wrote, “This young musician and composer is at once reestablishing the artistic, cultural, and social tradition of jazz while creating an entirely new jazz language for the 21st century.”

Cecil Sharp House, London -  Spring and Summer 2026 Season

Friday, December 19, 2025

The English Folk Dance and Song Society has announced its programme for January to July 2026 with all events taking place at Cecil Sharp House, London.

We have received the following press release;

Cecil Sharp House Spring Summer 2026 Season

London’s hub of folk music presents performances from firm crowd favourites and newer faces, ranging from English dance tunes to Mozambican timbila traditions.

First-time visitors include Canadian duo Basset, new groups The English Fiddle Ensemble and Säwol, British-Mozambican duo Kate Griffin and Matchume Zango, Holly Clarke and young trio Good Habits, plus Chloe Matharu and HEISK with Scotland on Tour.

We celebrate the life of Black Regency busker Billy Waters in Jump Billy!, a one-of-a-kind concert, and the inaugural Songs for the Workers gig marks International Workers’ Day, boasting a roster of folk talents including Peggy Seeger and Jackie Oates.

Favourites return, including Martin and Eliza Carthy, Jim Causley’s annual Wassail, Kathryn Tickell and The Darkening, Emily Portman, Tarren, Hannah James and Toby Kuhn, Jon Boden and The Remnant Kings and John Jones Trio.

We welcome back regular series and festivals, including the fourth Indoor Festival of Folk, Feminist Folk Club, Queer Folk Festival and Trad Nights.

Season Highlights:

●    Legends of the English folk scene, Martin and Eliza Carthy (Wed 25 Feb), perform a range of songs and tunes from their vast repertoire, both traditional and contemporary.

●    Jump Billy! (Wed 25 Mar) marks the anniversary of Billy Waters’ death with live music from Cohen Braithwaite-Kilcoyne, Clarke Camilleri, Hamilton Gross, and Angeline Morrison, with Maz O’Connor and Tony Montague and Martin Simpson.

●    Songs for the Workers (Thu 7 May) marks International Workers’ Day featuring Peggy Seeger, Jackie Oates, Nick Hart, Jennifer Reid and Francy Devine, paying tribute to workers with industrial and agricultural folk music, work songs and ballads.

●    Indoor Festival of Folk (Sat 7 Feb), co-hosted by The Magpie Arc, returns for its fourth year, featuring Maddy Prior and Peter Knight, Chris Wood, Lisa Knapp and Gerry Diver, Ellie Gowers, and an interview with Matthew Bannister and special guest Simon Nicol.

●    Kate Griffin and Matchume Zango (Wed 3 Jun) forge a new cross-cultural collaboration (UK and Mozambique) celebrating the universal power of traditional music.

●    A performance celebrating the ten-year anniversary of the National Youth Folk Ensemble (Thu 2 Apr), with talented young folk musicians from across England.

●    A gig from a new collaboration on the scene, Säwol (Thu 11 Jun), made up of industry greats: Fi Fraser, Jess Arrowsmith, Nancy Kerr, Rosie Butler-Hall, and Sarah Matthews.

●    Critically acclaimed singer, John Jones (Thu 30 Apr), is back on the road with old friends Ray Cooper, a.k.a. Chopper, and Al Scott.

●    Wakefire: A Midsummer Celebration (Wed 17 Jun) presented by Lady Maisery, Jimmy Aldridge, and Sid Goldsmith marks the spring season in song.

●    For its seventh event at Cecil Sharp House, Feminist Folk Club (Wed 11 Feb) presents Rowan Rheingans, Jacken Elswyth, and Satnam Galsian.

●    Queer Folk Festival (Sat 30 May) returns with a lineup (TBA) of some of the best queer folk artists in the industry and a famous Queer Ceilidh Dance Party to close. Plus the inclusive Chilled Ceilidhs return (Sat 28 Feb, Sat 25 Jul) following their autumn debut.

●    Trad Nights: Keith Kendrick & Sylvia Needham (Wed 21 Jan), The Fraser Sisters (Wed 1 Apr) and Jeff Warner (Wed 13 May) play our intimate acoustic Trad Nights.

Listings:

Cecil Sharp House
2 Regent’s Park Road, London NW1 7AY
http://www.cecilsharphouse.org
Tel: 020 7485 2206

Full programme information: https://www.efdss.org/whats-on
Ticket prices vary, starting from £10.50 (Under 30s) to £25.50.

Family Barn Dance Sun 11 Jan, 3pm

Trad Night: Keith Kendrick and Sylvia Needham Wed 21 Jan, 7.30pm

WASSAIL! with Jim Causley and Friends Wed 28 Jan, 7.30pm

Family Barn Dance Sun 1 Feb, 3pm

Indoor Festival of Folk Sat 7 Feb, 1pm

Feminist Folk Club Wed 11 Feb, 7.30pm

The English Fiddle Ensemble Wed 18 Feb, 7.30pm

Martin and Eliza Carthy Wed 25 Feb, 7.30pm

Chilled Queer Ceilidh Sat 28 Feb, 4pm

Queer Ceilidh Dance Party Sat 28 Feb, 8pm

Kathryn Tickell and The Darkening Sat 7 Mar, 7.30pm

Emily Portman and Friends Thu 12 Mar, 7.30pm

Family Barn Dance Sat 15 Mar, 3pm

Hannah James and Toby Kuhn Thu 19 Mar, 7.30pm

Jump Billy! Wed 25 Mar, 7.30pm

Trad Night: The Fraser Sisters Wed 1 Apr, 7.30pm

National Youth Folk Ensemble Thu 2 Apr, 7.30pm

Holly Clarke Thu 9 Apr, 7.30pm

Tarren Wed 15 Apr, 7.30pm

Basset Wed 22 Apr, 7.30pm

John Jones Trio Thu 30 Apr, 7.30pm

Songs for the Workers Thu 7 May, 7.30pm

Family Barn Dance: Maypole Special! Sun 10 May, 1.30pm

Trad Night: Jeff Warner Wed 13 May, 7.30pm

Jon Boden and The Remnant Kings Sun 17 May, 6.30pm

Good Habits Wed 27 May, 7.30pm

Queer Folk Festival Sat 30 May, 1.30pm

Kate Griffin and Matchume Zango Wed 3 Jun, 7.30pm

Säwol Thu 11 Jun, 7.30pm

Wakefire: A Midsummer Celebration Wed 17 Jun, 7.30pm

Scotland on Tour: HEISK and Chloe Matharu Thu 25 Jun, 7.30pm

London Youth Folk Ensemble and Friends Sat 27 Jun, 5.30pm

The Crossroads: La’l Tethera Tóchar and The Beadling Wed 1 Jun, 7.30pm

Chilled Queer Ceilidh Sat 25 Jul, 4pm

Queer Ceilidh Dance Party Sat 25 Jul, 8pm

About the English Folk Dance and Song Society:
The English Folk Dance and Song Society champions the folk arts at the heart of England’s rich and diverse cultural landscape. As the national development agency for the folk arts, it delivers a dynamic national and local education programme, enabling and increasing access to the folk arts. It runs the acclaimed National Youth Folk Ensemble. It supports folk artists through a flourishing artists development programme. It manages the Vaughan Williams Memorial Library – England’s national folk music library and archive. The custom-built headquarters of the English Folk Dance and Song Society is Cecil Sharp House, a busy arts centre situated just north of Regent’s Park in central London. Visit http://www.efdss.org

Mostly Jazz, Funk & Soul Festival 2026 -  first wave of artists announced.

Wednesday, December 17, 2025

Mostly Jazz Funk & Soul Festival has announced Fabio & Grooverider & The Outlook Orchestra, and Jalen Ngonda, as the first two headline acts for 2026. The event takes place in Moseley Park, Birmingham

We have received the following press release;

Mostly Jazz 2026 first wave of artists announced

Fabio & Grooverider and The Outlook Orchestra
Jalen Ngonda
Thee Sacred Souls
Gabriels (DJ set)
Annie & The Caldwells
Close Counters
Olive Jones

Mostly Jazz Funk & Soul Festival
Friday 10 to Sunday 12 July 2025
Moseley Park, Birmingham.

Birmingham’s Mostly Jazz Funk & Soul Festival have announced Fabio & Grooverider and The Outlook Orchestra, and Jalen Ngonda, as their first two headline acts for 2026 (Friday 10 to Sunday 12

July 2026).

Fabio & Grooverider are the undisputed godfathers of drum’n'bass. Through their own residencies, releases and award-winning radio shows, they’ve championed, developed and steered the genre for over 30 years. Back after a string of sell-out dates (including London’s Royal Albert Hall in the spring), their collaboration with The Outlook Orchestra (Friday) is an exuberant celebration of the history of drum’n'bass/ jungle, with a set of classic anthems like you’ve never heard them before.

Following an outstanding afternoon performance at 2025’s Mostly Jazz, American singer-songwriter Jalen Ngonda makes a much anticipated return to the festival – this time in a headline slot (Sunday). One of the most captivating performers on today’s soul scene, Jalen’s voice - equal parts raw feeling and elegance - exudes confidence and charm.

Also appearing on the final day are fellow Daptone artistes Thee Sacred Souls. Hailing from San Diego, the breakout trio mix the easy going grace of sweet ’60s soul with the grit and groove of early ’70s R&B.

Also joining Fabio & Grooverider and Jalen over the festival weekend are Mississippi gospel disco soul family band Annie & The Caldwells, whose recent debut album, Can’t Lose My (Soul) was welcomed with a raft of five and four-star reviews, and Ryan Hope, from hitmakers Gabriels, with a special DJ set.

Award-winning Australian electronic duo Close Counters, whose diverse sound sits at the crossroads of house, neo-soul, broken beat and disco, and singer-songwriter Olive Jones, who’ll be highlighting tracks from her debut album For Mary (out in March), also appear – with further acts to be revealed in the new year.

Taking place in the idyllic surroundings of Moseley Park, the annual three-day event is a short distance away from Birmingham’s city centre, yet a world away from city life. With sloping grounds, creating a natural amphitheatre in front of the beautiful lake, it hosts some of the best jazz, funk, soul and dance artists from across the UK and further afield.

John Fell, Mostly Jazz Funk & Soul’s Manager, said:
“We’re delighted to reveal two of our headliners for 2026’s festival. Fabio & Grooverider are D&B royalty, and their team-up with The Outlook Orchestra demonstrates their unwavering commitment to the genre, as well as their forward-thinking attitude, while Jalen Ngonda is one of the best soul voices there is. Up there with some of the ’60s greats, Jalen’s soulful performance in 2025 blew everyone away and we can’t wait to welcome him back in what’s shaping up to be his big break-through year.”

Mostly Jazz Funk & Soul Festival runs from Friday 10 to Sunday 12 July 2026 at Moseley Park, Birmingham. Tickets on sale from Friday 19 December 2025, 10am. For full details, see: mostlyjazz.co.uk

Friday 10 to Sunday 12 July 2026
Mostly Jazz Funk and Soul Festival
Moseley Park and Pool, 93b Alcester Road, Birmingham B13 8DD
Details / tickets: http://www.mostlyjazz.co.uk

TICKETS:
Tier 1: SOLD OUT
Tier 2 [ON SALE FRIDAY 19 DECEMBER 2025 10AM]: Adult Weekend £157.50; Adult Day: £56; Family Weekend £357; U18 Weekend £64; U18 Day£33. + Booking Fee
Payment plans on all orders with Kaboodle - split over 4 months.

Social media:

http://www.facebook.com/mostlyjazz

http://www.x.com/mostly_jazz

http://www.instagram.com/mostly_jazz/

http://www.tiktok.com/@mostlyjazz/

http://www.youtube.com/user/mostlyjazz

Hashtag: #mostlyjazz

FRIDAY 10 JULY 2026
Fabio & Grooverider and The Outlook Orchestra
More acts to be revealed ...

SATURDAY 11 JULY 2026
(Headline act to be announced)
Annie & The Caldwells
Close Counters
More acts to be revealed ...

SUNDAY 12 JULY 2026
Jalen Ngonda
Thee Sacred Souls
More acts to be revealed ...
Plus Gabriels (DJ set) and Olive Jones, with more artists to be announced in the New Year.

ABOUT MOSTLY JAZZ FUNK AND SOUL FESTIVAL
Debuting in 2010, Mostly Jazz Funk and Soul Festival is a diverse, vibrant festival, celebrating ground-breaking, innovative UK music alongside international trailblazers. Held in Moseley Park, a stunning 11-acre woodland glade in the heart of Moseley Village, the festival is just two miles from the centre of Birmingham, yet is a world away from city life. With sloping grounds, creating a natural amphitheatre in front of the beautiful lake, it’s the perfect setting for a festival. Each year Mostly Jazz Funk and Soul brings incredible artists, workshops, arts, crafts, and a selection of Birmingham’s most loved street food and drinks vendors to Moseley, for one epic party weekend.
Previous headliners include Ezra Collective, Maribou State, Chic feat. Nile Rodgers, Public Enemy, Gregory Porter, Chaka Khan, De La Soul, Bonobo, The Specials, The Wailers, Goldie, Fat Freddy’s Drop, KC and The Sunshine Band, Kool and The Gang, The Jacksons, Yussef Dayes, The Blackbyrds, and Leftfield.

606 Jazz Club, Chelsea, London - Programme for January 2026.

Wednesday, December 17, 2025

Laura Thorne of the 606 Club has forwarded details of the Club's programme for January 2026, plus a short look at some the events due to take place in February. Fully detailed schedule attached.

Laura Thorne writes;

Hello all you connoisseurs of culture and lovers of live music – greetings from the 606 in Chelsea, known for presenting the best jazz, soul, Latin, groove, R&B & blues musicians in the UK bar none!

This mail provides information about our live performances from the 1st to the 31st of January 2026. Information about all of these events, along with photos, video clips etc are on the website now for your consumption: https://www.606club.co.uk/events/

I know, I am utterly gobsmacked too that we are sending this out so early given our usual habits, but the upcoming holiday break was a motivating factor! The Club is closed from the 24th to the 30th of December, open on the 31st for NYE and then closed on the 1st of January.

Finally let us take the opportunity to wish you and yours a Happy Christmas and all the best in the New Year!

606 CLUB – JANUARY 2026 GIG GUIDE

Thu 1st   8:00pm CLOSED – NEW YEARS DAY

Fri 2nd   9:00pm   LIANE CARROLL TRIO
The first artist ever to win two BBC Jazz Awards in the same year, for Best Vocalist and Best of Jazz, Liane Carroll is a dynamic performer whose amazing talent has been captivating audiences around the world. World-class, her powerful, blues-tinged voice combined with strong piano playing and exciting infectious material, not to mention a wicked sense of humour, make this a truly remarkable gig.
“Liane Carroll…seems in some magical way to be made out of music” The Observer  

Sat 3rd   9:00pm   DEREK NASH’ SAX APPEAL QUARTET
The multi-Award-winning saxophonist Derek Nash is perhaps best known as one of the featured saxophonists with the Jools Holland Band. An experienced musician of many years standing his muscular, fluent, modern jazz playing has been recognised with numerous awards, including being voted one of the top 5 saxophonists in the country. Tonight Derek is bringing his great, swinging, band to the Club so expect something really quite special.
“bravura display of contemporary saxophone” The Observer;
“breathtaking” Sunday Times;
“the music fizzes with energy” Observer
       

Sun 4th   1:30pm   SUNDAY LUNCH: ZOE FRANCIS FT JIM MULLEN
Zoe Francis started singing jazz while living and working in New York, soon becoming a regular fixture on the scene. Her first three albums showcasing her beautiful voice as well as her exquisite choice of material were all received with much praise, and today Zoe will be performing a mix of classic standards alongside material from her latest album, ‘Somewhere in the Night’. Zoe’s knack for capturing the nature of these songs brings them to life and elevates her performances to the exceptional. Also featuring iconic guitarist Jim Mullen (Morrissey/Mullen), Gareth Williams-piano, Calum Gourlay-bass and Steve Brown-drums.
“Great interpreter of the Great American Songbook” Jazz Journal;
“a classy, poised singer” London Jazz News

  Sun 4th   8:00pm   VANESSA HAYNES’ BIRTHDAY GIG
Vocalist Vanessa Haynes performs a mix of soul, R&B standards and originals with some jazz standards thrown in. With her powerful, cultured voice and commanding stage presence, she is quite stunning. Not surprisingly her talent was recognised by Van Morrison (with whose band she toured) but she is probably best known these days as one of the featured singers with the iconic soul/jazz band “Incognito”, having toured and recorded with them for more than ten years. Her fabulous band features some of the country’s finest “groove” players: Al Cherry-guitar, Tom O’Grady-keyboard, Tiago Coimbra-bass & Martyn Kaine-drums and as Vanessa will be celebrating her upcoming birthday tonight, she has added three brilliant singers and good friends to the lineup to provide backing vocals: Mary Pearce, Belle Erskine & Chloe Dure. Expect plenty of fun!
“Haynes is a polished and dazzling performer. Live music at its very best” Close-Up Culture;
“chic, sultry…stylish” Musician Magazine  

Mon 5th   8:00pm   GUILLE HILL
Since moving to London from Uruguay in 1997 Guille Hill (pronounced Gee-jay) has established himself as a first call guitarist across the musical spectrum. The list of artists that he has worked with is a testament to his creativity and skill, including Tom Jones, Jennifer Lopez and Airto Moreira. Tonight Guille will be featuring music from his latest album “Landing”, which he describes as “blending the rich traditions of South American music with hints of jazz, funk, and fusion. Drawing inspiration from the sounds of Uruguay, Brazil, and Argentina the music explores intricate rhythms, evocative melodies and dynamic improvisation.”  Joining him will be some of the finest Latin players in the UK, Steve Lodder (Paul McCartney)-piano/keyboards, Andy Lafone-bass & Davide Giovannini-drums.
“Guillermo Hill…excellent” AllAboutJazz

Tue 6th   8:00pm   MATT HOLBORN QUARTET  
Jazz violinist Matt Holborn is a regular in comedian Bill Bailey’s live band, is a founding member of the London Django Collective, hosts the Jazz Violin Podcast, has performed regularly with Kansas Smitty’s and is jazz strings workshop leader with Tomorrow’s Warriors. Tonight, along with his terrific quartet, Fraser Urquhart-piano, Simon Read-bass and Joe Dessauer-drums Matt will be featuring music from his latest album “For Stuff”, dedicated to jazz violin legend Stuff Smith. The music lovingly showcases Stuff’s innovative approach to the violin alongside new work that pays homage to his sense of swing and energy plus choice repertoire from the Great American Songbook.
“A consummate performer… Holborn blew hot…marvellous” Bebop Spoken Here;
“delightful” Jazzwise

Wed 7th   8:00pm   JAY AZZOLINA FT RILEY STONE-LONERGAN
After studying with Pat Metheny US guitarist Jay Azzolina went on to tour and record through the 1980’s with iconic jazz fusion band Spyro Gyra. Following that, as a leading light of the New York scene, Jay included work with the likes of Jaco Pastorious, Chuck Mangione & Rickie Lee Jones whilst his own collaborations with his friends, saxophonist Michael Brecker and bassist John Patitucci produced some quite remarkable music. More recently his collaborations with saxophonist Chris Potter and organist Larry Goldings have been much lauded. Now resident in the UK, this is a rare opportunity to catch Jay’s playing which is, as one would expect, a masterclass of style and taste. Joined by upcoming, award-winning sax star Riley Stone-Lonergan the quartet will perform an exciting mix of Jay’s own compositions, material from his latest album “Present Tense” and some “reworked” standards.
“one of the finest and most talented guitarists on the planet.” Jazz Improv Magazine;
“Azzolina is the consummate performer” London Jazz News;
“Stone-Lonergan…blew great tenor…with a tone that could be lyrical or biting, tender or violent” Bebop Spoken Here

Thu 8th   8:00pm   JAMES PEARSON TRIO    
James Pearson’s powerful, swinging, playing has been heard in an astonishing variety of settings and his ‘musical portraits’ of pianists Oscar Peterson, George Shearing, Erroll Garner and Dudley Moore are legendary. The trio tonight features Jeremy Brown-bass & Matt Skelton-drums, recreating James’s very first piano trio from more than 30 years ago! You can expect to hear swinging rearrangements of jazz standards alongside a few original compositions, all fused together with brilliant anecdotes about life as a jazz pianist!
“outstanding…a joy to listen to” Guardian;
“dazzling” London Jazz News

Fri 9th     9:00pm   ERROL LINTON  
Born and raised in Brixton, singer and harmonica player Errol Linton got his first break 30 years ago when heard by a BBC producer busking and has been steadily building his reputation as a world-class blues talent ever since. He was nominated for ‘Best Blues Act’ in the 2019 Jazz FM Awards, featured alongside Big Bill Broonzy in BBC 2’s ‘Two Generations of the Blues’ and championed by radio presenters John Peel, Robert Elms, Paul Jones, & Cerys Matthews. Accompanied by his quintet this is home grown blues at its best.
“The finest blues and reggae harmonica player in Europe” BBC Radio 3;
“harmonica wizard” The Observer

Sat 10th   9:00pm   TONY KOFI & THE ORGANISATION CELEBRATE LOU DONALDSON
The multi-award-winning saxophonist Tony Kofi first came to prominence in the 1990’s with the likes of The Jazz Warriors and Courtney Pine. He was the first UK musician to be featured in the iconic US band the World Saxophone Quartet and his awards include the 2005 Parliamentary Jazz Award, BBC Radio 3 Album of the Year and the BBC Jazz Award. Returning to his first instrument, the alto sax, tonight Tony joins the “All Star” band The Organisation, which features Pete Whittaker (John Etheridge, The Filthy Six)-organ, Simon Fernsby (Alex Garnett, Dave O’Higgins)-guitar & Pete Cater (Tom Jones)-drums, described by BBC Music Magazine as “exciting, foot-tapping, expressive without neglecting jazz’s more cerebral pleasures”. Together they will be celebrating the late, great, alto sax legend Lou Donaldson whose roots in Bebop evolved into a popular association with the Soul Jazz movement. Performing tunes closely associated with Lou, Tony gained inspiration for this tribute after being invited to an open rehearsal by Lou himself.
“Kofi’s full-bodied sound…and committed attack carry the immediacy and impact of the established masters of the jazz saxophone” Financial Times;
“A killer band with real bite” Jazzwise

Sun 11th   1:30pm   SUNDAY LUNCH: RACHEL SUTTON
With a rich tone and sense of swing that is both moving and exciting, Rachel Sutton performs classics from The American Songbook, together with her beautiful original compositions which have been hailed as ‘a revelation’ by Jazz Views. Her latest album “A Million Conversations” has been received with considerable acclaim and she will be performing material from this album plus, as she puts it a “sneak preview of my new single due for release at the end of January”. Also featured this afternoon is her swinging rhythm section of Roland Perrin-piano, Curtis Ruiz-bass & Paul Robinson-drums.
“immaculate vocals and bursting-with-life stage presence…a must see” Cabaret Scenes

  Sun 11th         8:00pm           MEG LEE    
A soulful and versatile jazz & blues singer-songwriter, Meg Lee has graced stages alongside artists such as Rumer, Kat Eaton and Sarah Jane Morris. Bringing a contemporary edge to timeless classics Meg is also a fine songwriter, with her own material earning regional and national airplay. Her various recordings include her 2018 debut album “Meet Me” along with her follow up EP “Wintertime Thing” and her latest single, “Big Beautiful Beat”.  Known for her warm stage presence and natural charm, Meg’s style is a true mix of the old and the new and we are delighted to welcome her to the Club tonight. Also featuring the brilliant Brandon Allen (Kyle Eastwood, Eric Clapton)-sax. 
“A beautiful and captivating performer” Rumer

Mon 12th   8:00pm   REMEMBERING DILL KATZ – HIS BIRTHDAY GIG
Tonight we remember one of the great UK electric bass players, the brilliant Dill Katz. Dill started his career in the early 1960’s and through the 60’s and 70’s he was first call for a number of highly rated and often influential bands, including Pacific Eardrum, Nucleus, Barbara Thompson’s Paraphernalia & District Six. At the same time a regular on the studio scene, he could be found playing on sessions for a host of high-profile artists, including the iconic Dusty Sprongfield. By the 90’s he was playing with his own bands as well as teaching at the Guildhall School of Music & Drama. A truly lovely man, his great passion was to support and encourage upcoming young musicians, a significant number of whom have since become highly respected players and who will be appearing at the Club this evening. His association with the 606 went back over 30 years, with his own bands but also as the long serving bass player with Club owner Steve Rubie’s Brazilian/Jazz band “Samara”. After becoming ill in late 2019 Dill retired from performing but maintained his contacts until his untimely death in June 2025. One of the most respected players of his generation, both as a musician and as a quiet, generous and caring individual Dill has established his place in the pantheon of great UK jazz musicians. For many years Dill celebrated his birthday, 12th January 1946, here at the Club and we felt it appropriate to mark this special day one more time. Tonight, along with the likes of John Etheridge-guitar, Dudley Phillips-bass, Sophie Alloway-drums and band members from Samara, Nic France-drums, Andy Lafone-bass, Neil Angilley-piano & Steve Rubie-flute/sax amongst many others, we will be honouring this wonderful musician with an evening of fun and eclectic music, just the way Dill would have liked it! “
Superior jazz-rock…led by ex-Nucleus…bassist Katz” Time Out

Tue 13th   8:00pm   DAN REINSTEIN      
American-born saxophonist Dan Reinstein first began playing at the old 606 Club when a medical student in the 1980’s. He returned to the US in the early 90s to become one of the world’s leading laser eye surgeons (he’s now Professor Reinstein). But when he returned to London, it was great to hear his fluent, classic hard-bop, muscular sax playing again and the rest, as they say, is history-Dan & his quartet have performed here for the last 23 years and still going!
“impressive hard-bop saxophonist” Time Out

Wed 14th   8:00pm   DULCIE MAY MORENO with Special Guest: STEVE FISHWICK
Influenced by the likes of Nina Simone, Billie Holiday & Sarah Vaughan singer Dulcie May Moreno is emerging as a versatile jazz artist with range and poise. Tonight she will be appearing at the Club with her quintet featuring Steve Fishwick-trumpet, whose fluent, melodic playing has been heard with a who’s who of jazz greats, including Anita O’ Day, Ron Carter, Peter Erskine & Cedar Walton.  Together they will perform a mix of her excellent jazz-influenced originals alongside, as she says “carefully curated classic standards by some of my greatest influences”.
“A class act” Bebop Spoken Here

Thu 15th   8:00pm   TRISH CLOWES  
Described as “one of the most agile and original jugglers of improv and…composition”, Award-winning saxophonist/composer Trish Clowes has proven herself to be an exciting, world-class, musician of real creativity and skill. With numerous critically acclaimed albums as leader to her name Trish is also a highly respected composer, with commissions from the likes of the BBC Concert Orchestra and the London Sinfonietta. Tonight Trish will be performing “a mix of music of my heroes Joe Henderson, Wayne Shorter, Eddie Harris, Antonio Carlos Jobim & Monk and there will be a few of my own in there too”. With Mike Outram-guitar, Ross Stanley-piano, Calum Gourlay-bass & Steve Brown-drums.
“Clowes…bristles with uncommon genius” JazzDaGama

Fri 16th   9:00pm   RUMBAND FT MICHAEL BAILEY & AMA LIA
Featuring an array of brilliant and highly experienced musicians from the likes of Trinidad & Tobago, Jamaica, Greece, Dominica, Nigeria, Australia and the UK, Rumband is not named after the alcoholic beverage(!), it actually stands for “Rhythmic Underground Movement”, and rhythmic it certainly is! Led by singer Ama Lia and bassist Michael Bailey the band effortlessly deliver a compelling array of musical styles, from Groove & Latin to Blues & Soul. Collectively the band include work with the likes of Bob Marley, Jeff Beck, Jimmy Page, Steve Winwood, Eric Clapton, Pete Townsend, Chaka Khan, Lionel Richie & Beyonce and Ama Lia describes it as “a unique family of musicians with an immense wealth of experience, music and stories”.
“Ama Lia has a…rich and strong story telling sassy voice which commands…attention” Soul Survivors Magazine
 

Sat 17th   9:00pm   QUENTIN COLLINS QUARTET
For almost two decades Quentin Collins has had an enviable reputation as a lyrical and melodic trumpet player with a powerful sound and approach. His first album was received to great critical acclaim - “intensely impressive”, “brass virtuoso” - and he has continued to forge an impressive reputation on the UK scene ever since. He includes the likes of Jeff Beck, Omar, Prince and Roy Ayres on a lengthy and impressive cv, but these days is probably best known for his work with the internationally acclaimed Kyle Eastwood Band. Tonight Quentin will be bringing his “All Star” quartet to the Club featuring three musicians all of whom have one or more Awards to their name: Deschanel Gordon-piano, Daniel Casimir-bass and Shane Forbes-drums.
“Collins…impressively intense” Jazzwise; “
Collins…England’s top…trumpet master…breathtaking” HMV Magazine

Sun 18th   1:30pm   SUNDAY LUNCH: GREG DAVIS TRIO WITH SPECIAL GUEST VANESSA ROSE  
An engaging, melodic, sax player in the classic mainstream style, Greg Davis led the band ‘Henry’s Pencil’ which held the attendance record at the famous 100 Club in Oxford Street. A stalwart of the French Riviera (that’s Greg’s description, not ours!) he also performed at the Cannes Film Festival for over a decade. Today Greg will be appearing with Paul Eldridge-piano, Julian Bury-bass and Special Guest vocalist Vanessa Rose, “performing some of the marvellous known and lesser-known jazz standards”.
“Paul Eldridge…accomplished piano” Time Out

Sun 18th   8:00pm           MIM GREY
Mim Grey is a charismatic singer/songwriter in the pop/swing/country style.  A regular with Acid jazz legends The Brand New Heavies she has co-written tracks with Kylie Minogue and worked with the likes of Paul McCartney and Tom Jones.  Her wonderful Country-influenced songs are matched by her terrific, warm and soulful voice. With 3 highly acclaimed albums to her name and her music topping charts around the globe (including Nashville), Country Music in Britain said hers is ‘one of the finest voices in the world’. Tonight, alongside music from her previous recordings Mim and her band will also feature new songs from her upcoming album.
“sultry singer-songwriter” Maverick Magazine;
“my favourite singer” Sir Tom Jones;
“the most beautiful voice to come out of the UK in a very long time” Michael Ball

Mon 19th   8:00pm   BARRY GREEN TRIO
Barry Green is a wonderful modern jazz pianist whose fluent and melodic playing has made a significant impact on the UK jazz scene. His cv is vast, including work with the likes of Bobby Watson, Charles McPherson and Us3 as well as with his own trio. Joining Barry tonight will be the multi-Award-winning guitarist Colin Oxley (Stacey Kent) and iconic bassist Dave Green (Stan Tracey, Charlie Watts).
“Pianist Barry Green and bassist Dave Green…two of the best mainstream-to-bop musicians on the UK scene” Guardian;
“Colin Oxley…providing rich, subtle harmonies” Guardian

Tue 20th   8:00pm   ED BENTLEY’S AFRO-JAZZ EXPRESS
Ghanaian musician Ed Bentley has been resident in the UK since the early 70’s, carving an illustrious career on the international jazz scene as a fine pianist and organist. With 8 albums and regular work with high-profile artists (Percy Sledge, Hugh Masekela) to his name his trademark, swinging, organ-led music is the real deal. Tonight he brings to the Club his latest project “Afro-Jazz Express” performing music he describes as “Afro Cross Rhythms with Jazz improvisations & Blues influences”. Also featuring Jo Fooks-sax, Sam Dunn-guitar & Buster Birch-drums.
“Highly Recommended, best gig in town” Guardian

Wed 21st   8:00pm   ANNA PANZANELLI  
Anna Panzanelli is a London-based jazz singer, pianist, and songwriter hailing from Perugia, Italy who has appeared at numerous international events and festivals including the Umbria Jazz, Alchemika Jazz and Corte dei Miracoli, Milan. As a composer & vocalist, her original music blends jazz and soul, while her piano playing reflects both jazz and classical influences. Tonight, alongside material from her last album “Inchiostro”, Anna will be presenting her latest project, blending jazz, folk, soul and Italian songwriting, featuring material that Anna herself has composed and arranged. Combining jazz improvisation and dynamic musical interplay the band also features Jake Elkan-guitar, Ruggero Bonucci-bass & Filippo Galli-drums.
“[a] new star…self-confident and talented” Policorotv

Thu 22nd   8:00pm   NICK RAMM ENSEMBLE  
An established and respected pianist on the UK jazz scene Nick Ramm’s fluent and sophisticated playing has been heard with the likes of The Cinematic Orchestra, Mulatu Astatke, Matthew Herbert & Acoustic Ladyland. Tonight he brings to the Club his latest project, the Nick Ramm Ensemble, put together to feature Nick’s fresh compositions. The music for this all-acoustic line-up of piano trio augmented by tenor sax and trumpet draws from a wide palette of influences, from contemporary jazz & funk/groove to Brazilian, Cuban, and Ghanaian, although other styles, such as Afrobeat, hip-hop, Latin, spiritual jazz and free improvisation are also entwined. The band itself consist of Nick’s core trio: Tom Herbert-bass & Corrie Dick-drums augmented by two of the finest, award-winning horn players in the UK, Byron Wallen (George Benson, Chaka Khan)-trumpet & Pete Wareham (Acoustic Ladyland, Polar Bear)-sax/flute. A real super-group this and not to be missed!
“Ramm…hugely accomplished…excellent melodious themes” Jazzwise;
“Ramm…fluent and imaginative…exemplary” UKJazzNews;
“Wallen…one of the most innovative, exciting and original trumpet players alive” Jazzwise;
“Wareham…mind-blowing magnificence” The Times

Fri 23rd   9:00pm   SAMARA FT. FRANCESCA CONFORTINI
Tonight we present an evening celebrating the joyous, rhythms of classic Brazilian MPB with the outstanding Brazilian band “Samara”. Featuring the brilliant Brazilian-inspired vocalist Francesca Confortini alongside the powerful piano of Neil Angilley and the swinging flute of our “Gov’nor” Steve Rubie, the band take you on a road trip around Brazil, with music from the South, the North, the North East and beyond. Hear the stories behind some of Brazil’s classic songs and join the band as they perform an infectious blend of Brazilian Samba, Baião, jazz & Latin while everyone has a great time!
“Cracking Latin-jazz quintet…explores…[Brazilian]…classics in great rhythmic style” Time Out

Sat 24th   9:00pm   BINKER GOLDING
Saxophonist Binker Golding has a host of Awards to his name, including two Jazz FM awards, a Parliamentary Jazz Award and a MOBO Award for Best Jazz Act. Perhaps best known for the exciting duo “Binker & Moses” his fluent, creative playing has been heard in a wide variety of musical contexts and his albums have cemented his reputation as an important voice on the UK jazz scene. Tonight he makes a welcome return to the Club to “play some of my favourite jazz standards and traditional blues numbers” alongside Billy Adamson-guitar, Daniel Casimir-bass & Zoe Pascal-drums.
“Golding… considerable depth…fiery, intricate, and engaging” AllAboutJazz

Sun 25th   1:30pm   SUNDAY LUNCH: EARL OKIN “CELEBRATING 60 YEARS IN MUSIC”
Singer-songwriter, musician and comedian Earl Okin has been entertaining audiences worldwide with his unique brand of music and wit for six decades now. His repertoire of quirky humour, combined with first-rate playing of classic jazz and Bossa Nova mark him out as a unique talent. His CV includes touring with Paul McCartney, performing at the Edinburgh Fringe 500 times and working alongside such jazz legends as Adelaide Hall, Stéphane Grappelli and Dame Cleo Laine. An accomplished singer (also recognised for his unique ‘vocal trumpet’ solos), pianist & guitarist, today Earl will be joined by Paul Morgan-bass and Michele Drees-drums. Earl has been performing at the 606 since the 1970’s – he’s an absolute treasure!
“…relaxed and assured…his guitar and keyboard playing are a joy” The Times;
“Exceptional…an utter delight” The Scotsman;
“gently witty and beautifully timed” Guardian

Sun 25th   8:00pm                   JOY ROSE  
Although you may not recognize the name, there’s a very good chance you will recognize the remarkable voice, as Joy has been a featured performer with the likes of Sting and Jason Rebello (Jeff Beck) and is currently one of the vocalists with the iconic band Incognito. With her formidable vocal range and power she produces a set of material that she describes as “a fusion of jazz, soul and gospel”, which is just awesome (ask Sting!). Featuring some of the best groove players in the country, including Carl Hudson (Boy George)-keyboards & Michael Brown (Chaka Khan, Wayne Hernandez)-guitar this is seriously good music.
“When Joy Rose joined Sting for a duet she sang with such power and conviction that…she knocked the audience dead and got a standing ovation” The Current;
“Joy Rose…is simply breathtaking” SmoothJazzNow  

Mon 26th   8:00pm   CLEMENT REGERT’S GAB TRIO FT BEA ASURMENDI  
Tonight guitarist Clement Regert brings to the Club his latest project The GAB Trio, featuring drummer/percussionist/producer Steve Taylor on cajon and percussion and long-term Clement collaborator, the expat Italian Gianluca Corona also on guitar. With this charismatic two-guitar front line the trio perform what Clement describes as “a blend of Flamenco/Brazilian infused tunes and reworked pop numbers”. And watch out for their Special Guest, the rising star Basque singer Bea Asurmendi.
“Regert’s… guitar playing is always fluent and on the mark and the music he writes is irresistibly lively” Jazzwise        

Tue 27th   8:00pm   DAVID GORDON TRIO
Described by the Independent as “a richly gifted player with a sparkling style and boundless imagination”, pianist David Gordon’s one of the few professional musicians who is equally established in both the jazz and classical worlds. Along with Oli Hayhurst-bass and Tom Hooper-drums the Trio’s recording ‘Alexander Scriabin’s Ragtime Band’ was named MOJO’s Jazz CD of the Year” and subsequent projects, the album “Pachyderm” and their tribute to the 19th century French composer Gabriel Fauré were received with similar warmth & enthusiasm. In 2025 they released their first live album ‘In C’, which as the title states has as its central concept the fact the entire set is performed in the key of C! Tonight at this 606 show their first set will be taken from the record, while the second will be their tribute to the aforementioned composer Fauré, as well as J.S. Bach and Scriabin. A world class talent with a playful sense of humour, David’s performances are both intriguing and fun.
“A daring, uninterrupted journey of bold improvisation and deep musical connection. The album captures raw interplay, Baroque echoes, Latin grooves, and unexpected twists” Jazz Journal; “He doesn’t play many notes, but the notes that he does play are almost the selection of a genius” Jazz FM;
“one of our most brilliant pianists … festival organisers both classical and jazz should be grabbing these guys with both hands” London Jazz News

Wed 28th   8:00pm   SIMON WOOLF’S NEW MASTERS QUINTET FT DONOVAN HAFFNER
Lyrical and sophisticated, Simon Woolf is widely considered to be one of the most fluent and creative double bass players in Europe. A distinguished career spanning close on 5 decades has embraced associations with such US stars as Benny Golson, Harry Allen, Ralph Moore, Ruby Braff, George van Eps and Howard Alden along with collaborations with many of the UK’s leading musicians, . Tonight he brings his multi-generational band “New Masters” to the Club featuring some of the finest upcoming musicians in the country, Donovan Haffner-sax, James Davison-trumpet & Joe Edwards-drums alongside himself and Mark Edwards-piano. As well as familiar standards, tonight’s programme will feature a retrospective of tunes composed by Simon.
“Woolf…excellent…outstanding” Jazzwise

Thu 29th   8:00pm   **ALBUM LAUNCH** TOMASZ ZYRMONT
Polish-born pianist Tomasz Zyrmont’s creative, lyrical, playing has been heard widely across the UK, Europe, and the United States. A highly respected player on the international jazz scene, in 2025 he was awarded the honorary Badge Meritorious for Polish Culture for his contribution to promoting Polish culture abroad. Tonight he will be bringing his Quartet to the Club to launch his latest album, “London Manifest”, featuring Sean Khan-sax, Mirko Scarcia-bass & Laurie Lowe-drums. The music features eight original compositions that move from swing and groove to atmospheric ballads and contemporary rhythms. The compositions reflect Tomasz’s years in London, each one a personal artistic statement, combining to present a moving portrait of a city that continues to inspire him.
“London Manifest…is… a musical metaphor for…the sounds of the streets…Zyrmont captures this rhythm with precision and poetic sensitivity, creating a sonic portrait of urban energy and life in constant motion” Polska Plyta, Polska Muzyka

Fri 30th   9:00pm   EDGAR MACIAS “TRIBUTE TO BUENA VISTA SOCIAL CLUB”
UK-based Venezuelan pianist Edgar Macias’s vast and impressive cv includes work with the likes of Wynton Marsalis, David Murray & Scott Hamilton and tonight he will be showcasing his tribute to the iconic Cuban band The Buena Vista Social Club. The band and the Grammy-winning album of the same name became a worldwide phenomenon, selling over eight million records. Featuring Chris Bowden-sax, Tom Hill-bass/vocals, Miles Levin-drums & Nestor Pedrales-percussion this project is Edgar’s “take” on that album, featuring his arrangements of all the classic tracks. If you like Latin music you will love this!
“Edgar Macias…played superbly throughout” Independent

Sat 31st   9:00pm   ALAN BARNES QUINTET: “WORKS OF ART”
Alan Barnes has been recognized as a virtuosic sax/clarinet player, composer, arranger and bandleader for over 40 years. The recipient of more than 30 British Jazz Awards, he has twice been named BBC Jazz Musician of the Year and includes work in the UK, Europe and the US with the likes of Michel Legrand, Jamie Cullum & Van Morrison. Tonight, featuring James Davison-trumpet, Robin Aspland-piano, Andrew Cleyndert-bass and Steve Brown-drums Alan brings his tribute to the brilliant US saxophonist Art Pepper to the Club. Over to Alan: “I put together this all-star band to celebrate the centenary of Art Pepper’s birth. Art’s playing was so…virtuosic and…beautiful…for me, that was how the alto sax should be played!”. Join Alan and the band as they play Art’s original, swinging, tunes alongside classic jazz standards plus some of Alan’s own, terrific compositions. Not to be missed!
“His stylistic range is quite phenomenal” Masters Of The Jazz Saxophone;
“Barnes plays…with so much passion and energy” Guardian

And a few dates in February 2026 to be aware of:
9th: The formidable saxophonist/composer Julian Arguelles (Loose Tubes) celebrates his birthday with an all-star quartet – Gwilym Simcock, Conor Chaplin & James Maddren – playing music from Julian’s upcoming new record “Echo Fields”
14th: Valentine’s night with Canadian vocalist, saxophonist & songwriter now based in London Sandra-Mae Lux performing songs from her superb recent album “Seasons in Jazz”
26th The fabulous, award-winning jazz vocalist Louise Balkwill releases her new album “Chatterbox” showcasing her signature vocalese

606 Club
90 Lots Road
Chelsea
London
SW10 0QD

https://www.606club.co.uk/

020 7352 5953

New jazz festival for Birmingham announced - Eastside Jazz Festival, 12 & 13 February 2026.

Tuesday, December 16, 2025

Royal Birmingham Conservatoire (RBC) is to host a brand new jazz festival for Birmingham taking place over two days, 12-13 Feb 2026, across the multi-venue building. Headliners include Chris Potter.

We have received the following press release;

Brand new jazz festival for Birmingham announced
EASTSIDE JAZZ FESTIVAL
12 & 13 February 2026

Headliners include Chris Potter, Pablo Held Trio, Rebecca Nash, BBC Big Band, Olie Brice with Rachel Musson.

Brings together international musicians, leading innovators, grassroots promoters TDE Promotions and Digbeth Jazz, and RBC’s graduates and students.

Takes place across Royal Birmingham Conservatoire’s concert halls and purpose-built Eastside Jazz Club with wall-to-wall music in the foyers.

Roaming ticket gives access to all the events.

Royal Birmingham Conservatoire (RBC) is to host a brand new jazz festival for Birmingham taking place over two days, 12-13 February 2026, across the multi-venue building.

Eastside Jazz Festival will bring together internationally-renowned musicians with some of today’s most interesting and innovative talent, alongside grassroots promoters and exciting local and student musicians showcasing Birmingham’s thriving and creative jazz scene.

Among headline artists are the internationally-acclaimed US saxophonist Chris Potter with the Pablo Held Trio, a significant force on the contemporary European jazz scene, giving the first gig of their extensive 20th anniversary tour.  Pianist Rebecca Nash, whose career has soared in recent years, makes a prestige trio with Henrick Jensen and Dave Smith.  BBC Big Band, widely regarded as one of the world’s leading jazz orchestras, are given free rein for an evening which includes collaborations with RBC vocalists Julie Claire and Poppy Baker.  And the Olie Brice Quartet – masters of original music and free improvisation – includes Rachel Musson, current recipient of the prestigious Paul Hamlyn Composer award, on tenor sax.

Programming for Eastside Jazz Festival is being led by Jeremy Price (Head of Jazz at Royal Birmingham Conservatoire), along with Tony Dudley-Evans (TDE Promotions) and RBC’s Ed Puddick, Shanti Jayasinha, Nicholas Gebhardt and Libby Surplice.

Jeremy Price, Head of Jazz, Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, said:
“The brand new Eastside Jazz Festival aims to celebrate Birmingham’s ever-growing and diverse jazz scene and strengthen the city’s position as a European centre for contemporary jazz.  It’s a two-day focus on year-round programming: alongside musicians of the highest calibre, and leading innovators in contemporary jazz, we’re also working with grassroots promoters Digbeth Jazz (named 2025 Parliamentary Awards’ Venue of the Year) and showcasing RBC’s own graduates and students.  Our courses at RBC are predicated on students sharing professional platforms with world class leading artists and this jazz festival embraces that exact same spirit. In this multi-venue event, we’ll be making full use of RBC’s Bradshaw and Recital Halls, purpose-built Eastside Jazz Club, and populating the foyers with wall-to-wall music.  And we’re introducing a roaming ticket so audiences can dip into the many and varied sessions to ensure an immersive festival experience.”

Graduates and current students of Royal Birmingham Conservatoire are a cornerstone of the Eastside Jazz Festival, cementing the legacy of the Jazz Department.  Trombonist and alumni Dave Sear – now a visiting tutor at RBC – plays with his quartet, while the Tony Levin Drum Prize, which commemorates the celebrated Midlands drummer, seeks out an exceptional student with US saxophonist Jean Toussaint and UK bassist Arnie Somogyi.  Big bands including Banda Brasiliera and RBC Jazz Orchestra are also involved.

Other highlights include pianist Ben Shankland (BBC Scotland Young Jazz Musician winner), RBC bassist Macy Wright & Indo Jazz, with more to be confirmed.

Eastside Jazz Festival is at Royal Birmingham Conservatoire on 12-13 February 2026.  Tickets and details at http://www.bcu.ac.uk/concerts

Artists confirmed to date [as of December 2025]:

Thu 12 Feb
Chris Potter with Pablo Held Trio
Banda Brasiliera
RBC Jazz Orchestra play Miles Davis/Gil Evans Porgy and Bess Suite
Digbeth Jazz Presents
Ben Shankland & Poppy Baker

Fri 13 Feb
BBC Big Band
Rebecca Nash Trio with Henrick Jensen and Dave Smith
Olie Brice Quartet with Rachel Musson
Macy Wright & Indo Jazz
Birmingham Jazz Orchestra
Digbeth Jam

Tickets:
Two-day Festival Ticket: £40 advance (£45 on the door) | £25 students / over 60s
Day Ticket: £30 advance (£35 on the door) | £20 students /over 60s

Box Office http://www.bcu.ac.uk/concerts | 0121 331 5909

Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, 200 Jennens Road, Birmingham, B4 7XR.

Black Mountain Jazz, Abergavenny, Programme for January, February and March 2026.

Tuesday, December 16, 2025

Black Mountain Jazz has announced its headline concerts for the first quarter of 2026. Details attached.

From;
https://www.blackmountainjazz.co.uk/event-details/elijah-jeffery-eddie-gripper

Elijah Jeffery & Eddie Gripper
Sun 25 Jan |  The Melville Theatre
Time & Location
25 Jan 2026, 20:00 – 22:30
The Melville Theatre, 4 Pen-Y-Pound, Abergavenny NP7 5UD, UK
About the event
Black Mountain Jazz Club is delighted to welcome back two Cardiff-based musicians well known to BMJ audiences.
Vocalist–songwriter Elijah Jeffery and award-winning pianist Eddie Gripper join forces to present their acclaimed new CD (self-entitled, ‘Elijah Jeffery & Eddie Gripper’ ) currently on a UK wide tour, with a striking blend of original songs and a bold reimagining of Purcell’s 17th-century aria, praised for its imaginative, genre-defying approach.
Their live performance weaves together progressive pop, indie folk, and alternative jazz, taking audiences on a captivating musical journey. From the folk-inspired ‘Shifting Seasons’ to the introspective jazz ballad ‘Because of You’, the art-pop energy of ‘Close Your Eyes’ and a fresh take on ‘Dido’s Lament’, Elijah and Eddie showcase their flair for storytelling and innovative composition.
With a shared passion for pushing musical boundaries, their performance promises an intimate yet adventurous experience that resonates across genres, making this a must-see evening for lovers of inventive, genre-defying music.
Hampshire-born vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Elijah Jeffery brings influences ranging from the Great American Songbook to contemporary folk, whilst English pianist Eddie Gripper - hailed for his melodic charm and already compared with the greats - adds a distinctive blend of jazz, folk and modern classical colour.
“These are songs that convince both musically and lyrically, there is real musical and emotional intelligence at work here” - Ian Mann,  TheJazzMann
“Both halves of the duo excel on this recording, both in their quality and restraint, but it is their joint passion for song writing that shines brightest.”  - Neil Duggan,  All About Jazz
Tickets
Ticket type
General Admission
Price
From £9.00 to £18.00
Standard
£18.00
Friends of BMJ
£16.00
Under 18’s
£9.00

Yetii: ’ Inner World’s ’ Album Tour
Sun 22 Feb |  The Melville Theatre
Time & Location
22 Feb 2026, 20:00 – 22:30
The Melville Theatre, 5 Pen-Y-Pound, Abergavenny NP7 5UD, UK
About the event
We welcome Yetii to Black Mountain Jazz for this very special one-off gig as part of their UK ‘Inner Worlds’ Album Tour.
Yetii released their debut album ‘Live at The Greenbank’ to widespread critical acclaim and have since played at jazz clubs, festivals and arts centres across the UK, as well as supporting ‘The Bad Plus’ on their recent UK Tour.
The trio play original compositions combining flowing melodies with expansive group improvisations, interlocking grooves and evolving soundscapes.
The band have built their following with a sold-out monthly residency in Bristol, including collaborations with Iain Ballamy, Ant Law and Arun Ghosh.
Alex Veitch – piano
Ashley John Long - double bass
Alex Goodyear - drums
“a performance that both enthralled and delighted the audience ★★★★★”- Ian Mann,  The JazzMann
“Impossible to ignore”  - Jazzwise
“a trio of fluent and wildly inventive improvisers” UK Jazz News
Video Link -  https://youtu.be/rSRrT5kb8ZM
Tickets
Ticket type
General Admission
Price
From £9.75 to £19.50
Standard
£19.50
Friends of BMJ
£17.50
Under 18’s
£9.75

Brass Band Bychan
Sun 29 Mar |  The Melville Theatre
Time & Location
29 Mar 2026, 20:00 – 23:00
The Melville Theatre, 4 Pen-Y-Pound, Abergavenny NP7 5UD, UK
About the event
Black Mountain Jazz Club welcomes Brass Band Bychan to Abergavenny this March for an unforgettable night of bold brass, deep groove and high-energy creativity.
Hailing from Wales’ vibrant jazz scene, Brass Band Bychan brings together four outstanding musicians all familiar to us here at BMJ:
Gareth Roberts (trombone),
Gethin Liddington (trumpet),
Alistair Stewart (sousaphone)
and Mark O’Connor (drums).
Led by award-winning composer Gareth Roberts, the band is renowned for its powerful blend of jazz, funk and street-band swagger - delivering a sound that is both rhythmically infectious and richly melodic.
Their live performances are full of personality - tight horn lines, driving sousaphone bass and irresistible drum grooves combine to create a small ensemble with a truly big presence.
Join us at Black Mountain Jazz Club for a night that promises joyous original music, fearless improvisation and the unique energy only a powerhouse brass group can deliver.
Tickets
Ticket type
General Admission
Price
From £9.50 to £19.00
Standard
£19.00
Friends of BMJ’s
£17.00
Under 18’s
£9.50

Jazz at Progress, Progress Theatre, Reading, Berkshire - Programme for January to July 2026.

Tuesday, December 16, 2025

Jazz at Progress has announced its programme for January to July 2026. Events take place at the Progress Theatre, Reading. Fully detailed schedule attached.

From;
https://www.jazzinreading.com/jazz/jazz-at-progress/?future=true

Jazz at Progress | The Alex Hitchcock Quartet
Friday 2 January 2026 | Progress Theatre, Reading | 7: 30pm | £20.00 (£18.00 concessions, £10 under 16) plus maximum 5% booking fee
Alex Hitchcock - tenor sax
Will Barry piano
Joe Downard bass
Luke McCarthy drums
‘Ridiculous technique and harmonic proficiency combined with progressive creativity that sees him leading the charge in terms of new jazz music being created in the UK’ – Linley Hamilton, BBC Jazz World
Since his first gig as leader for us at Progress in 2017, Alex Hitchcock is now regarded as one of the UK’s most virtuosic jazz musicians. This will be his third appearance for us, last in 2022. Every gig has been a roaring success. Over the past year or so, Alex has been resident in New York honing his already impressive skills as composer, leader and playing a wide spectrum of jazz. He is also touring extensively in Europe, UK and the USA at major venues and festivals. A busy man!
Will Barry is a regular in the quartet appearing with Alex at Progress in 2017 and also in 2022 with saxophonist Tom Smith and Empirical last February 2025. Once a “young gun” Will is now a much in demand pianist for many fine bands.
Joe Downard is the bedrock of the quartet with perfect accompaniment and solo skills to match. Now a composer and band leader in his own right, Joe has appeared at every gig at Progress with Alex.
Luke McCarthy is new to us, still studying at the Royal Academy of Music and rapidly building a reputation as a drummer going places.
So, bring in the New Year with your first jazz gig of 2026. We guarantee it’ll be a corker.

Jazz at Progress | Josephine Davies’ Satori Quartet
Friday 30 January 2026 | Progress Theatre, Reading | 7: 30pm | £20.00 (£18.00 concessions, £10 under 16) plus maximum 5% booking fee.
Josephine Davies tenor & soprano saxophones
Alcyona Mick piano
Dave Whitford bass
Jay Davies drums
Winner of the 2019 Parliamentary Award ‘Jazz Instrumentalist of the year’, Josephine Davies is a saxophonist, composer and bandleader at the forefront of the UK contemporary music scene. She has four album releases on Whirlwind Recordings with her trio/quartet Satori, and is known for her melodic focus, versatility and unique style as an instrumentalist.
Now becoming equally known as a composer, her unique sound is a blend of jazz, folk and classical music, creating an intensely dynamic sound infused with the Nordic quality of her Shetland roots.
Josephine was resident composer and tenor player for the London Jazz Orchestra from 2012-2018, leaving at that time to form her own 17 piece orchestra, The Enso Ensemble. She was chosen to be one of the South Coast Radar Jazz Composers in 2020 and commissioned at that time by NYJO to write a piece for their album ‘She Said’, featuring music solely by female composers.
Returning to the studio for the much-anticipated 4th album from her band Satori, Josephine Davies has composed an exquisite album of pieces inspired by her Nordic roots in the Shetland Islands. The superb partnership of bassist Dave Whitford and drummer Jay Davies once again creates the perfect bedrock for Josephine’s sinuous saxophone lines. Joining the original trio to become the current quartet is the innovative pianist Alcyona Mick.
The intricate compositions, coupled with the thrilling interplay between these four musicians, evokes the interconnection of Shetland sea, land, sky, and ever-present wind. At times stark and unsettling, and at times light and joyous, their latest album “Weatherwards” is a unique and magical offering from one of the UK’s most dynamic ensembles.
“Satori is among the most engaging young bands on the British scene… Cerebral, nuanced and reflective.” All About Jazz
“Davies weaves a continuous thread of shifting feelings through the set.” London Jazz News
“The powerful combination of fearless free improvisation and melodic empathy from these gifted players creates a powerful and timely statement.” Jazz in Europe
“A terrifying level of proficiency with an insatiable appetite for improvisation.” Rhein Main Magazine

Jazz at Progress | Ben Crosland’s All Star Band Play the Ray Davies Song Book
Friday 20 February 2026 | Progress Theatre, Reading | 7: 30pm | £20.00 (£18.00 concessions, £10 under 16) plus maximum 5% booking fee.
Theo Travis reeds | Ben Crosland bass | Steve Lodder keyboards |  | John Etheridge guitar | Buster Birch drums
Those of us who were growing up at the time of the swinging 60s need no introduction to the music of The Kinks. However, for those not acquainted, the band’s website will tell you all you need to know. Not that the band and leader, composer Ray Davies, stopped developing and influencing rock and popular music in the 60s. Far from it.
Whether Ray ever thought that his tunes would one day be performed and rearranged as jazz band material is possibly unknown, but he has approved in writing Ben Crosland’s and his musician’s treatment of his compositions. See here
Ben was commissioned by Marsden jazz festival in 2014 to write arrangements of Ray Davies tunes, which duly done and performed, in 2015, resulted in an album “The Ray Davies Songbook” followed in 2018 by Volume 2.
Reviewers rated the results highly…
“…the album swings consistently…with this sharp, cogent collection, a dedicated follower of Ray Davies has made him a well-respected jazz composer too.” – The Times
“…a lot of affection, a lot of respect for those unforgettable melodies and a whole lotta damn fine playing…these well respected men have done Mr. Davies proud” – Jazzwise
Whilst the line up has changed from the albums, Ben, John Etheridge and Steve Lodder remain, and with the addition of Theo Travis form the since well-honed core of the band. They have performed many times over several years and never fail to hit the spot.
Just read this review of the band in January 2025 at Fleece Jazz.
Theo Travis and John Etheridge play together in Soft Machine. So, although a different genre, they express a close musical wavelength in Ben’s band. John has been described by the great Pat Metheny as “one of the best guitarists”. Theo is fantastically busy musician, composer, arranger-you name musical tasks and he does it. Two wonderful versatile musicians who have both appeared at Progress and it will be good to have them back.
Ben Crosland has been immersed in Jazz since the 1980s and played with anyone who is anyone on in the UK scene. This is apart from running his own bands, doing jazz promotions and of course arranging, composing. For unknown reasons this his first appearance at Progress.
Buster Birch is again a much in demand musician, composer, arranger, author, educator and much more. He was last with us with Steve Waterman.  An unknown fact; he created his own critically acclaimed show which features the Buster Birch jazz quartet playing live to the screening of different classic Buster Keaton silent movies, for which he has arranged and scored over 4hrs of music to sync. In 2023 it won the Audience Award at The Chichester International Film Festival.
Please join us for another fine night of the music we love.

Jazz at Progress | Small Blue
Friday 27 March 2026 | Progress Theatre, Reading | 7: 30pm | £20.00 (£18.00 concessions, £10 under 16) plus maximum 5% booking fee.
Martin Pyne drums / composition
David Beebee piano
Marianne Windham double bass
Percussionist, composer and improviser Martin Pyne, when not working with contemporary dance or as a silent film accompanist, performs solo sets, leads bands, and collaborates with a range of musicians and other artists.
Formed in 2023, the jazz trio Small Blue is a result of just such a collaboration, with David Beebee on piano, and Marianne Windham on double bass.
Small Blue is a piano trio in the classic modern jazz tradition, featuring material including straight ahead swinging tunes and beautiful ballads , as well as African inspired grooves – but always with a twist.
Martin says that most of the tunes he composes have a back story, often being inspired by novels or poems he’s read, movies or art he’s seen, or places he’s visited.
The result is music that is intimate but ranges far and wide in tempo and mood – by turns lyrical, atmospheric, groovy, and mischievous – and takes in heartfelt ballads, mysterious grooves, evocative atmospheres and melodic swing along the way.
The trio’s second album, Furrow, has – like their debut album, The Stealthy Moon – been received with enthusiastic critical acclaim…
“Superb contemporary jazz” – Jazz Views
“Small Blue might be led by a drummer but this is one of the best ‘piano trio’ albums that I’ve heard in a long time” – THE JAZZMANN
“… high grade Bill Evans Trio territory … each track has its own picture, each track turns its own curve, put all together and Small Blue have themselves a minor masterpiece.” – Steve Day
“Pyne has written twelve exceptional compositions for the new group that immediately gives the trio an identity and repertoire that marks them out as rather something special … a composer of rare talent” – Jazz Views
“In terms of percussion improvisation, try to imagine something that runs from the Zen sound-painting of Frank Perry to the light swing of Billy Higgins. There’s nothing loud, nothing showy, nothing esoteric. Just a delight in the deft touch of a stick, a mallet, a finger or a wire brush on metal, skin or wood, and in the process of transforming sound into a sense of movement.” – Richard Williams, The Blue Moment
Sample the music here: https://tinyurl.com/ua6p5ndm

Jazz at Progress | Matt Skelton presents The Blackhawk Quintet: Celebrating Shelly Manne | Tickets on sale soon
Friday 3 July 2026|  Progress Theatre, Reading | 7: 30pm | £20.00 (£18.00 concessions, £10 under 16) plus maximum 5% booking fee.
James Davison trumpet
Mark Crooks tenor saxophone
Leon Greening piano
Conor Chaplin bass
Matt Skelton drums
This will be a night of ‘cool jazz’ and a tribute to multi-poll winning drummer, Shelley Manne, one of the greats of the West Coast scene of the 1950s An extraordinary and selfless artist, Shelley (1920-1984) – band leader, Contemporary Jazz record label house musician, studio orchestra drummer for countless films and television and owner of ‘Shelley’s Manne Hole’ jazz club – has left an immense legacy of collaborations and recordings, which have enriched the lexicon of jazz percussion with virtuosic alacrity.
This project, masterminded by Matt Skelton, celebrates Shelley’s Quintet – Joe Gordon, trumpet; Richie Kamuca, tenor sax; Victor Felman, piano; Monty Budwig, bass and Shelley Manne, drums – and their particular contribution to the Manne canon, inspired by a clutch of golden performances, captured live at the Blackhawk Jazz club in San Francisco between September 22-24,1959.
Tonight’s ‘stellar’ line-up has been hand-picked for the way they connect with, and are inspired by their corresponding original artists. They will aim to express the band’s own originality and collective inspiration with the Manne Blackhawk quintet as their DNA framework.
Matt Skelton’s Blackhawk Quintet has taken the UK jazz club scene by storm and by the time they make their Progress appearance will have completed a lengthy tour of Scandinavia.
You can expect the fireworks to be flying tonight!
‘An evening of pure jazz joy. Thank you Matt for giving us the opportunity to hear and be part of this important and uplifting music. Jazz night’s don’t come any better than this. We are still smiling.’ – Watermill Jazz Club – Dorking

Progress Theatre
progress theatre - jazz in reading
http://www.progresstheatre.co.uk | The Mount, Off Christchurch Road, Reading RG1 5HL
Bar at all gigs from 7:00pm. Drinks may be taken into the auditorium during performances.
Progress Theatre is a self-governing, self-funding theatre group founded in 1947, maintained by volunteers. The Theatre itself is an intimate 95-seat venue. It is the oldest operating theatre in Reading and has a fully licensed bar. There is wheelchair access to the Theatre with a space for disabled patrons. In 2011 Sir Kenneth Branagh became the Patron to Progress Theatre.

Presto Music Jazz Awards 2025.

Monday, December 15, 2025

Specialist jazz and classical retailers Presto Music, based in Royal Leamington Spa, have announced their jazz award winners for 2025. Press release attached.

We have received the following press release;

Presto Music Awards 2025

British specialist names the year’s best classical and jazz recordings, sheet music, books and more, in a celebration of musical creativity.

Royal Leamington Spa, UK
Presto Music, the leading specialist in classical and jazz music, is proud to reveal the winners of its 2025 Awards, celebrating the year’s best recordings, books, sheet music and more. Chosen from a longlist of more than 150 Finalists, the Awards celebrate the extraordinary breadth and vitality of music-making today.

“Our 2025 Presto Music Award winners made us listen afresh to core repertoire, told absorbing stories or made compelling cases for music that was new to all of us. They exemplify the curiosity, openness and artistic excellence that we at Presto champion every year,” said Presto Music CEO, Chris O’Reilly.

Jazz Awards

In 2025, jazz thrived globally with celebrations like Oscar Peterson’s centenary, the return of the Jazz FM Awards, and numerous concerts and festivals highlighting the very best of the genre. This year, artists have continued to champion what lies at the heart of jazz: its traditions, its diversity, and its commitment to transforming what has come before into something creative and new. Presto Music’s Top 5 Jazz Recordings showcase unexpected instrumentation, rich collaborations, and innovative cross-genre explorations, each one shaped by countless hours spent in rehearsal rooms, studios, and on stages around the world.

O’Reilly said:
“We are thrilled to showcase performances by world-renowned artists including Sir Simon Rattle and Brad Mehldau, alongside some of today’s most exciting rising talents such as Héloïse Werner and Theon Cross. Their recordings remind us how dynamic, diverse and forward-looking the musical landscape has become.”

Jazz Recording of the Year Awards

• Sema4 - ARQ
“Alison Rayner is an artist who has sustained the highest level of artistry and creativity throughout her career, becoming a staple of the British jazz scene. Her latest album
SEMA4 captures a range of genres whilst keeping this signature flair, and acts as an outstanding example of the magic that can come from a live recording.”

• After The Last Sky - Anouar Brahem
“Brahem over the past few decades has been acknowledged as one of the foremost innovators of the oud. After The Last Sky bridges traditions and transcends borders,
expanding the instrument’s expressive range whilst preserving its profound cultural resonance.”

• Affirmations - Live at Blue Note New York - Theon Cross
“With the tuba considered an unlikely candidate for the genre, Cross continues to be one of the most imaginative and boundary-pushing voices, and his latest album captures his innovative spirit and visionary outlook on what jazz can be.”

• Ride Into the Sun - Brad Mehldau
“Mehldau is a pianist that’s renowned for blending jazz tradition with classical sensibility, his latest project paying tribute to the late singer-songwriter Eliot Smith. The result is a sublime demonstration of what it means to reinterpret and reinvent, without losing sight of the original work.”

• Thrive - Fabienne Ambuehl
“In a seamless blend of jazz, lyricism, and folk, Fabienne Ambuehl brings poetry to life and crafts soundscapes that transport listeners into a magical world filled with warmth, imagination, and emotional truth. Thrive speaks to broader themes of nature, belonging, and identity, merging storytelling with deeply personal musical imagery.”

Jazz Special Awards

• Newcomer in Jazz 2025 - Olivia Cuttill
“Olivia Cuttill is a young artist who has made a remarkable impression this year: someone whose talent, creativity, and dedication signals a bright future in the years ahead. Her new album is inspired by family connection, soulful blues, and the spirit of New Orleans, featuring her distinctive trumpet sound.”

• Jazz Organisation of the Year – ECN Music
“Over the last three years ECN Music has exemplified what true dedication to the jazz community looks like. Offering bespoke, highly personalised support to every artist they work with, this organisation not only empowers musicians to retain ownership of their music and provides them with meaningful media opportunities, but also delivers expert guidance in global distribution, promotional strategy, project management, and album design.
After the sad passing of Martin Hummel and the closure of the Ubuntu Music label mid- year, the musicians and artists formerly associated with the label have retained a vital platform through which to share their work through the support of ECN Music, and their commitment to the Brubeck Living Legacy Prize has ensured not only the programme’s remarkable success, but its continued growth into next year. This organisation’s contribution to the jazz community has been truly exceptional, making them unquestionably deserving of the highest recognition.”

• Best Jazz Archive/Reissue - Verve: The Moment Of Truth: Ella At The Coliseum
“This is a rare and radiant window into Ella Fitzgerald at her peak during a live concert, featuring tracks that have never been recorded elsewhere. With a voice full of warmth and purity, and an improvisational genius that delighted audiences, there’s no doubt that what we hear is a legitimate treasure.”

Buy, stream and save on the winners
All the winners are available now from Presto Music. Until 21st January 2026, customers can save up to 30% on the finalists, in CD, Vinyl, Blu-ray or Download format.
The winning recordings can also be enjoyed – the majority in high-resolution quality – via Presto’s streaming service. Now available in 46 countries worldwide, the Presto Music streaming service has a Fair Play Initiative, ensuring artists receive payment per second of music streamed, rather than the typical pay-per-track model.

With roots stretching back almost 40 years, Presto Music has evolved from a specialist retailer into a trusted global platform for recorded music, scores, and expert insight. The company continues to champion artistry, scholarship, and discovery in classical and jazz music.

About Presto Music
Based in Royal Leamington Spa in the UK, Presto Music is the UK’s leading destination for classical and jazz recordings - whether via its streaming service or online and in-store sales of CDs, DVDs, high- quality downloads and vinyl. It also offers sheet music, music books and musical instruments. Founded in 1986 as a small high street shop, the Presto Music website was started in 2001 and has grown into one of the most significant online retailers for music products in the world, focusing on enriching the lives of music lovers and musicians of all ages, backgrounds and abilities by championing a passion for music.

http://www.prestomusic.com

Presto Music
23–25 Regent Grove
Leamington Spa
CV32 4NN

+44 (0)1926 886883

Email: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Peter Slavid - ‘European Modern Jazz’ on the radio - 2025 year-end Radio Playlist.

Monday, December 15, 2025

In his two end of year shows Peter will play music from twenty one albums that have appealed to his own personal musical taste. Listings attached.

Peter Slavid writes;

Hi folks,

2025 has not been a good year for me personally. My house was flooded and we had to move into temporary accommodation for several months, and more recently I fractured my patella – now slowly recovering! However, through most of that my radio show has kept going!

During the year, up to the end of November, I played tracks from 294 albums (and received quite a few more!). Almost all came from independent labels. However I’m aware that there was still lots of music that I never got to hear.

Inevitably the largest single contribution came from the UK with 22%, down from 29% last year. A good spread across continental Europe with the noticeable exception of Spain and Portugal where I clearly need more contacts.

In my two “end of year” shows I’m playing 21 albums that have particularly appealed, for whatever reason, to my personal, rather quirky taste. This is NOT a “best of year” list, just an “end of year” list playing in alphabetical order. But I do really like all of them.

They will be playing on the Radio on Dec 14/28 and Jan 7/14

http://www.hayesfm.org.uk 91.8 HayesFM – West London Community Radio Sunday 12.00

http://www.purebeatradio.co.uk (Scotland) Sundays 7pm

Camp radio (France) http://www.listen.camp/ Sundays 7pm

Both parts are available now at http://www.mixcloud.com/ukjazz

Also later today as “Peter’s Eurojazz Podcast” on Apple, Amazon, Deezer and other podcast sites.

Do get in touch if you want more information about any of the albums. If you are one of the people who sends me music - please keep it coming. If you are a listener – a big thank you, and do let me know what you think of the show.

Have a great holiday and here’s to a happy trauma-free and musical 2026
Peter

———————————————————————————————————————————————————————————

Part One

Anders Filipsen Trio
Dark and Plenty of Sun
Aldebar Nights of Mangos
ILK

Bliss Quintet
Ida
Live at Nattjazz `24
Jazzland

Chrome Hill
Walk With Me
En Route
Clean Feed

Cosmic Ear
Brown Rice
Traces
We Jazz Records

Daniel Erdmann’s Organic Soulfood
Hello Myself
Into the Sweet Unknown
BMC

Hélène Labarrière
Jane
Puzzle
Jazzdor

Joachim Kuhn
Hunting
Échappée
Intakt

Johnny Richards & Dave King
Sleepless in Settle
The New Awkward
False Door

KOVÁSZ
Moldavian Funk
Fermentum
BMC

Louis Sclavis
Madras Song
India
Yolk

Makiko Hirabayashi Weavers
Up River
Gifts
enja/yellowbird

Part 2

Marcin Masecki
Bemsha Swing
Monk
BMC

Michel Fernandez Quintet
Global Warning
Live au Hot Club de Lyon
Atypeek Music

Potsa Lotsa XL
Palmate
Amoeba’s Dance
Trouble In The East

Robert Mitchell
I Greet The Universe (With All Your Person)
Little Black Book
Whirlwind

Rosa Ensemble
Muzak/Muzak3/Stalker
Oddments
Cuneiform

Seb Rochford
People Say Stuff, Don’t Be Disheartened
Finding Ways
Edition

Sergio Armaroli Giancarlo Schiaffini
Spirits Rejoice
Deconstructing Ayler in the Universe
Dodicilune

Spinifex
Sack and Ash (part)
Maxximus
Trytone Records

Stéphane Kerecki
The People United
Liberation Songs
Self Two Music

Vincent Meissner
Palma Amore
Eigengrau
ACT

Shrewsbury Jazz Network announce programme for January, February and March 2026.

Sunday, December 14, 2025

Shrewsbury Jazz Network has announced its programme for the first three months of 2026. Events take place at The Hive Music & Media Centre, Shrewsbury. Fully detailed schedule attached.

PROGRAMME – January to March 2026
* Saturdays at 7pm. Performance area opens 6:30pm.

Bryan Corbett’s Instrumental Groove Unit
Jan 10 £25/£12 U22
Renowned Birmingham based trumpeter and flugelhorn player Bryan Corbett presents his new instrumental Groove Unit featuring, Paul Deats (Fender Rhodes & keyboards), Luke Harris (drums) and Wayne Matthews (basses).
This exciting new project introduces original material and a repertoire with emphasis on the ‘pocket’ of groove and freedom of improvisation.
“The Bomb” .....Courtney Pine

Alicia Gardener-Trejo Quartet
Feb 7 £25/£12 U22
As part of a tour showcasing her debut album ‘Home/Lands’ Alicia Gardner-Trejo (baritone sax, flute, bass flute) brings her exciting quartet to SJN at the Hive. Featuring the individual voices of Andrew Woodhead (piano), Brodie Laird-Jarvie (double bass) and Jonathan Silk (drums) their music plays with the sonic possibilities of low woodwinds & double bass,  with fresh ideas of melody & bassline responsibilities. With strong influences from the world of jazz and folk, ‘Home/Lands’ features intricately crafted melodies and strong improvisations.
‘A very engaging piece with attractive melodies and strong solos.’ Tony Dudley Evans
* Please note that this gig will be presented as a single set performance starting at 8.00 and ending around 9.30.

Mark Lockheart Shapeshifter Trio
Mar 14 £25/£12 U22
Shapeshifter is a new trio featuring three very special creative voices of the UK jazz scene: Mark Lockheart (saxes, bass clarinet & electronics), Huw V Williams (bass) &
Jay Davis (drums & percussion). The star- studded musical CV of these musicians is far too extensive to list here. Creating a unique sonic experience, the trio shifts moment to moment, gracefully and spontaneously stitching together sound landscapes and grooves. The three members share the writing credits alongside a few carefully chosen works by Bill Frisell, Joe Henderson and Paul Motian.

The Hive, 5 Belmont, Shrewsbury, SY1 1TE

https://events.hiveonline.org.uk/

.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

01743 234970

EFG London Jazz Festival wins “Festival Of The Year” at The LIVE Awards 2025.

Friday, December 12, 2025

EFG London Jazz Festival has been honoured with the prestigious Festival of the Year award at The LIVE Awards 2025, held on 10 December 2025 at Troxy in East London. Press release attached.

We have received the following press release;

EFG London Jazz Festival wins “Festival Of The Year” at The LIVE Awards 2025

EFG London Jazz Festival has been honoured with the prestigious Festival of the Year award at The LIVE Awards 2025, held this week (10 December) at Troxy in East London. The ceremony, organised in association with Skiddle, brought together more than 500 leading figures from across the UK’s live music sector, including promoters, venues, agents, festivals, and artist managers.

This year’s award recognises the EFG London Jazz Festival for its broad and large scale programme, and innovative, inclusive and community-centred approach, particularly in response to rising living costs. The Festival placed accessibility at its core, delivering extensive free and family-friendly programming at the Southbank Centre’s Clore Ballroom and the Barbican across both weekends. Its dedicated venue and pop-up hub, The Jazz Social, offered free events, low-cost tickets priced at £15 and under, and set-aside allocations for low-income audiences, while also supporting sustainability through self-operated ticketing and revenue generated from on-site food, drink and merchandise. A Community Tickets Scheme further widened access by providing £5 tickets to community organisations, and large-scale workshops encouraged active participation from people with little or no musical experience, strengthening the Festival’s role as a gateway to jazz for all.

The 2025 edition marks 20 years of the Festival’s renowned Take Five talent development programme, celebrated with a special Barbican event featuring distinguished alumni. This year also saw artist in residence aja monet curate cross-disciplinary programmes at the Barbican, blending spoken word, music and community dialogue, while the Festival hosted the Aga Khan Music Awards in London for the first time, broadening its international reach and deepening cultural exchange. Together, these initiatives demonstrate the Festival’s commitment to balancing accessibility with sustainability, while championing jazz as an evolving, community-connecting art form and reinforcing the EFG London Jazz Festival’s identity as a forward-thinking, globally engaged event.

EFG London Jazz Festival director Pelin Opcin says of the award:
“We’re deeply honoured that the EFG London Jazz Festival has been named Live Music UK’s Festival of the Year.
In our 33rd year, this recognition from the wider industry means a tremendous amount. This award celebrates our long-standing commitment to jazz and beyond—creative music in all its forms, the artists who make it, the communities we serve, and the partner presenters who help bring it to life. London’s jazz scene is a powerful force which enables UK Jazz’s global impact. We are truly thrilled to play a part in this.
From our sold-out large scale shows, to our special projects and our new music commissions, from club shows to reach-out programmes where we span over to 23 boroughs in London, this award is a testament to EFG London Jazz Festival’s dedication to visionary programming and collaboration.
This achievement would not have been possible without the wonderful artists who took part, our partners, sponsors, venues, club programmers, audiences and, of course, the hard-working and devoted Serious team. We also extend our thanks to EFG International and Arts Council England for their continuous support, to enable these visions”

Hosted by comedian Tom Ward, the event celebrated excellence across the live industry, with 15 awards presented throughout the evening. Winners were selected by a panel of industry experts, alongside notable honourees such as Communion ONE, ROAM, Solo Agency, LIDO Festival, Gigantic Tickets and Black Lives in Music.

Gaby Cartwright, head of partnerships at LIVE, praised this year’s celebrations:
“The LIVE Awards were a fantastic celebration of the people who make this industry what it is. We continued to build on ideas introduced in previous years, including our vegan-first menu, and expanded our commitment to inclusivity with a dedicated no- and low-alcohol bar in partnership with Club Soda, plus a calm space for anyone who needed a breather. Huge congratulations to all of this year’s winners, and a big thank you to all our sponsors, we can’t wait to come back even bigger in 2026.”

Serious is one of the UK’s leading producers of live jazz, international and new music through concerts, festivals, tours, digital shows, talent development schemes, learning and participation programmes, and bespoke events for all.
https://serious.org.uk/

EFG International is a global private banking group offering private banking and asset management services and is headquartered in Zurich. EFG International’s group of private banking businesses operates in around 40 locations worldwide. Its registered shares (EFGN) are listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange. 
https://www.efginternational.com/uk

Miller Theatre at Columbia University School of the Arts, New York City, announces the Winter 2026 season of its free POP-UP CONCERTS, January, February, March 2026.

Thursday, December 11, 2025

Miller Theatre’s hour-long, musician-curated Pop-Up Concerts—free, informal, and intimate—bring the audience right onto the stage. 2026 Winter programme attached.

We have received the following press release;

Miller Theatre at Columbia University School of the Arts
announces the winter season of
POP-UP CONCERTS
Free “happy hour” concerts with the audience onstage

Tuesday, January 27
Trinket Ensemble

Tuesday, February 17
Chico Pinheiro, guitar

Tuesday, March 3
Amy Williams, piano
Morton Feldman’s “Triadic Memories”

Free admission • Doors at 5:30PM, music at 6PM
at Miller Theatre (2960 Broadway at 116th Street)

Pop-Up Concerts
Onstage seating is first-come, first-served.
Concerts start at 6PM and doors open at 5:30PM.

Miller Theatre’s hour-long, musician-curated Pop-Up Concerts—free, informal, and intimate—bring the audience right onto the stage, inches from virtuoso performers who share not only their music but the stories behind it. The unique setting “feels closer to a loft party than a formal concert” (ODEA). One loyal audience member calls it “the greatest hour of culture in New York.”

“Some concerts are better shorter. That’s the premise behind this intimate happy-hour pop-up series, in which audience members can fortify themselves with a drink,
sit onstage with the musicians, and listen…”
— New York Magazine

“Even after the weekend’s over, if you’re craving world-class music, you can hear some for free at neighborhood gem The Miller Theater at Columbia University.”
— West Side Rag

“Miller’s superb series of short and perpetually satisfying Pop-Up concerts.”
– The New York Times

Tuesday, January 27
Trinket Ensemble
Alice Teyssier, flute; Modney, violin;
Daniel Lippel, guitar; Michael Nicolas, cello
Experience the debut of Trinket Ensemble—a vibrant new voice in the contemporary chamber music scene—uniting four acclaimed artists whose long history of performing together in other ensembles has forged a collaborative musical synergy. Renowned individually for their adventurous approach to new music, they bring together their shared artistry in a program featuring two world premieres.
Program:
Rick Burkhardt new work (2025) world premiere
Modney new work (2025) world premiere
Wang Lu Trinket (2013)
Beatriz de Dia (arr. Trinket) A chantar m’ér de ço qu’eu non volria

Tuesday, February 17
Chico Pinheiro, guitar
Brazilian-born guitarist and composer Chico Pinheiro—hailed by Jazz Weekly as “one of the most important and celebrated guitarists today”—captivated Miller audiences last season in his unforgettable duo performance with vocalist Luciana Souza. Now, for his Pop-Up Concerts series debut, he returns with an intimate set that blends Brazilian classics, jazz standards, and his own striking original compositions.

Tuesday, March 3
Amy Williams, piano
Morton Feldman’s “Triadic Memories”
Morton Feldman’s Triadic Memories (1981) is a 75-minute exploration of slowly evolving repetition, where exact repeats, minute variations, and subtle harmonic shifts invite deep, meditative listening. Pianist and composer Amy Williams first encountered Feldman’s music in childhood and has spent nearly three decades performing, studying, and recording his work. In honor of the 100th anniversary of his birth, Williams draws upon her extensive relationship with his music to bring rare depth and insight to this monumental solo composition.
Program:
Morton Feldman Triadic Memories (1981) for piano

About the Artists

Trinket Ensemble
Trinket is a brand new band whose members have played together for over a decade. Made up of new music luminaries Dan Lippel (guitars), Modney (violin), Michael Nicolas (cello), and Alice Teyssier (voice and flutes), the ensemble began over a series of lunch outings at various New York City diners. At first, simply to talk shop about the new music scene, it slowly developed into the idea of forming an ensemble, then quickly expanded into discussing programming and commissioning ideas, and ultimately resulting in full-blown performance-seeking behavior. Trinket is a name that suggests joy and play, containing the elements of both the ephemeral and meaningful, and it is in this spirit that we have joined together as a group, for the pleasure of making music with one another.

Chico Pinheiro, guitar
http://www.chicopinheiro.com
Chico Pinheiro is an acclaimed Brazilian guitarist, composer, and arranger known for his distinctive blend of Brazilian music, classical, and jazz. Born in São Paulo, he began playing guitar at age 6 and started working professionally as a session musician by 14, and released his debut album Meia Noite Meio Dia (Sony, 2003) to wide critical praise, followed by Chico Pinheiro (2005), NOVA (2007) with Anthony Wilson, and There’s a Storm Inside (2010), which featured Dianne Reeves and Bob Mintzer and earned multiple Latin jazz awards, including Best Brazilian Jazz Album and Best Latin Jazz Composition for “Mamulengo.” He has been named “Rising Star Guitarist” multiple times in DownBeat Magazine’s Critics Poll. Pinheiro was nominated consecutively for the Grammy Award in the Best Latin Jazz Album category in 2020 and 2021, the latter for his album City of Dreams. His 2024 release Two Brothers (with Romero Lubambo) was nominated for the Prêmio da Música Brasileira—often referred to as the Brazilian Grammy. Alongside his main projects as leader, Pinheiro has collaborated widely with artists across jazz, classical, and Brazilian music, including Brad Mehldau, Dianne Reeves, Kurt Elling, Dave Grusin, Herbie Hancock, Brian Blade, Ron Carter, Chris Potter, Orpheus Chamber Orchestra, Ivan Lins, Rosa Passos, João Donato, and Luciana Souza.

Amy Williams
http://www.amywilliamsmusic.com
Amy Williams is a composer of music that is “simultaneously demanding, rewarding and fascinating” (Buffalo News), “fresh, daring and incisive” (Fanfare), and “curious and playful” (The New York Times). Her work has been featured at major contemporary music festivals and venues including the Lucerne Festival, Tanglewood Festival of Contemporary Music, Time:Spans, and the Gaudeamus Festival, and has been performed by leading contemporary music soloists and ensembles such as Ursula Oppens, Tony Arnold, Robert Black, the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, the JACK Quartet, Ensemble Musikfabrik, Wet Ink, Talujon, the International Contemporary Ensemble, and H2 Saxophone Quartet. Her music appears on the Albany, Parma, VDM (Italy), Blue Griffin, Centaur, and New Ariel labels. Williams’s honors include a Howard Foundation Fellowship from Brown University, Guggenheim Fellowship, Fromm Music Foundation Commission, Koussevitsky Music Foundation Commission, Fulbright Scholars Fellowship, 2022 MacDowell Fellowship, 2024 Arts and Letters Fellowship from the American Academy of Arts and Letters, and the 2024 Henri Lazarof International Commission Prize from Brandeis University. She holds a Ph.D. in composition from the University at Buffalo, is Professor of Composition at the University of Pittsburgh, and serves as Artistic Director of the New Music on the Point Festival in Vermont.

Miller Theatre
http://www.millertheatre.com
One of New York City’s most vital music venues, Miller Theatre at Columbia University is a thriving home for contemporary and early music that serves audiences, composers, and musicians. Founded in 1988, Miller’s mission is to develop new audiences; foster enthusiasm for the arts by pioneering new programming approaches; educate the public by presenting specialized programs to a broad audience; discover diverse repertoire and commission new works; and share the University’s intellectual riches with the public. Led by Executive Director Melissa Smey, Miller Theatre sparks engagement and personal connections to music through distinctive live performances and is deeply committed to fostering collaborative relationships with the composers and musicians who make this possible.

Miller Theatre’s 2025-26 Season is supported by The Gladys Krieble Delmas Foundation, the Howard Gilman Foundation, the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature, the Fan Fox and Leslie R. Samuels Foundation, and the Howard and Sarah D. Solomon Foundation.

An opportunity for young people.

Thursday, December 11, 2025

Bath Jazz Weekend and All Of The Above (AOTA) are trialling a new project aimed at encouraging young people to become the next generation of music promoters. Details attached.

From Nod Knowles of Bath Jazz Weekend and AOTA;

An opportunity for young people

Is this an opportunity for a young person that you know?

Bath Jazz Weekend and All Of The Above (AOTA) are trialling a new project aimed at encouraging young people to become the next generation of music promoters (to replace old geezers like me when I am too old to hold a microphone any more!)

We are offering 4 places for young people to come and enjoy the full Bath Jazz Weekend for free – and to volunteer to help with the event a little each day. They’ll get meals provided by us.  They will also have the opportunity to connect with the people on our (very experienced) crew doing the various jobs – PA, stage, management, artist liaison, lighting, box office and (me) programming/marketing etc.

If those people are interested in the idea of promoting gigs (not necessarily jazz, but music of any kind of their choice) they can join me and the crew members in February & March 2026 in 2 workshop days where we will explore with them the details and practical realities of all of the areas of promoting – from programming, marketing and important financial aspects to the technicalities of sound, lights, staging etc.

Then there are two more opportunities:  to work with me and the crew on the next AOTA gig on Saturday 28 February and to plan and present their own first gig(s), with help and advisory support from me, including help to apply for funding to underwrite the risk of one or more gigs.

The venue for all this of course is Widcombe Social Club, Bath, where the Jazz Weekend and AOTA gigs are held.  The venue will also host the workshops and offer the venue for a first new gig that these people might promote there.

Can I ask you to put this out to anyone you know (over the age of 18) who might be interested – and get people to reply to me by email at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ?  Also – I’ve put this call out music interests at Bath College, Bath and Bath Spa Universities.

The 4 free places will be allocated on a first-come-first-served basis, depending on availability and on a few simple questions from me to assess their level of interest.

Thanks for reading and hope to see you soon.

Nod
Nod Knowles for AOTA and Bath Jazz Weekend.

Billy Marrows Band - new album and UK tour dates.

Wednesday, December 10, 2025

Guitarist & composer Billy Marrows will release his new quartet album "Dancing On Bentwood Chairs" on February 13th 2026 with UK live dates to follow.

We have received the following press release;

Billy Marrows presents the first full-length album with the Billy Marrows Band, Dancing On Bentwood Chairs, out 13 February 2026.

Billy Marrows Band’s vibrantly melodic and expressive music explores the relationship between improvisation and composition, drawing on influences from Weather Report to Henry Threadgill.

Musical themes weave across the album, with inspiration from Mikhail Bulgakov’s The Master and Margarita. The album title comes from an artwork by Marrows’ father, Timothy Morrison, who also created the cover art.

Recorded in December 2021, the album was temporarily put on hold by Billy’s Parliamentary Jazz Awards Album of the Year-shortlisted debut, the Penelope charity album, and subsequent Grande Família releases. Marrows describes this album as “a record I’m still deeply proud of, and a band I’m really excited to be playing with again”
.

The first single The Cock-Eared Optimist is out now.

Website
https://www.billymarrows.com/

.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Billy Marrows Band:
Billy Marrows guitar/baritone guitar
Chris Williams alto sax
Huw V Williams double bass
Jay Davis drums
All compositions by Billy Marrows

Track Listing:
1.The Cock-Eared Optimist
2. Woland Blues
3. Intro to Dancing On Bentwood Chairs
4. Dancing On Bentwood Chairs
5. The Protagonist
6. Anthem for W.O. - Part 1
7. Anthem for W.O. - Part 2
8. Woland Returns
9. Speedwell
10. Intro to Capel Fawnog
11. Capel Fawnog
12. Great Ball at Satan’s

Album Release Tour:
19 February 2026 - Album Launch, Vortex Jazz Club, London
25 March 2026 - Matt & Phreds, Manchester
26 March 2026 - City Screen Basement Bar, York
6 June 2026 - The Bear Club, Luton

Billy Marrows Band announces album Dancing On Bentwood Chairs, out 13 February 2026.

Inventive, groovy, and lyrical, the Billy Marrows Band present their first album, Dancing On Bentwood Chairs.

Following his Parliamentary Jazz Awards Album of the Year-shortlisted debut Penelope and subsequent Grande Família releases, Billy Marrows reassembles his quartet
for this long-awaited release: Chris Williams (alto sax), Huw V Williams (double bass), Jay Davis (drums), and Marrows on standard and baritone guitars.

Their vibrantly melodic and expressive music explores the relationship between improvisation and composition, with influences including Weather Report, Henry Threadgill,
and Darcy James Argue. Musical themes weave across the album, a Blooper loop pedal is put to compositional use, and inspiration is drawn from Mikhail Bulgakov’s The Master and Margarita. The album title comes from an artwork by Marrows’ father, Timothy Morrison, who also created the cover art.

“Marrows plays with such lyrical melodicism…you can’t help but be seduced into his charmed world” ★★★★ Jazzwise (Grande Família Sextet EP review)

“An exhilaratingly original sound, at once intimate and expansive”
★★★★ Editor’s Choice JAZZWISE
(Penelope album)

“A triumph…with his Grande Família project,
Marrows has created a spectacular new ensemble”
Jazz Views
(Penelope album)

“Melodic and distinctive…
an album of inventive and contemporary chamber-jazz”
★★★★ All About Jazz
(Penelope album)

The first single The Cock-Eared Optimist is out now, with a video available here.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=baRTBX9E3RY

Recorded in December 2021 following a run of gigs, the album was temporarily put on hold by the Penelope charity album and Grande Família project. Marrows describes this release as “a record I’m still deeply proud of, with band I’m really excited to be playing with again”.

The band recently performed to a full house at Jazz in Kentish Town during the EFG London Jazz Festival 2025 and will continue their UK release tour in 2026, including an album launch at the Vortex Jazz Club on 19 February and dates in Manchester, York and Luton. Full tour details are available at http://www.billymarrows.com/upcoming-gigs.

Dancing On Bentwood Chairs is released on 13 February 2026.

https://www.instagram.com/billymarrowsmusic/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvBMW7-powtiBgigwBIW0aw

2026 Buxton International Festival Jazz Weekend - first wave of artists announced.

Tuesday, December 09, 2025

Buxton International Festival (9-26 July 2026) has announced that its 2026 ‘Jazz Weekender’ ticket (9-12 July) will go on sale on Monday, 15 December 2025 at 10am. Performers include Laura Jurd,.

We have received the following press release;

BUXTON INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL’S 2026 ‘JAZZ WEEKENDER’ TICKET GOES ON SALE ON MONDAY 15 DECEMBER

Buxton International Festival (9-26 July 2026) is delighted to announce that its 2026 ‘Jazz Weekender’ ticket (9-12 July) will go on sale on Monday, 15 December at
10am.

The 2026 Jazz Weekender, featuring artists including Laura Jurd, Tony Kofi & Denys Baptiste, Arun Gosh and the Andrew McCormack Trio, offers audiences the chance to immerse themselves in an entire weekend of live music in Buxton. The £195 ticket provides access to 12 gigs across the festival’s opening weekend (9-12 July inclusive), 11 of them in the festival’s dedicated jazz venue, The Palace Hotel, and one gig in Buxton Opera House. Day passes are also available from £30.

The festival’s new Jazz Director, Wesley Stephenson, commented:
“Jazz Weekender is all about bringing people right up close to the music. Twelve gigs across one weekend, intimate spaces and some of the UK’s most exciting musicians
coming together. It’s a brilliant way to discover new sounds, revisit the classics and feel the real energy of live jazz.”

The Jazz Weekender boasts an impressive line-up of artists who boast Mercury, MOBO, BBC and British Jazz awards between them including:
Laura Jurd (Rites and Revelations)
Tony Kofi and Denys Baptiste Quintet (Legacy: Coltrane and Cannonball)
Arun Ghosh Quintet
Andrew McCormack Trio
Zoë Gilby with Andy Champion (The Music of Duke Ellington)
Josephine Davies Satori Quartet with special guest Alcyona Mick
Noa Levy, Alan Barnes and the Paul Edis Trio (Portrait in Evans)
Alina Bzhezhinska HipHarpCollective
Fraser Fifield Secret Path Trio
More artists to be announced.

BOX OFFICE
Booking opens on Monday 15 December at 10am. Tel: 01298 72190

http://www.buxtonfestival.co.uk

Video - the 2025 Highlights Video: View
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MUn2tTWTNJI

Jazz Weekender programme: View here.
https://buxtonfestival.co.uk/whats-on/jazz-weekender

Cheltenham Jazz Club - Programme for January, February and March 2026.

Tuesday, December 09, 2025

Cheltenham Jazz Club has announced its programme for the first three months of 2026. Performers include saxophonists Sam Braysher and Alex Hitchcock & pianist Hans Koller. Fully detailed listings att.

From;
https://www.cheltenhamjazz.co.uk/

Cheltenham Jazz Club are pleased to open the first quarter of our 2026 season with three new and exiting bands where you can again experience and listen to live jazz.
Thank you to everyone who have supported us and the musicians at our previous gigs in 2025 and the preceding 40+ years.

FORTHCOMING GIGS

THE SAM BRAYSHER QUARTET
WHEN: 8.00 pm, Monday 19 January 2026
WHERE: The Irving Studio, Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham
Tickets: £20.00
Sam Braysher – Alto Saxophone, Matyas Gayer – Piano,Tom Farmer – Bass, Steve Brown - Drums
Sam Braysher, is a London-based alto saxophonist, who has received widespread critical acclaim for his three albums to date. His warm tone and consonant and inquisitive approach to harmony is attracting growing attention on the British jazz scene.Accompanying is an all-star rhythm section, comprising Hungarian pianist Matyas Gayer (Eddie Henderson, Jim Rotondi), MOBO award-winning bassist Tom Farmer (EMPIRICAL, Joe Stilgoe) and ultra swinging drummer Steve Brown (Barry Harris, Scott Hamilton).Sam’s latest album explores the work of Kurt Weill, a fascinating composer who lies at the intersection of European classical music, jazz, opera and American musical theatre. Expect to hear classic songs and hidden gems from the Weill catalogue, as well as music by adjacent American Broadway composers like Rodgers & Hammerstein, Gershwin and Harold Arlen.
“I can’t think of another alto saxophonist with a sound quite like Sam Braysher’s” **** Dave Gelly, The Observer
Click here for the Sam Braysher Website https://sambraysher.com/
Tickets available from the Everyman Theatre Box Office 01242 572573 or http://www.everymantheatre.org.uk

THE ALEX HITCHCOCK QUARTET
WHEN: 8.00 pm, Monday 23 February 2026
WHERE: The Irving Studio, Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham
Tickets: £20.00
Alex Hitchcock – Saxophone, Will Barry – Piano, Joe Downard - Bass, Luke McCarthy – Drums
London-born Alex Hitchcock is an instantly recognisable improviser and a leading international voice on the saxophone. An Ivor Novello-nominated composer, his innovative collaborations highlight his reputation as a catalyst for boundary-pushing musical encounters. He lives in London, UK and regularly performs at jazz clubs, concert halls and festivals in the and throughout Europe, leading groups at Umbria Jazz Festival, Love Supreme Festival, and Ronnie Scott’s also performing at North Sea Jazz Festival, Jazz à Vienne and Glastonbury Festival amongst many others.
“Already a big presence on the British scene as an astonishingly quick thinking virtuoso.” - Jazzwise
Click here for the Alex Hitchcock website https://www.alexhitchcock.co.uk/
Tickets available from the Everyman Theatre Box Office 01242 572573 or http://www.everymantheatre.org.uk

THE HANS KOLLER “MONK”  QUARTET
WHEN: 8.00 pm, Monday 23rd March 2026
WHERE: The Victory Club Ballroom, Burlington House, Lypiatt Road, Cheltenham.
Tickets: CJ Members £19.00, non members £22.00
Hans Koller – Piano, Tony Kofi – Saxophones, Calum Gourlay – Bass, Noah Ojumu – Drums  
Well-established pianist/composer Hans Koller is a highly respected musician on the UK jazz scene. With over 16 critically acclaimed albums his sparkling cv includes work with a host of high-profile international artists, including the likes of Bill Frisell, Steve Swallow, Bob Brookmeyer, Mike Gibbs and Kenny Wheeler. Tonight Hans joins forces with the multiple Award-winning saxophonist Tony Kofi (World Saxophone Quartet, The Jazz Warriors, Gary Cosby’s Nu Troop) to perform music celebrating the great US pianist/composer Thelonious Monk. Along with these two master musicians, the bassist/composer/arranger Calum Gourlay, widely considered to be one of the leading bass players of his generation, and the amazing young drummer Noah Ojumu will complete this superb quartet.  The band will explore some of the lesser known Monk tunes, and will offer their fresh take on this iconic music.
Tickets available on the door or online at http://www.ticketsource.co.uk

Tomorrow’s Warriors x Fontana announce Career Mentoring Scheme.

Monday, December 08, 2025

Tomorrow’s Warriors today announced a new partnership with Fontana (Universal Music UK) to deliver an innovative Career Mentoring Scheme to 12 emerging Warrior musicians. Press release attached.

We have received the following press release;

Tomorrow’s Warriors x Fontana announce Career Mentoring Scheme

(8th December, 2025) Award-winning talent development organisation, creative producer and charity Tomorrow’s Warriors today announced a new partnership with Fontana (Universal Music UK) to deliver an innovative Career Mentoring Scheme to 12 emerging Warrior musicians.

This marks the third round of the initiative, which previously ran in partnership with Decca Records. Recently revived as a label championing jazz, folk, blues and soul, Fontana now takes the lead in delivering the scheme with Tomorrow’s Warriors.

The year-long programme will provide vital one-to-one mentoring to Black, global majority and female musicians on the Tomorrow’s Warriors Emerging Artist Programme. This year’s cohort includes Alex Ho (piano), Christ-Stephane Boizi (trombone), David Kayode (tenor sax), Donovan Haffner (alto sax), Emily Tran (piano/Composition), Genevieve Namazzi (double bass), Kezia Pollendine (piano), Ky Osborne (piano), Mali Sheard (alto sax), Miranda Radford (drums), Nathan Dawkins (electric/double bass) and Shanise Hall (trumpet).

Each Warrior musician is paired with a member of staff from across Fontana’s departments - including A&R, Marketing, Commercial & Streaming and Digital - receiving tailored support, monthly one to one sessions and group sessions in Marketing, A&R and Digital and more, to help them navigate and progress within the industry.

Fontana hosted a launch event at its Kings Cross headquarters on 27th November, where the mentees met their mentors and celebrated the start of the new partnership.

Tomorrow’s Warriors has been a springboard for many of today’s most exciting artists - including BRIT Award and Mercury Prize winners EZRA Collective. Alongside mentoring, the Tomorrow’s Warriors Emerging Artist Programme offers performance opportunities, specialist training, traineeships, talks, masterclasses and bursaries. Over the past 30 years, Tomorrow’s Warriors has supported more than 15,000 young people, providing between 1,000–5,000 hours of free jazz training to each participant.

Dr Gary Crosby OBE, Co-founder & Artistic Director, Tomorrow’s Warriors said;
“Partnering with Fontana to deliver the next round of our Career Mentoring Scheme is an incredibly exciting step for Tomorrow’s Warriors. Fontana’s renewed focus on jazz, folk, blues and soul aligns beautifully with our mission to nurture the next generation of diverse talent. For over three decades we’ve committed to providing young Black, Global Majority and female musicians with the space, support and skills they need to thrive, and this scheme deepens that commitment. Connecting our Emerging Artists with the expertise and generosity of mentors at Fontana will be transformational for their professional journeys.”

Tom Lewis, President, Fontana, said;
“We’re so proud of our longstanding and incredibly rewarding relationship with Tomorrow’s Warriors and it’s brilliant to meet this year’s mentorship participants. We always learn so much and are constantly impressed with the talent, ambition and self-determination that we see in the Warriors; and the sense of community, support and encouragement in which they grow and thrive.  It is easy to see why Tomorrow’s Warriors has unearthed and nurtured such an incredible line-up of stars in recent years. It has played a pivotal role in making the UK such a global beacon for jazz.”

Tomorrow’s Warriors musician and former mentee Kianja Harvey-Elliot (vocalist) said;
“The scheme arrived at exactly the right moment in my development and helped me understand the business side of music. I built a relationship with my mentor who was, and still is a pillar of consistent support and guidance. Whenever I had specific questions about a certain department she put me in touch with different members of the team and she helped me zone in on the kind of clarity I need to present a project to a label.  Tomorrow’s Warriors always believes in you, and the mentoring programme strengthens that belief by connecting us with people who can help turn our ideas into opportunities.”

Tomorrow’s Warriors musician and former mentee Grifton Forbes-Amos (trumpeter) said;
“Being part of the mentoring scheme has enabled me to take the next step in my career. My mentor aided me in recording my first EP, as well as taking the next steps to then releasing it. They also helped me understand the importance of some aspects of the industry, such as PRS and PPL. My mentor helped to make connections to people like mixing engineers, helping me in marketing myself and much more. Having direct access to someone inside a major label helped demystify the industry and gave me the knowledge to navigate my career with purpose.

About Tomorrow’s Warriors:  Tomorrow’s Warriors is a pioneering talent development organisation, creative producer, learning and training provider, charity and consultancy specialising in jazz. Founded in 1991 by Queen’s Medal for Music recipient Dr Gary Crosby OBE and Janine Irons OBE, TW helps aspiring young artists from diverse backgrounds discover their magic and achieve creative ambitions. Since inception, Tomorrow’s Warriors has reached over 15,000 young people aged 11-25 through its unique Talent Development Programme, providing each musician with between 1,000-5,000 hours of free jazz training and development. Tomorrow’s Warriors nurtures nascent talent and builds engaged, culturally diverse audiences, providing a crucial development platform for emerging artists, many of whom are blazing a trail across the international music scene – including BRIT Award and Mercury Prize winners EZRA Collective, as well as Moses Boyd, Nubya Garcia, Cassie Kinoshi, Sheila Maurice-Gray, Binker Golding, Shabaka Hutchings and Sons of Kemet, CHERISE, ESKA, Denys Baptiste, Soweto Kinch, Zara McFarlane and many more. Tomorrow’s Warriors is a Resident Organisation of the Southbank Centre, where it hosts its Young Artist Development Programme, comprising of learning and participation, artist development and professional performances. The Emerging Artist Programme delivers mentoring, performance opportunities, training, traineeships, talks, masterclasses, and bursaries to support artists into professional careers, many securing paid, often high-profile, opportunities across a broad spectrum of the industry.  Tomorrow’s Warriors is proud to be a National Portfolio Organisation of Arts Council England and an organisation within the PRS Foundation Talent Development Network. Tomorrow’s Warriors is also the home of Nu Civilisation Orchestra. Tomorrow’s Warriors is pivotal in elevating UK jazz, valued by its alumni and respected by funding partners for the impact delivered through its pipeline for outstanding, diverse talent.  https://tomorrowswarriors.org/ Tomorrow’s Warriors is a not for profit company and a Registered Charity No 1153613. Give today to Tomorrow’s Warriors at https://cafdonate.cafonline.org/13423

About Fontana: Fontana is part of Universal Music Group UK – the UK’s leading music company. It is the UK home of jazz, folk, blues, alternative and soul music. Founded over 70 years ago, Fontana played a pivotal role in recorded jazz history. Legendary musicians who released under the logo include Frank Sinatra, Miles Davis, Chet Baker, Dave Brubeck and Art Blakey, as well as icons of British jazz such as Tubby Hayes, Cleo Laine and Ronnie Scott. From 1960s releases by Jimmy Page, Elton John’s first band Bluesology and an early incarnation of The Who, then called The High Numbers, to success in the 80s and 90s with acts such as The Fall and Tears for Fears, Fontana is indelibly associated with the early identification and development of unique talent. It was relaunched in the UK in 2025, continuing its ethos of experimentation and discovery. Fontana’s current roster includes internationally-acclaimed artists Jacob Collier, AURORA, Jordan Rakei, Melody Gardot, Victor Ray, The Teskey Brothers, dodie and Jeff Goldblum.

Scottish Jazz Awards 2025 -  winners unveiled.

Monday, December 08, 2025

Last night saw the winners of the Scottish Jazz Awards 2025 honoured at a ceremony in Glasgow. Press release attached.

We have received the following press release;

Scottish jazz talent in tune as award winners unveiled

The Scottish Jazz Awards 2025 celebrated the cream of the crop in the jazz scene last night, honouring outstanding artists and contributors at a memorable ceremony in Glasgow.

Hosted by the acclaimed musician Seonaid Aitken, the event at The Savings Bank showcased the exceptional contributions of Scotland’s jazz vocalists, instrumentalists and pioneers.

This year’s ceremony included a poignant tribute to the late pianist Brian Kellock, who passed away in May. Singer and actress Suzanne Bonnar led the tribute and announced the renaming of the Best Instrumentalist Award as the Brian Kellock Best Instrumentalist Award in his honour.

Last year’s winner of the accolade, Fergus McCreadie, also performed a moving piece dedicated to Kellock’s memory.

The inaugural Grassroots Promoter Award was also handed out, recognising independent promoters who play an important part in nurturing emerging jazz talent.

Winners of the Scottish Jazz Awards 2025 are:

Rising Star Award, sponsored by Musicians’ Union
Pippa Blundell

The Fionna Duncan Best Vocalist Award, sponsored by Whighams Jazz Club
Rachel Lightbody

The Brian Kellock Best Instrumentalist Award, sponsored by ESP Music Rentals
Colin Steele

Grassroots Promoter Award, sponsored by Rightsbridge
LayLow, Glasgow

Best Album Award, sponsored by EmuBands
Matt Carmichael - Dancing with Embers

Best Band Award, sponsored by S.M. Lighting (Scotland) Ltd
corto.alto

Critics’ Choice Award, sponsored by Inhouse Event Productions
Norman&Corrie

Known as a boundary breaker and the future of jazz, Mercury Prize-nominated corto.alto rounded off a sensational year with their Best Band Award. Experimental jazz folk duo Norman&Corrie - Norman Wilmore and Corrie Dick - were named Critics’ Choice following the release of their debut album, Twa Double Doubles.

A multi-award-winning vocalist, Rachel Lightbody, continues to be a sought-after collaborator, recording and performing with everyone from her vocal trio Little Acres and neo-jazz band Mama Terra, to Kris Drever and Tom McGuire and the Brassholes.

Scottish saxophonist Matt Carmichael’s third album Dancing with Embers captured hearts with its sincerity, joyfulness and unique style, winning him Best Album.

Trumpeter Colin Steele picked up Best Instrumentist after the release of his quartet’s tribute to legendary Glasgow band The Blue Nile, while this year’s Rising Star was rightfully taken by singer-songwriter Pippa Blundell, having already received recognition by the Scottish Album of the Year Awards in their Sound of Young Scotland nominations across 2023 and 2024

LayLow, which is hosted at Glasgow’s Rum Shack, was recognised for affirming itself as a home for live jazz in the city, showcasing the very best new artists for growing audiences.

The evening was filled with exceptional music, including performances from Matt Carmichael and Roan Anderson, the newly crowned BBC Radio Scotland Young Jazz Musician 2025.

Jill Rodger, Director of Glasgow Jazz Festival and Producer of the Scottish Jazz Awards, said:
“Scottish jazz is making waves around the world and it’s only right we celebrate the very best of our scene on home soil. This year’s awards have once again highlighted the sheer passion, ingenuity and excitement within the Scottish jazz scene. It’s a genuine privilege to celebrate these outstanding artists whose expression and creativity connect with so many. We were especially honoured to pay tribute to the immense contribution of Brian Kellock, a true giant of Scottish jazz, whose legacy will continue to inspire musicians for generations to come. It was a joy to feel the energy and camaraderie in the room as the country’s most beloved jazz musicians and industry contributors gathered together. I can’t wait to see what everyone achieves over the next year.”

Clare Hewitt, Music Officer at Creative Scotland said:
“The winners of the 2025 Scottish Jazz Awards exemplify the vibrancy and vitality of the country’s jazz scene and show how it is connecting deeply with audiences. This is music that is nourished by the legacy of artists who are no longer with us, and by a spirit of inventiveness that is open to the sounds that surround us today to make something new out of them. The Scottish Jazz Awards celebrate not just the artists and promoters honoured tonight, but the whole Scottish jazz community who support and nurture their peers and their music.”

The Scottish Jazz Award winners were selected by the public from a shortlist of over 25 musicians, acts, individuals and organisations which was compiled by a nominating panel of industry experts.

The Scottish Jazz Awards are produced as an independent event by the organisers of Glasgow Jazz Festival and supported by The National Lottery through Creative Scotland. Visit http://www.jazzfest.co.uk/awards

Nominating Panel for Scottish Jazz Awards 2025

Alan & Carolyn Bonnyman Second Line Records

Collaborative UK Jazz News

Don Sharples Aberdeen Jazz Festival

Fiona Alexander Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival

Fiona Shephard Freelance Music Journalist

Gerard Mehigan Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival

Grace Black Langtoun Jazz Festival

Graeme Knox Whighams Jazz Club

Jill Rodger Glasgow Jazz Festival

Jim Gilchrist The Scotsman

Joe Rattary Freelance Promoter

John Youngs Jazz Scotland

Keith MacRae Jazz Scotland

Richy Muirhead Scottish Alternative Music Awards

Ros Rigby Jazz Promotion Network

Sushil Dade BBC Radio Scotland

Thomas Mackie & Calum Cunneen Regular Music

Plus last year’s category winners

Creative Scotland is the public body that supports culture and creativity across all parts of Scotland, distributing funding provided by the Scottish Government and The National Lottery. Further information at creativescotland.com. Follow Creative Scotland on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram.

Glasgow Jazz Festival was founded in 1987, when Glasgow was bidding to become the European City of Culture for 1990. The city had studied the competition and worked out that all major cities in Europe had a jazz festival. If they had one, then so should Glasgow. From the very beginning, Glasgow Jazz Festival brought some of the biggest names of jazz to the City – 1987’s programme included singer Sarah Vaughan, Chick Corea, Taj Mahal, Benny Carter and Carol Kidd. Other top headliners include Miles Davis (during the European City of Culture year 1990), Dizzy Gillespie, Buddy Guy, Michael Brecker and Tony Bennett. Follow @GlasgowJazzFest on social media for further information.

Guildford Jazz events - January 2026.

Thursday, December 04, 2025

Mick Thomas has forwarded details of forthcoming events at Guildford Jazz. Performers include Leon Greening, Art Themen and Dennis Rollins. Fully detailed schedule attached.

Mick Thomas writes;

Guildford Jazz Events January 2026

Leon Greening Trio
Mon 12 Jan from 2.00pm to 3.00pm (lunch available from 12 to 2pm) at The Guildford Institute, Ward St, Guildford GU1 4LH
For this first performance of the Guildford Jazz New Year programme, we are delighted to welcome pianist Leon Greening, an exciting and hugely popular performer at jazz clubs around the UK. With his hard swinging style, inspired by the likes of Bud Powell, Wynton Kelly and Bobby Timmons, Leon epitomises the very best on the UK Jazz scene today. Joining Leon will be the UK’s premier jazz drummer Steve Brown, and Guildford Jazz anchor Marianne Windham on bass.
For more details of the event and to book tickets visit https://www.guildfordjazz.org.uk

Art Themen Organ Trio
Thurs 15 Jan from 20.00 to 22.15 (doors open 19.00) at the Guildford Pavilion, Woodbridge Rd, Guildford GU1 4RP
A previous winner of the tenor sax category in the British Jazz Awards, recipient of a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Worshipful Company of Musicians, saxophonist Art Themen is a true living legend of the British jazz scene. Described by THE OBSERVER as “One of the tiny handful of undeniably perfect jazz musicians”, he remains as brilliant and inimitable as ever. For this first Pavilion concert of 2026 Art’s trio, which features organist Pete Whittaker and drummer George Double, will be joined by Marianne Windham on bass.
For more details of the event and to book tickets visit https://www.guildfordjazz.org.uk

Dennis Rollins Velocity Trio
Fri 30 Jan from 20.00 to 22.15 (doors open 19.00) at The Stoke Hotel, 103 Stoke Rd, Guildford GU1 4JN
Join multi-award-winning trombonist Dennis Rollins for an evening with his simmering jazz funk trio, featuring Hammond organ virtuoso Ross Stanley and Joel Barford on drums, playing a brilliant marriage of refined contemporary jazz arrangements and smokin’ grooves or, as the BBC Music Magazine has expressed it: “This group produces genuine fireworks”. Dennis is a previous winner of the BBC Jazz Best Band Award, the Parliamentary Jazz Education Award, and the Ronnie Scott’s Best Trombone
Award. For more details of the event and to book tickets visit https://www.guildfordjazz.org.uk

Peter Slavid - ‘European Modern Jazz’ on the radio playlist,  first broadcast 30/11/2025.

Monday, December 01, 2025

Broadcaster & journalist Peter Slavid has forwarded details of the music played on his UK & European Jazz radio show on 30/11/2025, which is available via a number of UK & international radio stations

Peter Slavid writes;

Radio Playlist from Nov 30th 2025

This is my final new-releases playlist of the year. New releases that have come in over the last week and into December will be looked at for inclusion in January.  Meanwhile my next shows will round up some of my personal favourites from 2025.

Julius Gawlik
You Wish
Its All In Your Head
Unit

Deadeye
Rue_Ballu
In Orbit
BMC

Rasmus Oppenhagen Krogh
Sooner or Later
Pillars
April Records

J.A.M
Milo’s Flight Home
She Looks Up At The Trees
Bandcamp

Max Nagl Quintett
Karroh
Phasolny
Rude Noises

Jure Pukl
Collectivity
Analog AI
Unit

DOX
Nebula
Drowned Circuits
Efpi

James Allsop
Stars & Sand
Stars & Sand
Vibe Collide Records

Alex Ventling
Trondheim 2
Wavemakers
Particular

Morgenthaler, Röllin & Ruben
Insect
Alarmstufe Rot
Unit

Ulysse Loup Large Ensemble
Hysteìrique
0°W
Unit

Jacopo Fagioli
avoid thoughts of power and domination
Dialogue
Aut Records

Steve Lodder
onto the water
2 sorts of 3
Sleeve Records

Bonus tracks not on radio - only on http://www.mixcloud.com/ukjazz and on Peter’s Eurojazz Podcast

Jérémie Lucchese
Tempête
Essais pour l’Imaginaire
Fresh sound new talent

Luca Mannutza Quintet
Black Comedy
Circles
A.MA

Gabbro
Luna
Groundspeed
Gabbro Records

divr
Made of Dreams
Live At Cully Jazz
WeJazz

European Modern Jazz on the radio.

At any time:
http://www.mixcloud.com/ukjazz.

Weekly:

http://www.hayesfm.org.uk 91.8 FM – West London Community Radio Sundays 12.00

http://www.purebeatradio.co.uk Sundays 7pm

http://www.listen.camp/ Sundays 7pm onward

Also as “Peter’s Eurojazz Podcast” on Apple, Amazon, Deezer and other podcast sites.

Music Spoken Here, Worcester - Programme for January and February 2026.

Thursday, November 27, 2025

Music Spoken Here has announced its first three events of 2026. Performances take place at The Marr's Bar, Worcester. Fully detailed schedule attached.

From;
https://musicspokenhere.club/event/davide-giovanninis-minas-project/
January 8, 2026 @ 7:30 pm - 10:00 pm
Davide Giovannini’s Minas Project
The Marr’s Bar 12 Pierpoint Street, Worcester, Worcestershire, United Kingdom
High energy, original Brazilian jazz in a tribute to Minas Gerais, the home of Toninho Horta, Milton Nascimento, Beto Guedes and Lo Borges
We are really excited to be kicking off 2026 with this delightful musical journey to the south-east Brazilian state of Minas Gerais from drummer, vocalist and composer Davide Giovannini, returning to The Marr’s Bar with his own band after performing to a full house with TRYPL in January 2025.
Giovannini has worked with artists including Steve Winwood, Lisa Stansfield, Paul McCartney, Björk and Roy Ayers, but it was his time in Brazil with guitarist Toninho Horta that inspired the Minas Project – a collection of original compositions that reflect the spirit of Minas’ music, with beautiful melodies that float on a rich harmonic bed, spiced up by dynamic solos that enrich the tunes with fire and emotions.
The all-star lineup also sees the return to the Music Spoken Here stage for saxophonist Paul Booth (appeared with TRYPL in 2025 and HOOP in 2024), pianist Neil Angilley (Steve Taylor’s Fusion Phew, 2024) and bassist Davide Mantovani (Tristan Banks Quartet, 2023). Completing the lineup and appearing for the first time with us is guitarist Guille Hill.

From;
https://musicspokenhere.club/event/detroitwich-funk-machine/
January 22, 2026 @ 7:30 am - 10:00 pm
Detroitwich Funk Machine
The Marr’s Bar 12 Pierpoint Street, Worcester, Worcestershire, United Kingdom
The music of James Brown, Tower of Power, Herbie Hancock, The Brecker Brothers, Blood Sweat and Tears, Kenny Garrett and more brought to life by an amazing 9-piece local band.
Co-led by Droitwich-based Californian bassist Tom Clarke-Hill and saxophonist Andy Shillingford from Stourbridge, Detroitwich Funk Machine have raided the archives of 70s and 80s funk, jazz-funk and fusion to deliver an outstanding and entertaining show featuring the music of James Brown, Tower of Power, Herbie Hancock, The Brecker Brothers, Blood Sweat and Tears, Kenny Garrett, Mike Stern and many more.
Tom Clarke-Hill features on vocals, bass and entertaining banter while Andy Shillingford heads up the top-shelf West Midlands horn section that sees the return of saxophonist Chris Bowden and trombonist Dave Sear who both appeared in April 2025 (Chris with his Hypnos Files band and Dave with The Boom Yeh), along with saxophonist Pelham Wood and trumpeter Alex Astbury (of the Digbeth Jazz team). On the polyphonics are Tom Morgan (guitar) and Arran Shanghavi (keys), with Andy Brotherton completing the lineup on drums.
If you enjoyed Hoop (Nov 2023), FNUK (Jan 2024), Steve Taylor’s Fusion Phew (May 2024), Impossible Conversations (Feb 2025) or The Boom Yeh (Apr 2025), you are going to love Detroitwich Funk Machine!

From;
https://musicspokenhere.club/event/ankora/
February 12, 2026 @ 7:30 pm - 10:00 pm
Ankora
The Marr’s Bar 12 Pierpoint Street, Worcester, Worcestershire, United Kingdom
8-piece ensemble featuring the future stars of British jazz
Eight ambitious young musicians that met through Tomorrow’s Warriors – a London-based artist development organisation – were selected to perform as the Tomorrow’s Warriors Frontline ensemble, under the direction and tutelage of drummer, composer and educator Romarna Campbell.
Ankora is the exciting new step the ensemble are taking to launch into the London jazz scene. The name is derived from the Latin word for ‘anchor’ (anchora): a symbol of groundedness, hope and a connection to roots. These connotations are expressed through their repertoire of both originals and covers of powerful jazz tunes. The name links to an alternative meaning in Italian, ‘again’, marking the momentum of their rebirth as they continue their musical and artistic journey.
The band, whose average age is just 20, features 2024 BBC Young Jazz Musician finalist Klara Devlin on trumpet and drummer Miranda Radford, who both appeared on our stage when Miranda brought her quartet up in February 2025. Mali Sheard (sax), Keira Chakraborty (flute), Hannah Clifton (trumpet), Tami Adebanjo (guitar) Kezia Abouma (piano) and Holly Reinhardt (bass) complete the line-up of exceptional young players at the start of promising careers in the British jazz scene.
The band’s influences include the legacies of Freddie Hubbard, Herbie Hancock, Joe Henderson and Wayne Shorter, while branching out to the more contemporary mastery of Esperanza Spalding, Geri Allen, Jeff ‘Tain’ Watts and Kenny Kirkland. The ensemble takes inspiration from the spark and power of these jazz legends, compositionally and in their playing.
Collectively, the members of ‘Ankora’ have already made their mark on the jazz scene through performances at venues such as Love Supreme Jazz Festival, We Out Here, Cheltenham Jazz Festival, Dizzy’s Jazz Club (NYC), The Vortex, Brick Lane Jazz Festival and The Jazz Café. Ready for more, the unique, powerful voice of the ensemble is excited to embrace the wonder and diversity of today’s jazz scene.

TICKETS
Admission for these events is complimentary for Music Spoken Here Club Members.
Non-members are welcome – just show up and pay £15 cash or card on the door.
You can find out more about our admission and membership options at A New Approach
https://musicspokenhere.club/a-new-approach/

Jazz at the Royal Academy of Music, London- Spring 2026.

Wednesday, November 26, 2025

The RAM has announced its spring season of events and performances, including an array of jazz performances. Details attached.

We have received the following press release;

Today, we announced our spring season of events and performances, including an array of jazz performances. This is hot off the heels of the Academy Jazz Orchestra’s Grammy nomination.
https://www.ram.ac.uk/news/academy-students-receive-grammy-nomination

I have included some jazz highlights below;

Wednesday 4 Feb at 7.30pm: The Academy Jazz Orchestra with Leon Foster Thomas
The Academy welcomes Leon Foster Thomas for this debut performance of his brand-new arrangements for jazz orchestra. A gifted jazz musician and steel pan virtuoso from Trinidad and Tobago, Leon blends Caribbean music with the harmonic and improvisational complexities of jazz to create a lively and eclectic mix.
This concert features the premieres of some of Leon’s classic works scaled up for large ensemble, based on his research into the roots, rhythms and reach of Anglophone and Francophone Caribbean jazz.

Wednesday 11- Thursday 12 February: Academy Jazz Festival
This year sees the now well-established Academy Jazz Festival celebrate its 12th year. This intensive week of projects has become a highlight of the academic year, with students working alongside guest artists who lead small ensembles in performances of their own music. Each concert showcases the music of three guest bandleaders. This year, we look forward to the first appearances from two British rising stars of the international jazz scene, saxophonist Alice Leggett and recent graduate and trumpeter Alexandra Ridout, as well as saxophonist Binker Golding. Piano legends and Academy alums Gwilym Simcock and Kit Downes return, and iconic saxophonist Julian Argüelles makes his debut at the festival.

Sunday 8 March at 7.30pm at the Southbank Centre’s Purcell Room: Academy Jazz Orchestra with Laura Jurd
Following the success of creative tour de force Laura Jurd’s latest album, Rites & Revelations, the Academy Jazz Orchestra invites her to illuminate her folk meets jazz world. Expect ritualistic drones, intricate fiddle tunes and cathartic improvisations in what promises to be a breathtaking example of big band music in the 21st century. Performed by the Jazz Department’s rising stars, this concert also features special guest and long-time collaborator Corrie Dick.

You can read more about our spring season here;
https://www.ram.ac.uk/news/royal-academy-of-music-announces-spring-2026-performances

Kate Kortum Wins 2025 Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition.

Tuesday, November 25, 2025

The New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) has announced Kate Kortum as the winner of the 14th annual Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition. Press release attached.

We have received the following press release;

Kate Kortum Wins the 14th Annual Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition as part of NJPAC’s TD James Moody Jazz Festival

As part of NJPAC’s TD James Moody Jazz Festival, the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) today announced Kate Kortum as the winner of the 14th annual Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition. Hosted by WBGO Radio’s Gary Walker, yesterday’s “The SASSY Awards” presented the Top Five Finalists on the iconic NJPAC stage in front of a live audience and a distinguished panel of judges: TONY-nominated singer/lyricist Ann Hampton Callaway, GRAMMY®-nominated trumpeter Jon Faddis, GRAMMY®-nominated jazz vocalist Nnenna Freelon, GRAMMY® Award-winning bassist and Artistic Advisor for Jazz Programming at NJPAC Christian McBride, and founding member of The Manhattan Transfer and co-host of WBGO Radio’s Singers Unlimited, vocalist Janis Siegel.

Pulled from almost 200+ entrants from 27 different countries, these gifted young singers represented the next generation of great jazz vocalists. Ultimately, it was Kate Kortum who received the top honor and a $5,000 cash award. Kortum is originally from Houston, Texas, and currently resides in Harlem of New York City. She wowed the judges singing the famous blues song “Easy Come, Easy Go Blues,” a raw and timeless ballad “You’ve Been There” by David Ashley Trent, and “What a Little Moonlight Can Do,” a song that Sarah Vaughan performed and recorded.

Hailed for her warm, distinctive sound that seamlessly blends the blues, bebop and Broadway, Kortum issued her debut album Good Woman (2023) to critical and streaming acclaim, surpassing 3.5 million streams for its imaginative reworkings of jazz standards from a female perspective. Her sophomore release Wild Woman (2025) followed, continuing her fresh, story-driven approach to bebop, blues and The Great American Songbook. A graduate of the University of Miami’s Frost School of Music and the Juilliard School, Kortum has appeared at Mezzrow, SXSW, Birdland, Blue Note and Dizzy’s, collaborating with Peter Bernstein, Emmet Cohen, Bryan Carter, Wynton Marsalis and the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra.

The Second Place honor and $1,500 prize went to Emma Smith (London, England). Third Place and a prize of $500 was awarded to Julia Moscardini (Buenos Aires, Argentina). Rounding out the Top Five was Diamond Princess Franklin (Philadelphia, PA) and Candace Jones (Hollywood, FL).

About The SASSY Awards
The Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition, also known as “The SASSY Awards”, is open to singers over the age of 18, of all genders and nationalities, from anywhere in the world, and not signed by a major label. Entrants are judged on vocal quality, musicality, technique, performance, individuality, artistic interpretation, and ability to swing. What has become one of the top annual vocal competitions in jazz, The SASSY Awards offers outstanding jazz singers a one-of-a-kind platform for embarking on a career in the music business—and offers audience members a chance to discover the jazz stars of tomorrow. Past winners include Cyrille Aimée, Jazzmeia Horn, Ashleigh Smith, Arianna Neikrug, Deelee Dubé, Quiana Lynell, Laurin Talese, Samara Joy (GRAMMY® Award winner for Best New Artist 2023), Gabrielle Cavassa and Tawanda Suessbrich-Joaquim, G. Thomas Allen, Lucía Gutiérrez Rebolloso, Tyreek McDole, and April May Webb.
The competition recalls the humble beginnings of legendary jazz singer/NEA Jazz Master Sarah Vaughan (1924-1990) who, back in 1942, was a Newark teenager and winner of an amateur singing contest at the Apollo Theater. That memorable night helped launch the lifework of one of the most successful, influential jazz vocalists in the history of American music. NJPAC has a long history of preserving and celebrating Sarah Vaughan’s music and impact. In 1999, NJPAC officially proclaimed the street in front of it as “Sarah Vaughan Way.”

About TD Bank, America’s Most Convenient Bank®       
For the 14th consecutive year, NJPAC’s TD James Moody Festival is sponsored by TD Bank, which has supported the event since its inauguration, ensuring that the event annually includes free community performances and educational events, as well as mainstage concerts showcasing jazz superstars.
TD Bank, America’s Most Convenient Bank, is one of the 10 largest banks in the U.S. by assets, providing over 10 million customers with a full range of retail, small business and commercial banking products and services at more than 1,100 convenient locations throughout the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, Metro D.C., the Carolinas and Florida. In addition, TD Auto Finance, a division of TD Bank, N.A., offers vehicle financing and dealer commercial services. TD Bank and its subsidiaries also offer customized private banking and wealth management services through TD Wealth®. TD Bank is headquartered in Cherry Hill, N.J. To learn more, visit http://www.td.com/us. Find TD Bank on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/TDBank and on Instagram at http://www.instagram.com/TDBank_US/.  TD Bank is a subsidiary of The Toronto-Dominion Bank, a top 10 North American bank. The Toronto-Dominion Bank trades on the New York and Toronto stock exchanges under the ticker symbol “TD”. To learn more, visit http://www.td.com/us.

About NJPAC
The New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), located in downtown Newark, N.J., is America’s most diverse performing arts center, and the artistic, cultural, educational and civic center of New Jersey – where great performances and events enhance and transform lives every day. NJPAC brings diverse communities together, providing access to all and showcasing the state’s and the world’s best artists while acting as a leading catalyst in the revitalization of its home city. Through its extensive Arts Education programs, NJPAC is shaping the next generation of artists and arts enthusiasts. NJPAC has served more than 10 million visitors (including over 1.9 million students and families) since opening its doors in 1997, and nurtures meaningful and lasting relationships with each of its constituents.

Line-Up announced for 2026 Gilmore International Piano Festival, April 30th-May 10th 2026.

Sunday, November 23, 2025

The Gilmore has announced details of the 2026 Irving S. Gilmore International Piano Festival taking place Thursday, April 30 to Sunday, May 10, 2026, across multiple venues in Southwest Michigan.

We have received the following press release;

Just announced - Line-Up for 2026 Gilmore International Piano Festival, Apr 30-May 10th.

THE 2026 IRVING S. GILMORE INTERNATIONAL PIANO FESTIVAL—NORTH AMERICA’S LARGEST GATHERING OF KEYBOARD ARTISTS—BRIDGES CLASSICAL AND JAZZ WORLDS IN A GROUNDBREAKING CELEBRATION OF PIANO ARTISTRY, APRIL 30-MAY 10

Sullivan Fortner, winner of The Gilmore’s 2026 Larry J. Bell Jazz Artist Award, opens and closes the Festival

A Homecoming Moment: Joshua Bell and Shai Wosner Celebrate the Stulberg Competition’s 50th Anniversary in a Special Pre-Festival Recital

2024 Gilmore Artist Alexandre Kantorow’s first Festival appearance

Duo collaboration by Brad Mehldau and 2010 Gilmore Artist Kirill Gerstein

World premieres of Gilmore commissions include American Sputnik,  a monodrama co-commissioned by The Gilmore and the Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra, as well as a new work for Eighth Blackbird by Clarice Assad

U.S. premiere of The Kalamazoo Flow by Anders Hillborg performed by Alexandre Kantorow

2010 Gilmore Artist Kirill Gerstein Plays and Conducts Three of Beethoven’s Piano Concertos

Gilmore Festival Fellows Return for a 10-Day Immersive Residency Fostering the Next Generation of Pianists

KALAMAZOO, MI — The Gilmore has announced details of the 2026 Irving S. Gilmore International Piano Festival taking place Thursday, April 30 to Sunday, May 10, 2026, across multiple venues in Southwest Michigan. Drawing thousands of fans to the Kalamazoo region, this year’s Festival showcases the world’s preeminent classical and jazz pianists and artists in 75+ events including a world premiere monodrama, exclusive artist collaborations, Gilmore commissioned works, and family-friendly performances as well as master classes, film screenings, and more. Scroll down for a complete schedule of festival events.

“The Gilmore Piano Festival has established itself as a highlight for music fans. Over 11 days, thousands of patrons from around the world will transform Kalamazoo into a vibrant hub of creativity, culture and connection. For over 30 years, our Festival has brought together incredible artists, emerging talents, and enthusiastic audiences. Building on this success, as well as the Gilmore Artist Awards and this year’s inaugural Larry J. Bell Jazz Artist Awards, we’re excited to begin this exciting chapter shifting from a biennial Festival to an annual one that presents the top pianists of both classical and jazz music.”
- Pierre van der Westhuizen, Executive & Artistic Director

The 2026 Gilmore International Piano Festival bridges classical tradition, contemporary innovation, and the evolving landscape of jazz. Anchored by world premieres, interdisciplinary collaborations, and the inaugural Larry J. Bell Jazz Artist Awards, the Festival celebrates the piano as a catalyst for creative exchange across genres, generations, and cultures. Its programming highlights both legacy and discovery—pairing iconic artists such as Joshua Bell, Brad Mehldau, Kirill Gerstein, and Alexandre Kantorow with rising classical and jazz talents, while commissioning new works that reflect the piano’s vibrant role in today’s musical ecosystem. With performances spanning historic concert halls, intimate clubs, family offerings, and community spaces across Southwest Michigan, the 2026 Festival envisions the piano not merely as an instrument, but as a unifying force that transforms the region into a dynamic hub of artistic exploration, storytelling, and shared human experience.

The 2026 Festival coincides with the naming of The Gilmore’s first-ever Larry J. Bell Jazz Artist Awardee, Sullivan Fortner, as well as the Bell Young Jazz Artist Award recipients Esteban Castro and Tyler Bullock — all scheduled to perform at the 2026 Gilmore Piano Festival. Mirroring the Gilmore Artist Award for classical pianists, the Jazz Artist Awards were bestowed on jazz pianists selected by an anonymous committee. Since its founding in 1989, the Festival has taken place at venues in Kalamazoo and across West Michigan, a region characterized by rolling countryside—filled with orchards, wineries, art galleries, and farmers markets—and the natural beauty of nearby Lake Michigan. Building on the success of its 30-year history, the biennial Festival shifts to an annual one for the first time in 2026. The Gilmore is allowing more space for creativity, more audience goers and a plethora of multi-genre artists.

2026 GILMORE PIANO FESTIVAL ARTISTS
Aaron Diehl · Aaron Goldberg · Alexandre Kantorow · Ali Jackson · Allison Miller · Ambrose Akinmusire · Andrew Rathburn · Armando Gola · ARTEMIS · Bill Charlap · Bob Mervak · Brad Mehldau · Cameron Carpenter · CeciléMcLorin Salvant · Charlotte Hu · Christian Sands · Chuco Valdés · Cyrus Chestnut · Daniela Liebman · Eighth Blackbird · Elliott Wuu · Esteban Castro · Horacio El Negro Hernandez · Ingrid Jensen · Inon Barnatan · Jackson Symphony Orchestra · Janice Carissa · Joseph Lattanzi · Joshua Bell · Julian Kuerti · Justin Snyder · Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra · Kandace Springs · Kayvon Gordon · Keith Hall · Kent Philharmonic Orchestra · Kirill Gerstein · Lara Downes · Libor Ondras · Lisa Kaplan · Lori Sims · Marc-André Hamelin · Matthew Aubin · Matthew Natalie Tenenbaum · Nicole Glover · Nicole Zuraitis · Noriko Ueda · Omer Avital · Raquel González · Renee Rosnes · Richard Goode · Roberto Vizcaino Jr. · Sara Davis Buechner · Sean Hickey · Shai Wosner · Southwest Michigan Symphony · Stanislav Khristenko · Stewart Goodyear · Sullivan Fortner · Timo Andres · Tyler Bullock · Tyrone Allen · Vicki Chow · Yes! Trio

THE GILMORE’S LEGACY OF COMMISSIONING NEW WORKS

The Gilmore has a distinguished history of commissioning new works, continuing its mission to support the creation and performance of new music for the piano. Over the years, the Gilmore Piano Festival has become known for its commitment to expanding the repertoire through significant commissions from renowned composers. The Gilmore has commissioned, on its own and via Gilmore Artists and Gilmore Young Artists Award funds, more than 40 new works from composers including Matthew Aucoin, Michael Brown, Elliott Carter, Christopher Cerrone, Michael Gordon, Stephen Hough, Oliver Knussen, Brad Mehldau, Nico Muhly, Frederick Rzewski, and Tyshawn Sorey, among many others.

The commissioned works of the 2026 Gilmore Piano Festival include the U.S. premiere of The Kalamazoo Flow, a new work by leading Swedish composer Anders Hillborg, which Alexandre Kantorow commissioned through his 2024 Gilmore Artist Award (world premiere scheduled for January 2026 at Le Piano Symphonique Festival in Lucerne, Switzerland). The contemporary music ensemble Eighth Blackbird premieres a new work written by Clarice Assad whose music is deeply rooted in the early, folkloric rhythms of Brazil.

Co-commissioned with the Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra, The Gilmore is thrilled to present the world premiere of American Sputnik, a one-act monodrama for baritone, piano and an orchestral ensemble by composer Evan Mack and Pulitzer Prize-winning librettist Mark Campbell. American pianist Van Cliburn instantly shot to superstardom after winning the inaugural International Tchaikovsky Competition in Moscow at the height of the Cold War. Exploring the impact of Cliburn’s historic win on his own life and on global culture, American Sputnik features baritone Joseph Lattanzi and Cleveland International Piano Competition-winning pianist Stanislav Khristenko dually portraying the role of Cliburn, joined by the Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra under Music Director Julian Kuerti.

THE GILMORE FESTIVAL FELLOWS PROGRAM

The Gilmore Festival Fellows program, a career-advancement initiative for both classical and jazz pianists aged 18 or older, continues during this year’s festival. The immersive program blends the festival experience with a curriculum designed to develop the diverse skills—artistic, business, and personal—needed to build a successful career as a pianist. The 12 Festival Fellows take part in workshops and career coaching sessions focused on the business side of an artistic career and the personal and interpersonal challenges of life as a concert pianist.

This year’s Fellowship is a 10-day residency from May 1-10, 2026, including a May 8th public performance by select Classical Fellows. Jazz Fellows will perform on May 1-2 and 7-8 at the Crawlspace Theater. This season’s residency is overseen by Artist Teachers: Sara Davis Buechner, Bill Charlap, Stewart Goodyear, Marc-André Hamelin, Charlotte Hu, Renee Rosnes, and Lori Sims.

Festival artists share their talents and wisdom with Festival Fellows, who perform and learn from their teachers at Gilmore Festival master classes. The general public is invited to witness the creative process in action and gain insight into the dedication required to become an exceptional pianist. All master classes are free and open to the public. Scroll down for a complete schedule of classes. Visit Gilmore.org/education to learn more.

The Gilmore Festival Fellows program is made possible through the generous support of the Art Mentor Foundation Lucerne.

2026 GILMORE PIANO FESTIVAL LINE-UP
When: April 30 – May 10, 2026

Where: The 2026 Gilmore Piano Festival will unfold across more than a dozen venues throughout Southwest Michigan, from historic theaters and concert halls to intimate clubs, churches, and community spaces. This wide variety of locations activates the region as a network of stages, offering audiences exceptional musical experiences in settings of every scale and underscoring the Festival’s commitment to bringing world-class music to the broader community.

Tickets: Donor presale access begins November 20 at 10:00 a.m. ET for supporters who contribute $100 or more, with all tickets going on sale to everyone on January 29, 2026. To purchase tickets, visit http://www.thegilmore.org.

PRE-FESTIVAL EVENTS

CLASSICAL | SOLO RECITAL | SPECIAL EVENT
SAT 4.18 at 7:30 p.m. | Hill Auditorium, Ann Arbor
Presented in collaboration with the University Musical Society
THE COMPLETE PHILIP GLASS PIANO ETUDES
Timo Andres | Inon Barnatan | Janice Carissa, 2022 Gilmore Young Artist | Vicky Chow | Aaron Diehl | Lara Downes | Lisa Kaplan | Daniela Liebman | Christian Sands | Justin Snyder
This distinctive concert offering of all 20 of Glass’s etudes features 10 pianists onstage, each offering a unique musical tribute to this masterful composer.

CLASSICAL | CHAMBER MUSIC | SPECIAL EVENT
FRI 4.24 at 7:30 p.m. | Chenery Auditorium, Kalamazoo
JOSHUA BELL
Joshua Bell, violin | Shai Wosner, piano
F. SCHUBERT             Violin Sonata in A Major, D. 574 (“Grand Duo”)
E. GRIEG                 Violin Sonata No. 3 in C Minor, Op. 45
S. PROKOFIEV           Violin Sonata No. 2 in D Major, Op. 94

CLASSICAL | CONCERTO
SAT 4.25 at 7:30 p.m. | Harold Sheffer Music Hall, Potter Center, Jackson
JACKSON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA WITH 2022 GILMORE YOUNG ARTIST JANICE CARRISA
Matthew Aubin, conductor | Janice Carissa, 2022 Gilmore Young Artist, piano
J. BRAHMS /arr. V. LEIDIG.          Academic Festival Overture
R. SCHUMANN                       Concerto for Piano in A Minor, Op.54
W.A MOZART                         Requiem, K.626 (Süssmayr)
OPENING NIGHT
THU 4.30 at 6:00 p.m. | Kalamazoo Institute of Arts & Parish Theater, Kalamazoo

SULLIVAN FORTNER SOLO GAME
The 2026 Gilmore International Piano Festival opens on April 30, 2025, aka International Jazz Day, with a rare solo performance by 2026 Larry J. Bell Artist Award Recipient Sullivan Fortner. Fresh off receiving the inaugural Bell Artist Award, Fortner revisits the spirit of his GRAMMY®-nominated album Solo Game — a kaleidoscopic journey across acoustic piano, Fender Rhodes, Hammond B-3 organ, and other keyboards. Blending jazz, gospel, and modern improvisation, Fortner moves fluidly between soulful lyricism and bold harmonic exploration, revealing why he’s regarded as one of today’s most imaginative and expressive voices in jazz.
CLASSICAL | MONODRAMA | CONCERTO | includes WORLD PREMIERE

FRI 5.01 at 7:00 p.m. | Chenery Auditorium, Kalamazoo
FROM CLIBURN TO KANTOROW: A CELEBRATION OF TCHAIKOVSKY
Julian Kuerti, conductor | Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra
Joseph Lattanzi, baritone | Stanislav Khristenko, piano
Alexandre Kantorow, 2024 Gilmore Artist, piano
The concert will feature the World Premiere of a new one-act monodrama by American composer Evan Mack and Pulitzer-prize winning librettist Mark Campbell, exploring the impact of Van Cliburn’s historic win on his own life and on global culture. Co-commissioned by The Gilmore and Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra, American Sputnikfeatures baritone Joseph Lattanzi and Cleveland International Piano Competition-winning pianist Stanislav Khristenko dually portraying the role of Cliburn, joined by the Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra under Music Director Julian Kuerti. Also on the program is 2024 Gilmore Artist Alexandre Kantorow — who followed in Cliburn’s footsteps as a winner of the Tchaikovsky Competition — joining the KSO to perform Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 2, one of the concertos that helped Kantorow earn his victory at the competition.
EVAN MACK /libst. MARK CAMPBELL   American Sputnik, WORLD PREMIERE
P. TCHAIKOVSKY                         Piano Concerto No. 2 in G Major, Op. 44
FAMILY CONCERT/FILM

SAT 5.02 at 2:00 p.m. | Chenery Auditorium, Kalamazoo
RIGHT IN THE EYE
Right in the Eye combines 12 short silent films by pioneering French filmmaker Georges Méliès — containing many special effects — with musical virtuosity, lighting design, and more. Three musicians perform on over 50 different instruments, including rare and unique ones, live onstage alongside the films, in a one-of-a-kind production ideal for children ages five and up.

JAZZ
SAT 5.02 at 4:00 + 7:00 p.m. | Bell’s Eccentric Café, Kalamazoo
CYRUS CHESTNUT TRIO
A gifted and innovative jazz pianist, Cyrus Chestnut possesses a soulful style that fuses gospel, classical music, and straight-ahead jazz. With two musical parents who were involved in the church, it was only natural that gospel music would become a major influence on Chestnut’s musical development, showing him not only how to be a better player but also how to connect with audiences. His original compositions are the heart of his latest album, Rhythm, Melody, and Harmony, on which he demonstrates his signature blend of rhythmic precision, emotive expression, and improvisational mastery.

CLASSICAL | SOLO RECITAL | includes U.S. PREMIERE
SAT 5.02 at 8:00 p.m. | Chenery Auditorium, Kalamazoo
ALEXANDRE KANTOROW, 2024 GILMORE ARTIST
The day after performing Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 2 with the Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra, 2024 Gilmore Artist Alexandre Kantorow returns to give a solo recital. Kantorow will present the U.S. premiere of a new work by leading Swedish composer Anders Hillborg, which Kantorow commissioned through his Gilmore Artist Award; he will premiere the work at the Le Piano Symphonique Festival in Lucerne in January 2026.
J.S. BACH /arr. LISZT       Variations on Weinen, Klagen, Sorgen, Zagen S. 180.
N. MEDTNER                 Sonata in F Minor, Op. 5
F. CHOPIN                   Prelude in C-sharp Minor, Op. 45
A. SCRIABIN                 Sonata No. 10, Op. 70
L.v. BEETHOVEN             Sonata No. 32 in C Minor Op. 111
ANDERS HILLBORG         The Kalamazoo Flow, U.S. PREMIERE, commissioned by The Gilmore

FAMILY CONCERT
SUN 5.03 at 12:30 p.m., First Congregational Church of Kalamazoo
BABY GRANDS WITH HEITZIG AND JONES
This Baby Grands will feature The Gilmore’s very own Kory Heitzig on organ, with Dr. Garrett Jones narrating, presenting Rex: The King of Instruments written by Daniel Burton. This lively piece introduces the pipe organ through an energetic blend of organ music and narration. This will be followed by the OrgelKids workshop, an engaging, hands-on experience where kids collaborate to assemble a real working organ. This event is a family-friendly, interactive way to introduce kids to the organ.
Free and open to children of all ages.

CLASSICAL | SOLO RECITAL
SUN 5.03 at 2:00 p.m. | First United Methodist of Kalamazoo
CAMERON CARPENTER
In a rare organ performance for The Gilmore, Cameron Carpenter demonstrates the versatility and dramatic power of his chosen instrument. Committed to expanding the repertoire for the organ, Carpenter composes original music and also creates his own virtuosic arrangements of iconic works of classical music, including J.S. Bach’s Goldberg Variations and Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition. Carpenter is the first-ever organist to be nominated for a GRAMMY® Award for a solo album (for his debut album Revolutionary), and has transfixed audiences worldwide with his dazzling technique and larger-than-life style.
J.S. BACH/arr. CAMERON CARPENTER Goldberg Variations BWV 988
J.S. BACH Prelude and Fugue in E-flat Major, BWV 552 (“St. Anne”)
M. MUSSORGSKY/arr. CAMERON CARPENTER Pictures At An Exhibition

CLASSICAL | SOLO RECITAL
SUN 5.03 at 7:30 p.m. | Dalton Center Recital Hall, WMU, Kalamazoo
RICHARD GOODE
Pianist Richard Goode is internationally renowned for his interpretations of Classical and Romantic music. His 10-disc recording of Beethoven’s complete piano sonatas remains a benchmark in the industry. Goode returns to The Gilmore to perform two cornerstones of the repertoire: Beethoven’s monumental Diabelli Variations and Schubert’s heartrending Sonata in B-flat Major, his final composition for solo piano.
L.v. BEETHOVEN           Thirty-Three Variations on a Waltz by Diabelli, Op. 120
F. SCHUBERT               Sonata in B-flat Major, D. 960
CLASSICAL | SOLO RECITAL

MON 5.04 at 2:00 p.m. | Dalton Center Recital Hall, WMU, Kalamazoo
STEWART GOODYEAR
Canadian pianist Stewart Goodyear is renowned for his large, dramatic sound, elegant technique, and omnivorous approach to keyboard music. Goodyear has attracted particular attention for his Beethoven “Sonatathons,” a term he coined to describe his epic performances of Beethoven’s complete piano sonatas in one day.
L.v. BEETHOVEN             Sonata No. 17 in D Minor, Op. 31, No. 2 (“Tempest”)
STEWART GOODYEAR     Rhapsody
L.v. BEETHOVEN             Sonata No. 14 in C-sharp Minor, Op. 27, No. 2 (“Moonlight”)
STEWART GOODYEAR       Introduction and Rondo Capriccioso
L.v. BEETHOVEN             Andante favori, WoO 57
                                Sonata No. 23 in F Minor, Op. 57 (“Appassionata”)

Jazz + Classical | DUO PIANO RECITAL
MON 5.04 at 7:30 p.m. | Dalton Center Recital Hall, WMU, Kalamazoo
BRAD MEHLDAU & KIRILL GERSTEIN IN DIALOGUE
Grammy Award–winning pianist and composer Brad Mehldau has long bridged musical worlds, shaping modern jazz with performances that blend intellect, emotion, and structure. 2010 Gilmore Artist Kirill Gerstein, equally at home in classical and jazz traditions, is celebrated for his dynamic artistry and curiosity, connecting diverse musical voices with insight and imagination. Their collaboration grew from a shared fascination with the space between composition and improvisation.

JAZZ
TUE 5.05 at 12:00 p.m. | Kalamazoo Civic Theater
ESTEBAN CASTRO TRIO | 2026 BELL YOUNG JAZZ ARTIST
Esteban Castro began playing piano at age four and at 13, became the youngest-ever First Prize Winner at the Montreux Jazz Piano Solo Competition. Now 20, Castro is already an in-demand bandleader and sideman. At The Gilmore, Castro and their trio will perform a mix of standards and Castro’s own award-winning compositions.

JAZZ
TUE 5.05 at 12:00 p.m. | Kool Family Community Center, Battle Creek
TYLER BULLOCK TRIO | 2026 BELL YOUNG JAZZ ARTIST
The regular pianist for the Roy Hargrove Big Band, and with collaborations with Samara Joy, Sean Jones, and Dee Dee Bridgewater already under his belt, Tyler Bullock is one of the most promising pianists of his generation. His original compositions for his trio and other configurations combine the lineage of jazz with his own fresh perspective.

CLASSICAL | CHAMBER MUSIC | includes WORLD PREMIERE
TUE 5.05 at 2:00 p.m. | Dalton Center Recital Hall, WMU
EIGHTH BLACKBIRD
Four-time GRAMMY® Award-winning contemporary music sextet Eighth Blackbird is, according to The Chicago Tribune, “one of the smartest, most dynamic ensembles on the planet.” They perform Four Organs and Piano Phase, two seminal 20th-century works by pioneering American minimalist composer Steve Reich in his 90th birthday year, as well as the World Premiere of a new work written for them by Clarice Assad, commissioned by The Gilmore. A composer, vocalist, and multi-instrumentalist, Assad creatively fuses elements of classical, jazz, and Brazilian music for a sound that’s completely her own.
ARI SUSSMAN               to no end
CLARICE ASSAD             WORLD PREMIERE, commissioned by The Gilmore
STEVE REICH               Piano Phase
                                Four Organs
NICO MUHLY                 Doublespeak

JAZZ
TUE 5.05 at 5:00 + 8:00 p.m. | D. Terry Williams Theatre, WMU
KANDACE SPRINGS
Hailing from Nashville, Tennessee, jazz pianist and singer Kandace Springs’s natural gifts for lyricism and soulfulness have propelled her to some of the world’s biggest stages. She has performed alongside Prince, Sting and Jack White, Norah Jones, Roy Hargrove, and more, and has released acclaimed albums of acoustic-based jazz. Her Gilmore set will include arrangements from her latest recording, Lady in Satin, a loving tribute to Billie Holiday and her 1958 record of the same name, with Springs on both keys and vocals, joined by her all-female trio.

JAZZ
WED 5.06 at 12:00 p.m. | Kool Family Community Center, Battle Creek
ESTEBAN CASTRO TRIO | 2026 BELL YOUNG JAZZ ARTIST
See May 5 for event description.

JAZZ
WED 5.06 at 12:00 p.m. | Kalamazoo Civic Theater
TYLER BULLOCK TRIO | 2026 BELL YOUNG JAZZ ARTIST
See May 5 for event description.

CLASSICAL | SOLO RECITAL
WED 5.06 at 2:00 p.m.  | Dalton Center Recital Hall, WMU, Kalamazoo
LORI SIMS
A pillar of the Kalamazoo musical community, Lori Sims returns to The Gilmore for a recital on piano and harpsichord, demonstrating how the harpsichord and Baroque musical forms can be updated and reworked in a modern context. Opening with J.S. Bach’s Partita for keyboard No. 6, Sims then jumps to works by two of the 20th century’s most important composers, György Ligeti and Sofia Gubaidulina, who both fused traditional Baroque forms—the Passacaglia and the Chaconne—with their distinctly modern musical languages.
J.S. BACH                 Partita No. 6 in D Minor BWV 830
G. LIGETI                 Passacaglia Ungherese
                            Hungarian Rock
                            Etudes, Book I, No. 5 “Arc-en-Ciel”
S. GUBAIDULINA         Chaconne
CLASSICAL | CONCERTO

WED 5.06 at 7:30 p.m. | Chenery Auditorium, Kalamazoo
KIRILL GERSTEIN & KALAMAZOO SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA WITH BEETHOVEN’S PIANO CONCERTOS
Already respected for his solo piano interpretations, 2010 Gilmore Artist Kirill Gerstein unveils another facet of his musical life for Festival audiences: his role as conductor. In one evening with the Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra, Gerstein both plays and conducts three of Beethoven’s beloved Piano Concertos. Beethoven himself frequently performed his own concertos while conducting from the keyboard, and Gerstein will offer Gilmore festival attendeesthe opportunity to experience these masterworks in much the same way that audiences would have in Beethoven’s day.
L.v. BEETHOVEN       Piano Concerto No. 1 in C Major, Op. 15
                          Piano Concerto No. 3 in C Minor, Op. 37
                          Piano Concerto No. 4 in G Major, Op. 58

JAZZ
THU 5.07 at 12:00 p.m. | Kalamazoo Civic Theatre
NICOLE ZURAITIS
A vocalist, pianist, songwriter, and arranger who originally trained in classical voice and opera, Nicole Zuraitis offers powerful interpretations of jazz, pop, and anything else she sets her mind to. How Love Begins, her album co-produced with Christian McBride, won Best Jazz Vocal Album at the 2024 GRAMMY® Awards, making her the first artist to win this award for an album entirely made up of original compositions and arrangements. Zuraitis leads a band of powerhouse artists, using her arrangements to showcase their considerable talents in the best possible light.

CLASSICAL | VOICE AND PIANO
THU 5.07 at 2:00 p.m. | Dalton Center Recital Hall, WMU, Kalamazoo
CHOPIN AND VIARDOT: A DIALOGUE
Charlotte Hu, piano
Raquel González, soprano
Pauline Viardot was an accomplished pianist who studied with Franz Liszt, a world-renowned mezzo-soprano, and a talented composer, yet her name is largely unknown today. In their collaborative recital, pianist Charlotte Hu and soprano Raquel González re-introduce Viardot to her rightful place alongside the greatest of Romantic composers, notably her friend and colleague Frédéric Chopin. Their program spans solo piano works by both Chopin and Viardot, Viardot’s piano-and-voice arrangements of Chopin’s mazurkas — which Chopin himself advised on and was pleased with — and some of Viardot’s own original songs for soprano and piano.
F. CHOPIN               Polonaise-Fantasie, Op. 61                            
                            Mazurka in E Major, Op. 63, No. 3
                            Mazurka in F-sharp Minor, Op. 59, No. 3
                            Mazurka in C Major, Op. 33, No. 3
P. VIARDOT/F. CHOPIN Mazurka Op. 50, No. 2 “Seize ans!”
                            Mazurka Op. 33, No. 2 “Aime-moir”
                            Mazurka Op. 6, No. 1 “Plainte d’amour”
                            Mazurka Op. 7, No. 1 “Coquette”
                            Mazurka Op. 68, No. 2 “L’Oiselet”
                            Mazurkas Op. 7, No. 3 and Op. 7, No. 2 “Faible cœur!”
P. VIARDOT               Mazurka
                            Deux airs de ballet
                            Serenade
F. CHOPIN               Barcarolle in F-sharp Major, Op. 60
P. VIARDOT               Original Songs for Soprano and Piano

JAZZ | DUO PIANO
THU 5.07 at 5:00 + 8:00 p.m. | D. Terry Williams Theatre, WMU, Kalamazoo
BILL CHARLAP & RENEE ROSNES
Two of today’s preeminent jazz pianists, Bill Charlap and Renee Rosnes have played together in a two-piano setting since the release of their 2010 Blue Note album Double Portrait, a set of duets that traverse their shared musical touchstones. Downbeat declared that “the counterpoint and compatibility are so perfectly balanced, the selections and arrangements so handsome, that Double Portrait is a prize.” On stage, the husband-and-wife duo share their interpretations of jazz standards, Great American Songbook and Broadway tunes, and their own original compositions, inspired by their work together.

JAZZ
THU 5.07 at 7:30 p.m. | Kool Family Community Center, Battle Creek
YES! TRIO featuring ALI JACKSON, AARON GOLDBERG, AND OMER AVITAL
United by three decades of friendship and a reverence for straight-ahead jazz and swing, the members of Yes! Trio are all superstar musicians in their own right. Ali Jackson has played with Wynton Marsalis and the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra since 2005. Omer Avital synthesizes American jazz, Israeli, and other Arab styles into something new and vital. And Aaron Goldberg leads his own trio and tours with the Joshua Redman Quartet.

JAZZ
FRI 5.08 at 12:00 p.m. | Kalamazoo Civic Theatre
YES! TRIO featuring ALI JACKSON, AARON GOLDBERG, AND OMER AVITAL
See May 7 for event description.

CLASSICAL | SOLO RECITAL
FRI 5.08 at 2:00 p.m. | Cori Terry Theatre, Epic Center, Kalamazoo
GILMORE FESTIVAL FELLOWS SHOWCASE RECITAL
The Gilmore presents top-notch talents of some of this year’s class of Gilmore Festival Fellows, hand selected by The Gilmore’s artistic leadership. Today’s successful artists need to know much more than the music. The Festival Fellows program helps young artists better navigate the industry through mentorships, master classes, Festival performances, workshops, and networking with their peers.

JAZZ
FRI 5.08 at 7:30 p.m. | Kool Family Community Center, Battle Creek
NICOLE ZURAITIS
See May 7 for event description.

JAZZ
FRI 5.08 at 7:30 p.m. | Dalton Center Recital Hall, WMU, Kalamazoo
ARTEMIS
Equally beloved by audiences and critics alike, ARTEMIS conjures a powerful collective voice from its five members. Originally assembled by pianist and musical director Renee Rosnes, the all-female group is distinguished not only by the star power of its individual members, but also by its multi-national and intergenerational lineup. ARTEMIS features Renee Rosnes (piano/Fender Rhodes), Ingrid Jensen (trumpet), Nicole Glover (tenor saxophone), Noriko Ueda (bass), and Allison Miller (drums). At The Gilmore, ARTEMIS will perform tunes from their three acclaimed Blue Note albums, featuring a vibrant mix of original compositions by all five band members as well as Rosnes’s arrangements of pieces by Wayne Shorter, Burt Bacharach, and more.

CLASSICAL | CONCERTO
FRI 5.08 at 7:30 p.m. | St. Cecilia Music Center, Grand Rapids
KENT PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA
Pianist Elliott Wuu, 2018 Gilmore Young Artist, returns to Michigan to perform Grieg’s Piano Concerto with the Kent Philharmonic Orchestra, Libor Ondras conducting.
B. SMETANA                 Dance of Comedians
E. GRIEG                     Piano Concerto in A Minor, Op. 16
A. DVOŘÁK                 Slavonic Dances, Op. 46
CLASSICAL | SOLO RECITAL | THEATRICAL

SAT 5.09 at 1:00 p.m. | Dalton Center Recital Hall, WMU, Kalamazoo
SARA DAVIS BUECHNER “OF PIGS AND PIANOS”
When asked what she wanted to be when she grew up, a young Sara Davis Buechner declared: “A piano player and a pig farmer.” Decades later, the first of those has decidedly come true. Of Pigs and Pianos is Buechner’s one-woman show, recounting Sara Davis Buechner’s life story through dramatic narration, musical performances, and projected visuals. As one of the first transgender women in the industry to transition mid-career, Buechner encountered overwhelming obstacles, and faced them with courage and integrity. The New York Times gave the premiere performance a rave review; Buechner herself calls it “one of the most significant artistic works of my life.” [CONTENT WARNING: Of Pigs and Pianos contains strong adult content and language. Recommended for audiences 16 and older.]

CLASSICAL | SOLO RECITAL
SAT 5.09 at 4:00 p.m. | Stetson Chapel, Kalamazoo College
MARC ANDRÉ-HAMELIN
Marc-André Hamelin, “a performer of near-superhuman technical prowess” according to The New York Times, is revered worldwide for his thoughtful interpretations and utter mastery of the most challenging works in the piano repertoire. His Gilmore recital opens with Haydn’s Piano Sonata in D Major, followed by Beethoven’s Piano Sonata No. 3, an early work dedicated to Haydn. The second half is devoted to Russian piano works, with short pieces by Nikolai Medtner, a younger contemporary of Scriabin and Rachmaninoff, as well as Rachmaninoff’s moody and intense Piano Sonata No. 2.
F. HAYDN                     Sonata in D Major, Hob. XVI:37
Lv. BEETHOVEN             Sonata No. 3 in C Major, Op. 2
N. MEDTNER                 Improvisation in B-flat Minor, Op. 31, No. 1
                              Danza festiva, Op. 38, No. 3
S. RACHMANINOFF         Étude-Tableau in E-flat Minor, Op. 39, No. 5
                              Sonata No. 2 in B-flat Minor, Op. 36 (1931 version)
CLASSICAL | SOLO RECITAL

SAT 5.09 at 7:00 p.m. | Peace Lutheran Church, South Haven
ELLIOTT WUU, 2010 GILMORE YOUNG ARTIST
As part of the South Haven Performance Series, Elliott Wuu gives a solo recital for audiences in South Haven, featuring piano sonatas by Beethoven and Liszt, Debussy’s Suite Bergamasque, and Liszt’s Bénédiction de Dieu dans la solitude.
C. DEBUSSY                 Suite Bergamasque, L. 75
L.v. BEETHOVEN           Sonata Op. 31, No. 3 (“The Hunt”)
F. LISZT                     Bénédiction de Dieu dans la Solitude
                              from Harmonies poétiques et religieuses. S. 173/3
S. RACHMANINOFF         Sonata No. 2, Op. 36

JAZZ
SAT 5.09 at 7:30 p.m. | Chenery Auditorium, Kalamazoo
CHUCHO VALDÉS ROYAL QUARTET
For over six decades, NEA Jazz Master Chucho Valdés has defined Afro-Cuban jazz through his work as a pianist, composer, and bandleader. A winner of multiple GRAMMY® and Latin GRAMMY® Awards, Valdés also received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Latin Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences and has been inducted into the Latin Songwriters Hall of Fame. His Royal Quartet features virtuosos from the next generation of Afro-Cuban jazz: Horacio El Negro Hernandez (drums), Armando Gola (bass), and Roberto Vizcaino Jr. (congas). They will pay homage to Chick Corea, Mozart, American blues, Cuban folksongs, and more, all with their signature sense of joy and creativity.

CLASSICAL | CONCERTO
SAT 5.09 at 7:30 p.m. | Mendel Center at Lake Michigan College
SOUTHWEST MICHIGAN SYMPHONY
Matthew Aubin, conductor
Winner of the 2016 Cleveland International Piano Competition and featured at The Gilmore’s premiere of American Sputnik, Ukrainian pianist Stanislav Khristenko performs Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 1 in B-flat Minor with the Southwest Michigan Symphony.
P. TCHAIKOVSKY           Piano Concerto No. 1 in B-flat Minor, Op. 23

JAZZ | FESTIVAL FINALE
TUE 5.10 at 4:00 p.m. | Chenery Auditorium, Kalamazoo
FINALE: SULLIVAN FORTNER TRIO featuring CÉCILE MCLORIN SALVANT & AMBROSE AKINMUSIRE
The 2026 Gilmore International Piano Festival concludes with an exclusive performance created especially for this occasion, uniting three of today’s most visionary artists. Sullivan Fortner, recent recipient of The Gilmore’s inaugural Larry J. Bell Artist Award, leads his trio alongside GRAMMY® Award–winning vocalist Cécile McLorin Salvant and acclaimed trumpeter Ambrose Akinmusire, whose distinctive sound and compositional depth have earned him international recognition. Joined by Tyrone Allen (bass) and Kayvon Gordon (drums), they will explore new musical terrain where improvisation, storytelling, and collective imagination meet in a singular finale that promises to be both intimate and transcendent.

SPECIAL EVENTS

FILM +
TUE 4.28: MURRAY PERAHIA: NOT OF THIS WORLD
WED 4.29: PIANOFORTE
THU 4.30: OSCAR PETERSON: BLACK + WHITE
FRI 5.01: VAN CLIBURN: CONCERT PIANIST. FILM BY PETER ROSEN.
All showtimes at 12:00 p.m., Kalamazoo Valley Museum, Stryker Theatre

CONNECT WITH FILM SERIES
During this year’s Festival, the music comes to the silver screen with afternoon film screenings at the Stryker Theatre. Movies are free to the public. Tickets are made available at 10:00 a.m. on the day of each screening at the Kalamazoo Valley Museum or its website http://www.kalamazoomuseum.org.

JAZZ +
WED 4.29 + FRI-SAT 5.01-2 + FRI-SAT 5.07-8 | Crawlspace Comedy Theatre, Kalamazoo
GILMORE AFTER DARK
Throughout this year’s Festival, the music continues long into the night with Gilmore After Dark events at venues around Kalamazoo. Grab a drink or a bite to eat and enjoy performances by exciting jazz and classical artists, including this year’s talented class of Gilmore Jazz Fellows. It kickstarts April 29 with pianist, vocalist and songwriter Bob Mervak. On May 1-2, saxophonist Andrew Rathbun will host the Jazz Festival Fellows, followed by drummer Keith Hall on May 7-8.

FESTIVAL FELLOWS EVENTS +
FRI 5.01 at 2:00 p.m. A CONVERSATION WITH SEAN HICKEY, Kalamazoo Public Library, Central Library
SUN 5.03 at 10:00 a.m. STEWART GOODYEAR, Dalton Center Recital Hall, WMU
TUE 5.05 at 10:00 a.m. LORI SIMS, Dalton Center Recital Hall, WMU
WED 5.06 at 10:00 a.m. CHARLOTTE HU, Dalton Center Recital Hall, WMU
WED 5.06 at 4:00 p.m. BILL CHARLAP + RENEE ROSNES, Dalton Center Recital Hall, WMU
FRI 5.08 at 10:00 a.m. SARA DAVIS BUECHNER, Dalton Center Recital Hall, WMU
SUN 5.10 at 10:00 a.m. MARC-ANDRÉ HAMELIN, Dalton Center Recital Hall, WMU

MASTER CLASSES
Festival artists share their talents and wisdom with Festival Fellows, who perform and learn from their teachers at Gilmore Festival master classes. Audiences may witness the creative process in action and gain insight into the dedication required to become an exceptional pianist. All master classes are free and open to the public.

CLASSICAL
WED 5.20 at 6:00 p.m. MEIJER GARDENS X GILMORE, Utopia Room at Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, Grand Rapids
NATALIE TENENBAUM, piano
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park and The Gilmore Piano Festival are collaborating on a special evening of entertainment amidst the beauty of the CHIHULY exhibition at Meijer Gardens.

All performances, programs, and performance dates and times are subject to change.

ABOUT THE GILMORE    
Created in 1989 to honor the legacy of businessman and philanthropist Irving S. Gilmore, The Gilmore is the premier institution in the United States dedicated exclusively to commissioning, presenting and awarding extraordinary piano artistry. The Gilmore has presented 16 piano festivals, commissioned over 40 new works for piano, and awarded over $3 million as part of its internationally renowned Gilmore Artists Award for both classical and jazz pianists.
Based in Kalamazoo, Michigan, The Gilmore hosts its annual (previously biennial) Gilmore Piano Festival April 30-May 10, 2026, and continues to impact the lives of thousands of area children and adults through its year-round community engagement and music education programs including summer camps, music therapy, and much more.

Programme announced for 55th International Jazz Week Burghausen, Germany, March 17-22, 2026.

Friday, November 21, 2025

The programme for the 55th Burghausen International Jazz Week from March 17 to 22, 2026, has been finalised. Advance ticket sales start: November 26, 2025. Press release attached.

We have received the following press release;

Press release: 55th International Jazz Week Burghausen, March 17-22, 2026, Advance ticket sales start: November 26, 2025

The excitement is spreading: The program for the 55th Burghausen International Jazz Week from March 17 to 22, 2026, has been finalized and promises musical highlights! To mark this small anniversary edition, IG Jazz Burghausen is presenting a week full of diverse concert experiences, from international stars to promising new discoveries.

Following the traditional winners’ concert of the 16th European Young Artists’ Jazz Award, the Mike Stern Band feat. Leni Stern, Gabor Bolla, Noam Tanzer & Juan Chiavassa will open the main concerts in the Wackerhalle. Another highlight is the renowned German drummer Wolfgang Haffner. With his All Star Celebration, he celebrates his 50th stage anniversary and invites not only his long-time musical companions Simon Oslender (keys) and Thomas Stieger (bass), but also singer Viktoria Tolstoy, trombonist Nils Landgren, and DJ Shantel.

Also part of the lineup is trumpeter Theo Croker, who will be presenting his Miles Davis Centennial Blue Moods: Miles in the Golden Hour project. Multiple Grammy winner Cory Henry and his band The Funk Apostles will be providing a heavy dose of musical energy, as will the experimental collective Sonic Interventions, which was awarded this year’s German Jazz Prize for Newcomer of the Year. Lovers of avant-garde sounds will get their money’s worth with the duo Stian Westerhus & Maja S. K. Ratkje in the historic Ankersaal in the center of Burghausen’s old town.

The traditional Blues Saturday returns to its authentic roots and brings two outstanding masters of the genre to Burghausen with Paul Lamb & The King Snakes and Ronnie Baker Brooks.

The festival program is complemented by other impressive acts. These include Turkish saxophonist Korhan Futacı, the New York jazz collective Irreversible Entanglements, and London-based bassist, singer, and composer Amy Gadiaga.

Promoting young talent remains a key concern. In addition to the closing Sunday, which is traditionally reserved for newcomers and will be performed by Ayé, INUI, and the Jakob Bänsch Quintet in 2026, the Shuteen Erdenebaatar Trio will take over the nightly jazz cellar concerts. And, of course, the Burghausen Old Town will once again be transformed into an atmospheric musical promenade on Saturday after the main concerts with the Jazznight during the 55th International Jazz Week.

The complete program can be found here;
https://www.b-jazz.com/jazzwoche-burghausen-2026/

Advance ticket sales begin on November 26, 2025, and if you want to stay up to date on everything related to Jazz Week, the newsletter offers all the information and news first hand. You can register directly here.
https://www.b-jazz.com/newsletter/

Peter Slavid - ‘European Modern Jazz’ on the radio playlist,  first broadcast 16/11/2025.

Wednesday, November 19, 2025

Broadcaster & journalist Peter Slavid has forwarded details of the music played on his UK & European Jazz radio show on 16/11/2025, which is available via a number of UK & international radio stations

Peter Slavid writes;

Radio playlist from Nov 16th 2025.

Henri Texier
Samba Loca
Healing Songs
Label Bleu

Stéphane Kerecki
The People United
Liberation Songs
Self Two Music

Roberto Ottaviano
Spinosa Lacrimae
Dark Sides
Dodicilune

Tell No Lies
Tzoridi
Mantica
Aut Records

Spinifex
Sack and Ash (part)
Maxximus
Trytone Records

Tineke Postma
TP4
Voya
Clap your Hands

Omrum
Paul’s idea
Bringer of Light
Hobby Horse

Nikola Bankov
ElevenEleven
Everwanted
Bandcamp

Fernando Brox
Naná Burukú (Salutation)
What We Don’t See
Fresh Sounds

Stargazers
Second Day
Stargazers
Night Dreamer

Scandinavian Art Ensemble with Tomasz Stańko
3rd for eruption
The Copenhagen Session Vol. 2
April Records

Levitation Orchestra
Premedetatio Malorum
Sanctuary
5dB Records

European Modern Jazz on the radio;

At any time:
http://www.mixcloud.com/ukjazz.

Weekly:

http://www.hayesfm.org.uk 91.8 FM – West London Community Radio Sundays 12.00

http://www.purebeatradio.co.uk Sundays 7pm

http://www.listen.camp/ Sundays 7pm onward

Later as “Peter’s Eurojazz Podcast” on Apple, Amazon, Deezer and other podcast sites.

MILES at Southwark Playhouse, Borough, London 4 February – 7 March 2026.

Saturday, November 15, 2025

Written and directed by Oliver Kaderbhai, MILES. is a fusion of live jazz and theatre exploring the life, legend and legacy of Miles Davis and is performed by Jay Phelps. Press release attached.

We have received the following;

Following an acclaimed sell-out run at Summerhall Arts this year at Edinburgh Fringe, MILES. transfers to Southwark Playhouse Borough from 4 February – 7 March 2026.

Written and directed by Oliver Kaderbhai, MILES. is a fusion of live jazz and theatre exploring the life, legend and legacy of Miles Davis. Performed by Jay Phelps—the acclaimed trumpeter and DJ known for his work with Wynton Marsalis, Shabaka Hutchings, Amy Winehouse and Wizkid—and Benjamin Akintuyosi, the production delves into the creative chaos behind Kind of Blue, the best-selling jazz album of all time. The dynamic two-hander moves through time and influence to examine Davis’s artistic evolution and impact, inspired by Davis’ autobiography, extensive research, and archival recordings.

PRESS RELEASE

:DELIRIUM: and Lauren Reed Productions presents:
MILES.
A fusion of live jazz and theatre explores the life, legend, and legacy of Miles Davis  
Written and directed by Oliver Kaderbhai 

Southwark Playhouse Borough, 4 February – 7 March 2026
PRESS NIGHT: Monday 9th February, 7.30pm

“This hypnotic play…works superbly”
★★★★
The Times
(on MILES. at Summerhall Arts 2025) 

http://www.milesdavisplay.com

http://www.southwarkplayhouse.co.uk/productions/miles/ 

Delving into the creative chaos behind Kind of Blue, the best-selling jazz album of all time, MILES. is a dynamic two-hander blending live jazz and multi-rolling performance to explore the life and legacy of Miles Davis. Led by acclaimed trumpeter Jay Phelps (Wynton Marsalis, Shabaka Hutchings, Amy Winehouse, Wizkid) with Benjamin Akintuyosi, the duo embodies a shifting cast of characters—including Davis himself—as the production moves fluidly through time, memory, and influence. Inspired by Davis’ autobiography, extensive research, and archival recordings, MILES. captures the sound, pressure, and innovation of an artist who redefined modern music. The result is a hypnotic, smoke-laced fever dream: an exploration of addiction, reinvention, and the explosive cost of genius. The London transfer follows an acclaimed sell-out run at Summerhall Arts at Edinburgh Fringe 2025.

Writer and director Oliver Kaderbhai said,
“Bringing Miles’ story to Southwark Playhouse Borough 100 years after his birth feels like the perfect place to explore the legacy of a complex man whose music transcends time, place and race whilst being rooted in all of those things. The Playhouse sits neatly between the beating heart of London’s contemporary jazz scene in Peckham and the storied history of haunts like Ronnie Scotts in Soho and the 606 in Chelsea. Miles’s album, ‘Kind of Blue’ resonates with a contemporary audience as much, if not more than it did when it was released in 1959. He created something extraordinary in a time of deep civil division and personal turmoil, and, somehow, that felt hopeful to me.”

Oliver Kaderbhai is a writer, director, producer, and the founder of theatre company :DELIRIUM:. Directing credits include
MILES. (Edinburgh Fringe 2025), Clybourne Park (Park Theatre), Striking 12 (Union Theatre), Songs of Abdulkarim (59 Productions, Kuwait), One Minute (The Vaults),
Peter Pan (co-directed, Chichester Festival Theatre), and Go To Your God Like A Soldier (Old Vic Tunnels). He has also worked as Associate, Resident or Assistant Director on major productions including Hamilton (UK tour), Jesus Christ Superstar and Running Wild (Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre).

Jay Phelps
is a London based trumpeter and DJ who has performed with some of the world’s top artists such as Wynton Marsalis, Shabaka Hutchings, Amy Winehouse and Wizkid. With an instantly recognisable warm and projecting trumpet tone, Phelps is a household name on the international Jazz scene with worldwide streams exceeding 500k. Canadian born Phelps has had a career spanning over 20 years and his charismatic energy has lead him to radio presenting for Jazz FM and Worldwide FM, as well as creating the Youtube documentary series Ear to the Ground. Jay has also created SoulEndvr, his own music casting agency for TV, Film and advertising (featured on Netflix, Amazon Prime, HBO and BBC). This summer Phelps released The Now, his seventh album as a leader with Apple Music subsidiary label Platoon. Jay made his acting debut at Edinburgh Fringe this year with the world premiere of MILES. at Summerhall Arts.

Southwark Playhouse is a registered charity that delivers a year-round programme of entertaining and enriching work. Southwark Playhouse operates two separate venues ‘Southwark Playhouse Borough’ and its newest theatre ‘Southwark Playhouse Elephant’ which opened in January 2023. Southwark Playhouse has always prided itself in telling stories and inspiring the next generation of storytellers and theatre makers, where support for the community has been rooted at the core of the organisation.

Running Time: 90 mins | Suitable for ages 14+ 

Company information 

Director and writer
Oliver Kaderbhai

Original concept
Jay Phelps 

Set and costume designer
Ellie Wintour

Lighting designer
Alex Lewer
           
       
    

Sound designer
Will Tonna

Projection designer Colin J Smith
 

Cast 

Miles, Elwood Buchanan -Benjamin Akintuyosi  

Jay, Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie, Clark Terry, Miles’s Father - Jay Phelps 

Listings information
4 February – 7 March 2026
Southwark Playhouse Borough, The Little
77-85 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BD
Mon – Sat 7.30pm, Tues & Sat 3pm | £28 Standard | £22.50 Concession
4 - 7 February | £16 Previews

http://www.southwarkplayhouse.co.uk/productions/miles
| 020 7407 0234

How To Get To Borough Venue: The nearest stations are Elephant & Castle and Borough

King Pleasure and the Biscuit Boys to celebrate 40th Anniversary in 2026.

Tuesday, November 11, 2025

The jump, jive and swing band King Pleasure and the Biscuit Boys are preparing to celebrate their 40th anniversary in 2026. Press release attached.

We have received the following press release from Big Bear Music;

40th anniversary celebrations planned for King Pleasure and the Biscuit Boys in 2026

King Pleasure and the Biscuit Boys, one of the world’s greatest jump, jive and swing bands, are preparing to celebrate their 40th anniversary in 2026.

The rocking band launched in a milk bar in the Black Country town of Darlaston in 1986 and today still features original members King Pleasure (vocals and baritone saxophone) and Bullmoose ‘K’ Shirley (guitar).

Jim Simpson of Big Bear Music, who has managed the band from the beginning, explained how his team were now busily planning an “exciting year of celebrations”.

Mr Simpson said: “What an amazing accomplishment that King Pleasure and the Biscuit Boys will have spent 40 consecutive years on the road!

“What started at a milk bar in Darlaston quickly grew to be lauded by some as the world’s greatest jump, jive and swing band. They’re an institution, with more than 7,000 performances in 21 countries under their belt.

“They’ve opened shows for the likes of B.B. King, Cab Calloway and His Orchestra, Ray Charles, and toured with the real Blues Brothers Band – the one from the movie. They’ve appeared at festivals, in concerts and at clubs throughout the UK, Europe, the Middle East, Russia and the USA.

“They’ve recorded 14 albums, 11 with Big Bear Records, plus they’ve performed for 75 radio broadcasts and more than 70 TV appearances, including, somewhat bizarrely, five episodes of Teletubbies.

“They really are the Kings of Swing, and 40 years deserves what will be an exciting year of celebrations throughout 2026.”

King Pleasure and the Biscuit Boys have won many plaudits, but perhaps the most quoted is Paul Jones, original lead singer and harmonicist of rock band Manfred Mann, who described them on his BBC Radio 2 The Blues Show as “the hardest act to follow since the parting of The Red Sea”.

The band will be performing a series of special gigs in 2026, some featuring reunions with original band members. They will also headline the Birmingham Jazz & Blues Festival next summer, for what will be the 15th time.

They are scheduled to be performing in Germany, Denmark and Italy, and UK gigs are already booked for Lichfield, Didcot, Bury, Hornsea, Sheffield, Eastleigh, Tenbury, London, Newbury and Halifax. Big Bear Music is also now consulting with top Midland venues to secure the best place to arrange the band’s main UK celebratory gig.

And to mark the 40th anniversary, Big Bear Records is also planning to re-issue Blues and Rythym Volume 1, an album where King Pleasure and the Biscuit Boys perform a dozen songs with star guests. These include Americans Charles Brown, Gene ‘The Mighty Flea’ Conners and Howard McCrary, as well as Val Wiseman, considered by many to be the UK’s finest ever female jazz singer.

As well as King Pleasure and Bullmoose ‘K’ Shirley, the band’s line up today includes Boysey Battrum (alto and tenor saxophones), Mighty Matt Foundling (piano and organ), Shark Van Schtoop (double bass), and Gary ‘The Enforcer’ Barber (drums).

Previous band members include Dean Bam Bam Beresford (1987-2001), Dixie Prince (1986-87), Slap Happy Al Gare (1987-2000), Lisa Sugar Lee (1987-90), Piano Man Skan (1987-91), P Popps Martin (1986-2001), Ivory Dan McCormack (1992-2001), Big Al Nicholls (1993-94), Mart Winning (1995-97), Mike Burney (1997), Cootie Alexander (1987-96), Jumpin Jonny Boston (1994-95), Julian Webster Greaves (1997-99), Ray Butcher (1996), Mally Baxter (1996-2001), Dave Wilkes (2001-08) and Steve Tromans (2001-06).

Big Bear Music Group has been based in Birmingham since 1968. Its operations include Big Bear Records, probably the UK’s longest established independent record company, which is at the forefront of jazz, swing and blues, with more than 100 album releases.

Since 1985, Big Bear Music has organised the annual Birmingham Jazz & Blues Festival, Europe’s biggest free admission jazz party every July, bringing international bands to venues across the West Midlands. Big Bear Music also operates Henry’s Blueshouse, Birmingham’s home of the blues since 1968, with weekly gigs at Snobs Bar on Broad Street. Henry’s Blueshouse blog and weekly Bluesletter features interesting stories, music and video from the past, present and future of blues.

Big Bear Music is also an agency for live artists, booking a wide variety of acts for public events and private functions. It represents touring bands including King Pleasure & The Biscuit Boys, Tipitina and Lady Sings The Blues.

Since 1987, Big Bear Music has published The Jazz Rag, a bi-monthly, nationally-distributed magazine of news, reviews and features on the rich history of global jazz. The magazine was winner of the 2023 Parliamentary Jazz Award for Best UK Jazz Publication.

Big Bear Music has a rich photography archive stretching back to the early 1960s, featuring some of the most illustrious names in rock and roll, jazz and blues.

Sparks & Visions Jazz Festival, Regensburg, Germany - 2026 line-up announced.

Tuesday, November 11, 2025

The international jazz festival Sparks & Visions, founded by Anastasia Wolkenstein, will take place from 23–25 January 2026 with eight concerts at the historic Theater Regensburg. Press release att.

We have received the following press release;

International Jazz Festival Sparks & Visions (23–25 January 2026) – a young festival with impact

The International Jazz Festival Sparks & Visions has quickly become a fixture in the European festival landscape. Founded three years ago by Anastasia Wolkenstein, the festival in Regensburg combines a programme of exceptional artistic quality with a unique atmosphere in the classical three-tier theatre of the UNESCO World Heritage city.

What began as a bold experiment has evolved into a platform that attracts renowned artists as well as exciting new voices in jazz. Sparks & Visions stands for discoveries beyond the mainstream and a curatorial signature that inspires and surprises. The programme spans from poetic chamber music and folkloric colours to energetic avant-garde sounds, broadening the perspective on the diversity of music we call jazz.

The very first edition was nominated for the German Jazz Prize in the category Festival of the Year—an early sign of the festival’s radiance. Since the premiere, Bayerischer Rundfunk has accompanied the festival and will also record all concerts in 2026 for later broadcast on BR-Klassik.

A key element of Sparks & Visions is its venue: the historic Theater Regensburg, with its horseshoe architecture and excellent acoustics, creates an intimacy between performers and audience that turns each concert into an intense experience.

The stage design by artist Karl Iaro, with its suspended glass mobiles, has become the visual signature of the festival. It highlights the aesthetic dimension of Sparks & Visions and reinforces the core idea of presenting jazz in a coherent, inspiring setting—as an open, vibrant and accessible art form.

In this spirit, the festival creates a space that invites both dedicated jazz listeners and curious first-timers to engage with sound and encounter.

From 23 to 25 January 2026, curator Anastasia Wolkenstein—once again in collaboration with Theater Regensburg—presents eight concerts featuring outstanding musicians from twelve countries. Carefully considered dramaturgy and balance shape a weekend that offers stylistic and instrumental breadth within a cohesive whole. This year, the festival also looks across the Atlantic for the first time—with a performance by three-time GRAMMY-nominated American harpist Brandee Younger and her trio.

Thus, Sparks & Visions confirms its place in Regensburg’s cultural calendar and beyond—inviting shared discoveries and letting musical visions shine.

Friday, 23 January 2026

Leïla Martial & Valentin Ceccaldi (FR)
With their duo Fil, vocalist Leïla Martial and cellist Valentin Ceccaldi open the festival with a radically poetic journey between improvisation, chanson and contemporary expression. Their programme Le Jardin des Délices fuses fragile quietness and expressive energy into an intense dialogue between voice and instrument—dissolving boundaries and turning attentive listening into an adventure.

Nitai Hershkovits (IL)
Israeli pianist Nitai Hershkovits, known for his work with Avishai Cohen and Oded Tzur, presents his ECM solo programme Call On The Old Wise—a quiet masterpiece between jazz and classical lyricism. With refined harmony and touching calm, he turns the piano into a resonant space for intuition and depth—music that sets silence in motion.

Marius Neset Quintet (NO/SE/UK/IR)
Norwegian saxophonist Marius Neset stands for breathtaking energy, technical brilliance and compositional scope. With his European all-star quintet he brings Cabaret to the stage—a theatrical sound spectacle balancing precision and wildness, uniting virtuosity and emotion.

Saturday, 24 January 2026

Zsófia Boros & Björn Meyer (HU/SE)
A night of quiet tones: guitarist Zsófia Boros and bassist Björn Meyer—both on ECM—meet in a finely woven dialogue of folk, minimal music and jazz. Two solo sets and a shared improvisation merge into a meditative conversation on resonance, proximity and the art of listening.

Makiko Hirabayashi “Weavers” (JP/DK)
With her ensemble Weavers, Japanese-Danish pianist Makiko Hirabayashi interlaces baroque motifs by George Frideric Handel with contemporary jazz. The result is a transparent fabric of sound and emotion—poetic, structured and deeply moving, a quiet glow between past and present.

Reuben James (UK)
Singer, pianist and songwriter Reuben James brings funk, jazz and soul to the stage with disarming joie de vivre. A former musical partner of Sam Smith and a leading figure of the new UK soul generation, he stands for groove, charisma and musical intelligence—an energised finale to the festival’s Saturday.

Sunday, 25 January 2026

Velvet Revolution & Jelena Kuljić (DE/UK/RS)
For the festival matinee, Daniel Erdmann’s Velvet Revolution and Jelena Kuljić join forces for an intimate project between jazz, chamber music and song. Their re-readings of The Velvet Underground unfold a quiet intensity where melancholy, beauty and poetic rebellion meet.

Brandee Younger Trio (US)
With Brandee Younger, a three-time GRAMMY-nominated harpist and composer, a US artist appears on the Sparks & Visions stage for the first time. She brings the harp into a modern, groove-driven context between jazz, soul and spirit—powerful, elegant and luminous.

The International Jazz Festival Sparks & Visions is presented by a non-profit limited company (gUG) with Anastasia Wolkenstein as managing director and festival curator, supported by the City of Regensburg and several sponsors. Wolkenstein has worked in the music industry for 17 years as an agent for acclaimed, award-winning artists in contemporary jazz, has served twice on the main jury of the German Jazz Prize, and was artistic director of the international festival Jazz&TheCity in Salzburg in 2023 and 2024.

Tickets
Day tickets and festival passes in five categories are available from Monday, 10 November 2025 from Theater Regensburg (box office and online).
Programme information: http://www.sparks-and-visions.com

Barbican announces Abel Selaocoe’s Mohopolo/Ancestral Memory Weekend - Thursday 23 April to Sunday 26 April 2026.

Wednesday, November 05, 2025

South African cellist, vocalist and composer Abel Selaocoe returns to his roots for a specially curated Barbican weekend in April 2026, a celebration of South African music, ancestry and connection.

We have received the following press release;

Barbican announces Abel Selaocoe’s Mohopolo/Ancestral Memory Weekend: a celebration of South African music, ancestry and connection.

South African cellist, vocalist and composer Abel Selaocoe returns to his roots for a specially curated Barbican weekend in April 2026. The Mohopolo/Ancestral Memory Weekend brings together artists from his homeland of South Africa in a powerful act of remembrance and celebration of shared history through music and will be a highlight of the Barbican’s Spring 2026 season.

Running from Thursday 23 April to Sunday 26 April 2026, and joined by Mbuso Khosa, Nduduzo Makhathini, Gontse Makhene, BCUC, Toya Delazy, Mthuthuzeli November and DJ SNO, Selaocoe traces the journeys of the Bantu people – exploring collective histories of community, resilience and resistance. Through music, movement and storytelling, the weekend reflects on the sonic legacies of the Anglo-Zulu War at Isandlwana, songs of rain, love and rebellion from the apartheid era, and the ancestral rhythms that continue to offer healing and hope today.

Showcasing the depth and diversity of South Africa’s musical landscape, the weekend-long event spans traditional Zulu music, Afro-psychedelic future pop, Afrorave, amapiano and contemporary jazz. Across the weekend, audiences are invited to experience exclusive performances, new collaborations and premieres that honour both heritage and innovation in South African music. In addition, rhythm workshops linked to the music that audiences will hear throughout the weekend will be announced at a later date.

Music is the ceremony of remembering.
To be a musician is to make peace with your own shapeshifting,
to fraternize with your fluidity, and in so doing, trace echoes of the self back through time.
Improvisation is not merely play, it is pilgrimage. A surrender.
A sacred getting-lost so that something ancient might be found.
                                                                – Anonymous

Mohopolo/ Ancestral Memory Weekend events:

Tracing the Echoes (Thu 23 Apr, Milton Court, 7.30pm)
BCUC / Toya Delazy / DJ SNO (Sat 25 Apr, Barbican Hall, 7.30pm)
Simunye (We Are One) ClubStage with DJ SNO (Sat 25 Apr, Level G, 9.45pm)
Sithunyiwe / We Have Been Sent (Sun 26 Apr, Barbican Hall, 7pm)

More details about each of the events in the Mohopolo/Ancestral Memory weekend can be found below:

Tracing the Echoes 
Abel Selaocoe & Friends 
Thursday 23 April 2026, 7.30pm
Milton Court Concert Hall
Tickets from £25 plus booking fee
In the opening concert of his Mohopolo/Ancestral Memory Weekend, South African cellist, composer and vocalist Abel Selaocoe brings together a remarkable group of collaborators for an intimate evening exploring ancestral connection through music.
Tracing the Echoes unites Selaocoe with legendary Zulu musician Mbuso Khosa, celebrated pianist Nduduzo Makhathini, and percussionist Gontse Makhene to share songs and stories drawn from their respective tribal traditions. Together, they trace musical lineages that move between the sacred and the spontaneous, where improvisation, ritual and memory intertwine.
Part of Mohopolo/Ancestral Memory Weekend, curated by Abel Selaocoe
Produced by the Barbican

BCUC / Toya Delazy / DJ SNO
Saturday 25 April 2026, 7.30pm
Barbican Hall
Tickets from £20 plus booking fee
South African artists BCUC (Bantu Continua Uhuru Consciousness) and Toya Delazy join forces for a powerful collaboration as part of Abel Selaocoe’s Mohopolo/Ancestral Memory Weekend. Blending heavy electronic and traditional beats, their performance channels ancestral energy through a fusion of punk-rock, psychedelia, hip-hop and African rhythms.
In this special event, they create a sound that is both contemporary and deeply rooted in history – a reflection on the lives, struggles and spiritual resilience of communities whose stories are often unheard. Drawing inspiration from the spirit world of their ancestors, the performance celebrates Africa not as a continent defined by scarcity, but one rich in tradition, ritual and belief.
Part of Mohopolo/Ancestral Memory weekend, curated by Abel Selaocoe 
Produced by the Barbican

Simunye (We are one)
Saturday 25 April 2026, 9.45pm
Barbican ClubStage, Level -1
Free
“Jiva kuze kuse / Dance till the sun comes up!”
Following the concert, audiences are invited to continue the celebration with Simunye (We Are One) – a late-night ClubStage led by South African DJ SNO. Expect an exhilarating journey through South African jams across time and space, driven by SNO’s unshakable spirit of joy and movement. Nothing stands still on her dance floor.
Hailing from the township of Bophelong, SNO (Selina Nongaliphe Oliphant) sees music as a beacon of strength and hope for the marginalised — a vision rooted in her formative years growing up under apartheid. A genuine innovator in musical curation, she brings together the rhythms of jazz, funk, and Amapiano to create a space of togetherness, energy and freedom.
Part of Mohopolo/Ancestral Memory weekend, curated by Abel Selaocoe 
Produced by the Barbican

Sithunyiwe / We Have Been Sent
Abel Selaocoe & Friends 
Sunday 26 April 2026, 7pm
Barbican Hall
Tickets from £25 plus booking fee
A brand-new multidisciplinary performance commissioned by the Barbican closes Abel Selaocoe’s Mohopolo/Ancestral Memory Weekend, bringing together music, dance and storytelling in an expression of ancestral connection and collective spirit.
Sithunyiwe – “we have been sent” – means we have been sent by our ancestors to invigorate the spirit of those that are around us. Selaocoe describes this new project as following ‘a child-like surrender to the instincts of our bodies and how we hear’. Created by acclaimed choreographer and dancer Mthuthuzeli November (Ballet Black, Royal Ballet, Stormzy, The Chemical Brothers), this new dance work channels the deep spirituality of South African traditions through the body.
Music is created and performed by Mbuso Khosa, Abel Selaocoe and Nduduzo Makhathini, joined by the Bantu Ensemble, led by Rakhi Singh, and joined by Gontse Makhene, Sidiki Dembélé and friends. 
Together they craft a spontaneous, immersive performance that seeks to heal, educate and unite – a celebration of togetherness and renewal.
Part of Mohopolo/Ancestral Memory weekend, curated by Abel Selaocoe
Commissioned and produced by the Barbican

About the Barbican
The Barbican is a catalyst for creativity, sparking possibilities for artists, audiences, and communities. We showcase the most exciting art from around the world, pushing traditional artistic boundaries to entertain and inspire millions of people, create connections, provoke debate, and reflect the world we live in.
We are an international arts and events centre rooted firmly in our own neighbourhood, collaborating with local communities and putting the City of London on the map as a destination for everybody. Central to our purpose is supporting emerging talent and shaping opportunities that will accelerate the next generation of creatives.
As a not-for-profit, we rely on the generosity of individuals and organisations, including our principal funder the City of London Corporation. Every ticket purchased, donation made, and pound earned supports our arts and learning programme and enables the widest possible range of people to experience the joy of the arts.
Opened in 1982, the Barbican is a unique and audacious building, recognised globally as an architectural icon. As well as our theatres, galleries, concert halls and cinemas, we have a large conservatory with over 1,500 species of plants and trees, a library, conference facilities, public and community spaces, restaurants, bars, and a picturesque lakeside oasis.
We’re proud to be the home of the London Symphony Orchestra, our Resident Orchestra, and a London base for the Royal Shakespeare Company. We regularly co-commission, produce and showcase the work of our Artistic Associates the Academy of Ancient Music, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Boy Blue, Darbar Arts, Culture and Heritage Trust, and Serious, who produce the EFG London Jazz Festival, alongside other associates and partners including Doc’n Roll Film Festival, London Palestine Film Festival, and Trafalgar Theatre Productions.
For more information, visit our website or connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Spotify | LinkedIn

https://www.barbican.org.uk/

The Barbican Centre, Silk Street, London, Greater London, EC2Y 8DS.

Brick Lane Jazz Festival announce second wave of artists for 2026 edition. 24th - 26th April 2026.

Tuesday, November 04, 2025

Brick Lane Jazz Festival has announced the second wave of artists for their fifth birthday edition, including the Tomorrow’s Warriors and Jazz re:freshed stage line-ups. Press release attached.

We have received the following press release;

Brick Lane Jazz Festival announce second wave of artists for 2026 edition | Inc. Nidia & Valentina, Richard Spaven, Resolution 88, Sam Wise, Maddy Coombs, Ria Moran + more | 24th - 26th April

Brick Lane Jazz Festival announces the second wave of artists for their fifth birthday edition, including the Tomorrow’s Warriors and Jazz re:freshed stage lineups.

24th – 26th April 2026 | Early bird tickets start from just £29.95 | Payment Plans from just £11 per month

New names announced:
Aby Coulibaly, Bibi Tanga & The Selenites, Haseeb Iqbal , KAU, Kyla Kilzer & Max Noir, Nídia & Valentina, Oliver Night, Ria Moran, Sam Wise, ZENA, Tru Thoughts Records
+ on the Jazz re:freshed Stage: Benji “chief” Appiah, Christ-Stephane Boizi, Eliane Correa, Kinzogianna, Kyra, Maddy Coombs, MADELEINE, Marlon The Pannist, Resolution 88, Richard Spaven
+ on the Tomorrow’s Warriors Stage: A Grime Supreme, Bad Influence, BXL X LDN, Interplay III, C-Sé Quartet, Genevieve Namazzi Quartet, Kassa GJ Quartet, Kianja, Poppy Helmer & Friends, Steppin’ Over, Tomorrow’s Warriors Frontline, Tomorrow’s Warriors Youth Ensemble

Full line-up A-Z:
A Grime Supreme • Aby Coulibaly • Alexander Flood • Alici • Amanda Whiting • Arjuna Oakes • Bad Influence • Benji “chief” Appiah • Bibi Tanga & The Selenites • Brian Jackson • BXL X LDN Interplay III • Charlie Stacey • Christ-Stephane Boizi • C-Sé Quartet • daoud • Eliane Correa • Footshooter (Live) • Gabriele Poso (Live) • Genevieve Namazzi Quartet • Haseeb Iqbal • IAMNOBODI • Kassa GJ Quartet • KAU • Kianja • Kivnzogianna • Knats • Kwame Yeboah • Kyla Kilzer & Max Noir • Kyra • Leif Kaner-Lidström • Levitation Orchestra • Maddy Coombs • MADELEINE • Marlon The Pannist • Meron T • Nídia & Valentina • Oliver Night • Poppy Helmer & Friends • Resolution 88 • Ria Moran • Richard Spaven • Robert Luis • Rhys Baker • Ruby Rushton • Saiming • Sam Wise • SHOLTO & Finn Rees • Steppin’ Over • TABLE • Tia Gordon • Tomorrow’s Warriors • ZENA • + many more TBA

Today, Brick Lane Jazz Festival announces the second wave of artists for their fifth birthday edition, which will take place from 24th – 25th April 2026.

Growing from its modest debut across four venues in 2022 to a 12-stage extravaganza spanning Brick Lane and Shoreditch in just three years, the festival was named #1 Best London Festival by The London Standard in 2024, and has earned plaudits from the likes of The Guardian, Metro, NOTION, Clash, The Line Of Best Fit, Jazzwise, All About Jazz, UK Jazz, Elle, Wonderland, TimeOut, Jazz FM, Rinse FM, One Jazz, Worldwide FM, and many more. Since 2024, the festival has also amplified its impact with the launch of BLJF Presents - a year-round series of events showcasing the UK’s most exciting artists, record labels, and parties. After sell-out shows in Manchester, Brighton, London and more, BLJF Presents is heading to new heights in 2025/26 with more regional stops in the likes of Bristol and Glasgow, as well as two international shows in Brussels in November.

Having firmly established itself as a cornerstone of East London’s musical landscape, Brick Lane Jazz Festival has earned a reputation for spotlighting local artists and emerging trailblazers from the city’s thriving underground scenes, whilst honouring the jazz legends that have come before them. 2026’s edition sees them continue to hold down this tradition, bringing together an eclectic range of genre-defying artists to play against the backdrop of some of the capital’s most renowned cultural hotspots. All the festival venues are within a short walk from the central hub at the iconic Truman Brewery space on Brick Lane, transforming the site and surrounding area into a vibrant hive of gig-hopping excitement for three days every April.

Reflecting on this fifth birthday edition, the festival’s Founder, Juliet Kennedy says, “From day one, Brick Lane Jazz Festival has been about shining a light on the incredible talent in London’s jazz scene. Five years on, Brick Lane Jazz Festival has grown into a landmark celebration of the UK’s underground music community. It’s been incredible to see the festival become a space where artists and audiences connect so powerfully – and this is only the beginning. Our ambition is to keep pushing boundaries and championing the next wave of talent for many years to come. We’re only just getting started!”

The first wave of 2026’s stellar line-up saw them bringing together a borderless array of artists that span jazz, alt-rap, neo-soul, R&B, neo-classical, electronic music, and more. It also included the announcement of the festivals first headliner, jazz-funk legend and Gil Scott-Heron collaborator, Brian Jackson. Today’s announcement sees the festival adding the likes of Nídia & Valentina (made up of critically acclaimed DJ/producer Nidia and venerated percussionist Valentina Magaletti), alternative soul singer Ria Moran, London rapper Sam Wise, global afro-poet Bibi Tanga & The Selenites, Tru Thoughts DJ and producer Oliver Night, and many more to the line-up.

In keeping with the festival’s ethos of championing the most exciting new talent, this second wave sees the festival announce 2026 will once again see them partner with Jazz re:freshed and Tomorrow’s Warriors, both vital community organisations that nurture emerging talent in UK jazz. Each organisation will once again have it’s own stage, and will feature performances from the likes of rising tenor saxophonist Maddy Coombs, jazz-funk luminaries Resolution 88, emerging nu-jazz / UK soul artist MADELEINE, lauded percussionist Richard Spaven, the much-hyped quartet from multi-instrumentalist Genevieve Namazzi, flautist Poppy Helmer & Friends, and many more.

The full line-up so far is as follows:

Brian Jackson
A Grime Supreme • Aby Coulibaly • Alexander Flood • Alici • Amanda Whiting • Arjuna Oakes • Bad Influence • Benji “chief” Appiah • Bibi Tanga & The Selenites • BXL X LDN Interplay III • Charlie Stacey • Christ-Stephane Boizi • C-Sé Quartet • daoud • Eliane Correa • Footshooter (Live) • Gabriele Poso (Live) • Genevieve Namazzi Quartet • Haseeb Iqbal • IAMNOBODI • Kassa GJ Quartet • KAU • Kianja • Kivnzogianna • Knats • Kwame Yeboah • Kyla Kilzer & Max Noir • Kyra • Leif Kaner-Lidström • Levitation Orchestra • Maddy Coombs • MADELEINE • Marlon The Pannist • Meron T • Nídia & Valentina • Oliver Night • Poppy Helmer & Friends • Resolution 88 • Ria Moran • Richard Spaven • Robert Luis • Rhys Baker • Ruby Rushton • Saiming • Sam Wise • SHOLTO & Finn Rees • Steppin’ Over • TABLE • Tia Gordon • Tomorrow’s Warriors • ZENA • + many more TBA

Early bird tickets for the festival are now on sale with day passes starting from just £29.95, and weekend passes from £89.95. Tickets and more info are available HERE
https://bookings.kaboodle.com/tickets?t=kaboodle-9y4i4&c=202&p=24960&k=878a15279e5367e1334b6a2dbf51879bedb52c5d

As always, those without tickets can also enjoy free-entry spaces throughout the site, including special live performances at The Nord Zone, The Brick Lane Tap Room, the Main Bar at 93 Feet East, and Cafe 1001.

https://www.bricklanejazzfestival.com/

Peter Slavid - ‘European Modern Jazz’ on the radio playlist,  first broadcast 02/11/2025.

Monday, November 03, 2025

Broadcaster & journalist Peter Slavid has forwarded details of the music played on his UK & European Jazz radio show on 02/11/2025, which is available via a number of UK & international radio stations

Peter Slavid writes;

Radio Playlist from Nov 2 2025

Emma Rawicz
Marshmallow Tree
Inkyra
ACT

Robert Mitchell
Jimi @ Granada
Little Black Book
Whirlwind

Seb Rochford
People Say Stuff, Don’t Be Disheartened
Finding Ways
Edition

Camille Bertault
Choro da portina
Voz e Vocês
Sunnyside

Omasta
Cornerstone
Jazz Report from the Hood
Astigmatic

ROKC
How to prioritize differently
How to prioritize differently
Unit Records

Trio Ivoire
2. Wüstenmaus
Resurrection
Intuition

Johan Lindström Septett
Saxophone Moritat
Humankind
Moserobie

Adam Forkelid
Dream No. 2 – Unfold
Dreams
self

Duboule/Tavelli/Oester
Isobar
Isobar
Unit Records

Gert-Jan Dreessen
AGGF
Angle of Incidence
Hypnote

Chaerin Im
We are not a Sampler
aïe aïe (EP)
Bandcamp

Tino Tracanna Panorchestra
Ap-To
Tino Tracanna Panorchestra
UR Records

Csaba Palotai
Ombrelle
Soulbread
BMC

European Modern Jazz on the radio;

At any time:
http://www.mixcloud.com/ukjazz.

Weekly;

http://www.hayesfm.org.uk 91.8 FM – West London Community Radio Sundays 12.00

http://www.purebeatradio.co.uk Sundays 7pm

http://www.listen.camp/ Sundays 7pm onward

Also as “Peter’s Eurojazz Podcast” on Apple, Amazon, Deezer and other podcast sites.

Jazz at The Lescar, Sheffield - November 2025 - January 2026.

Friday, October 31, 2025

Jez Matthews has forwarded details of the forthcoming regular jazz events at The Lescar Hotel, Sheffield during November and December 2025 and January 2026.

Jez Matthews writes;

A quick update about who we’ve got coming up at The Lescar in November and December. We’re super-excited about these, in particular this time there’s a real mix of international artists and musicians with strong connections to Sheffield.

Our last gig this year is the Sloth Racket 10th Anniversary gig on 17th December, but we’ve got some really amazing gigs coming up in early 2026 too.

We’ve had a brilliant year, with a lot of sell-out gigs, wonderful audiences, and of course the music has been fantastic.

5th Nov / ARCHE
A dynamic international trio bringing together guitarist Steve Saunders (Xhosa Cole, Paul Dunmall) with Berlin-based saxophonist Asger Nissen and legendary New York jazz drummer Jeff Williams. Thoughtful, intense exploratory music and original compositions bringing together influences from the classical world including Pierre Boulez, Elliott Carter, Morton Feldman and Milton Babbitt, whilst drawing on jazz and improvised music and the open expansive music of Paul Motian. ARCHE have performed at venues from Birmingham Symphony Hall to Donau115 in Berlin.

12th Nov / No gig!
We’re having a week off!

19th November / basic surfaces + Ruth Webber (solo set)
basic surfaces is a brand new collaborative line up; new music from five musicians with strong links to the Sheffield music scene, and a renewal of long standing musical friendships, with Manon McCoy (harp/electronics), Hannah Brady (sax/clarinet), Jez Matthews (piano), Seth Bennett (bass), and Will Shaw (drums). With subtle yet wide open melodies, the music played by this new line-up will venture in new spontaneous directions, with a common thread of exploration, and delicate yet occasionally fierce interactions.
Following the launch of her debut EP ‘Songs for my Father’ in April 2024, Sheffield-based Ruth Webber takes her solo project in a new direction, extending her saxophone sound with pedals to create improvised soundscapes and dreamworlds, with nods to the great musicians who have inspired her. Ruth is one of the city’s most original new voices. 

26th November / Happenstance
Contemporary jazz from a brilliant new European quartet featuring Zdeněk Tománek (tenor/soprano saxophone), Noé Sécula (piano), Tommy Fuller (bass), and Lluís Pérez-Villegas (drums). Freedom, risk taking and trust lie at the heart of their music, and a love for the music of Wayne Shorter and The Beatles; original music sits alongside distinctive takes on jazz standards, and a robust lyricism, contemplative melodies, driving grooves, with a compelling sense of the unexpected.

3rd Dec / Lucas Walters Trio
From Nottingham an exciting new voice in UK jazz and fusion, pianist Lucas Walters is influenced by the likes of McCoy Tyner, Ahmad Jamal, Stevie Wonder Robert Glasper, Ashley Henry and Yussef Dayes. Driving music blending rich jazz harmonies with upbeat tempos; cinematic with emotional depth, contemporary, yet rooted in tradition. A BBC Young Jazz Musician semi-finalist Lucas has worked with musicians including Tony Kofi, Gary Reader, and Benjamin Luhis, and his trio includes Jack Benjamin (bass) and Jamie Sykes (drums).

10th December Manon McCoy + John Pope + Will Shaw
A brand new collaboration of three inspiring improvising musicians creating new paths and sounds on the Northern scene, this gig follows a duo performance at Cobalt Studios in Newcastle by Manon McCoy (balo, Alice Brookes, Emergence) on harp/electronics, and John Pope (Archipelago) on bass, they’re joined by Will Shaw (balo, Life Aquatic Band, Emergence) on drums. String preparations and hand made objects, live electronics as extensions of acoustic instruments; engrossing and playful music from three energising presences.

17th Dec / Sloth Racket 10th Anniversary Tour
Sloth Racket are led by baritone saxophonist Cath Roberts (Quadraceratops, Favourite Animals), with Anton Hunter (Beats & Pieces Big Band, Article XI) on guitar, Sam Andreae (Trio Riot) on tenor sax, Seth Bennett (Metamorphic) on bass, Johnny Hunter (Nat Birchall, Revival Room) on drums. Fiery free jazz, sparse, minimal improv, deep grooves and big riffs, they formed in 2015 and have played across the UK including appearances at London and Lancaster Jazz Festivals. A powerful band with a strong Sheffield connection.

Coming up in January 2026:

7th January / Stuart McCallum / Richard Spaven

14th January / Home/Lands

21st January / lvdf

28th January / Robert Mitchell’s Little Black Book

http://www.jazzatthelescar.com

The Lescar, 303 Sharrow Vale Rd, Sheffield, United Kingdom

0114 236 7570

Legendary Bass Played by Newark Native Scott LaFaro Loaned to New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) for 2025 TD James Moody Jazz Festival and 2026 Milt Hinton Institute for Studio Bass.

Tuesday, October 28, 2025

An iconic Prescott double bass constructed in the early 1800s, once owned by Scott LaFaro, has been loaned to NJPAC. Today’s leading bassists perform will on it at the James Moody Jazz Festival.

We have received the following press release;

Legendary Bass Played by Newark Native Scott LaFaro Loaned to New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) for 2025 TD James Moody Jazz Festival and 2026 Milt Hinton Institute for Studio Bass

Ben Williams (Nov 9), Max Gerl (Nov 13), Christian McBride (Nov 22), and Gregory Jones (Nov 23) will all play the famous instrument at the festival.

An iconic Prescott double bass constructed in the early 1800s, once owned by jazz great Scott LaFaro, has been loaned to the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) by the International Society of Bassists, marking a significant moment in the preservation and celebration of jazz history. LaFaro (1936-1961) was a native son of Newark, New Jersey. This rare instrument was central to LaFaro’s groundbreaking work with the Bill Evans Trio in the early 1960s. NJPAC will give audiences a rare opportunity to hear this instrument when today’s leading bassists perform on it as part of the 2025 TD James Moody Jazz Festival: Ben Williams with Stanley Clarke (Nov 9), Max Gerl with Arturo Sandoval (Nov 13), and Christian McBride with his Big Band (Nov 22) - with more to be announced. 

The bass will also be available for young instrumentalists to play as part of NJPAC’s Milt Hinton Institute for Studio Bass, directed by Peter Dominguez, in the summer of 2026.  This will give emerging bassists attending the institute the opportunity to play not only one of the world’s great instruments, but also one of great significance in the history of jazz.

“Scott LaFaro transformed the way we think about the bass — from a supporting voice to an equal partner in musical conversation,” said David Rodriguez, Executive Producer of NJPAC and a bass player himself. “Having his Prescott bass here on site is not only an honor but a profound reminder of his artistic vision and the power of innovation. What a gift to us all!”

Crafted by the renowned 19th-century American luthier Abraham Prescott, the instrument became synonymous with LaFaro’s revolutionary approach to the bass. His lyrical phrasing, virtuosic technique, and deep musical interplay helped redefine the instrument’s role in modern jazz. The Prescott bass, restored and carefully maintained, stands as both a historical artifact and a testament to LaFaro’s enduring influence on the art of jazz.

“For bassists everywhere, Scott LaFaro’s unique sound and incredible musicianship have been a deep source of inspiration. It’s both humbling and exhilarating to be in direct contact with his instrument,” says Christian McBride, multi-Grammy Award-winning bassist and NJPAC’s Jazz Advisor.

The Journey of the Scott LaFaro Bass

After LaFaro’s death in a car crash in 1961, Scott’s badly damaged bass was restored by Luthier Barrie Kolstein, who later chose April 14, 2014, which would have been the Scott LaFaro’s 78th birthday, to announce his gift of Scotty’s double bass to the International Society of Bassists (SB). The ISB makes the Scott LaFaro Bass available for recordings and performances by ISB members and other gifted musicians, extending LaFaro’s remarkable legacy.

“We all have a shared responsibility for carrying tradition forward. By sharing LaFaro’s bass publicly, we are bridging generations and ensuring that the instrument’s voice continues to resonate,” says Madeleine Crouch, General Manager of the International Society of Bassists. “Playing an instrument once held by the great Scott LaFaro allows today’s musicians to literally touch and feel the lineage of sound, technique, and artistry. The ISB is delighted to help provide this opportunity to audiences and artists to deepen their understanding and respect for music history.”

The Scott LaFaro Bass has most recently been in residence at Finlay + Gage Musical Instruments in Maplewood, New Jersey. Its presence at NJPAC underscores the ongoing importance of preserving instruments that shaped the course of American music. “Finlay + Gage are committed to keeping us all connected to Scott LaFaro, the man behind the groundbreaking sound,” explains Sam Finlay, Co-Founder of Finlay + Gage Musical Instruments. “We are thrilled to assist the International Society of Bassists in sharing Scotty’s bass with NJPAC in LaFaro’s hometown of Newark, New Jersey, while allowing new generations to connect with the legacy of one of jazz’s most influential bassists.”

2025 TD James Moody Jazz Festival takes place at New Jersey Performing Arts Center (One Center Street, Newark, NJ) from November 8-23, 2025. Tickets + Info: Contact NJPAC at 1.888.GO.NJPAC/1.888.466.5722 or visit NJPAC.org/jazz.

About Scott LaFaro
Born in Newark, NJ, Scott Lafaro (1936-1961) was a pioneering jazz bassist who, in less than a decade of performing, became one of the 20th century’s most influential jazz musicians. His work with the Bill Evans Trio from 1959 to 1961 set new standards for musical interplay, tone, and improvisation. His landmark recordings—especially the legendary Sunday at the Village Vanguard sessions—are still considered groundbreaking. He worked with Chet Baker, Ornette Coleman, Stan Kenton, Cal Tjader and Benny Goodman. LaFaro, then only 25 years old, was in discussions with Miles Davis about joining him in the studio, when he perished in a car accident in 1961. LaFaro is still mentioned today in hushed tones of reverence; his truncated career’s outsized influence on generations of bassists remains profound.

About International Society of Bassists  
The International Society of Bassists was founded by the world-renowned virtuoso Gary Karr in 1967. With nearly 2,500 members in over 40 countries, the ISB publishes a triannual magazine, Bass World, with an eclectic mix of articles about soloists, jazz and orchestral players, early music, pedagogy, international personalities and orchestras and reviews of new print music and recordings, plus monthly e-newsletters and communications. Every two years the ISB holds an international convention at a host university. Bassists of all ages and abilities come to enjoy a full week of workshops, masterclasses, recitals and lectures, and to shop in the exhibit hall. The ISB is a worldwide forum for double bassists to learn and share.

About Finlay + Gage Musical Instruments          
David Gage founded David Gage String Instrument Repair in 1978. That shop specialized in the sale, restoration, and repair of upright basses, cellos, violas, and violins with a client roster that ranged from great orchestral musicians to jazz, rock ‘n roll, country, and world music performers. Today, Finlay + Gage continues with the same spirit of the old shop —professional-level service for every player— while also inviting customers who play fretted instruments. They serve professionals, students, and amateurs, and pride themselves on the care and attention they give each player and their instrument. Their focus is on maximizing the sound potential of the instrument and the playing requirements of the individual musician. Currently, they operate two stores, one in New York City and the other in Maplewood, New Jersey. They offer world-class repair, rentals and an unparalleled assortment of instruments for sale.

About NJPAC
New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), located in downtown Newark, New Jersey, is the most diverse performing arts center in the country, and the anchor cultural institution for both the city of Newark and the state of New Jersey.  It is an artistic, cultural, educational and civic center where great performances and events enhance and transform lives every day.  NJPAC brings communities together, providing access to all and showcasing the state’s and the world’s best artists, while acting as a leading catalyst in the revitalization of its home city. Through its extensive Arts Education programs, NJPAC is shaping the next generation of artists and arts enthusiasts. NJPAC Arts & Well-Being develops initiatives and programs that amplify the health benefits of the arts and measure the impact of the Arts Center on community health and well-being. NJPAC has attracted more than 12.7 million visitors (including more than two million children) since opening its doors in 1997, and nurtures meaningful and lasting relationships with each of its constituents.  Visit http://www.njpac.org for more information. 

About TD Bank, America’s Most Convenient Bank®             
For the 14th consecutive year, the Festival is sponsored by the TD Bank is the title sponsor of all jazz programming during NJPAC’s season, including free community performances and educational events, as well as mainstage concerts showcasing jazz superstars. TD Bank, America’s Most Convenient Bank, is one of the 10 largest banks in the U.S. by assets, providing over 10 million customers with a full range of retail, small business and commercial banking products and services at more than 1,100 convenient locations throughout the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, Metro D.C., the Carolinas and Florida. In addition, TD Auto Finance, a division of TD Bank, N.A., offers vehicle financing and dealer commercial services. TD Bank and its subsidiaries also offer customized private banking and wealth management services through TD Wealth®. TD Bank is headquartered in Cherry Hill, N.J.
To learn more, visit http://www.td.com/us. Find TD Bank on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/TDBank and on Instagram at http://www.instagram.com/TDBank_US/. 
TD Bank is a subsidiary of The Toronto-Dominion Bank, a top 10 North American bank. The Toronto-Dominion Bank trades on the New York and Toronto stock exchanges under the ticker symbol “TD”. To learn more, visit http://www.td.com/us.

Kidderminster Jazz Club - shows announced for 2026.

Saturday, October 25, 2025

Kidderminster Jazz Club has announced three shows for 2026 with performances by The Inscape Jazz Quartet, the Zoe Gilby Trio and Yetii. Details attached.

From;
https://www.kidderminsterjazzclub.co.uk/2025-2026-season-shows

Kidderminster Jazz Club
Fri, Feb 6, 2026 @ 7:00PM
£15.00
“The Inscape Jazz Quartet”
Performance description:
“The Inscape Jazz Quartet is a newly formed jazz combo that presents a captivating set of original music inspired by the poetry of Gerard Manly Hopkins and his concept of “Inscape” (the unique essence of things). Lyrical, thoughtful and poetic is the order of the day, they also include well loved standards to lend some familiar sounds for the listener. This Quartet brings together some of the UKs most exciting talent to create an ensemble that offers both soulful and fresh sounds.”
Band Members
Nathan Hayward - Piano
Nick Wilshire - Saxophone
Marcus Penrose - Double Bass
Simon Whiting - Drums

Kidderminster Jazz Club
Fri, Mar 6, 2026 @ 7:00PM
£15.00
Zoë Gilby is a vocalist and songwriter, making a stunning impression on the music scene today. Her compelling original compositions are written with double bassist husband Andy Champion. A powerful collection of songs with a strong narrative. Supported by guitarist Mark Williams they deliver a commanding mix of musical sophistication and dramatic edge. An engaging repertoire of story telling and atmosphere, her stockpile of music also includes an adventurous blend of contemporary composers from Kate Bush to Pink Floyd and the sensitive treatment of jazz standards, completes this particular “story-book” Touring the UK and internationally, she continues to perform at prominent jazz festivals and venues.
“A mix of intelligent original songs and innovative arrangements of tunes by both jazz and pop composers. It’s the quality of the original songs that make this jazz vocal album stand out from the pack.” - Ian Mann, The Jazzmann
Band
Vocals – Zoe Gilby
Guitar – Mark Williams
Double Bass – Andy Champion

Kidderminster Jazz Club
Fri, May 1, 2026 @ 7:00PM
£15.00
We welcome “Yetii” to Kidderminster Jazz Club for this very special one-off gig as part of their UK “Inner Worlds” Album Tour. Yetii released their debut album “Live at The Greenbank” to widespread critical acclaim and have since played at jazz clubs, festivals and arts centres across the UK as well as supporting “The Bad Plus” on their recent UK Tour.
The trio play original compositions combining flowing melodies with expansive group improvisations, interlocking grooves and evolving soundscapes. The band have built their following with a sold-out monthly residency in Bristol including collaborations with Iain Ballamy, Ant Law, and Arun Ghosh, and look forward to their biggest tour to date in support of this release! For fans of EST, The Bad Plus, and Fergus McCreadie.
“a performance that both enthralled and delighted the audience ★★★★★” The Jazz Mann
The Band
Alex Veitch - piano
Ashley John Long - double bass
Alex Goodyear - drums

St Ambrose’s Parish Centre
Leswell St,
Kidderminster DY10 1RP.

Bring Your Own Bottle/Drinks

Tortoise - new album and US and European tour dates 2025/26.

Friday, October 24, 2025

Tortoise will release their new album "Touch" on 24th October 2025. They will be touring extensively in the US & Europe from October 2025 to April 2026, including dates in London, Bristol & Leeds.

We have received the following press release;

Tortoise Release New Album Touch — Out Now via International Anthem / Nonesuch

TORTOISE RELEASE NEW ALBUM TOUCH ON LP / CD / DIGITAL DOWNLOAD

SERIES OF SPECIAL SHOWS THIS AUTUMN, INCLUDING BARBICAN, LONDON, BRISTOL, LEEDS, PLUS US + EU TOUR DATES IN 20

Artist: Tortoise
Album: Touch
Formats: Vinyl, CD, Digital Download
Label: International Anthem x Nonesuch Records

PRAISE FOR TORTOISE & TOUCH

“A sense of playful hybridity runs through Touch — from the sci-fi spaghetti western soundscaping of ‘Vexations’ to the pulsating man-machine techno of ‘Elka.’”
The Guardian

“These songs are full to bursting with sounds and ideas, suggesting a kind of wide-eyed maximalism, as though nothing is off limits except silence.”
UNCUT

“For Touch, they’ve regrouped for another subtle advance in their evolution.”
SPIN

“To listen closely is to uncover minute surprises, which, with patience, expand in depth and scope: what if the anodyne black lacquered walnut table top harbours intricate patterns, cryptic siguls, a djinn? Such figurative treasures abound on Touch.”
The Wire

“The wait, rewarded”
MOJO

“With references to a demanding work by a love-sick and hurt Erik Satie, a submarine volcano in the Pacific and the heaviest element in the periodic table, there’s prompted doses of science, geography and the avant-garde made human with emotional pulls and swept gestures that could be called romantic.”
Monolith Cocktail

“Touch is a display of perpetually unpredictable, beautiful, and vital music, for which Tortoise remains the standard bearer.”
Aquarium Drunkard

“It sounds more than anything like they’re simply having fun playing music together again after a decade, and that feeling is infectious.”
Treble

“There’s a careful sequencing to the record that one can only appreciate listening to it in its entirety. Let it take you places.”
Glide Magazine

Today, Tortoise — the iconic ensemble that “reset the stage for what might fit within indie rock” (MOJO) — release Touch, the first new album from the groundbreaking group since 2016, via International Anthem and Nonesuch Records on LP, CD, and digital download (available on streaming services on November 11). The band also shares a video for third streaming single and album standout “A Title Comes” by Nespy5euro.

Listen to & watch “A Title Comes” here.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6BFiC-KJ8pU

With Touch, the Tortoise band members — Dan Bitney, John Herndon, Douglas McCombs, John McEntire, and Jeff Parker — harness their collectivist songwriting approach, a slightly anarchistic but resolutely egalitarian process where ideas triumph over ego towards an abstracted muscularity. While there are still excursions into the dusky, elegantly gnarled jazz ambience that flourished on landmark works like Millions Now Living Will Never Die and TNT, Touch is perhaps most remarkable for Tortoise’s unapologetic embrace of grand gesture. Aerodynamically re-engineered Krautrock, hand-cranked techno rave-ups, and pointillist desert guitar panoramas are all imbued with Tortoise’s now-signature internal logic — equally alluring and confounding, a puzzle to be savored rather than solved.

The stylistic diversity is also a reflection of the band’s current operating circumstances: With two members now in Los Angeles, another in Portland, and just two remaining in the band’s Chicago hometown, their creative process has shifted dramatically from when they lived together in a loft space in the late 1990s, honing their sound over endless hours of collective experimentation. Recorded between the three cities — Los Angeles, Portland, and Chicago — Touch is the result of an intentional effort by these five musicians to reconnect, recenter, and reinvigorate their sound for what is perhaps the group’s most diverse release to date.

(Read more about Tortoise, their ground-breaking sound “informed by everything from jungle to Krautrock and musique concréte,” and the creation of Touch in a feature that ran September 19 over at The Guardian.)
https://www.theguardian.com/music/2025/sep/19/wed-play-for-a-frozen-burrito-post-rockers-tortoise-on-the-changing-face-of-chicago-steve-albini-and-their-new-gen-fans

A series of special live shows is planned through the end of the year, including the performance with Chicago Philharmonic, a three-night weekend stand at NYC’s Bowery Ballroom, and two shows at the Barbican for EFG London Jazz Festival.

Tortoise will then embark on European tours in early 2026, with more dates to be announced soon. The full list of confirmed dates and ticket links is below.

Touch is out now, purchase it here.
https://tortoise.lnk.to/Touch

(Touch cover art by Paw Grabowski)

Credits & Tracklist for Touch:
1. Vexations
2. Layered Presence
3. Works and Days
4. Elka
5. Promenade à deux
6. Axial Seamount
7. A Title Comes
8. Rated OG
9. Oganesson
10. Night Gang

TOUR DATES

Marfa TX - Saturday October 25th - Flying Island
Chicago IL - Tuesday November 11th - The Auditorium w/ Chicago Philharmonic
Lexington KY - Wednesday November 12th - Singleton Center for the Arts
New York NY - Friday November 14th - Bowery Ballroom - SOLD OUT
New York NY - Saturday November 15th - Bowery Ballroom - SOLD OUT
New York NY - Sunday November 16th - Bowery Ballroom

London UK - Saturday November 22nd - Barbican - 1st show SOLD OUT, matinee show added
Bristol UK - Sunday November 23rd - The Prospect Building
Leeds UK - Monday November 24th - The Irish Centre

Helsinki FI - Tuesday January 20th - Tavastia
Stockholm SE - Wednesday January 21st - Fasching
Karlsruhe DE - Thursday January 22nd - Tollhaus
Lille FR - Friday January 23rd - Aeronef
Brussels BE - Saturday January 24th - Brussels Jazz Festival
Perugia IT - Sunday January 25th - Teatro del Pavone
Frankfurt DE - Monday January 26th - Zoom
Köln DE - Tuesday January 27th - Kantine
Paris FR - Wednesday January 28th - Le Trabendo
Berlin DE - Thursday January 29th - Großer Sendesaal des RBB
Dresden DE - Friday January 30th - Beatpol

Hamburg DE - Thursday April 9th - Kampnagel
Den Haag NL - Friday April 10th - Rewire Festival
Brugge BE - Saturday April 11th - Cactus Club
München DE - Sunday April 12th - Technikum
Salzburg AT - Monday April 13th - jazz:it
Graz AT - Tuesday April 14th - Orpheum
St. Gallen CH - Wednesday April 15th - Palace
Fribourg CH - Thursday April 16th - Fri-Son
Braga PT - Sunday April 19th - Theatro Circo
Lisboa PT - Monday April 20th - Culturgest

Ticket links at
https://www.trts.com/

...about Tortoise…
Tortoise is widely considered one of the most influential music groups of the last 40 years, with a wide-reaching impact on the contemporary music scene. Pitchfork says: “Imagine a graphic showing all the bands the five members of Tortoise were in before they came together and then all the bands they went on to play with after. At the top of the funnel you have groups ranging from dreamy psych-rock to earthy post-punk crunch, including Eleventh Dream Day, Bastro, Slint, and the Poster Children; on the ‘post-Tortoise’ end are groups focusing on electro-jazz and twangy instrumental rock like Isotope 217, Chicago Underground, and Brokeback. In this graphic, Tortoise is the choke point, the one project that has elements of all these sounds but is never defined by nor committed to any of them. Instead, Tortoise floats free, a planchette moving over a Ouija board guided by 10 sets of fingers, where everyone watches the arrow float in one direction but no one is quite sure how it gets there or who is doing the pushing.”
The band, which originally formed in Chicago, comprises Jeff Parker, Dan Bitney, Douglas McCombs, John Herndon, and John McEntire.
Initially hailed as pace-setters of the then-emerging, so-called “post-rock” sound, the Chicago Tribune called Tortoise’s sound “mood music that refuses to be shoved into the background, as inviting as it is challenging.” Releasing just seven albums since 1990 — including classics like 1996’s Millions Now Living Will Never Die, 1998’s TNT, and 2001’s Standards —Tortoise has steadily and intuitively evolved across its life, creating genreless music that is as timeless as it is ahead of the curve.
The band’s legacy goes beyond its recorded output, as well. Per the New York Times: “While Tortoise’s albums have experimented with the editing and overdubbing possibilities of the studio, the band thrives performing in real time.” Rolling Stone deems Tortoise “a live marvel,” while Pitchfork further says the band’s performances reveal that “at heart, they’re a supremely fun band, wide open to all sorts of sonic possibilities.

https://www.trts.com/

https://www.instagram.com/trts/?hl=en

https://www.facebook.com/TRTSband/

https://linktr.ee/intlanthem

https://www.facebook.com/intlanthem/

https://www.instagram.com/intlanthem/#

https://x.com/intlanthem

Liverpool International Jazz Festival 2026 - line-up announced.

Tuesday, October 21, 2025

A stellar line-up has been announced for the annual Liverpool International Jazz Festival, which returns to the city’s Capstone Theatre in late February and early March 2026. Press release attached

We have received the following press release;

Liverpool International Jazz Festival returns to the city in February 2026

A stellar line-up has been announced for the annual Liverpool International Jazz Festival, which returns to the city’s Capstone Theatre in February 2026.

Grammy-winning artists and international talent will take to the stage from 26 February – 1 March 2026. The festival showcases world-class musicians performing across a range of styles in the world of contemporary instrumental jazz.

Amongst the star-studded performances is Marius Neset, dubbed ‘one of the most exciting artists in jazz’ and Martin Taylor who has collaborated with the likes of Dionne Warwick and Jamie Cullum to name a few.

The festival was founded in 2013 by Liverpool Hope University, and the Creative Campus continues to host this eclectic event each year. Whether you are a jazz enthusiast or newcomer, the diverse programme promises something for everyone.

Line-up highlights for 2026 include Tim Garland and Geoffrey Keezer, two Grammy award-winning musicians who recorded a brand new duet album in New York earlier this year - Mezzo.
Both seasoned players have globe-trotted with some of the most famous players in music and show their crystalline lyrical maturity as well as incendiary virtuosity in a set that features one new and rare instrument after which the album is named.

Up next are David Helbock & Julia Hofer who have a very recently released a new album, Faces of Night, with the internationally renowned label ACT Music. The album comprises a fascinating blend of calm, dreamy original compositions and groovy jazz pieces that showcase the distinctive styles of Helbock and Hofer.
With inventive effects, rhythmic percussion elements on the piano, and dynamic changes between cello and electric bass, this evening promises an extraordinary listening experience and a musical journey full of emotions and innovations.

Milap and Liverpool International Jazz Festival will jointly present a unique collaboration between two of the brightest stars on the contemporary jazz scene, Zoe Rahman and Arun Ghosh.

Zoe Rahman is a vibrant and highly individual pianist and composer. Her style is deeply rooted in jazz yet it reflects her classical background, British-Bengali heritage and her very broad musical taste.

Arun Ghosh is an award-winning clarinettist and composer, and a charismatic performer. His lyrical and sonorous musical style draws together jazz, folk and South Asian influences.

Drawing inspiration from the heavy fusion of Chick Corea and Allan Holdsworth, the psychedelic bluesy swagger of Jimi Hendrix, and the fearless multi-media explorations of Cecil Taylor, Robert Mitchell’s Little Black Book brings together three bravura players in an uplifting celebration. Laurie Lowe on drums and Zayn Mohammed on guitar bring the exact combination of power, accuracy and unbounded imagination to make the project come alive. Little Black Book is the latest telling of a story in which every chapter is more intriguing than the last.

Also featuring on the line-up is award winning guitarist Martin Taylor has established a unique musical career as an internationally acclaimed musician, and his inimitable style has seen him recognised as the world’s foremost exponent of solo jazz guitar playing.
As well as being a true guitar innovator, he is also a master concert performer, dazzling audiences with his solo shows, which combine virtuosity, emotion, humour, with a strong stage presence.

Marius Neset made an astonishingly powerful impression when he first emerged onto the European jazz scene as a young saxophonist of protean gifts more than a decade ago.
The intervening years have seen Marius bring his huge creative energy to so many roles in different contexts, as either an instigator or as a catalyst. Neset has now received well over twenty awards and award nominations.

To view the full line-up and ticket information, visit: The Capstone Theatre
https://capstone.hope.ac.uk/jazzfestival/

Tickets will be available to purchase from Ticket Quarter from Friday 17 October 10am. For a limited time, early bird prices are available, starting from £15 plus booking fee. Tickets are available for individual events.

From;
https://capstone.hope.ac.uk/jazzfestival/

Liverpool International Jazz Festival (LIJF) was established in 2013 by Liverpool Hope University, and in previous years has included performances from some of Jazz music’s leading lights.

The emphasis of the Festival is on contemporary instrumental jazz in a variety of styles with a focus on presenting work from an international selection of world class artists, taking audience members on a musical journey that traverses numerous genres and cross-genres.

The next incarnation of the Festival will take place from Friday 26th Feb 2026 to Sun 1st March 2026 inclusive. The Festival will comprise concerts from a stellar line up of artists including Tim Garland and Geoffrey Keezer, David Helbock and Julia Hofer, Zoe Rahman and Arun Ghosh, Robert Mitchell’s Little Black Book, Martin Taylor and Marius Neset Quartet. Tickets for individual events along with Festival All Performances Bundle tickets to cover the six main festival concerts , will go on sale on Friday 17th October 2025 at 10am.

Festival All Performances Bundle Tickets, priced £60 +bf until 31st Dec 2025 and £72 + bf from 1st Jan 2026, cover all the main six Festival concerts and can be purchased via TicketQuarter
https://ticketquarter.co.uk/Online/default.asp?BOparam::WScontent::loadArticle::permalink=lijf-2026&BOparam::WScontent::loadArticle::context_id=

Event Name Event Date and Time Venue

LIJF 2026: Tim Garland and Geoffrey Keezer Thurs 26th Feb 2026, 7.30pm The Capstone Theatre

LIJF 2026: David Helbock & Julia Hofer Fri 27th Feb 2026, 7.30pm The Capstone Theatre

LIJF 2026 and Milap Presents Zoe Rahman and Arun Ghosh Sat 28th Feb 2026, 1pm The Capstone Theatre

LIJF 2026: Robert Mitchell’s Little Black Book Sat 28th Feb 2026, 7.30pm The Capstone Theatre

LIJF 2026: Martin Taylor Sun 1st March 2026, 1pm The Capstone Theatre

LIJF 2026; Marius Neset Quartet Sun 1st March 2026, 7.30pm The Capstone Theatre

The Capstone Theatre
Liverpool Hope University
Creative Campus
17 Shaw Street
Liverpool
L6 1HP

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Birmingham Jazz & Blues Festival wins trophy for best event in 2025.

Monday, October 20, 2025

BJ&BF has been named ‘Festival or Event of the Year’ in the annual Birmingham Awards after delivering 178 live performances across 101 venues this summer, in what was its 41st consecutive year.

We have received the following press release;

Birmingham Jazz & Blues Festival wins trophy for best event in 2025

Organisers of the Birmingham Jazz & Blues Festival have won a top award for running the city’s best event in 2025.

The popular festival has been named ‘Festival or Event of the Year’ in the annual Birmingham Awards after delivering 178 live performances across 101 venues this summer, in what was its 41st consecutive year.

Jim Simpson and Sarah Yang of Big Bear Music, organisers of the festival, were presented with the trophy at a glittering ceremony held at The Eastside Rooms on Friday 17 October.

They beat off stiff competition from several other shortlisted finalists, including Birmingham Light Festival, Filmgage International Film Festival, Solihull Summer Fest 2025 and The Jewellery Quarter Festival.

Mr Simpson said: “We were so pleased to have been judged the winners of this special trophy, especially given the quality of all the other finalists who we were up against.

“The award is deserved by everyone at Big Bear Music and by every single one of the 311 musicians from across the UK and abroad who took part in the 2025 Birmingham Jazz & Blues Festival, plus our ever-loyal audience who turn out every year to support this event.”

The Birmingham Awards evening was made extra special for Mr Simpson when Black Sabbath were awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award, and the late Ozzy Osbourne was awarded with a posthumous Lifetime Achievement Award, the latter accepted by Kelly Osbourne on behalf of the family.

Mr Simpson was the original manager of Black Sabbath in the late 1960s and early 1970s, and he was presented with the same Lifetime Achievement Award last year.

He added: “To have our festival recognised on the same night as those special awards went to the band and singer who are so much a part of my life and career was a poignant moment.”

The award for the Birmingham Jazz & Blues Festival comes just weeks after Mr Simpson announced that the popular event would continue in 2026 after “overwhelming support” this year.

There had previously been fears that this summer’s 41st festival might be the final one because of reduced funding. But Mr Simpson has said that although more funding is still required, the general public’s ongoing generosity, plus the beginnings of relationships with new funding partners, means the 42nd consecutive festival will go ahead from 24 July to 2 August 2026.

Big Bear Music Group has been based in Birmingham since 1968. Its operations include Big Bear Records, probably the UK’s longest established independent record company, which is at the forefront of jazz, swing and blues, with more than 100 album releases.

Since 1985, Big Bear Music has organised the annual Birmingham Jazz & Blues Festival, Europe’s biggest free admission jazz party every July, bringing international bands to venues across the West Midlands. Big Bear Music also operates Henry’s Blueshouse, Birmingham’s home of the blues since 1968, with weekly gigs at Snobs Bar on Broad Street. Henry’s Blueshouse blog and weekly Bluesletter features interesting stories, music and video from the past, present and future of blues.

Big Bear Music is also an agency for live artists, booking a wide variety of acts for public events and private functions. It represents touring bands including King Pleasure & The Biscuit Boys, Tipitina and Lady Sings The Blues.

Since 1987, Big Bear Music has published The Jazz Rag, a bi-monthly, nationally-distributed magazine of news, reviews and features on the rich history of global jazz. The magazine was winner of the 2023 Parliamentary Jazz Award for Best UK Jazz Publication.

Big Bear Music has a rich photography archive stretching back to the early 1960s, featuring some of the most illustrious names in rock and roll, jazz and blues.

https://www.bigbearmusic.com/

Peter Slavid - ‘European Modern Jazz’ on the radio playlist,  first broadcast 19/10/2025.

Monday, October 20, 2025

Broadcaster & journalist Peter Slavid has forwarded details of the music played on his UK & European Jazz radio show on 19/10/2025, which is available via a number of UK & international radio stations

Peter Slavid writes;

Radio Playlist from Oct 19 2025

Nigel Price Organ Trio
Splash the cash
It’s On
Nervy Nigel Records

Vincent Cortois & Colin Vallon
Virages
A simple Fall
BMC

Laura Jurd
You Again
Rites and Revelations
New Soil

Louis Sclavis
Madras Song
India
Yolk

La Marmite Infernale
Marchand de Poivre
Or Mathilde
Label ARFI

Daniel Zimmerman
My Little Sweet NZ Bunker
Snapshots
Label Bleu

Purple is the Color
unbemanntes raumschiff
unbemanntes raumschiff
Unit Records

Steiger
Gladijs
Moglowski’s First Take
Bandcamp

Rastko Obradovic
Prisoner and the Soldier (Part 2)
Mandala
A.MA

Florian Arbenz: Convergence
Motion
Moon
Hammer Recordings

Tommy Smith & Gwilym Simcock
El Nino
Eternal Light
Bandcamp

Aspyrian
The Storyteller
Live at the Glad Jazz Festival
Hidden Threads Records

European Modern Jazz on the radio;

At any time:
http://www.mixcloud.com/ukjazz.

Weekly:

http://www.hayesfm.org.uk 91.8 FM – West London Community Radio Sundays12.00

http://www.purebeatradio.co.uk Sundays 7pm

http://www.listen.camp/ Sundays 7pm onward

Also as “Peter’s Eurojazz Podcast” on Apple, Amazon, Deezer and other podcast sites.

Omar - “Brighter The Days”, UK tour May and June 2026.

Sunday, October 19, 2025

Soul artist Omar Lyefook MBE will tour the UK in May and June 2026 in support of his new album "Brighter The Days". Press release and tour schedule attached.

AGMO Concerts have forwarded the following press release;

OMAR ‘Brighter The Days’ Tour

“I am healed all over when he sings”
Erykah Badu

“When I grow up I wanna be like Omar”
Stevie Wonder

Celebrating 40 years in music, Omar Lyefook MBE - one of the UK’s most celebrated soul artists returns with his new album Brighter The Days. Since his timeless breakthrough hit There’s Nothing Like This, Omar has defined British soul, blending jazz, funk, R&B, and Caribbean influences into a sound entirely his own.

With collaborations spanning Stevie Wonder, Erykah Badu, Angie Stone, Leon Ware, Robert Glasper, Paul Weller, and India.Arie, Omar’s legacy as a true innovator is unmatched. Brighter The Days showcases his trademark vocals, lush string arrangements, and collaborations with Giggs, Raheem DeVaughn, Eric Roberson, Ledisi, and more - an album he describes as his “magnum opus.”

A performer of effortless class and deep musicality, Omar’s live shows are a masterclass in groove, soul, and sincerity. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to experience a genuine British icon performing new material and timeless classics live.

Tickets here;
https://www.seetickets.com/tour/omar-brighter-the-days-

Fri 15 May 2026
19:30
OMAR’S ‘BRIGHTER THE DAYS’ UK TOUR
Band On The Wall, Manchester

Sat 30 May 2026
20:00
Omar ‘Brighter The Days’
The Old Woollen, Leeds

Sun 31 May 2026
19:00
Omar ‘Brighter The Days’
Yellow Arch Studios, Sheffield

Fri 05 Jun 2026
19:00
Omar ‘Brighter The Days’
Metronome, Nottingham

Sat 06 Jun 2026
19:00
Omar ‘Brighter The Days’
Mash, Cambridge

Fri 19 Jun 2026
19:00
Omar ‘Brighter The Days’
Hertford Corn Exchange, Hertfordshire

Thu 25 Jun 2026
19:00
Omar ‘Brighter The Days’
The Cavern, Liverpool

Fri 26 Jun 2026
19:00
Omar ‘Brighter The Days’
229, London

Recipients Announced For 2025 Parliamentary Jazz Awards.

Wednesday, October 15, 2025

The recipients of the 2025 Parliamentary Jazz Awards have been anno announced. Press release, including full details of all the winners, attached.

We have received the following press release;

Recipients Announced For 2025 Parliamentary Jazz Awards

The recipients of the 2025 Parliamentary Jazz Awards were announced on Tuesday 14th October 2025 at 8pm.

The Awards, are organised by the All Party Parliamentary Jazz Group (APPJG) and supported by the Musicians’ Union and UK Music. The recipients of the 2025 Parliamentary Jazz Awards will be announced on Tuesday 14th October 2025 at the World Heart Beat. The Parliamentary Awards celebrate and recognise the vibrancy, diversity, breadth and talent of the jazz scene throughout the United Kingdom.

The award categories reflect the ever-increasing scope of talent from within the UK’s jazz scene: Jazz Vocalist of the Year; Jazz Instrumentalist of the Year; Jazz Album of the Year; Jazz Ensemble of the Year; Jazz Newcomer of the Year; Jazz Venue of the Year; Jazz Media Award; Jazz Education Award; and the Services to Jazz Award. A special award was given this year in commemoration of the life and work of Martin Hummel, CEO of Ubuntu Music, who passed away in January of this year.

Dame Chi Onwurah MP Chair of APPJG, said:
“These awards are a great opportunity to celebrate the talents and energies of the great musicians, educators, promoters, record labels, jazz organisations, blogs, jazz magazines and journalists who have kept jazz flourishing. These recipients demonstrate the wealth of talent and commitment that exists in the British jazz scene. Now in their 20th year, the Parliamentary Jazz Awards honour the best of British jazz. MPs and Peers in the All-Party Group are grateful to the Musicians’ Union and UK Music for supporting the event.”

Lord Mann Co-Chair of APPJG:
“This has been another really strong year for the Parliamentary Jazz Awards in terms of talent and nominations. The well-deserved recipients are a veritable who’s who of names that have made a real impact on the music and helped make the UK one of the world’s leading jazz territories”.

Naomi Pohl General Secretary of the Musicians’ Union, said:
“The Musicians’ Union is delighted to support the 2025 Parliamentary Jazz Awards. The recipients reflect both the phenomenal jazz talent we have here in the UK and the community built around them in the nations and regions. Congratulations to the recipients and all those nominated on their success to date”.

Tom Kiehl, Chief Executive of UK Music said:
“The Parliamentary Jazz Awards, now in their 20th year, have demonstrated that Jazz in the UK continues to punch above its weight on the world stage and every year has produced a crop of recipients and nominees that demonstrate the talent and diversity of jazz in the UK.”

The Awards were introduced and presented by: Lord Mann and Chi Onwurah MP, Chris Hodgkins, Emily Saunders, Musicians’ Union Executive Committee, Sam Jackson, Controller of BBC Radio 3, Leslie Hummel, Mhari Aurora, political correspondent for Sky News, Steve Crocker of Leeds Jazz, Tom Kiehl, CEO UK Music, James Gero, CEO World Heart Beat and Julian Joseph, Honorary Patron of World heart Beat, Jane Cornwell and Jo White MP

The band were: Andrea Vicari (piano), Alison Rayner (bass), Tori Freestone (sax), Henry Lowther (trumpet) and Wilf Cameron Marples (drums)

The full list of recipients is as follows:

Jazz Vocalist of the Year
Zara McFarlane
Zara McFarlane is a multi-award-winning British jazz vocalist, composer, and Guildhall Fellow known for blending jazz with reggae, folk, and electronic influences. Her acclaimed albums, including “Arise” and “Songs of an Unknown Tongue”, explore heritage and identity with lyrical depth. A BBC Young Jazz Musician judge, she has collaborated with Louie Vega, Hugh Masekela, and Shabaka Hutchings, and performed globally with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. McFarlane’s genre-defying artistry and commitment to cultural storytelling have made her a leading voice in contemporary UK jazz.

Jazz Instrumentalist of the Year
Rob Luft
Rob Luft is a London-born guitarist and composer whose dazzling technique and melodic sensibility have earned comparisons to Julian Lage and John McLaughlin. A Royal Academy graduate and BBC New Generation Jazz Artist, he has released acclaimed albums on Edition Records and ECM, including collaborations with Elina Duni. Luft’s genre-blending style draws on jazz, West African highlife, English folk, and indie rock, creating a vibrant, contemporary sound. He is a sought-after sideman and soloist, performing across Europe and beyond.

Jazz Album of the Year
John Surman – Words Unspoken
Recorded in Oslo, “Words Unspoken” is a contemplative chamber-jazz album from saxophonist John Surman, featuring Rob Luft, Rob Waring, and Thomas Strønen. Surman’s baritone and soprano saxophones weave through minimalist textures and folk-inflected melodies, creating spacious, introspective soundscapes. At nearly 80, Surman continues to innovate, crafting music that is quietly radical and deeply resonant.

Jazz Ensemble of the Year
The Banger Factory
The Banger Factory Led by trumpeter Mark Kavuma, The Banger Factory is a dynamic London-based jazz collective known for its joyful energy, rich ensemble sound, and commitment to nurturing emerging talent. Blending hard bop, gospel, Afrobeat, and soul, the group has released acclaimed albums including “Warriors” and “Magnum Opus”. Kavuma’s launch of Banger Factory Records has amplified their creative vision and supported a new generation of artists. Regulars at Ronnie Scott’s and major UK festivals, The Banger Factory are celebrated for their vibrant performances and community-driven ethos.

Jazz Newcomer of the Year
Donovan Haffner
Donovan Haffner is a London-based alto saxophonist and composer whose music bridges neo-bop tradition with contemporary flair. A graduate of the Royal Academy of Music and Tomorrow’s Warriors alumnus, he has toured with Moses Boyd and performed at Glastonbury and Love Supreme. His debut album “Alleviate” showcases his quintet’s original compositions, marked by rhythmic drive and melodic sophistication. Donovan’s playing is both technically assured and emotionally resonant, positioning him as a compelling new voice in British jazz.

Jazz Venue of the Year
Digbeth Jazz
Digbeth Jazz is Birmingham’s reimagined weekly jazz night, formerly known as Jazz at The Spotted Dog and now hosted at The Night Owl. Run by local musicians, it showcases modern and swinging jazz with a fresh, inclusive vibe. The rebrand has expanded its reach, attracted diverse audiences and international artists and maintained its grassroots spirit. With a focus on community, innovation, and musical excellence, Digbeth Jazz has become a vital fixture in the Midlands jazz scene.

Jazz Media Award
‘Round Midnight with Soweto Kinch
‘Round Midnight with Soweto Kinch – Folded Wing for BBC Radio 3 Launched in April 2024, ‘Round Midnight is BBC Radio 3’s flagship late-night jazz show, hosted by saxophonist Soweto Kinch and produced by Folded Wing. Airing weeknights, it features live sessions, curated playlists, and festival recordings, spotlighting UK jazz alongside global traditions. With segments like “4/4” and “Flowers,” the show blends heritage and innovation, quickly becoming a vital platform for emerging artists and jazz storytelling.

Jazz Education Award
Doncaster Youth Jazz Orchestra
Doncaster Youth Jazz Orchestra (DYJO) Established in 1973 by John Ellis MBE, DYJO is one of the UK’s longest-running youth jazz programmes. Operating under the Doncaster Youth Jazz Association, it offers expert tuition and ensemble experience across four bands. DYJO has performed at the Royal Albert Hall, Ronnie Scott’s, and internationally, with alumni now active across the UK jazz scene. Celebrating its 50th anniversary with a double album, DYJO remains a beacon of excellence in regional jazz education.

The Martin Hummel Endeavour Award
Martin was on the selection panel of the Parliamentary Jazz Awards for many years and helped in raising sponsorship for the awards. At the last meeting of the panel this year it was felt that the Awards should celebrate Martins extraordinary life with an award that would reflect his own ethos which in a nutshell was “can do”.
Olivia Cuttill
Olivia Cuttill is a rising trumpeter, composer, and bandleader who graduated from Leeds Conservatoire in 2023. She leads her own quintet and has released several albums, including “Three’s A Crowd” and “The Whole Damn Plan”, showcasing a vibrant blend of swing, storytelling, and vocal-led jazz. An Emerging Professional with the National Youth Jazz Orchestra, Olivia is known for her expressive playing, strong compositional voice, and dynamic live performances. Her work reflects a deep engagement with tradition while carving out a fresh, contemporary sound. Her latest album “....And Writing And Singing And Tunes To Be Swingin”, has just been released and is available on her Bandcamp page.
https://oliviacuttill.bandcamp.com/music

Services to Jazz Award
Marianne Windham
Marianne Windham is a double bassist and tireless jazz promoter who left a successful career in software engineering to dedicate herself to music. She co-founded Fleet Jazz Club and chairs Guildford Jazz, a not-for-profit organisation that has hosted over 250 concerts, workshops, and festivals across Surrey. Known for her warm tone and community spirit, Marianne has raised over £36,000 for local causes while championing British jazz musicians. Her dual role as performer and organiser has made her a vital force in sustaining regional jazz culture and fostering inclusive, high-quality live music experiences.

Special APPJG Award
Chris Philips
Chris Philips is an award-winning broadcaster, curator, and advocate for contemporary jazz. Best known for hosting The Blueprint on Jazz FM, he’s a former Head of Music at the station and co-founder of Jazzed, the world’s first interactive jazz app. He co-curates Jazz in the Round with Jez Nelson, spotlighting cutting-edge artists in intimate venues across the UK. A passionate supporter of new music and innovation, Chris is also a patron of the National Jazz Archive. His work has helped shape the sound and visibility of modern jazz in Britain, both on air and on stage.

The awards are organised by the All Party Parliamentary Jazz Group (APPJG), co-chaired by Dame Chi Onwurah MP and Lord Mann.

The All Party Parliamentary Jazz Group (APPJG) currently has over 70 members from the House of Commons and House of Lords across all political parties. Their aim is to encourage wider and deeper enjoyment of jazz, to increase Parliamentarians’ understanding of the jazz industry and issues surrounding it, to promote jazz as a musical form and to raise its profile inside and outside Parliament. The Group’s officers as at the Inaugural Meeting on 23rd July 2024 are the Chair, Dame Chi Onwurah MP and Deputy Chair, Lord Mann. The Officers are Jo White MP and Lord Crathorne with additional elected members, Neil Duncan-Jordan MP, Lord Spellar and Sarah Champion MP.

The Secretary is Chris Hodgkins with the assistance of Simon Jennings and Will Riley-Smith of NorthPoint Strategy and Andrew Lansley. The Secretary operates on a strictly pro bono basis and no expenses of any kind are paid to the Secretary. The contact address is: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) and the website is https://appjag.org/

Sullivan Fortner Wins The Gilmore’s Inaugural Bell Jazz Artist Award

Saturday, October 11, 2025

Pianist Sullivan Fortner has been named the recipient of The Gilmore’s (Kalamazoo, Michigan) inaugural 2026 Larry J. Bell Jazz Artist Award. Press Release attached

We have received the following press release;

ANNOUNCING THE GILMORE’S INAUGURAL 2026 LARRY J. BELL JAZZ ARTIST AWARD RECIPIENT: SULLIVAN FORTNER

Winner of the largest financial gift in jazz for pianists today
Watch awards ceremony streaming on The Gilmore’s YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/live/rdvJg1YGM_Q

Pianist Sullivan Fortner has been named the recipient of The Gilmore’s inaugural 2026 Larry J. Bell Jazz Artist Award. One of the most prestigious honors in music, the Award was announced at a special ceremony held October 8, 2025, at The Jerome L. Greene Space in New York City. Marking the largest single gift ever dedicated solely to a jazz artist, Fortner receives $300,000 in support of his musical and career goals over the next four years. Both casual and virtuosic, the Brooklyn-based pianist delights music fans all over the world. Fortner’s journey from his hometown of New Orleans and mentorship under Ellis Marsalis to his ongoing collaborations with luminaries such as Cécile McLorin Salvant has solidified his place as one of jazz’s most vital voices.

“To win this Award, and even be considered for it, is very affirming. I am honored to join the esteemed Gilmore Artist family. As the first jazz pianist to ever receive an Artist Award from The Gilmore the significance and responsibility is enormous. In all that I do, I hope to represent Larry J. Bell and The Gilmore name well. This generous gift is a welcome reminder for me to create more music.” 
– SULLIVAN FORTNER

“Sullivan Fortner is one of the most gifted artists I’ve ever encountered. His technique is effortless, his ear extraordinary, and his vision profound — but what makes him truly remarkable is the sheer joy that radiates from him when he plays. That joie de vivre infuses his music with a vitality and spirit that turns mastery into magic.” 
– SETH ABRAMSON, Director of The Gilmore’s Jazz Awards

Mirroring the internationally renowned Gilmore Artist Awards for classical pianists, the Larry J. Bell Jazz Artists Awards provide some of the most generous financial support given in the musical arts. The Jazz Awards program was established in 2022 with an $8.8 million gift to The Gilmore’s endowment and is named for Kalamazoo businessman Larry J. Bell who founded Bell’s Brewery in 1985. Both the Bell Artist and Bell Young Artist Awards are presented every four years. The 2026 Bell Young Artists Awardees were announced last month; Tyler Bullock and Esteban Castro each received a stipend of $25,000. 

     
“Jazz has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember, and supporting extraordinary artists has always been my passion. Sullivan Fortner is a pianist whose talent, vision, and heart will carry jazz forward. I’m proud that The Gilmore can help continue his journey and amplify his voice as he shapes the next chapter of jazz.” 
– LARRY J. BELL, Past President of The Gilmore’s Board of Trustees

Hosted by radio personality Paul Cavalconte (WBGO/WQXR/WFUV), last night’s event featured Fortner’s first performance as a Bell Artist, followed by an onstage conversation led by SiriusXM Radio’s Mark Ruffin. The event was livestreamed at TheGilmore.org, as well as by The Gilmore’s streaming partners including WBGO Radio, All About Jazz, Steinway & Sons, International Piano, and Jazzwise.

Nomination and Selection of Bell Artist Awardees

Candidates for the Bell Artist Award are nominated confidentially by the Jazz Awards Nominating Committee, a large and diverse international assemblage of music professionals. The finalists among the candidates are then each evaluated for their career potential and musicianship in numerous live concert performances over a two-to-three-year period by Seth Abramson and an anonymous Jazz Artistic Advisory Committee representing a variety of professions and viewpoints in the jazz music world. The committee travels all over the world assessing the candidates’ concert performances over a sustained period, rather than judging their achievements during a concentrated period under tightly controlled conditions, as in a public competition. The process consists of countless hours of listening, thousands of miles travelled, and dozens of hours of debating with some of the most brilliant minds in the music industry.

The Bell Artist Award is presented every four years on a non-competitive basis to an exceptional pianist who, regardless of age or nationality, is a profound musician with a breadth of musicianship and individual artistic voice inclusive of original compositions, and whose active recording and global touring career can use the enhancement that the Award’s prestige and funds provide.

The selection committee for the 2026 Bell Artist Award included Seth Abramson, The Gilmore Committee Chair; Joan A. Cararach, Artistic Director of Barcelona Jazz Festival; Vivian Chiu, Director of Cultural Partnerships and Artist Services at Steinway & Sons; Christopher Roberts, former President of the Classics and Jazz Division of Universal Music Group; Mark Ruffin, Program Director and On-Air Host for Real Jazz at Sirius XM Satellite Radio; and Wayne Winborne, Executive Director of the Institute of Jazz Studies at Rutgers University-Newark.

Sullivan Fortner

For more than a decade, 2x GRAMMY® Award-winning pianist Sullivan Fortner has been stretching deep-rooted talents as a pianist, composer, band leader and uncompromising individualist. The acclaimed artist and educator out of New Orleans received international praise as both a key player and producer for his collaborative work on The Window, alongside Cecile McLorin Salvant subsequently awarding him his first GRAMMY® for Best Jazz Vocal Album in 2019. He also earned a 2023 GRAMMY® nomination for his provocative arrangement of “Optimistic Voices/No Love Dying” from her 2022 release Ghost Song. The 2025 GRAMMY® for Best Jazz Performance was awarded to Samara Joy featuring Fortner for their song “Twinkle Twinkle Little Me”.

As a solo leader he has issued Aria (2015), Moments Preserved (2018) and Solo Game (2024) to critical acclaim, the latter receiving four-star reviews in DownBeat and France’s Telerama Magazine. In 2025, he released his trio recording Southern Nights featuring Peter Washington and Marcus Gilmore.

Winner of the 2024 DownBeat Critics Poll for Rising Star Jazz Group: Sullivan Fortner Trio, the prolific artist has enjoyed creative associations with Wynton Marsalis, Paul Simon, Diane Reeves, Etienne Charles and John Scofield; his frequent and longtime collaborators have included Ambrose Akinmusire, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Stefon Harris, Kassa Overall, Tivon Pennicott, Peter Bernstein, Nicholas Payton, Billy Hart, Gary Bartz, Chief Adjuah and the late Roy Hargrove.

Playing solo or leading an orchestra, Fortner engages harmony and rhythmic ideas through curiosity and clarity. Coming up in New Orleans, he began playing piano at age seven, earning his Bachelor of Music from Oberlin Conservatory and Master of Music in Jazz Performance from Manhattan School of Music (MSM). A champion of mentorship, Fortner has offered masterclasses at MSM, New Orleans Center for Creative Arts (NOCCA), Purdue University, Lafayette Summer Music Workshop, Belmont University and Oberlin Conservatory where he held a faculty position and subsequently returned as visiting professor of jazz piano.

Fortner has performed at Snug Harbor, New Orleans Center for the Creative Arts, Sweet Lorraine’s and The Jazz Playhouse in New Orleans, and Jazz at Lincoln Center, Jazz Standard and Smalls Jazz Club in New York City. He’s appeared at Newport, Monterey, Discover, Tri-C and The Gilmore Piano festivals. In 2019, Fortner brought his band to the historic Village Vanguard for a week-long engagement he would reprise in 2020 as a virtual performance during lockdown. His notable studio contributions include work on Etienne Charles’s Kaiso (Culture Shock, 2011), Donald Harrison’s Quantum Leap (FOMP, 2010), and Theo Croker’s The Fundamentals (Left Sided Music, 2007).

Fortner’s artistry preserves the tradition and evolves the sound. He seeks connections among different musical styles that are at once deeply soulful and wildly inventive. Both his works and his insights have been featured in culture drivers from The New York Times to The Root. Further accolades include the 2015 Cole Porter Fellowship awarded by the American Pianists Association, Leonore Annenberg Arts Fellowship, the 2016 Lincoln Center Award for Emerging Artists, the prestigious Shifting Foundation Grant in 2020 for artistic career development and the 2024 Western Jazz Presenters grant, which allowed him to tour the west coast with his trio. Fortner is a Steinway Artist.

Sullivan Fortner will perform two programs during the 2026 Gilmore Piano Festival, April 30–May 10, 2026, in Kalamazoo, Michigan.

The Gilmore
Created in 1989 to honor the legacy of businessman and philanthropist Irving S. Gilmore, The Gilmore is the premier institution in the United States dedicated exclusively to commissioning, presenting and awarding extraordinary piano artistry. The Gilmore has presented 16 piano festivals, commissioned over 40 new works for piano, and awarded over $3 million as part of its internationally renowned Gilmore Artists Award for both classical and jazz pianists. Based in Kalamazoo, Michigan, The Gilmore hosts its annual (previously biennial) Gilmore Piano Festival April 30-May 10, 2026, and continues to impact the lives of thousands of area children and adults through its year-round community engagement and music education programs including summer camps, music therapy, and much more.

Phil Bancroft to release new album championing the Black American jazz tradition.

Thursday, October 09, 2025

Saxophonist Phil Bancroft releases the first album by his Standards Trio, No Need For Silence, on his Myriad Streams platform on Friday 24th October. Press release attached.

We have received the following press release;

New Bancroft album champions the Black American jazz tradition

Saxophonist Phil Bancroft releases the first album by his Standards Trio, No Need For Silence, on his Myriad Streams platform on Friday 24th October.

A celebration of music from the Black American jazz tradition, the album reflects the inspiration Bancroft felt setting out as a teenaged musician on hearing his primary influences, saxophonists John Coltrane, Sonny Rollins, Ornette Coleman and Wayne Shorter.

Here were players who communicated with an overwhelming beauty and intoxicating power. More than this, however, they had a uniqueness of expression. It wasn’t just saxophonists who moved the young Bancroft. Pianists Thelonious Monk and Duke Ellington, bassists Charles Mingus and Jimmy Garrison and vocalists Billie Holiday and Ella Fitzgerald, as well as characters who shaped jazz from Louis Armstrong through Charlie Parker and on to David Murray and beyond, drove Bancroft’s desire also to find his own voice.

“As a white European from a privileged background, I had no idea of the life experiences that fed into those who nurtured and sustained the Black American jazz tradition,” says Bancroft.  “I listened to these musicians with a sense of awe but I also took inspiration from European jazz, Celtic music, Indian classical music, African traditions, Western classical music and a host of other sources across musicology, science, philosophy and literature.”

For years, although he continued to listen to it, Bancroft studiously avoided playing the repertoire that had triggered his interest in jazz, preferring to concentrate on music shaped by his own experience. Then, a few years ago, he felt ready. Gathering together long-time partners, bassist Mario Caribe and twin brother, Tom Bancroft, he formed a trio he felt both comfortable with and suitably challenged by.

“It seemed that the time was right to start playing gigs where we celebrated this music,” he says. “It’s not just about the melodies and chord changes. It is about rhythm, it is about feel, about technical and spiritual aspects of improvisation. It’s also about honesty and creating form and meaning in the moment.”

The performances on this album aren’t built from a process of imitation or simulation, Bancroft stresses. As a group the trio are trying to honour the process of finding one’s voice, of being a true improviser, allowing meaning to emerge in music that is within a tradition, but which is fresh, vital and authentic.

“Others will decide if we have succeeded in this,” he says.

For Bancroft, it feels more important than ever to acknowledge the achievement Black American musicians made in developing jazz as an art form.

“It is profoundly dispiriting,” he says, “that as we come to release this album, the current American administration is lurching towards autocracy, espousing white supremacist messages and rolling back most of the advances that had been made in reducing discrimination against the Black American population while attempting to suppress their vote.”

No Need for Silence was recorded in two sessions in Ringo Barn in Midlothian, Scotland, at the smallholding where Phil Bancroft lives with his wife, Jude and son, Angus. The first session, in July 2024, produced Love For Sale, Fables of Faubus, Nancy With The Laughing Face and Deluge. The second session, in May 2025, produced the rest of the tracks. The recording sessions were overseen by Kevin Murray. The music was mixed and produced by Phil Bancroft with input from Tom Bancroft, and the album was mastered by Garry Boyle of Stateroom Studios.

Kings Place, London announces Memory Unwrapped series for 2026.

Wednesday, October 08, 2025

Kings Place's 'Memory Unwrapped' series will run throughout 2026 with musical performances across a range of genres including contemporary classical' jazz and folk. Press release attached.

We have received the following press release;

Kings Place announce Memory Unwrapped series for 2026

Grammy Award nominee Olivia Chaney, RPS Award winners GBSR Duo and Ivor Novello Award winning composer Renell Shaw feature as Artists in Residence

Focus on British composer Steve Martland

Premieres and commissions from Sarah Davachi, Beatrice Dillon, Joe Duddell, Jennifer Higdon, Luke Lewis, Dave Maric, Deborah Pritchard, Renell Shaw and Anna Thorvaldsdottir

New partnership with Ristband Studios who present unique immersive events across opening weekend, combining performance, spatial audio and virtual reality

Special series from the Brodsky Quartet celebrating their rich history with Kings Place and I Fagiolini marking 40th anniversary

Kings Place today announced the first wave of events for Memory Unwrapped, the 18th in the venue’s award-winning series. Starting in January 2026, the series will invite audiences on a journey with artists delving into the past to reimagine the future, uncovering how memory and music can spark transformation and inspire change.

Throughout the series, Memory Unwrapped will explore the extraordinary power of music to stir innermost recollections, to preserve history and to honour the unforgettable - from vibrant stories rooted in the venue’s home of King’s Cross to tributes to the greats of spoken word and song.

Sam McShane, Artistic Director of Kings Place, said: “Music and memory are closely intertwined, offering a powerful means to reflect on the past and inspire the future.
In our year of Memory Unwrapped, we honour the artists and repertoire that have shaped the story of Kings Place Music Foundation, while also introducing new works to spark fresh connections. We are grateful to the artists who bring this vision to life and look forward to sharing performances that illuminate the past as they point towards what lies ahead.”

Artists in Residence

Singer, multi-instrumentalist and Grammy Award nominee Olivia Chaney features as an Artist in Residence for the series. With a wide range of musical influences, Chaney’s music explores inherited trauma, the clash of tradition and modernity and the paradoxes of love. She presents the debut outing of her new folk-rock band, News From Nowhere, performing new arrangements of classic folk songs and picking up where her acclaimed album The Queen of Hearts left off [27 Feb]. Chaney also celebrates her deep connection to the music of Henry Purcell with the London debut of material from her new Purcell album with a star-studded chamber ensemble, uncovering a new, more accessible side to the much-loved baroque composer [27 Jun], as well as ‘Daughters of Memory’, a meditation on the artist and muse, past and present, featuring new material as well as beloved and lesser-known songs from Chaney’s back catalogue [28 Nov].

GBSR Duo – winners of the Royal Philharmonic Society Young Artist Award 2025 – are also Artists in Residence for Memory Unwrapped. Known for fearless, intense and boundary-crossing performances, the ensemble – comprised of George Barton on percussion and Siwan Rhys on piano – has built its reputation on exceptional performances of existing piano-percussion repertoire, ambitious new commissions and inventive collaborations.

GBSR Duo’s opening concert for the series features a rare performance of Morton Feldman’s For Philip Guston, an elegy and meditation on time, friendship and memory – the concert also marks Feldman’s centenary and launches the release on Another Timbre of a 6-CD box set with the GBSR Duo and Taylor Maclennan playing all of Morton Feldman’s music for flute, piano and percussion [18 Jan]. The ensemble later returns for a collaboration with visionary electronic composer Beatrice Dillon for a new commission created especially for this performance, presented through the d&b Soundscape system in Hall Two [8 May], as well as the world premiere of a new hour-long work by Sarah Davachi utilising the d&b Enspace system, transforming Hall Two into a completely new acoustic environment [26 Sep], both commissioned by the Kings Place Music Foundation.

Ivor Novello Award winning composer, songwriter and producer Renell Shaw joins the programme as an Artist in Residence. A platinum selling songwriter who has collaborated with artists such as Rudimental, Nile Rogers, Nitin Sawhney and more, Shaw is also the co-creator of Soulful House/Afro Soul project 2fox and has composed music for theatre productions for Shakespeare’s Globe, Music Theatre Wales and Royal Court Theatre. His residency for Memory Unwrapped includes the live premiere of his Ivor Novello Award-winning piece The Windrush Suite - a heartfelt tribute to his Caribbean roots and the trailblazing Windrush generation - along with Echo in the Bones, his follow-up to The Windrush Suite which explores what it means to be Black British through the eyes of the Windrush generation’s children [25 Jun]. Shaw also presents the world premiere of the third and final chapter of The Windrush Suite as part of the series, entitled Remember Us Tomorrow – the piece looks towards the future and explores Afro-Caribbean heritage after three generations in Britain, and is both a love letter to community and a bold act of cultural preservation. A Q&A session with Shaw will also follow the performance [9 Oct].

Both Olivia Chaney and Renell Shaw feature in the opening event of Memory Unwrapped entitled ‘A Night to Remember’, in an artist takeover of the venue for an immersive night of unforgettable music and storytelling. In Hall One, Festival Voices present an hour-long journey named Fragmented Recollection, exploring memory’s shifting nature through sound with music from Philip Glass, Thomas Tallis, Roger Marsh and Ben Nobuto; next door in Hall Two, cutting-edge Ristband Studios collaborate with d&b audiotechnik to present a powerful virtual reality installation delving into collective memory, false moments and how we remember. Chaney presents an intimate set, with Shaw performing with 2fox to curate a soundtrack for the foyer space, with artists presenting genre-spanning tributes to memory through music and spoken word, celebrating icons such as Miles Davis, David Bowie and more [15 Jan].

Composer Focus – Steve Martland
Throughout 2026, Kings Place will celebrate the bold, unconventional voice of British composer Steve Martland. Known for his commitment to music education and accessibility, Martland’s legacy will shape a year of reflection and inspiration, generously supported by The Vaughan Williams Foundation and The Francis Routh Trust. Acclaimed percussionist Colin Currie has a deep connection to the music of Steve Martland – both as a close collaborator and as a performer, having premiered many of his works – and celebrates his legacy in a landmark Kings Place production: a bold, high-octane performance of the music of the Steve Martland Band with the Colin Currie Group, joined by three members of the original Steve Martland Band [17 Apr]. Other performances of Martland’s work throughout the year include the Hebrides Ensemble pairing his Kgakala and Reveille with works by his contemporaries and the next generation of British composers, including a new work by Dave Maric [27 Mar], and the Carice Singers perform Street Songs, one of Martland’s most iconic works, in an evening that explores the connections, mentorship and innovations that define the composer’s world with pieces by Steve Reich, Louis Andriessen, Julia Wolfe and the London premiere of a new work from Luke Lewis [14 May].

Premieres and Commissions

New music and commissions form an important part of programming at Kings Place and Memory Unwrapped is no exception, with over 10 premieres currently featuring throughout the series. The Colin Currie Quartet present the world premiere of Joe Duddell’s This Place, These People (a Kings Place Music Foundation commission, generously supported by the Contessa Fund), a new work for percussion quartet and vintage synths, which weaves together personal histories and musical portraiture to shine a light on unsung heroes from the King’s Cross migrant community [31 Jan]. Voces8 and Jack Liebeck showcase another world premiere and Kings Place commission, supported by the Contessa Fund, with a new work from Deborah Pritchard, paired with works by Sir James MacMillan, Caroline Shaw, JS Bach and Paul Drayton’s arrangement of Vaughan Williams’ The Lark Ascending [24 Sep].

The Attacca Quartet return to Kings Place to perform the UK premiere of Gabriela Ortiz’s Mujer Ángel in a programme that explores music’s response to grief, conflict and transcendence across time, featuring Mendelssohn’s String Quartet No. 6 and George Crumb’s searing Black Angels [24 Jan]. Grammy-nominated ensemble Neave Trio present the London premiere of Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Jennifer Higdon’s Vivid Green and Zesty Orange, paired with works by Piazzolla [13 Feb], and the Phaedra Ensemble give the UK premiere of Anna Thorvaldsdottir’s Enigma in a concert that also celebrates the 90th birthday of Steve Reich, featuring some of the composer’s most iconic works including WTC 9/11, Violin Phase and Triple Quartet [20 Mar].

Other highlights

The Brodsky Quartet celebrate their rich artistic history with Kings Place with a series of three concerts, starting with a genre-spanning programme of Frank Sinatra, Barber, Copland, Britten and more with legendary bass-baritone Sir Willard White [20 Feb]. The Quartet return in June with award-winning cellist Laura van der Heijden to perform Schubert’s Quintet [26 Jun] and again in October with a programme that illuminates the power of memory and storytelling in music, with works by Robert Davidson, Golijov, Bartók and Dvořák [1 Oct]. Acclaimed vocal ensemble I Fagiolini celebrate its 40th anniversary with a Kings Place residency, beginning with a composer portrait of Spanish renaissance master Tomás Luis de Victoria [26 Mar] before presenting a semi-staged take on Purcell’s Dido and Aeneas, paired with miniatures from King Arthur, Raise, raise the voice and From hardy climes [31 May]. The final concert of the series offers an intimate guide to Monteverdi’s 1610 Vespers, where I Fagiolini join forces with the English Cornett and Sackbut Ensemble to explore the intricate details of this work in the acoustic clarity of Hall One [18 Sep].

Kings Place Resident Ensemble Aurora Orchestra join forces with father and daughter duo Brett Dean and Lotte Betts-Dean for ‘Music of Memory’, a varied programme of music that not only celebrates Dean’s 65th birthday but also explores memory with works by Copland, Radiohead, Ives, Boulanger and Dean himself [17 Jan]. Principal players of the Orchestra later present ‘Echoes of Youth’, an evening of chamber music that forms a meditation on youth including Mozart’s Quintet for Piano and Winds K 452, Poulenc’s Sextet and Janáček’s Mládí (Youth) [19 Mar], and the Orchestra return later in the year with the BBC Singers for an evening of Psalms, featuring new settings of psalms texts by Nico Muhly, Bernstein’s Chichester Psalms and Bach’s Magnificat, conducted by Nicholas Collon and introduced by writer and author Edmund de Waal [29 Nov]. Other classical highlights include trumpeter Matilda Lloyd collaborating with the Goldmund Quartet to recreate the spirit of a 19th-century musical salon [6 Feb], and Britten Sinfonia and soprano Elizabeth Watts marking 50 years since the death of Benjamin Britten in a programme that focuses on the years he spent in North America during World War II [16 May].

The Solem Quartet also celebrate Steve Reich’s 90th birthday, performing his iconic work Different Trains; they’re also joined by acclaimed vocalist Alice Zawadzki to perform reinterpretations of songs by Kate Bush [14 Mar]. Gavin Bryars – winner of the 2024 Ivors Innovation Award – also celebrates the songs of pop legends such as Tom Waits, Leonard Cohen and Neil Young as well as Kurt Weill, with his Gavin Bryars Ensemble performing his arrangements of iconic works with singer Jess Walker [12 Jun].

Folk highlights include the Sam Sweeney Trio presenting their trademark sound of blending English folk tradition and contemporary energy, performing brand new material as well as works from across Sweeney’s discography [25 Apr], and Kris Drever – one third of award-winning supergroup Lau - plays songs from his new album alongside his storied interpretations of traditional material [26 Apr]. Cardiff-based genre-defying ensemble Slowly Rolling Camera present a rare London performance [17 Jan].

Tickets for the first wave of Memory Unwrapped events are available now on the Kings Place website. More events will be announced in due course.

Memory Unwrapped – first wave events

CLASSICAL | CONTEMPORARY CLASSICAL  

Thu 15 Jan | Multiple venues from 7.00pm
A night to remember
WITH FESTIVAL voices, olivia chaney, 2FOX, ristband studios & more
ONE NIGHT. INFINITE MEMORIES.
A bold night of encounters, celebrating memory, music and connection for the opening of Memory Unwrapped.  The night begins with Festival Voices performing a one-hour tour-de-force of Tallis, Glass, Nobuto and more; step into a live music VR experience created by Ristband Studios; and encounter the haunting intimacy of Olivia Chaney, amongst many other experiences.
£45 (£40 early bird); Half-price concessions; £10 Under-30s

Sat 17 Jan | Hall One 7.30pm
AURORA ORCHESTRA: MEMORY
WITH BRETT DEAN & LOTTE BETTS-DEAN
Copland Simple Gifts; At the River
John Adams Shaker Loops (Pt. 1 – Shaking and Trembling)
Brett Dean Epitaphs I: Only I will know; Recollections (VI. Locket)
Charles Ives Memories; The Unanswered Question
Radiohead Harry Patch (In Memory Of)
Ravel Le tombeau de Couperin (V. Menuet)
Caroline Shaw Cant voi l’aube
Couperin Les Barricades Mystérieuses (arr. Thomas Adès)
Kurtág Ligatura-Message to Frances Maria (The Answered Unanswered Question); Kafka-Fragmente (Part 4)
Paul Hindemith Trauermusik
Kurt Weill Nanna’s Lied
Nadia Boulanger Versailles
Molly Drake I Remember
Lotte Betts-Dean mezzo-soprano |  Brett Dean conductor |  Aurora Orchestra
Music and memory have a deep-rooted, emotive connection. Marking his 65th birthday year, composer-conductor Brett Dean joins mezzo-soprano Lotte Betts-Dean to weave together fragments of remembrance: tributes, elegies, snapshots, and echoes across time. Crossing centuries and voices, tonight reminds us that memory is never still – it lingers, shimmers, vanishes, and returns.
£29.50 – £69.50; Half-price concessions; £10 Under-30s

Sun 18 Jan | Hall One 3pm
GBSR DUO
for philip guston
Morton Feldman For Philip Guston
George Barton percussion |  Siwan Rhys piano/celeste |  Taylor MacLennan flutes
The close friendship between Morton Feldman and the painter Philip Guston collapsed in 1970, an estrangement that would endure until the painter’s death in 1980. Four years later Feldman would dedicate this contemplative epic to his late friend and to their lost friendship; a work that conjures an emotionally complex world of hazy perceptions and hazier reflections.
£23.50; Half-price concessions

Sat 24 Jan | Hall One 7.30pm
Attacca quartet
music of the fallen
Mendelssohn String Quartet No. 6 in F minor, Op. 80
Gabriela Ortiz Mujer Ángel
George Crumb Black Angels
Amy Schroeder and Domenic Salerni violin |  Nathan Schram viola |  Andrew Yee cello
The two-time Grammy Award-winning Attacca Quartet is recognized and acclaimed as one of the most versatile and outstanding ensembles of the moment. A true quartet for modern times, at this performance they glide through classical and contemporary repertoire as one of the world’s most innovative and respected ensembles, bringing Mendelssohn, Gabriela Ortiz and George Crumb.
£20 – £35; Half-price concessions; £10 Under-30s

Sat 31 Jan | Hall One 7.30pm
colin currie quartet
this place, these people
Andy Akiho Pillar I; Pillar IV
Joe Duddell This Place, These People (World Premiere – Kings Place Music Foundation commission, supported by the Contessa Fund)
Kevin Volans Four Marimbas
Steve Reich Drumming [Part 1]
Colin Currie, Owen Gunnell, Adrian Spillett and Sam Walton percussion
A revelatory evening of rhythm, resonance, and remembrance, led by the trailblazing Colin Currie Quartet. Featuring powerful works for percussion by some of contemporary music’s most inventive voices, this concert is a vibrant exploration of place, memory, and musical innovation. At the heart of the programme is the World Premiere of This Place, These People by Joe Duddell; a commission by Kings Place Music Foundation.
£25 – £40

Fri 6 Feb | Hall One 7.30pm
MATILDA lloyd & Goldmund quartet
JS Bach Concerto in D (after Vivaldi), BWV 972
Haydn String Quartet in E flat, Op. 33, No. 2, The Joke;
Haydn Trumpet concerto in E flat [Hob. Vlle: 1] (arr. Jan Leontsky)
Marianna von Martines La tempesta: Alfin fra le tempeste
Pauline Viardot Chanson de la Pluie; Havanaise
Fauré Le papillon et la fleur
Schubert String Quartet No.14 in D minor, Death and the Maiden, D. 810 – II. Andante con moto
Gershwin Three Preludes (arr. Michael Thomas)
Matilda Lloyd trumpet |  Florian Schötz and Pinchas Adt violin
Christoph Vandory viola |  Raphael Paratore cello
Step into the spirit of a 19th-century musical salon – a space where music meets conversation and every note tells a story. The trumpet steps into the role of host and narrator, guiding the audience on a journey through the brilliance of Bach, elegance of Haydn and dynamism of Gershwin. Notably, the programme features works by two female composers who held salon concerts, Marianna von Martines and Pauline Viardot.
£20 – £40; Half-price concessions; £10 Under-30s

Thu 12 Feb | Hall One 7.30pm
NEAVE TRIO
MUSICAL REMEMBERANCES
Clara Schumann Piano Trio in G minor, Op. 17
Rachmaninoff Trio élégiaque No. 1 in G minor
Brahms Piano Trio in B, Op. 8
Anna Williams violin |  Mikhail Veselov cello |  Eri Nakamura piano
Grammy-nominated ensemble Neave Trio invite you on an intimate journey through memory, love, and loss in this deeply expressive programme of Romantic piano trios, after their release of their album of the same title in 2022. Reflecting memory, legacy, and emotional depth through piano trios that span cultures and eras, this programme draws together three towering voices of the Romantic and late-Romantic tradition.
£20 – £40

Fri 13 Feb | Hall One 7.30pm
NEAVE TRIO
PIAZZOLLA FOUR SEASONS OF BUENOS AIRES
Piazzolla Four Seasons of Buenos Aires; Oblivion; Libertango
Jennifer Higdon Vivid Green and Zesty Orange (London premiere)
Anna Williams violin |  Mikhail Veselov cello |  Eri Nakamura piano
Grammy-nominated ensemble Neave Trio bring their dynamic artistry to this electrifying programme, blending the sultry passion of tango with vibrant contemporary colour. At the heart of the evening is Piazzolla’s Four Seasons of Buenos Aires. The programme also features the London Premiere of Vivid Green and Zesty Orange by Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Jennifer Higdon.
£25 – £50

Fri 20 Feb | Hall One 7.30pm
BRODSKY QUARTET & SIR WILLARD WHITE
Krysia Osostowicz and Ian Belton violin |  Paul Cassidy viola
Jacqueline Thomas cello |  Sir Willard White bass
Sir Willard White joins the acclaimed Brodsky Quartet for an evocative, nostalgic programme celebrating Sinatra, the Hollywood Quartet and timeless classics from Gershwin to Copland, Britten, Barber, Kern, Schubert and more. This concert pays homage to the working relationship between the Hollywood Quartet and Frank Sinatra in the 1950s which resulted in the classic Close to You album.
£25 – £55; Half-price concessions; £10 Under-30s

Sat 14 Mar | Hall One 7.30pm
SOLEM QUARTET & ALICE ZAWADSKI
different trains
Steve Reich at 90
Steve Reich Different Trains
Alice Zawadzki selected songs
Kate Bush selected songs (arr. Will Newell)
Join the Solem Quartet and Alice Zawadzki for a concert of personal histories told through music, spanning time and genre. The Solem Quartet perform Steve Reich’s iconic Different Trains, a deeply personal work; and Alice Zawadzki joins them for a set of her own songs which speak to her own story. Offering dialogue to Alice’s compositions, songs by the visionary Kate Bush complete the night in celebration.
£20 – £35; Half-price concessions; £10 Under-30s

Thu 19 Mar | Hall One 7.30pm
AURORA ORCHESTRA PRINCIPAL PLAYERS
ECHOES OF YOUTH
Mozart Quintet for piano and winds in E flat, K. 452
Poulenc Sextet for piano and winds, FP 100
Judith Weir Airs from another Planet
Janáček Mládí (Youth)
Aurora Orchestra’s Principal Players bring together three masterpieces of chamber music, each alive with the memory of a time long past. Mozart’s Quintet was the work he most wanted to be remembered for; Poulenc’s irrepressible Sextet paints a kaleidoscopic portrait of 1920s Paris; Judith Weir’s Airs from another Planet reimagines three traditional Scottish tunes; Janáček’s Mládí (Youth) reaches further back still.
£20 – £35; Half-price concessions; £10 Under-30s

Fri 20 Mar | Hall One 7.30pm
phaedra Ensemble
SLOW CHANGE: THE MUSIC OF STEVE REICH
Steve Reich at 90
Steve Reich WTC 9/11;  Violin Phase; Triple Quartet
Anna Thorvaldsdottir Enigma (UK premiere)
John Coltrane Africa (arr. Jamie Hamilton)
Phaedra Ensemble’s Slow Change explores memory and transformation through Reich’s pulsing minimalism, Coltrane’s newly arranged Africa, and Thorvaldsdottir’s expansive Enigma (UK premiere), where patterns and echoes unfold into shifting landscapes of sound. The programme is built largely around the string quartet, tracing how repetition, transformation, and memory continue to resonate in contemporary music.
£20 – £40; Half-price concessions; £10 Under-30s

Thu 26 Mar | Hall One 7.30pm
I FAGIOLINI
THE MUSIC OF TOMÁS LUIS DE VICTORIA
I Fagiolini at Kings Place
Tomás Luis de Victoria Alma Redemptoris mater; Tenebrae for Maundy Thursday; Super flumina Babylonis; Ave Maria; Vere languores nostros; Tu es Petrus; Nigra sum; Vidi speciosam
I Fagiolini |  Robert Hollingworth director
What is it about the music of Spanish Renaissance master Tomás Luis de Victoria that lifts it above other composers? As a sort of musical El Greco, there seems to be something in the aural brushwork that adds depth and spice, alongside an extraordinary joy and reverence in the text. Robert Hollingworth guides you through the symbolism with performers steeped in this music.
£25 – £60; Half-price concessions

Fri 27 Mar | Hall One 7.30pm
hebrides ensemble
shifting baseline syndrome
Composer-in-Focus Steve Martland
Steve Martland Kgakala; Reveille
Georgina MacDonell Finlayson Silent Spring
Eleanor Alberga The Wild Blue Yonder
George Crumb Vox Balaenae (Voice of the Whale)
Dave Maric Shifting Baseline Syndrome
Aileen Sweeney The Wooden Web
Hebrides Ensemble brings together bold contemporary voices exploring nature, memory, and sound. Works by Steve Martland, our Composer-in-Focus, frame a new commission from his long-time partner in performance and composition Dave Maric, Shifting Baseline Syndrome; a powerful reflection on our relationship with nature, providing a commentary on what we classify as newly accepted norms.
£25 – £32; £10 Under-30s; Half-price concessions

Fri 17 Apr | Hall One 7.30pm
colin currie group performs the music of the steve martland band
Composer-in-Focus Steve Martland
Steve Martland Horses of Instruction; Starry Night; Kick; Beat the Retreat; Eternal Delight
Colin Currie conductor / percussion |  Owen Gunnell percussion |  Siwan Rhys piano
Tim Maple electric guitar |  Malcolm Moore bass guitar |  Sam Wilson drum kit
Donald Grant violin |  Robin Michael cello |  Kyle Horch and Naomi O’Sullivan saxophones
This bold Kings Place production marks a thrilling first: the Colin Currie Group performing the music of the Steve Martland Band, unleashing the full force of Martland’s sound, epic in scale, electrifying in energy, and uncompromising in spirit. For Colin Currie, Martland was both a mentor and a close friend, with his very first professional appointment with the Steve Martland Band. Many of these iconic works were premiered by Currie himself, and tonight he reunites with several of Martland’s collaborators to deliver them with the passion, precision and raw power that defined the composer’s life and work.
£35 – £65; Half-price concessions; £10 Under-30s

Fri 8 May | Hall Two 8pm | Soundscape
GBSR DUO AND BEATRICE DILLON
  George Barton percussion |  Siwan Rhys piano |  Beatrice Dillon |  TTB
Kings Place Artists-in-Residence, GBSR Duo, team up with boundary-pushing composer and producer, Beatrice Dillon. Exploring synthetic patterning with free-hand acoustic textures, this new work, commissioned by Kings Place Music Foundation, is premiered through our immersive d&b Soundscape system. The night also features a DJ set from TTB aka Tabitha Thorlu-Bangura (Sabi Arts/NTS), the London cultural programmer and selector who combines music, radio and visual art. A one-off evening of close listening, new ideas and bold sound worlds.
£22

Thu 14 May | Hall One 7.30pm
carice singers
martland
Composer-in-Focus Steve Martland
Steve Martland ‘Dance to your Daddy’ and ‘Fire down below’ (from Sea Songs); Summer Rounds;
Street Songs; Skywalk;
Steve Reich Know what is above you
Luke Lewis [new work]
Louis Andriessen Un beau baiser
Julia Wolfe Guard my tongue
The Carice Singers |  George Parris conductor
Steve Martland was interested in the energy and the vitality of the human voice throughout his career; the Carice Singers will perform his major works for choir. Works of driven directness from American minimalist composers Steve Reich and Julia Wolfe give context to Martland’s aesthetic, and the programme also includes a piece from Martland’s teacher Louis Andriessen and a new work by Luke Lewis.
£20 – £45; Half-price concessions; £10 Under-30s

Sat 16 May | Hall One 7.30pm
britten sinfonia with elizabeth watts
britten in america
Britten Young Apollo; Les Illuminations
Copland Appalachian Spring;  Clarinet Concerto
Bowles Six Preludes
Elizabeth Watts soprano |  Oleg Shebeta-Dragan clarinet
Huw Watkins piano |  Britten Sinfonia
50 years since Britten’s death, Britten Sinfonia present a programme that focuses on the years he spent in North America during World War II. Sensuous music with a bright sheen written in Canada and the USA is paired with music by his ‘very dear friend’ and mentor, Aaron Copland, from the same decade and piano works by his student Paul Bowles, who would later become better known as the author of The Sheltering Sky.
£20 – £40; Half-price concessions; £10 Under-30s

Sun 31 May | Hall One 3pm
I FAGIOLINI
PURCELL DIDO & AENEAS
I Fagiolini at Kings Place
Purcell Dido & Aeneas; ‘The sparrow and the gentle dove’ (from Hardy Climes);
‘Mark how readily’ (Raise, raise the voice); Pavan in 4 parts / Hornpipe (King Arthur)
Julia Doyle Dido |  Frederick Long Aeneas |  Rowan Pierce Belinda
Martha McLorinan Sorceress |  I Fagiolini |  Robert Hollingworth director
I Fagiolini’s semi-staged take on Purcell’s masterpiece – written when he was just 29. So much variety in a single hour: great tunes, sparkling instrumental interludes, hysterical witches, dance music and of course the great lament, ‘When I am laid in earth’. Purcell’s varied genius is also celebrated in I Fagiolini’s amuse-bouche, perfect miniatures from Britain’s Orpheus.
£25 – £65; Half-price concessions

Fri 12 Jun | Hall One 7.30pm
gavin bryars ensemble and jess walker
AFTER THE RAIN, songs of waits, cohen and weill
Leonard Cohen A Singer Must Die; Song of Bernadette; That’s no way to say Goodbye
Kurt Weill Lost in the Stars
Tom Waits Georgia Lee; A Little Rain; Lullaby; The Briar and the Rose; Johnsburg, Illinois
Neil Young Only Love can Break your Heart
Gavin Bryars and Yuri Bryars bass / piano |  Jess Walker voice |  Audrey Riley cello
James Woodrow acoustic & electric guitar |  Morgan Goff viola |  Roger Heaton multi-wind
Gavin Bryars, recipient of the 2024 Ivors Innovation Award, is one of the most influential composers of our age. For After the Rain he reunites with the remarkable singer Jess Walker to build on their Tom Waits
collaboration, Mercy and Grand. This new programme with the Gavin Bryars Ensemble includes his hypnotic arrangements of iconic numbers by Waits, Leonard Cohen, Kurt Weill and Neil Young.
£25 – £32; Half-price concessions; £10 Under-30s

Fri 26 Jun | Hall One 7.30pm
brodsky quartet and laura van der heijden
schubert quintet
JS Bach Violin Sonata No. 3 in C, BWV 1005 (arr. Paul Cassidy)
Britten String Quartet No. 3 in G, Op. 94
Schubert String Quintet in C, Op. 163 (posth.), D. 956
Krysia Osostowicz and Ian Belton violin |  Paul Cassidy viola
Jacqueline Thomas and Laura van der Heijden cello
As part of Memory Unwrapped, The Brodsky Quartet continue their Kings Place 2026 residency with one of their recent collaborators – the young cellist, Laura van der Heijden, to perform Schubert’s String Quintet. This evening’s programme spans over two centuries of musical expression, showcasing the intimate yet powerful voice of chamber music through three distinctive works.
£20 – £35; Half-price concessions; £10 Under-30s

Sat 27 Jun | Hall One 7.30pm
olivia chaney
sons of art
Olivia Chaney’s deep connection to the music of Henry Purcell runs throughout her life. This show will be
the London debut of material from Olivia’s new Purcell album, featuring a star-studded chamber ensemble. Come and hear a modern English songwriter at the height of her powers interpreting one of England’s great composers in a refreshingly natural and contemporary way.
£22 – £30; Half-price concessions; £10 Under-30s

Fri 18 Sep | Hall One 7.30pm
I FAGIOLINI
MONTEVERDI VESPERS (1610)
I Fagiolini at Kings Place
Monteverdi 1610 Vespers
I Fagiolini |  The English Cornett and Sackbut Ensemble |  Robert Hollingworth director
I Fagiolini’s new recording of this iconic work is released in August 2026. Come and hear this celebrated Monteverdi group perform it live in their 40th anniversary with celebrated Monteverdi singers such as Nicholas Mulroy, Matthew Long, Julia Doyle, Ciara Hendrick and more plus the English Cornett & Sackbut Ensemble, it will be a feast for the senses.
£28 – £70

Thu 24 Sep | Hall One 8pm
voces8 and jack liebeck
flight of the soul
James Macmillan Domine Non Secundum
Taylor Scott Davis Effortlessly
JS Bach Partita No. 2 in D minor, BWV 1004 (with interspersed chorales)
Ola Gjeilo Serenity (O Magnum Mysterium)
Caroline Shaw and the swallow
Deborah Pritchard [new work] (World Premiere, Commissioned by Kings Place Music Foundation, with support from the Contessa Fund)
Ralph Vaughan Williams The Lark Ascending (arr. Paul Drayton)
Jack Liebeck violin |  VOCES8
Flight of the Soul brings together vocal ensemble VOCES8 with internationally acclaimed violinist Jack Liebeck in a programme that celebrates the human spirit, transcendence and transformative power of music. The flight of the soul has long inspired poets, philosophers, and composers picking up on themes including a metaphor for hope, spiritual searching and the pursuit of beauty.
£25 – £55; £10 Concessions; £10 Under-30s

Sat 26 Sep | Hall Two 7.30pm | Soundscape
GBSR Duo and Sarah Davachi
Sarah Davachi [new work] (World Premiere, Commissioned by Kings Place Music Foundation)
Artists-in-Residence GBSR Duo join forces for the very first time with acclaimed Canadian composer Sarah Davachi, one of the most distinctive voices in contemporary music today. Known internationally for her immersive and contemplative sound worlds, Davachi’s work explores the subtle intricacies of timbre and the perception of time, drawing listeners into states of heightened attention and deep listening. In this special concert, GBSR Duo give the World Premiere of a newly commissioned work by Davachi, presented in partnership with d&b audiotechnik’s en-space technology. This pioneering system allows acoustic environments to be shaped and transformed in real time, opening up a completely new dimension of listening in Hall Two.
£22; £10 Concessions

Thu 1 Oct | Hall One 7.30pm
Brodsky quartet
DVOŘÁK STRING QUARTET NO.12 ‘AMERICAN’ 
Robert Davidson ‘Remembering Stradbroke’
Osvaldo Golijov ‘Tenebrae’
Bartók String Quartet No.6
Dvořák String Quartet No.12 ‘American’
Krysia Osostowicz and Ian Belton violin |  Paul Cassidy viola |  Jacqueline Thomas cello
This ‘Memories’ inspired programme has something for everyone. From Davidson’s irresistible tropical island to Golijov’s juxtaposition of a war-torn, urban scene and a spectral vista. Bartók’s heartbreaking yearning for his beloved Hungary to Dvořák’s bristling celebration of America’s wide open spaces. Euphoria, tragedy, optimism, nostalgia – it’s all here.
£20 – £35; Half-price concessions; £10 Under-30s

Sun 29 Nov | Hall One | 16:00
AURORA ORCHESTRA: WHERE MEMORY SINGS
Memory Unwrapped
Nico Muhly New psalm settings
Bernstein Chichester Psalms
Bach Magnificat
          BBC Singers | Aurora Orchestra  
          Nicholas Collon conductor | Edmund de Waal presenter
For thousands of years the Psalms have been sung and remembered – words of sorrow, joy and hope that have travelled across generations and cultures. Aurora Orchestra’s latest collaboration with the BBC Singers brings together three composers, centuries apart, who each return to those ancient texts in their own way. At its heart is Bach’s Magnificat – Mary’s song of praise, which itself remembers and reimagines the psalm tradition in the light of Christ. Bach’s setting summons the splendour of Lutheran Leipzig, layering centuries of sacred tradition into music bursting with colour, invention and joy. Bernstein’s Chichester Psalms recalls the sounds of his Jewish heritage with music that is tender, playful and dramatic. And in newly-composed settings of psalm texts, Nico Muhly gives these timeless words a fresh, modern voice, alive with echoes and fragments like half-remembered prayers.
The programme is co-curated and introduced by writer and artist Edmund de Waal, who reflects on the Psalms as vessels of memory, carrying human experience across centuries. Together, words and music reveal the Psalms as a living thread that binds past, present and future.
£29.50-£69.50; Half-price concessions; £10 Under-30s

FOLK  

Fri 27 Feb | Hall One 7.30pm
OLIVIA CHANEY: news from nowhere
electric folk
This is the debut outing for Olivia Chaney’s glamorous new folk-rock band, which she’s calling (for now) News from Nowhere. Picking up where her acclaimed album The Queen of Hearts left off,  Olivia and her band will continue the trans Atlantic conversation that Offa Rex began through special arrangements of English and American folk classics, including Silver Dagger, Black is the Colour, and The Cuckoo.
£22 – £30; Half-price concessions

Sat 25 Apr | Hall One 7.30pm
Sam Sweeney Trio
Folk Weekend
Known for his expressive playing and bold musical vision, Sam Sweeney leads the trio through richly textured arrangements of traditional and original material. With Ben Nicholls’ deep, resonant bass and Louis Campbell’s innovative guitar work, the trio crafts a sound that is both grounded in English folk tradition and alive with contemporary energy. Sam will delve into his back catalogue and air some brand new material.
£20 – £25; Half-price concessions; £10 Under-30s

Sun 26 Apr | Hall One 7pm
kris drever
Folk Weekend
Raised in the Orkney Islands, Kris Drever has carved out a unique place at the intersection of traditional folk and modern acoustic music, as a solo artist and as one-third of the award-winning trio Lau. His solo work combines lyrics of depth and authenticity with expertly pitched arrangements, exploring themes of place, identity, and social change, delivered with clarity, compassion, and poetic insight.
£20 – £25; Half-price concessions; £10 Under-30s

Sat 28 Nov | Hall One 7.30pm
OLIVIA CHANEY
daughters of memory
This is a chance to hear some of Olivia Chaney’s latest compositions and arrangements. Olivia will perform on her characteristically virtuosic range of instruments, from the Indian harmonium to the guitar, accompanied by long-term collaborator Jordan Hunt (violin/vocals). Expect melodies and lyrics that explore motherhood, poetry, love, loss, tradition, modernity, suffering, and redemption.
£22 – £30; £10 Concessions

JAZZ  

Sun 18 Jan | Hall Two 19:30
slowly rolling camera
Dave Stapleton keyboards |  Deri Roberts electronics |  Elliot Bennett drums
Stuart McCallum guitar |  Nic Kummert saxophones |  Jon Goode bass
Since 2013, Cardiff-based Slowly Rolling Camera has emerged as a formidable force on the city’s music scene, meticulously forging a unique identity that blends soul-stirring grooves, magnetic hooks, and vivid emotional contrasts. Their signature sound establishes them as true artisans of sound, continually exploring and expanding the horizons of musical innovation.
£22; £10 Concessions

Thu 25 Jun | Hall One 7.30pm
renell shaw
the windrush suite
Renell Shaw The Windrush Suite; Echo in the Bones
Renell Shaw musical director / conductor / vocalist
Join Artist-in-Residence Renell Shaw for an evening that celebrates history, identity, and the power of music. Featuring a world-class live ensemble, intimate family recordings, and striking visuals, Shaw turns memory into music, bringing the Windrush story to life with depth and soul. The second half presents Echo in the Bones, Shaw’s electrifying follow-up to The Windrush Suite.
£20 – £25

Fri 9 Oct | Hall One 7.30pm
renell shaw
remember us tomorrow
Renell Shaw Remember Us Tomorrow
Renell Shaw musical director / conductor / vocalist
Join Artist-in-Residence Renell Shaw for the world premiere of Remember Us Tomorrow, the third and final chapter of his acclaimed work The Windrush Suite. With Remember Us Tomorrow, Shaw turns towards the future. This powerful new work asks what it means to be of Afro-Caribbean heritage after three generations in Britain, raising a fourth generation in a world that is both hyper-connected and deeply divided.
£20 – £25

CONTEMPORARY

Fri 16 Jan & Sat 17 Jan | Hall Two 5pm, 5.20pm & 5.40pm
RISTBAND PRESENTS: FORMATIONS
Ristband Studios presents a unique award-winning immersive concert combining live music, performance, spatial audio and virtual reality, taking audiences on a journey through memories that are both real and surreal. Visitors will also experience Machine Memory, an installation revealing how computers “see” the world, recognizing objects and movement, and remembering them over time.
£12.50 Early bird price

ABOUT KINGS PLACE
Kings Place is an adventurous music and arts venue with an ambition to inspire local community and promote the power of the arts in our society.  Its venues enable learning, discovery, debate and experiences that are powerfully intimate, enabling human connection between artists and audiences.
The dedicated and supportive team programmes a series of festivals and events, developing cross-arts collaborations and artistic relationships that deliver unforgettable live experiences.
The award-winning concert series, Unwrapped, is its flagship programme, exploring big ideas and overarching themes across the year. Kings Place is also the UK’s home of live podcasting as creators and hosts of the London Podcast Festival.
As a registered charity Kings Place does not receive regular public funding. Income is generated through ticket sales, donations, grants, and the staging of world-class conferences and events.

Kings Place, 90 York Way, King’s Cross, London N1 9AG
http://www.kingsplace.co.uk

Warren James - Gig schedule October 2025 - January 2026.

Tuesday, October 07, 2025

Guitarist, banjo player and vocalist Warren James has forwarded his latest newsletter including details of his forthcoming live appearances with a variety of different line ups.

Warren James writes;

The Jake Leg Jug Band / Warren James

After a summer of many sell-out gigs and great success at festivals, from the top of the UK to the most southern points The Jake Leg Jug Band are delighted to already have a busy diary for 2026 - with more dates being added all of the time and the hope of making our European debut. See our forthcoming dates by
clicking right here! https://www.thejakelegjugband.com/gigs-2

Also this year - Warren James & His Lonesome Travellers launched to a terrific success at the 36th Bude Jazz Festival in the beautiful Cornish region of the United Kingdoms! After firmly establishing his name on the UK jazz and blues scene during the last three and a half years as “our skiffle star” (Jazz Rag) Warren was very keen to demonstrate that he is no one-trick pony and has real command of that banjo!
You can find all of Warren’s jazz, blues and roots adventures right here by clicking this link;
https://warrenjamesguitar.com/tour-dates/

OCTOBER 2025

Thur 9 – Bicester, Private Engagement – 2pm to 4pm - The Silk Street Jazz Band

Fri 10 – Bretforten, The Fleece Inn – The Jake Leg Jug Band

Sat 11 – Stranraer, North West Castle Hotel Jazz festival – The Jake Leg Jug Band

Sun 12 – Dumfries, Beattock, The Stables – The Jake Leg Jug Band @ 3pm

Wed 15 – Lytham St Anne’s, Lowther Pavilion – The Jake Leg Jug Band @7:30pm

Sat 18 – Atherstone, Conservative Club, Cabaret – Hit Parade Heroes @ 9pm – Guest: Barry Meek

Wed 22 – Sutton Coldfield Jazz Club – Warren James & His Lonesome Travellers @ 8pm

Sat 25 – Bristol, Old Duke – Hit Parade Heroes @ 9pm

Thurs 30 – Carlisle, Jazz Club – The Jake Leg Jug Band @ 8pm

NOVEMBER 2025

Sat 1 – Darlington, New Orleans Jazz Club – The Story of Skiffle @ 12:30pm

Sun 2 – Worcester, Private Party – The Jake Leg Jug Band @ 6pm

Mon 3 – Suffolk, Private – Rural Touring Co - Warren James

Tues 4 – Suffolk, Private – Rural Touring Co - Warren James

Wed 5 – Suffolk, Private – Rural Touring Co - Warren James

Thur 6 – Suffolk, Private – Rural Touring Co - Warren James

Sat 8 – Street, Ellie B Jazz Weekend, Wessex Hotel – The Jake Leg Jug Band

Sun 9 – Street, Ellie B Jazz Weekend, Wessex Hotel – The Hot Tamales

Wed 12 – Bristol, Warmley Jazz Club – The Jake Leg Jug Band @ 8pm

Thurs 13 – Chaddersley Corbett, Jazz at the Swan – Warren James & His Lonesome Travellers @ 8pm

Fri 14 – Bristol, Old Duke – The Jake Leg Jug Band @ 9pm

Sat 15 – Cornwall, Calstock Arts Centre – The Jake Leg Jug Band @ 8pm

Wed 19 – Gosport Jazz Club – Warren James & His Lonesome Travellers @ 8pm

Sun 23 – Worcester, The Chestnut Tree – The Jake Leg Jug Band @ 6pm

Tues 25 – Datchet, Village Hall – The Jake Leg Jug Band @ 2pm

Wed 26 – Sutton Coldfield Jazz Club – The Hot Tamales

Thurs 27 – Chaddersley Corbett, Jazz at the Swan – The Hot Tamales

Sat 29 – UNAVAILABLE 6pm to 11:30pm

Sun 30 – Coventry, Jazzamatazz, Ansty Club – The Hot Tamales – 12:30

Sun 30 – Colchester Jazz Club – The Hot Tamales @ 7:30pm

DECEMBER 2025

Wed 3 – Bristol, Old Duke – The Jake Leg Jug Band @ 9pm

Thur 4 – Swindon, The Beehive – The Jake Leg Jug Band @ 9pm

Fri 5 – Scarborough, TBC – The Jake Leg Jug Band

Sat 6 – Louth, Louth Jazz Club – Warren James & His Lonesome Travellers @ 7:30pm

Tues 9 – Leeds, Jazz Club – The JakeLeg Jug Band @ 8pm

Fri 12 – Yorkshire TBC – The Jake Leg Jug Band

Sat 13 – Bristol, The Old Duke – Hit Parade Heroes @ 9pm

Mon 15 – Shipston on Stour, The Thirst Edition – Hit Parade Heroes @ 7:30pm

Sun 21 – Dove Holes, Village Hall – The Hot Tamales @ 1pm

Sun 21 – Birmingham, SNOBS – The Hit Parade Heroes – @ 6:30pm

Sun 28 – Solihull, Broomfields Hall and RBL – The Johnny Cash Songbook @ 12:30pm

Wed 31 - Staffordshire - Private @ 3pm to 6pm

Wed 31 – NEW YEARS EVE - Coventry, Ansty Club – Hit Parade Heroes – 9:30pm to 12:30am

2026 PERFORMANCE LIST

January 2026

Sun 4 – Stafford Jazz Club – Warren James & His Lonesome Travellers @ 12:30pm

Thur 8 – Dringhouses Jazz Club – The Jake Leg Jug Band @ 1pm

Sun 11 – Halesowen Jazz Club – Warren James & His Lonesome Travellers @ 7pm

Wed 14 – Bristol, The Old Duke – The Jake Leg Jug Band

Sat 17 – Louth, Jazz Club – Baby Jools & The Jazzaholics @ 7:30pm

Tues 20 – Hampton in Arden – Roger’s Super Club – The Jake Leg Jug Band @ 7:30pm

Sun 25 – Blackpool, The Winter Gardens - West Coast Folk Festival – The Jake Leg Jug Band

Fri 30 – Weston Super Mare, Sandbay Holiday Park, Pete Lay Weekend – Baby Jools & The Jazzaholics @ afternoon

Sat 31 – Weston Super Mare, Sandbay Holiday Park, Pete Lay Weekend – Baby Jools & The Jazzaholics

Peter Slavid - ‘European Modern Jazz’ on the radio playlist,  first broadcast 05/10/2025.

Monday, October 06, 2025

Broadcaster & journalist Peter Slavid has forwarded details of the music played on his UK & European Jazz radio show on 05/10/2025, which is available via a number of UK & international radio stations

Peter Slavid writes;

Radio Playlist from October 5th 2025

Carole Nelson Trio
Encroachment
Through the storm
Livia records

Out Front
Dark Dancing
Buried Webs
Greeneyes records

Hill Collective
Blow it up With Dynamite
Blow it up With Dynamite (EP)
self

Hanna Paulsberg Concept
Maria
Himmel over hav
Grappa

Owls in Council
Country
Letters from Nowhere
Unit Records

Anders Hagberg
Circle No. 2
With Hope
Prophone

Örjan Hultén
A second Life
Peaceful Warrior
Prophone

Maria Faust Sacrum Facere
March No. 0
Marches Rewound and Rewritten
Stunt

Petter Eldh
KON
Projekt Drums vol. II
Edition

Brad Henkel Quartet
Branch
Overstory
Trouble in the East

Dear Uncle Lennie
Six
Sister Juniper
BMC

Rolf Thofte Quintet
The Big 5
Martha’s Dance
April Records

European Modern Jazz on the radio;

At any time:
http://www.mixcloud.com/ukjazz.

Weekly:

http://www.hayesfm.org.uk 91.8 FM – West London Community Radio Sundays 12.00

http://www.purebeatradio.co.uk Sundays 7pm

http://www.listen.camp/ Sundays 7pm onward

Also as “Peter’s Eurojazz Podcast” on Apple, Amazon, Deezer and other podcast sites.

Ibrahim Maalouf releases live single and video from the Proms and announces a six city headline UK tour for June 2026.

Friday, October 03, 2025

French-Lebanese trumpeter Ibrahim Maalouf has marked his debut at the BBC Proms this July with the release of a video. He will be touring in the UK in June 2026. Press release attached.

We have received the following information and press release;

Ibrahim Maalouf has marked his debut at the BBC Proms this July with the release of a video with footage from backstage , from rehearsals, and from the performance alongside a recording of the live Proms performance of the orchestrated version of ‘Au Revoir’ with the BBC Symphony Orchestra and BBC Singers conducted by Jules
Buckley.

You can view the video here.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G7PRYQCy2bw

This coincides with news that the French Lebanese trumpeter composer will be doing a six city headline UK tour in June 2026.

Sunday, 7 June 2026 – The Great Hall, Cardiff
Monday, 8 June 2026 – The Queen’s Hall, Edinburgh
Tuesday, 9 June 2026 – University Union, Leeds
Wednesday, 10 June 2026 -O2 Ritz, Manchester
Friday, 12 June 2026 – Roundhouse, London
Saturday, 13 June 2026 – Corn Exchange, Cambridge

For tickets, please go to http://www.ibrahimmaalouf.com

Ibrahim Maalouf’s BBC Proms concert was reviewed in these pages
https://www.thejazzmann.com/reviews/review/ibrahim-maalouf-bbc-proms-royal-albert-hall-london-29-07-2025

The full press release is as follows:

Ibrahim Maalouf Shares “Au revoir” Live from BBC Proms with Jules Buckley & BBC Symphony Orchestra 2026 UK Tour, incl. London’s Roundhouse (12 June)

ListenHERE/ Watch HERE.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G7PRYQCy2bw

Twice Grammy-nominated French-Lebanese trumpeter and producer Ibrahim Maalouf today unveils a new live and orchestrated version of his track “Au revoir,” recorded at the prestigious BBC Proms in London’s Royal Albert Hall this July. Joined by conductor Jules Buckley, the BBC Symphony Orchestra and choir, Maalouf delivers a spellbinding, large-scale performance that captures the drama and lyricism of his celebrated live shows.

The release of “Au revoir” (Live at the BBC Proms) coincides with the news of a major six-date UK headline tour for June 2026, his biggest to date. Drawing on material from across Maalouf’s career, including his acclaimed 2024 album Trumpets of Michel Ange,the tour will include a headline show at London’s Roundhouse on Friday, June 12th.

UK Tour Dates:
Sunday, 7 June 2026 – The Great Hall, Cardiff
Monday, 8 June 2026 – The Queen’s Hall, Edinburgh
Tuesday, 9 June 2026 – University Union, Leeds
Wednesday, 10 June 2026 -O2 Ritz,Manchester
Friday, 12 June 2026 – Roundhouse, London
Saturday, 13 June 2026 – Corn Exchange, Cambridge

For tickets, please go to http://www.ibrahimmaalouf.com

Trumpets of Michel Ange highlights Maalouf’s pioneering quarter-tone trumpet - an instrument invented by his father to bridge Middle Eastern and Western scales. Each composition on the album is written and performed on this unique four-valve trumpet. The artwork features a 1925 photograph of Maalouf’s grandfather with his village band in Lebanon. Praised as a “virtuoso” by the New York Times and “a living legend” by Jon Batiste, Maalouf has released sixteen acclaimed albums, performed to an audience of six million at the Eiffel Tower on Bastille Day, and sold-out Paris’s Accor Arena three times. Recent projects include Queen of Sheba with Angélique Kidjo (Grammy nominee Best Global Album) and Capacity to Love, featuring De La Soul, Gregory Porter and more.

“The Proms recording was a special night,” says Maalouf. “It’s a privilege to share that energy and to bring these new UK concerts to life.”

Brick Lane Jazz Festival announces the first wave of artists for 2026.

Saturday, September 27, 2025

Brick Lane Jazz Festival has announced the first wave of artists for their fifth birthday edition, which will take place from 24th – 25th April 2026.

We have received the following press release;

Brick Lane Jazz Festival announces the first wave of artists for their fifth birthday edition, including first headliner Brian Jackson

24th – 26th April 2026 | Early bird tickets start from just £29.95

Alexander Flood, Alici , Amanda Whiting, Arjuna Oakes, Brian Jackson, Charlie Stacey, Daoud, Footshooter (live), Gabriele Poso (Live), IAMNOBODI, Knats, Kwame Yeboah, Leif Kaner-Lidström, Levitation Orchestra, Meron T, Ruby Rushton, Saiming, SHOLTO & Finn Rees, TABLE, Tia Gordon, Wilfy D

Today, Brick Lane Jazz Festival announces the first wave of artists for their fifth birthday edition, which will take place from 24th – 25th April 2026.

Growing from its modest debut across four venues in 2022 to a 12-stage extravaganza spanning Brick Lane and Shoreditch in just three years, the festival was named #1 Best London Festival by The London Standard in 2024, and has earned plaudits from the likes of The Guardian, Metro, NOTION, Clash, The Line Of Best Fit, Jazzwise, All About Jazz, UK Jazz News, Elle, Wonderland, TimeOut, Jazz FM, Rinse FM, One Jazz, Worldwide FM, and many more. Since 2024, the festival has also amplified its impact with the launch of BLJF Presents - a year-round series of events showcasing the UK’s most exciting artists, record labels, and parties. After sell-out shows in Manchester, Brighton, London and more, BLJF Presents is heading to new heights in 2025/26 with more regional stops in the likes of Bristol and Glasgow, as well as two international shows in Brussels in November.

Having firmly established itself as a cornerstone of East London’s musical landscape, Brick Lane Jazz Festival has earned a reputation for spotlighting local artists and emerging trailblazers from the city’s thriving underground scenes, whilst honouring the jazz legends that have come before them. 2026’s edition sees them continue to hold down this tradition, bringing together an eclectic range of genre-defying artists to play against the backdrop of some of the capital’s most renowned cultural hotspots. All the festival venues are within a short walk from the central hub at the iconic Truman Brewery space on Brick Lane, transforming the site and surrounding area into a vibrant hive of gig-hopping excitement for three days every April.

Reflecting on this fifth birthday edition, the festival’s Founder, Juliet Kennedy says, “From day one, Brick Lane Jazz Festival has been about shining a light on the incredible talent in London’s jazz scene. Five years on, Brick Lane Jazz Festival has grown into a landmark celebration of the UK’s underground music community. It’s been incredible to see the festival become a space where artists and audiences connect so powerfully – and this is only the beginning. Our ambition is to keep pushing boundaries and championing the next wave of talent for many years to come. We’re only just getting started!”

The first wave of 2026’s stellar line-up sees them bringing together a borderless array of artists that span jazz, alt-rap, neo-soul, R&B, neo-classical, electronic music, and more. It also sees the announcement of the festivals first headliner, jazz-funk legend and Gil Scott-Heron collaborator, Brian Jackson. It also brings together the likes of Australian beat-master Alexander Flood, recent Geordie Greep (ex-black midi) and Eddie Chacon touring band Knats, spiritual jazz collective Levitation Orchestra, Tenderlonious-led South London jazz outfit Ruby Rushton, Ghanian multi-instrumentalist Kwame Yeboah, and many more.

The full line-up so far is as follows:
Brian Jackson
Alexander Flood, Alici , Amanda Whiting, Arjuna Oakes, Charlie Stacey, Daoud, Footshooter (live), Gabriele Poso (Live), IAMNOBODI, Knats, Kwame Yeboah, Leif Kaner-Lidström, Levitation Orchestra, Meron T, Ruby Rushton, Saiming, SHOLTO & Finn Rees, TABLE, Tia Gordon, Wilfy D

2026 will mark the first year that the Greentea-Peng-approved venue Mad Cats will feature as one of the festival’s stages alongside Village Underground, Ninety One Living Room (hosted by Jazz re:freshed), Rough Trade East, 93 Feet East, Rich Mix, Juju’s Bar & Stage, The Brick Lane Tap Room (hosted by Tomorrow’s Warriors), and many more.

2026 will once again see the festival partner with Jazz re:freshed and Tomorrow’s Warriors, both vital community organizations that nurture emerging talent in UK jazz. As always, those without tickets can also enjoy free-entry spaces throughout the site, including The Brick Lane Tap Room, The Big Chill, 93 Feet East, and Cafe 1001.

Early bird tickets for the festival are now on sale with day passes starting from just £29.95, and weekend passes from £89.95. Tickets and more info are available HERE
https://bookings.kaboodle.com/tickets?t=kaboodle-9y4i4&c=202&p=24960&k=878a15279e5367e1334b6a2dbf51879bedb52c5d

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Tomorrow’s Warriors announces key new appointments to Board of Trustees & Senior Management Team.

Tuesday, September 23, 2025

Tove Okunniwa MBE becomes Chair, Jez Nelson MBE & Gloria Fagbemiro FCMI appointed Trustees, Sian Lord-Baptiste appointed COO & Erin Barnes Head of Learning, Outreach & Engagement. Press release att.

We have received the following press release;

Tomorrow’s Warriors announces key new appointments to Board of Trustees & Senior Management Team

Tove Okunniwa MBE becomes Chair,
Jez Nelson MBE & Gloria Fagbemiro FCMI appointed Trustees,
Sian Lord-Baptiste appointed COO
& Erin Barnes Head of Learning, Outreach & Engagement

Tomorrow’s Warriors appoints new leaders in landmark step for diversity in UK Jazz .

Award-winning jazz talent development organisation, creative producer and charity Tomorrow’s Warriors announced today a series of dynamic new appointments to its Board of Trustees and Senior Management Team.

Tomorrow’s Warriors welcomes Tove Okunniwa MBE as its new Chair of the Board of Trustees, taking over from Viv Broughton (who remains a Trustee), bringing decades of strategic marketing and leadership experience. She is joined by Gloria Fagbemiro FCMI, a seasoned executive and organisational development consultant, as Trustee/Secretary, and Jez Nelson MBE, celebrated broadcaster, media executive and lifelong champion of jazz, as Trustee.

Further strengthening the organisation’s leadership, Sian Lord-Baptiste takes up the role of Chief Operating Officer, drawing on her extensive experience in media and the third sector, while Erin Barnes brings 25 years of creative learning expertise to her new position as Head of Learning, Outreach & Engagement.

A Black-founded and Black-led organisation, Tomorrow’s Warriors continues to expand its vision as it enters the next chapter of growth, with a focus on women in leadership and a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion both on and off stage. Its new Senior Management Team is now 83% female (5 out of 6 members) and 67% global majority (4 out of 6 members). This bold commitment to equity and inclusion ensures the organisation’s leadership reflects the diverse communities it serves.

These appointments follow the recent announcement of Tomorrow’s Warriors as an official Resident Organisation of Southbank Centre, where it has had a long-standing relationship to run its acclaimed Talent Development Programme since 2009. Bolstering the leadership signals a defining moment in Tomorrow’s Warriors’ plans for growth, reinforcing its capacity and resilience to deliver its bold vision: to inspire, nurture and champion the next generation of jazz talent and leaders in music, the arts and creative industries long into the future.

Janine Irons OBE, Co-Founder and CEO said
“These appointments mark the beginning of an exciting new era for Tomorrow’s Warriors. With such a dynamic, visionary, and diverse team at the helm, we are poised to grow our impact, deepen our legacy, and continue breaking down barriers for the next generation of artists and leaders. It’s a bold step forward that reflects both our history and our future. Representation at the highest level of leadership isn’t just symbolic, it’s essential. For Tomorrow’s Warriors, having leaders who reflect the diverse communities we serve means our young people can see themselves in positions of influence and power. It strengthens our voice, deepens our impact, and ensures that the values of equity and inclusion are not just spoken about, but lived at every level of the organisation.”

Dr Gary Crosby OBE, Co-Founder and Artistic Director said;
“From day one, Tomorrow’s Warriors has always been about opening doors and developing creativity. With this incredible team, we can push even further and ensure that people from all backgrounds are welcome, supported and can find a place and future for themselves in jazz.”

Tove Okunniwa MBE, Chair of the Board of Trustees said;
“It’s a huge honour to join Tomorrow’s Warriors as the new Chair of the Board of Trustees;  it is an inspirational organisation that I’ve admired for a very long time. Gary and Janine have built something truly unique and have had an important impact on the world of music in the UK, bringing opportunity to so many young people and unleashing an extraordinary amount of talent. I’m delighted to join them at such an exciting time and to help the founders, the board and the whole Tomorrow’s Warriors team in any way I can to realise their ambitious plans for the future.”

Gloria Fagbemiro FCMI, Trustee/Secretary said;
“I’ve seen first-hand the life-changing impact Tomorrow’s Warriors has on young musicians. To now join the Board of the Trustees is a privilege. I’m passionate about strengthening the organisation’s governance, so it can continue to nurture diverse talent and champion equity in the music industry for generations to come.”

Jez Nelson MBE, Trustee said; “For me Tomorrow’s Warriors is the most important British jazz organisation in the history of the music. As a broadcaster and producer, I’ve worked with them for more than 30 years and marvelled at their achievements. To now be appointed a Trustee is an honour and a joy.”

Sian Lord-Baptiste, Chief Operating Officer said
“I have been a long time supporter and admirer of Tomorrow’s Warriors. It is more than a charity, it’s a movement. I am excited to join the leadership team at this key moment and help realise its bold vision for a more inclusive and innovative future in the arts.”

Erin Barnes, Head of Learning, Outreach & Engagement said;
“I’m thrilled to join Tomorrow’s Warriors, an organisation whose values and vision I deeply share. Music has the power to transform lives, and I look forward to working with our brilliant young musicians, partners and communities to nurture creativity, equity and opportunity, ensuring every young person has the chance to thrive through music.”

Mini Biographies – New Appointments:

Tove Okunniwa MBE – Brings an unparalleled blend of strategic marketing expertise and executive and non-executive leadership across media, sport and the arts. Her early career at London Symphony Orchestra and Southbank Centre, alongside senior executive roles at the BBC and as CEO of London Sport and non-executive positions as vice-chair of Sport England and trustee at Catch 22 bridges Tomorrow’s Warriors’ grassroots work with the highest levels of cultural and institutional influence.

Gloria Fagbemiro FCMI – Having steered Tomorrow’s Warriors for over 12 years as COO, Gloria returns as a Trustee with unique institutional knowledge and governance expertise. As Founder of Dynamic Development Consulting, she continues to champion inclusive talent development, ensuring the organisation’s next chapter is built on both solid foundations and bold ambition.

Jez Nelson MBE – Few people have done more to amplify jazz in the UK. From founding pirate station K-Jazz to founding and leading Somethin’ Else, and shaping the sound of Jazz FM and BBC Radio, Jez brings unrivalled cultural clout, entrepreneurial vision and lifelong advocacy for jazz to Tomorrow’s Warriors, strengthening its voice and impact nationally and internationally.

Sian Lord-Baptiste - A proven change-maker, Sian has held senior roles at the BBC and led projects with the UN, British Council and Nike Foundation. At Purposeful, she scaled the organisation into a global charity with operations across regions. Known for her inclusive, people-centred leadership, she brings a strong commitment to diversity, representation and organisational growth.

Erin Barnes – A creative learning specialist with 25 years of experience in education and youth engagement, Erin has produced pioneering youth projects at the BBC, Tate, National Literacy Trust, and UNICEF. She will play a key role in supporting Tomorrow’s Warriors to inspire, equip and elevate young talent across communities.

Full Board of Trustees – Tove Okunniwa MBE (Chair), Peter Comber FCA (Treasurer), Gloria Fagbemiro FCMI (Trustee/Secretary), Steve Abbott (Trustee), Vivian Broughton (Trustee), Dr Margaret Busby CBE (Trustee), Nick Cornforth (Trustee), Camilla George (Trustee), Jez Nelson MBE (Trustee), Nicky O’Donnell (Trustee), Chris Panayi (Trustee). https://tomorrowswarriors.org/about/trustees-and-committee-members/

Tomorrow’s Warriors Senior Management Team - Janine Irons OBE (Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer), Dr Gary Crosby OBE (Co-Founder & Artistic Director), Sian Lord-Baptiste (Chief Operating Officer), Fish Krish (Head of Special Projects), Erin Barnes (Head of Learning, Outreach & Engagement), Indy Vidyalankara (Head of Press & Public Relations).

About Tomorrow’s Warriors:  Tomorrow’s Warriors is a pioneering talent development agency, creative producer, learning and training provider, charity and consultancy specialising in jazz. Founded in 1991 by Queen’s Medal for Music recipient Dr Gary Crosby OBE and Janine Irons OBE, TW helps aspiring young artists from diverse backgrounds discover their magic and achieve creative ambitions. Since inception, Tomorrow’s Warriors has reached over 15,000 young people aged 11-25 through its unique Talent Development Programme, providing each musician with between 1,000-5,000 hours of free jazz training and development. TW nurtures nascent talent and builds engaged, culturally diverse audiences. Tomorrow’s Warriors has provided a crucial development platform for many of the artists now tearing up the international music scene – including BRIT Award and Mercury Prize winners EZRA Collective, as well as Moses Boyd, Nubya Garcia, Cassie Kinoshi and Nérija, Binker Golding, Shabaka Hutchings and Sons of Kemet, CHERISE, ESKA, Denys Baptiste, Soweto Kinch, Zara McFarlane and many more. With a dedicated resident space at The Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall to host its Young Artist Development Programme aimed at talent aged 11-25 years old, comprising of learning and participation, artist development and professional performances. The Emerging Artist Programme delivers mentoring, performance opportunities, training, traineeships, talks, masterclasses, and bursaries to support artists into professional careers, many securing paid, often high-profile, opportunities across a broad spectrum of the industry.  Tomorrow’s Warriors is proud to be a National Portfolio Organisation of Arts Council England and a PRS Foundation Talent Development Partner. Tomorrow’s Warriors is pivotal in elevating UK jazz, valued by its alumni and respected by funding partners for the impact delivered through its pipeline for outstanding, diverse talent. 
https://tomorrowswarriors.org/

Tomorrow’s Warriors is a not for profit company and a Registered Charity No 1153613. Give today to Tomorrow’s Warriors at https://cafdonate.cafonline.org/13423

Cheltenham Jazz Club - Programme for Autumn 2025 and Spring 2026.

Monday, September 22, 2025

Cheltenham Jazz Club has announced its programme for Autumn 2025 and Spring 2026. Details attached.

Please find our Autumn /Winter schedule. There is plenty of choice, and as always high-quality live jazz.

Cheltenham Jazz Events ›Under Milkwood by the Clark Tracey Sextet
Under Milkwood by the Clark Tracey Sextet
The Victory Club, Cheltenham, GL50 2SY
Monday 29th September 2025
Much acclaimed jazz drummer Clark Tracey has been leading his own bands since 1981 and currently leads an ever-evolving quintet as well as tribute bands to his father, the late Stan Tracey.
His latest quintet features a few of the most exciting young musicians today. They recently recorded their first CD, which is due for release in the New Year. The unusual inclusion of a vocalist in Clark’s quintet, next to a horn player, offers another soundscape with which to work.  An exceptional vocalise artist, Emily Masser adds rhythm and words from the heart of Bebop, as well as beautiful lyrics.
Clark Tracey - drums
Be Tracy - Vocals
Sharon Myfanwy White - vocals
Simon Allen - Tenor
Gareth Williams - Piano
Andrew Cleyndert - Bass
https://clarktracey.com/
Tickets available on the door or online at
https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/cheltenham-jazz/under-milkwood-by-the-clark-tracey-sextet/e-egopkg

THE EMILY MASSER QUARTET
WHEN: 8.00 pm, Monday 27 October 2025
WHERE: The Irving Studio,Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham
Tickets: £20.00
Emily Masser – Vocals
Matyas Gayer – Piano
James Owston - Bass
Steve Brown – Drums
Rising star Emily Masser is an astonishing vocalist. She first sang at Cheltenham Jazz Club in January 2024 as a member of the The Clark Tracy Quintet, with the quintet’s debut album, “Introducing Emily Masser”, showcasing her arrangements and vocals. She will be performing tonight with her own quartet. Featuring a mix of modern twists on jazz standards and Emily’s vocal approach to vocalese and bebop.
Tickets available from the Everyman Theatre Box Office 01242 572573 or http://www.everymantheatre.org.uk
https://emilymasser.co.uk/

THE DAVE NEWTON ALL STAR QUINTET
WHEN: 8.00 pm, Friday 14 November 2025
WHERE: The Victory Club Ballroom Burlington House, Lypiatt Road Cheltenham.
Tickets: CJ Members £17.00, non members £20.00
Dave Newton – Piano & Personnel TBC            
Tickets available on the door or online at http://www.ticketsource.co.uk

Looking ahead to 2026

8pm Monday January 19th at The Everyman Studio. Sam Braysher Quartet - Sam (alto sax), Matyas Gayer (piano), Tom Farmer (bass), Steve Brown (drums).

8pm Monday February 23rd at the Everyman Studio. Alex Hitchcock Quartet - Alex (saxes), Will Barry (piano), Joe Downard (bass), Luke McCarthy (drums).

8pm Monday March 23rd at the Victory Club. Hans Koller ‘Thelonious’ Quartet - Hans (piano), Tony Kofi (saxes), Calum Gourlay (bass), Noah Ojumu (drums).

https://www.cheltenhamjazz.co.uk/

Peter Slavid - ‘European Modern Jazz’ on the radio playlist,  first broadcast 21/09/2025.

Monday, September 22, 2025

Broadcaster & journalist Peter Slavid has forwarded details of the music played on his UK & European Jazz radio show on 21/09/2025, which is available via a number of UK & international radio stations

Radio Playlist from 21st Sept 2025

Led Bib
Iron Ore
Hotel Pupik
Cuneiform

Vincent Peirani
Nach e Vlado
Living Being IV: Time Reflections
ACT

Francesco Desiato Ivano Leva
Everybody’s song but my own
Caos Melancolico - omaggio a Kenny Wheeler
Dodicilune

Agnas Brothers
Cheeseburger
Sista Försöket
Moserobie

Björn Lücker Berlin Ensemble
Exit
Tea for Five
Unit Records

Ragawerk
Karela
Nila
O-tone

Magnus Schriefl
Meret’s Magic Moves
Blume
Unit Records

Hi Res Heart
The Twister
Move Fast and Mend Things
Discus

Paul Dunmall
It’s not always as it seems
Away With Troubles And Anxieties!
Discus

Theorem of Joy
El Haik Dance Floor
Feux
Bridge the Gap

Matthieu Donarier
Whim Wham
Coastline
Yolk

Riccardo Chiarion
Snow Dance
Waves
Caligola Records

European Modern Jazz on the radio;

At any time:
http://www.mixcloud.com/ukjazz.

Weekly:

http://www.hayesfm.org.uk 91.8 FM – West London Community Radio Sundays 12.00

http://www.purebeatradio.co.uk Sundays 7pm

http://www.listen.camp/ Sundays 7pm onward

Later as “Peter’s Eurojazz Podcast” on Apple, Amazon, Deezer and other podcast sites.

Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club To Open New Live Music Venue.

Thursday, September 18, 2025

Launching in February 2026 after a major transformation, the newly designed Upstairs at Ronnie’s will be augmented by a brand new members’ lounge and artist space – The Greene Rooms.

We have received the following press release;

Legendary Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club To Open New Live Music Venue

Launching in February 2026 after a major transformation, the newly designed Upstairs at Ronnie’s ushers in a new era at the UK’s most popular independent music venue

For the first time in its history, the club will also be opening its backstage spaces to the public with a brand new members’ lounge and artist space – The Greene Rooms

Tickets for Upstairs at Ronnie’s are on-sale now and available from http://www.ronniescotts.co.uk

London, September 18, 2025. Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club today announces the February 2026 opening of Upstairs at Ronnie’s, a newly reimagined 140-capacity music venue on the first floor of the world-famous Soho institution.

The upstairs space, which for many years hosted a vibrant live programme before closing for refurbishment in 2024, has undergone a complete transformation as part of a major revamp of the entire building. Now rebuilt as a purpose-designed, intimate auditorium, it pays homage to the club’s six-decade legacy while looking firmly to the future, and incorporates a striking new interior, enhanced acoustics, high-spec Yamaha and D&B Audio sound and lighting systems, an upgraded stage, a Yamaha S3X Grand Piano, and a brand-new state-of-the-art kitchen. Newly appointed executive chef Steven Connolly will deliver a culinary offering to match the club’s world-class musical reputation.

Honouring the long-standing Ronnie Scott’s reputation, the new venue will present the finest jazz and jazz-adjacent acts, alongside genre-crossing performances in contemporary soul, acoustic R&B, gospel, hip-hop, global music, and classical. Upstairs at Ronnie’s will also host its own version of the celebrated Ronnie Scott’s Late Late Show, providing more opportunities to showcase emerging grassroots talent at a range of ticket prices to keep shows accessible to all.

The opening programme will feature a Piano Trio Series spotlighting some of the leading lights of UK jazz including Ashley Henry, Reuben James, Charlie Stacey, and DoomCannon; a straight-ahead vocal jazz jam hosted by Natalie Williams, Emma Smith, and Georgia Cécile; acoustic soul and R&B from club favourites Vula Malinga, Vanessa Haynes, and Tony Momrelle, plus innovative singer-songwriter Tawiah and garage and house legend Elisabeth Troy; the first ever Ronnie Scott’s Classical Series co-directed by Lizzie Ball and James Pearson, featuring the Ronnie Scott’s Classical All Stars and a hand-picked line-up of acclaimed classical soloists and ensembles; and the brand-new Ronnie Scott’s Gospel Choir.

For the first time in its history, Ronnie Scott’s will also be opening its backstage spaces to the public. Transformed into The Greene Rooms – named in honour of owner Sally Greene – a brand new “club within a club” will serve as a members’ lounge and artist space. The secluded, first-floor setting provides a quintessentially Soho retreat for pre- and post-show gatherings, intimate events, artist meet-and-greets, and exclusive talks and workshops.

This redevelopment marks the most significant transformation of Ronnie Scott’s since its 2005 acquisition and reopening by Sally Greene and Michael Watt. The club’s investment comes at a pivotal moment for the UK live music sector, with The Music Venue Trust reporting that 16% of grassroots venues closed in 2023, while more than 40% operated at a loss. Against this backdrop, the redevelopments are part of a broader investment in the club’s future, underscoring its commitment to sustaining the UK’s legendary live music scene.

Fred Nash, Managing Director of Ronnie Scott’s:
“With Upstairs at Ronnie’s, we set ourselves the somewhat audacious goal of creating the greatest small live music venue in the world.  In all seriousness, it’s about creating a beautiful, intimate space where audiences can experience extraordinary performances, and where artists feel truly valued. At a time when so many venues face uncertainty, we’re proud to be investing in live music, championing grassroots talent, and supporting Soho’s vibrant cultural community.”

With over 65 years at the heart of the UK jazz scene, Ronnie Scott’s continues to evolve, championing innovation and diversity while honouring its storied past. Upstairs at Ronnie’s represents the next chapter in this legacy, set to become an essential addition to Soho’s cultural landscape and as renowned a space for live music as the now legendary downstairs jazz club.

The transformation of Upstairs at Ronnie’s is led by Archer Humphryes Architects as principal architects and interior designers, with The Greene Rooms interiors designed by Pirajean Lees.

Tickets for Upstairs at Ronnie’s are on-sale now and available from http://www.ronniescotts.co.uk.

Announcing The Gilmore’s Inaugural Bell Young Jazz Artist Awardees.

Wednesday, September 10, 2025

The Gilmore, Kalamazoo, Michigan today announced Tyler Bullock and Esteban Castro as the recipients of The Gilmore’s inaugural 2026 Larry J. Bell Young Jazz Artist Awards for artistic excellence.

We have received the following press release;

ANNOUNCING THE GILMORE’S INAUGURAL 2026 LARRY J. BELL YOUNG JAZZ ARTIST AWARDEES: TYLER BULLOCK AND ESTEBAN CASTRO

A conversation with the Bell Young Artists + acclaimed pianist Bill Charlap now streaming at http://www.thegilmore.org and via The Gilmore’s YouTube channel.

KALAMAZOO, MI (09.10.25) — Dr. Pierre van der Westhuizen, Executive and Artistic Director of The Gilmore, today announced Tyler Bullock and Esteban Castro as the recipients of The Gilmore’s inaugural 2026 Larry J. Bell Young Jazz Artist Awards, recognizing artistic excellence. Each winner receives a $25,000 stipend to further their musical career and educational development. Master pianist Bill Charlap honoured Tyler and Esteban in a virtual award presentation, now streaming at http://www.thegilmore.org and via The Gilmore’s YouTube channel.

“It has long been a dream of The Gilmore’s to support the next generation of exceptional jazz pianists. We are happy to celebrate and recognize these two bright young stars who are transforming the soundtrack of tomorrow. I hope this gift gives them the courage to create, be bold, and build bridges between jazz’s history and possibility.”     
LARRY J. BELL, Past President of The Gilmore’s Board of Trustees

“We are thrilled to welcome Tyler and Esteban to the family of Gilmore young artist award winners. Each of these young men reflect the extraordinary diversity of voices shaping the future of jazz music. We are excited to support their development and honored to help further their ascending careers.”
SETH ABRAMSON, Director of The Gilmore’s Jazz Awards

Founded along with The Gilmore’s inaugural Bell Jazz Artist Award (to be presented in October 2025), the Bell Young Jazz Artists Awards are bestowed every four years to spotlight the most promising of the new generation of pianists living in the United States, age 24 and younger. The Awards provide the artists an inimitable platform for embarking on a career and offering audiences and listeners a chance to discover emerging jazz artists.

Candidates for the Award are nominated by music professionals from around the world. Those nominated are evaluated over an extended period of time for their pianism and musical promise by the Jazz Awards Artistic Advisory Committee. The process is carried out anonymously, and candidates are unaware of their own consideration.
       

Tyler and Esteban will perform solo recitals during the 2026 Gilmore Piano Festival, April 30 – May 10, 2026, in Kalamazoo, Michigan.

About Tyler Bullock  
Tyler Bullock II is a dynamic pianist and composer located in New York City. Since moving from Nashville to attend the Juilliard School (BM 2025), Tyler has already established himself as one of the most promising pianists of his generation, having worked with Samara Joy, Sean Jones, Dee Dee Bridgewater, The Baylor Project, Herlin Riley, Willie Jones III, Sherman Irby, Ulysses Owens Jr., Bruce Williams, Curtis Lundy, Roy Hargrove Crisol and The Roy Hargrove Big Band – where he has been the regular pianist since 2022. In 2023, Tyler recorded an album with Ulysses Owens Jr.’s Gen Y Band at Rudy Van Gelder studio that spent eight weeks at #1 on the Jazz Radio Charts. Most recently, he recorded with Sean Jones for an upcoming album.
Tyler has toured internationally and played at top festivals and venues including Carnegie Hall, The Kennedy Center, Jazz at Lincoln Center, The Newport Jazz Festival, Monterey Jazz Festival, The Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Caramoor Jazz Festival, The Vancouver Jazz Festival, Blue Note NYC, Dizzy’s Club NYC, and The Cotton Club in Tokyo. In 2022, Tyler was honored at the National Young Arts top winner in jazz piano. He was also chosen for Carnegie Hall’s National Youth Orchestra Jazz in 2021 and for the NYO Jazz All-Stars in 2023. In 2024, he was selected to participate in the acclaimed Betty Carter Jazz Ahead program at The Kennedy Center.
https://tylerbullock2.com/

About Esteban Castro
Esteban Castro is a Brooklyn-based pianist and composer born in 2002. Esteban started playing piano at age three, and quickly started improvising and composing at a young age. Esteban furthered their studies in both jazz and classical music privately with teachers including Fred Hersch and Phillip Kawin, and by participating in many high school programs such as the Manhattan School of Music Precollege and Jazz House Kids. In 2020, Esteban started studies at the Juilliard School on a full tuition scholarship, and graduated with their Bachelor of Music in 2024.
Since moving to New York, Esteban Castro has performed nationally and internationally as a leader, and as a sideman for bands led by artists such as Ambrose Akinmusire, Billy Drummond, Francesco Cafiso, Peter Evans, Joe Farnsworth, Giveton Gelin, Russell Hall, Harish Raghavan, and Ben Solomon, among others. In 2016, Esteban was the youngest-ever first prize winner of the Montreux Jazz Piano Solo Competition. Later, they were selected as a finalist for the 2023 American Piano Awards and is a winner of the 2025 Gilmore Festival Bell Young Jazz Award.       
https://www.estebanjazz.com/

About Larry J. Bell Jazz Artist Awards      
Mirroring the internationally renowned Gilmore Artist Awards for classical pianists, the Larry J. Bell Jazz Artist Awards provides some of the most generous financial support given in the musical arts. The Jazz Awards program was established in 2022 with an $8.8 million gift to The Gilmore’s endowment and is named for Kalamazoo businessman and Past President of the Gilmore International Piano Festival Board of Trustees, Larry J. Bell, who founded Bell’s Brewery in 1985. The Larry J. Bell Young Jazz Artist Awards are presented every four years. The Larry J. Bell Jazz Artist Award will be conferred every four years to a jazz pianist with the inaugural recipient to be announced in October 2025.

About The Gilmore  
Created in 1989 to honour the legacy of businessman and philanthropist Irving S. Gilmore, The Gilmore is the premier institution in the United States dedicated exclusively to commissioning, performing and awarding extraordinary piano artistry. The Gilmore has presented 16 piano festivals, commissioned over 40 new works for piano, and awarded over $3 million as part of its internationally renowned Gilmore Artists Awards for classical pianists. The Gilmore will present its annual (previously biennial) Gilmore Piano Festival April 30-May 10 in 2026. Based in Kalamazoo, Michigan, The Gilmore continues to impact the lives of thousands of area children and adults through its year-round community engagement and music education programs including summer camps, music therapy, and much more.

Peter Slavid - ‘European Modern Jazz’ on the radio playlist,  first broadcast 07/09/2025.

Monday, September 08, 2025

Broadcaster & journalist Peter Slavid has forwarded details of the music played on his UK & European Jazz radio show on 07/09/2025, which is available via a number of UK & international radio stations

Radio playlist from Sept 7th 2025

Biguine Extension
Pa Oubliye
Biguine Extension
Bizon Art

Johnny Richards & Dave King
Sleepless in Settle
The New Awkward
False Door

Aki Rissanen
High Expectations
Imaginary Mountains
Edition

Brigitte Beraha
What does it mean (to be)
Teasing Reflections
Let me out records

David Helbock & Julia Hofer
Woman’s Dance Version 1
Faces of Night
ACT

Ban, Surman,Manieri
Transylvanian Folk Dance
Cantica Profana
Sunnyside

Hugh Pascall
No Dice
Viewfinder
Self Aware records

Vitaly Burtsev
Konfusion
Past Tension
Unit Records

Prolex
MAS
Prolex (EP)
Auand

Fosterchild
First Stasimon
Order at Agan
Boomslang

Liv Andrea Hauge Trio
Natt natt natt
Døgnville
Hubro

Harald Lassen
Lite Sted
RIK
Jazzland

David Helbock & Julia Hofer
Woman’s Dance Version 2
Faces of Night
ACT

Nils Pettar Molvaer
Kakonita
KHMER Live in Bergen
Edition

European Modern Jazz on the radio;

At any time:
http://www.mixcloud.com/ukjazz.

Weekly:

http://www.hayesfm.org.uk 91.8 FM – West London Community Radio Sundays 12.00

http://www.purebeatradio.co.uk Sundays 10am

http://www.listen.camp/ Sundays 7pm onward

Also as “Peter’s Eurojazz Podcast” on Apple, Amazon, Deezer and other podcast sites.

Persian and Middle Eastern music in London, York and Canterbury - September 2025 - April 2026.

Wednesday, September 03, 2025

Artstage, one of the world’s leading promoters of Persian & Middle Eastern music will present a series of performances in the UK including several events forming part of the EFG London Jazz Festival.

We have received the following press release;

Artstage is one of the world’s leading promoters of Persian and Middle Eastern music – and they have a series of concerts coming up in London, including numerous shows as part of this year’s London Jazz Festival in November.

The concerts will feature some of the most celebrated artists from across the region including legendary composer and virtuoso instrumentalist Hossein Alizadeh, one of the leading forces in Persian jazz Arshid Azarine, and a unique collaboration between Armenian and Iranian musicians Arsen Petrosyan, Adib Rostami and Mehdi Rostami.

LISTINGS:

GRASS: A NATION’S BATTLE FOR LIFE (1925) – CENTENARY SCREENING + LIVE MUSIC BY PEYMAN YAZDANIAN
Friday 19th September – Kings Place­, London
This year marks the centenary of Grass: A Nation’s Battle for Life - one of the most culturally significant films of the silent era. Directed by Merian C. Cooper and Ernest B. Schoedsack (who would later go on to make King Kong), Grass documents the epic seasonal migration of Iran’s Bakhtiari nomads. It remains a cornerstone of ethnographic cinema and a vital record of a disappearing way of life. A newly restored version of the film - courtesy of the Museum of Modern Art - will be screened at Kings Place in London on September 19th, accompanied by a live score from acclaimed Iranian composer and pianist Peyman Yazdanian. Yazdanian’s blend of Persian and Western classical traditions brings a new emotional depth to this landmark work. He’ll be joined by Adib Rostami on traditional instruments for a performance that reimagines Grass for a modern audience.
https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/classical/screening-of-the-silent-masterpiece-grass-1925-with-live-music-by-peyman-yazdanian/

BOMRANI ENSEMBLE
Friday 17th October – Rich Mix, London
After a sold-out show in 2024, Bomrani, one of Iran’s most acclaimed alternative bands, return to London for two exclusive performances at Rich Mix. Emerging from Tehran’s underground scene, the band has gained international recognition for its unique fusion of rock, folk, and jazz.
https://richmix.org.uk/music/bomrani/

ARSHID AZARINE TRIO
Thursday 23rd October – Elgar Room Royal Albert Hall, London
Known for their unique fusion of Persian roots and contemporary jazz, the trio features Arshid Azarine on piano, Habib Meftah on percussion and vocals, and Hervé de Ratuld on bass.
Their acclaimed albums 7 Djan and Sing Me a Song showcased collaborations with Iranian and international artists, blending Persian poetry with global jazz influences. Now, with their latest release Vorticity, the trio embarks on a new musical journey inspired by both the turbulence of recent events in Iran and Azarine’s background in cardiovascular research. Vorticity explores themes of chaos, love, and renewal through intricate rhythms and evocative melodies.
https://www.royalalberthall.com/tickets/events/2025/late-night-jazz-arshid-azarine-trio

HOSSEIN ALIZADEH AND REMBRANDT TRIO
Friday 14th November – Cadogan Hall, London (PART OF LONDON JAZZ FESTIVAL)
An evening of musical fusion as Hossein Alizadeh, Iran’s legendary composer and virtuoso of the tar and setar, joins forces with the acclaimed Dutch ensemble Rembrandt Trio. This unique collaboration brings together the soul of Persian classical music with the refined improvisational language of European jazz.
Alizadeh’s deeply expressive melodies and centuries-old traditions intertwine seamlessly with the Trio’s rich textures and contemporary sensibility, led by Rembrandt Frerichs on piano, Tony Overwater on double bass and Vinsent Planjer on drums and percussion. Together, they create a genre-defying soundscape - at once intimate, adventurous, and timeless.
https://cadoganhall.com/whats-on/ljf25-hossein-alizadeh-and-rembrandt-trio/

L’ANTIDOTE TRIO
Saturday 15th November – Kings Place, London (PART OF LONDON JAZZ FESTIVAL)
Making their UK debut this autumn at the London Jazz Festival, L’Antidote Trio are a group consisting of Iranian zarb and Persian percussionist Bijan Chemirani, Albanian cellist Redi Hasa and Lebanese pianist Rami Khalifé (Robert Plant, Maria Mazzotta and Ludovico Einaudi) blurring the boundaries between classical and electronic sounds from the Middle East. 
https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/jazz/lantidote-trio/

FAARJAM SAIDI
Sunday 16th November – Kings Place, London (PART OF LONDON JAZZ FESTIVAL)
Faarjam Saidi is an Iranian musician and producer whose sound blends indie pop and fusion with rich Middle Eastern influences. Drawing inspiration from contemporary Iranian poetry, his music is marked by emotional depth, poetic lyricism, and a unique cross-cultural sensibility. Tracks like “Fathe Bagh,” “Sabze Lajani,” and “Amsterdam” showcase his ability to fuse reflective storytelling with memorable melodies. As part of the London Jazz Festival, Faarjam and his full band will perform at King’s Place in London on 16 November. Expect an atmospheric and intimate live set shaped by vocals, electric and acoustic guitars, bass, and drums, bridging tradition and modernity through deeply personal songs and poetic narratives.
https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/contemporary/faarjam-saidi-2025/

ARSEN PETROSYAN, MEHDI ROSTAMI AND ADIB ROSTAMI
Monday 17th November – National Centre for Early Music, York
Tuesday 18th November – Rich Mix, London (PART OF LONDON JAZZ FESTIVAL)
Bringing together the rich musical traditions of Armenia and Iran, this is an evening of music with an exceptional trio performance by Arsen Petrosyan (duduk), Adib Rostami (kamancheh), and Mehdi Rostami (setar). The trio weaves a tapestry of sound that is both deeply rooted and beautifully contemporary with haunting melodies and intricate improvisations.
https://richmix.org.uk/music/arsen-petrosyan-mehdi-rostami-and-adib-rostami/

OH VOYAGE
Thursday 20th November – Rich Mix, London (PART OF LONDON JAZZ FESTIVAL)
Rotterdam-based duo Oh Voyage grew up in Istanbul and blend psychedelic Anatolian folk music with analogue synthesisers to create a sound that pays homage to the nomadic spirit of their ancestors.
https://richmix.org.uk/music/oh-voyage/

BEHDAD BABAEI & NAVID AFGHAH
Saturday 22nd November – Rich Mix, London (PART OF LONDON JAZZ FESTIVAL)
A powerful musical journey through the life and mind of renowned Iranian musician Behdad Babaei, joined by Navid Afghah and Vahid Taremi as part of this year’s London Jazz Festival. This is a story of unravelling and revelation, of an artist shaped by cultural memory, personal struggle and the enduring search for meaning. Through music, Babaei traces a path from inner turmoil to creative clarity, from collective pain to silent longing, weaving a deeply emotional narrative that resonates far beyond borders.
https://richmix.org.uk/music/insanity-route-behdad-babaei-navid-afghah-vahid-taremi/

PERSIAN JAZZ NIGHT: ARIN KESHISHI QUINTET & KOUROSH KANANI DUO
Saturday 22nd November 2025 – Rich Mix, London (PART OF LONDON JAZZ FESTIVAL)
Drawing inspiration from Kourosh’s Iranian-Azeri heritage and his deep command of South Indian rhythm, the duo crafts a soundscape rooted in tradition, yet forward-looking. Presenting music from their forthcoming third album, Gisu, featuring a bold interplay between virtuosic guitar and electronically infused drums, this is a truly unmissable act.
Led by bassist and composer Arin Keshishi, an Armenian musician from Iran now based in Amsterdam, Arin blends the rich musical traditions of Armenia and Iran while creating something entirely new. His debut album, Self-Reflection, is a compelling portrait of his personal and cultural journey. The quintet also features world-class musicians from Europe and Iran, all of whom share Arin’s vision and bring their own mastery to the ensemble.
https://richmix.org.uk/music/persian-jazz-night-arin-keshishi-quintet-kourosh-kanani-duo/

PEYMAN YAZDANIAN
Sunday 23rd November 2025 – World Heart Beat Embassy Gardens, London (PART OF LONDON JAZZ FESTIVAL)
Peyman Yazdanian is an acclaimed Iranian pianist and composer known for his unique fusion of Persian musical sensibilities with Western classical traditions. Trained from a young age in Tehran and later in Europe, Yazdanian has composed over 40 solo piano pieces and numerous orchestral works, earning international recognition for both his concert music and film scores. Yazdanian returns to the capital this November to perform at World Heart Beat Embassy Gardens as part of the London Jazz Festival.
https://worldheartbeat.org/events/jazz-improvisation-with-peyman-yazdanian/

KAYHAN KALHOR
Friday 24th April 2026 – Colyer-Fergusson Hall, Kent
A creative force in today’s global music scene, Kayhan Kalhor is an internationally acclaimed virtuoso of the kamancheh (spiked fiddle). Renowned for his evocative performances of traditional Persian music and his groundbreaking collaborations across cultures, Kalhor has played a vital role in bringing Persian music to international prominence. His artistry continues to captivate audiences worldwide, bridging musical traditions with remarkable depth and sensitivity.
https://thegulbenkian.co.uk/events/kayhan-kalhor/

Jazz North announces the latest recipients of its promoter support scheme, New Northern.

Tuesday, September 02, 2025

Jazz North has announced the seven promoters awarded bursaries to present emerging artists in their programmes through its support scheme, New Northern. Press release attached.

We have received the following press release;

Meet the promoters making a difference to emerging talent across the North of England

Jazz North announces the latest recipients of its promoter support scheme, New Northern

The bursaries will support fees and costs for northern emerging artists and support acts

Today, Jazz North announces the seven promoters awarded bursaries to present emerging artists in their programmes through its support scheme, New Northern.

Bursaries up to £1000 were awarded to -

Ann Harding - Settle Victoria Hall (North Yorkshire)

Dave Shooter - Lancaster Jazz Festival

John Diver - Brume (Manchester)

Paul Hartley - Stockport Jazz

Natalie Sharp - The Badness Centre (Todmorden)

Dave Ellis - Hulljazz

Jason Holcomb - North East Music Opportunities (Sunderland)

Chris Bye, Jazz North CEO, says:
“Jazz North is proud to announce the latest round of New Northern promoters. This programme continues to provide support to those keeping grassroots music alive.
Jazz North stands alongside the vital people who facilitate our local scenes, promote new talent and make up an essential part of the northern night time economy.”

The 25/26 New Northern recipients will be using their bursaries in a range of ways to promote emerging talent across the north of England.

Brume
Brume is proud to use this bursary to connect with more jazz musicians across the north west and support the careers of those who are underrepresented or face additional barriers in Manchester and beyond.

Hulljazz
Support from New Northern will help Hulljazz secure opportunities for local and regional musicians alongside touring British and overseas artists seeking additional dates in the Yorkshire region.

Lancaster Jazz Festival
The New Northern bursary will enable Lancaster Jazz Festival to select two emerging bands from their open call to play a gig at partner venue The Gregson Centre showcasing the local jazz scene.

North East Music Opportunities CIC
North East Music Opportunities CIC are collaborating with Sunderland Music City and The Fire Station music venue to create a new regional Jazz Festival in Sunderland. Their bursary will be used to support diverse artists performing Music of Black Origin.

Settle Victoria Hall
Settle Victoria Hall will use their bursary to support a new generation of artists through a concert series designed to give fresh talent a footing on the professional ladder and providing new listening experiences for their rural Dales audience.

Stockport Jazz
Stockport Jazz supports new and established jazz musicians through the promotion of weekly gigs held at the Moor Club. It is delighted to be able to assist the development of emerging jazz talent from the North of England with support from New Northern and Jazz North.

The Badness Centre
Badness Centre, realised by Nat Sharp, is an accessible, immersive rebellion against consumerist wellness, celebrating chaotic-ecological connection. Showcasing emerging Northern artists in experimental jazz, electronic, and avant-garde music, it combines concerts and sensory-rich installations in rural spaces like Rochdale and Todmorden, creating fully accessible events informed by local disability action groups.

Nanette Brimble (YardFest, Saltaire), Recipient of 24/25 New Northern bursary says:
“New Northern is a fantastic scheme that gave me the chance to reach out to a wider range of artists. We were able to present a month of emerging artists which we couldn’t have done without the support from Jazz North. We were all (bands, venue, audiences and me) delighted with the results.”

For more information on upcoming events supported by New Northern, sign up to Jazz North’s mailing list: https://www.jazznorth.org/sendmemail

About Jazz North
Jazz North is the Strategic Development Agency for jazz in the North of England.
Supported since its inception in 2012 by Arts Council England, Jazz North has a national and international reputation in Artist Development, Sector Support and Learning & Participation.
A registered charity that has developed and supported hundreds of artists, managers, venues, festivals and promoters over the years - Jazz North has a proud record of working with and on behalf of the northern jazz scene.

About New Northern
New Northern is Jazz North’s promoter bursary to support live emerging talent. It supports promoters to programme emerging northern artists by underwriting risk and helping pay essential costs.
Designed both to support emerging artists in the north and give an injection of cash to promoters who need it, this easy-access scheme offers a quick intervention to northern grassroots promoters facing difficult financial circumstances.

http://www.jazznorth.org

Peter Slavid - ‘European Modern Jazz’ on the radio playlist,  first broadcast 24/08/2025.

Monday, August 25, 2025

Broadcaster & journalist Peter Slavid has forwarded details of the music played on his UK & European Jazz radio show on 24/08/2025, which is available via a number of UK & international radio stations

Peter Slavid writes;

Radio Playlist from August 24th 2025

Jesper Zeuthen Trio
Pitu Tulee
Blackout
Moserobie

Daniel Erdmann’s Organic Soulfood
Tegucigalpa Touchdown
Into the Sweet Unknown
BMC

Mulatu Astatke
Kulun
Single
Strut

Harben Kaye
Virago
Single
Sulis Records

Sol Sol
Oscillations For Hilma
Single
Sail Cabin

Lightning Trio
McQueen’s disco
Lightning Trio
Bandcamp

Jim Black & The Schrimps
The Sheila
Better you don’t
Intakt

Esmerelda Sella
Il giardino delle delizie
Single
Auand

Maurice Storrer
Vast Highlands Part II
Foureign Language
Unit Records

daoud
l’oeil de jules
ok
ACT

Christian Wallumrød
Marrowing
Percolation
SOFA

European Modern Jazz on the radio;

At any time:
http://www.mixcloud.com/ukjazz.

Weekly:

http://www.hayesfm.org.uk 91.8 FM – West London Community Radio Sundays 12.00

http://www.purebeatradio.co.uk Sundays 10am

http://www.listen.camp/ Sundays 7pm onward

Later as “Peter’s Eurojazz Podcast” on Apple, Amazon, Deezer and other podcast sites.

Scottish National Youth Jazz Orchestra (SNYJO) announces 2025-26 series of afternoon Big Band Jazz concerts.

Wednesday, August 20, 2025

The Scottish National Youth Jazz Orchestra (SNYJO) is delighted to announce their 2025-26 season with a series of afternoon Big Band Jazz concerts that are suitable for the whole family. Details att.

We have received the following information;

The Scottish National Youth Jazz Orchestra (SNYJO) is delighted to announce their 2025-26 season with a series of afternoon Big Band Jazz concerts that are suitable for the whole family. This afternoon of music will bring alive the energy of jazz to get your toes tapping and features the future stars of jazz in Scotland, and beyond, who will demonstrate their instrumental skills while paying tribute to some legendary jazz icons including tracks from Ellington to Corea, Basie to Shorter or Miles to Metheny.

More information and tickets at;
https://snjo.co.uk/snyjo/hear-the-snyjo-live-in-2025-26

Sept ‘25 - May ‘26
Hear the SNYJO Live in 2025 / 26
The Scottish National Youth Jazz Orchestra

The Scottish National Youth Jazz Orchestra (SNYJO) is delighted to announce their 2025-26 season with a series of afternoon Big Band Jazz concerts that are suitable for the whole family.  This afternoon of music will bring alive the energy of jazz to get your toes tapping and features the future stars of jazz in Scotland, and beyond, who will demonstrate their instrumental skills while paying tribute to some legendary jazz icons including tracks from Ellington to Corea,  Basie to Shorter or Miles to Metheny,.

Formed in 2002, the Scottish National Youth Jazz Orchestra offers Scotland’s best young jazz talents a grounding in Big band music and the library of jazz masters.  It has advanced the musicianship of over one hundred and thirty young players including winners of the Scottish Album of the Year Award, the BBC Young Jazz Musician title and the Young Scottish Jazz Musician of the Year competition and have registered successes in the Scottish Jazz Awards and the Jazz FM Awards and nominations in the Mercury Prize. The orchestra’s albums too have won praise internationally and regularly feature in radio programmes across the world.

The class of 25/26 continues to impress audiences with individual and collective prowess, producing performances that guarantee excitement, creativity and grooves to make you move.  So come and enjoy a fantastic afternoon as these young players showcase their endless talents in an extraordinary concert of outstanding music. Please do join and support us and these young players.

NB: Tickets for all afternoon concerts will go on sale in mid August.  Melrose Music Festival tickets are available now, direct from the Festival.

Concert Dates

05
Sep
2025
UK
Melrose
Melrose Music Festival
Corn Exchange, Market Square
The SNYJO Live: 2025-26
Scottish National Youth Jazz Orchestra
7:30pm

11
Oct
2025
UK
Stirling
The Tolbooth
Jail Wynd
The SNYJO Live: 2025-26
Scottish National Youth Jazz Orchestra
2:00pm 01786 473544

12
Oct
2025
UK
Peebles
Eastgate Theatre
Eastgate
The SNYJO Live: 2025-26
Scottish National Youth Jazz Orchestra
2:00pm

08
Nov
2025
Scotland
Edinburgh
St Bride’s Centre
10 Orwell Terrace, Edinburgh EH11 2DZ
The SNYJO Live: 2025-26
Scottish National Youth Jazz Orchestra
Tickets available on door
2:00pm 07446 286412

09
Nov
2025
UK
Glasgow
Cottiers
93-95 Hyndland St, Glasgow
The SNYJO Live: 2025-26
Scottish National Youth Jazz Orchestra
2:00pm 0141 357 4000

14
Feb
2026
UK
Kilmarnock
Centrestage Theatre
15 Elmbank Drive
The SNYJO Live: 2025-26
Scottish National Youth Jazz Orchestra
2:00pm
01563 551505

Scotland
Cumbernauld
Cumbernauld Theatre
Lanternhouse South Kildrum Ring Road Cumbernauld North Lanarkshire G67 2UF
The SNYJO Live: 2025-26
Scottish National Youth Jazz Orchestra
2:00pm 01236 732 887

28
Mar
2026
UK
Dollar
Dollar Academy, Gibson Hall
The Gibson Auditorium
The SNYJO Live: 2025-26
Scottish National Youth Jazz Orchestra
2:00pm

29
Mar
2026
UK
Giffnock
Eastwood Park Theatre
Rouken Glen Rd
The SNYJO Live: 2025-26
Scottish National Youth Jazz Orchestra
2:00pm 0141 577 4956

16
May
2026
Scotland
Greenock
Beacon Arts Centre
Custom House Quay, Greenock, PA15 1HJ
The SNYJO Live: 2025-26
Scottish National Youth Jazz Orchestra
2:00pm
01475 723723

17
May
2026
UK
Pitlochry
Pitlochry Theatre
Port na Craig Rd
The SNYJO Live: 2025-26
Scottish National Youth Jazz Orchestra
2:30pm
01796 484626

Registration Now Open for NJPAC’s TD JAZZ FOR TEENS 2025-26 Education Program.

Friday, August 15, 2025

The New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) is offering thousands of high schoolers from Newark and beyond music lessons and performance experiences through its popular TD Jazz for Teens program.

We have received the following press release;

Registration Now Open for NJPAC’s TD JAZZ FOR TEENS 2025-26 Education Program

Impacting Thousands of Young Musicians for the Past 28 Years

When: Fall Semester: Sep 27 – Dec 13, 2025; Spring Semester: Jan 24 - May 16, 2026, 10:00am-5:00pm EST (schedules vary).

Where: Arts High School, 550 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Newark, NJ, 07102.

Who: Student musicians ages 13-18.

Register: $700 per semester. $1,200 for full year. Registration is required. Scholarships and/or financial aid are available. For more information, visit NJPAC.org/education or call 973.353.7058.

The New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), the state’s anchor cultural institution, celebrates 28 years of offering thousands of high schoolers from Newark and beyond music lessons and performance experiences through its popular TD Jazz for Teens program. One of the first of many arts education institutions at NJPAC, it has grown into a nationally recognized and revered program producing stellar alumni such as MacArthur “Genius” Fellow Tyshawn Sorey. The 2025-26 school year is about to begin and is now accepting students for both the Fall 2025 and Spring 2026 semesters. Registration is now open and closes Sep 29.

TD Jazz for Teens is a comprehensive and sequential jazz education program that provides access to top-notch musical training and study with world-class working artists, opportunities for artistic exchange within the community, and college and career exploration. This school year offers classes in jazz history, theory/composition, technique, ensembles, music business, production, and more.

Prospective college students are guided through the application process. Students are given many performance opportunities as members of the James Moody Jazz Orchestra and/or George Wein Scholars Ensemble (performing at the Newport Jazz Festival). All students record their own compositions together in a studio setting. Field trips to Rutgers University-Newark’s remarkable Institute of Jazz Studies, the largest archive of jazz-related materials in the world, are regular treats for students.

Since 2015, TD Jazz for Teens has been at the helm of Mark Gross, the Director of Jazz Instruction for NJPAC. A multiple GRAMMY-winning alto sax player and composer, Gross has performed and recorded with a roster of greats, including Dizzy Gillespie, Buster Williams, Nat Adderley, Dave Holland, Wynton Marsalis, and more. In addition to Gross, a roster of more than a dozen working jazz musicians including saxophonist Wayne Escoffery and guitarist Alex Wintz (himself an alumnus of the program) as well as celebrated percussionist Alvester Garnett and acclaimed, Russian-born trumpeter Valery Ponomarev, a Jazz Messenger, to name a few — make up the TD Jazz for Teens faculty.  Even more bold-faced names, including 9x Grammy Award-winning bassist Christian McBride, the Arts Center’s Jazz Advisor, vibraphonist Stefon Harris, and MacArthur “Genius” and Doris Duke Artist award winner Regina Carter offer master classes working directly with students.

About Arts Education @ NJPAC
NJPAC’s Arts Education offerings reach more than 60,000 students and families through live performances, in-school residency programs and arts training classes. These programs bring the joy of dance, music, theater, and poetry directly to the classroom.  Through its innovative residencies, Teaching Artists create stimulating performing arts experiences that engage students’ imaginations and build self-confidence through positive self-expression. Its residencies help students learn to work together and develop their creative independence.
In addition to NJPAC’s innovative In-School Programs, the Arts Center’s comprehensive Arts Education Department offers an Arts Training Program that helps students at every level learn their artistic and technical skills they need to study acting, dance, instrumental music, vocal music, and musical theater.  NJPAC also presents a SchoolTime Performance Series, which introduces students and their families to a world of entertainment and culture.  NJPAC’s Arts Education programs feature professional artists from a wide variety of traditions and performances of music, dance, storytelling, puppetry, and more.

About NJPAC
New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), located in downtown Newark, New Jersey, is the most diverse performing arts center in the country, and the anchor cultural institution for both the city of Newark and the state of New Jersey.  It is an artistic, cultural, educational and civic center where great performances and events enhance and transform lives every day.  NJPAC brings communities together, providing access to all and showcasing the state’s and the world’s best artists, while acting as a leading catalyst in the revitalization of its home city. Through its extensive Arts Education programs, NJPAC is shaping the next generation of artists and arts enthusiasts. NJPAC Arts & Well-Being develops initiatives and programs that amplify the health benefits of the arts and measure the impact of the Arts Center on community health and well-being. NJPAC has attracted more than 12 million visitors (including more than two million children) since opening its doors in 1997, and nurtures meaningful and lasting relationships with each of its constituents.  Visit http://www.njpac.org for more information.

About TD Bank, America’s Most Convenient Bank®     
For the 14th consecutive year, TD Bank is the title sponsor of all jazz programming during NJPAC’s season, including free community performances and educational events, as well as mainstage concerts showcasing jazz superstars. TD Bank, America’s Most Convenient Bank, is one of the 10 largest banks in the U.S. by assets, providing over 10 million customers with a full range of retail, small business and commercial banking products and services at more than 1,100 convenient locations throughout the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, Metro D.C., the Carolinas and Florida. In addition, TD Auto Finance, a division of TD Bank, N.A., offers vehicle financing and dealer commercial services. TD Bank and its subsidiaries also offer customized private banking and wealth management services through TD Wealth®. TD Bank is headquartered in Cherry Hill, N.J.
To learn more, visit http://www.td.com/us. Find TD Bank on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/TDBank and on Instagram at http://www.instagram.com/TDBank_US/.           
TD Bank is a subsidiary of The Toronto-Dominion Bank, a top 10 North American bank. The Toronto-Dominion Bank trades on the New York and Toronto stock exchanges under the ticker symbol “TD”. To learn more, visit http://www.td.com/us.

Peter Slavid - ‘European Modern Jazz’ on the radio playlist,  first broadcast 10/08/2025.

Monday, August 11, 2025

Broadcaster & journalist Peter Slavid has forwarded details of the music played on his UK & European Jazz radio show on10/08/2025, which is available via a number of UK & international radio stations

Peter Slavid writes;

An odd mix this week with several singles, an EP, and a self indulgent look back to two of my favourite tracks from 10 years ago!

Langendorf United
Undercover Beast
single
Sing a Song Fighter

Martin Nodeland
Straight Out The Gate
single
Smeik records

O.N.E
Robespierre
single
April Records

LVDF
Home
EP
Bridge The Gap

Wojtek Mazolewski Quintet
The Art of Joy
Live Spirit 1
No Paper records

Alex Hitchcock
Wishbone
Single
New Soil

Stefan Pasborg Trio
Den Blau Anemone
Dear Alex
Stunt

De Luca & Rosselli
Sparrow
Enrumbado
Dodicilune

Aka Moon
Bulgarian Study
Aka Balkan Moon
OutThere Music

Slang & Purbayan Chatterjee
Run
Pace of Mind
zigzag world

European Modern Jazz on the radio;

At any time:
http://www.mixcloud.com/ukjazz.

Weekly:

http://www.hayesfm.org.uk 91.8 FM – West London Community Radio Sundays 12.00

http://www.purebeatradio.co.uk Sundays 10am

http://www.listen.camp/ Sundays 7pm onward

Later as “Peter’s Eurojazz Podcast” on Apple, Amazon, Deezer and other podcast sites.

Julian Joseph OBE awarded Honorary Doctorate by University of Southampton.

Saturday, August 02, 2025

British jazz pianist and composer Julian Joseph OBE was awarded an Honorary Doctorate (Doctor of Music) for his contributions to music, education, and cultural life by the University of Southampton.

We have received the following press release;

Turner Sims Press Release:

University of Southampton awards Honorary Doctorate to celebrated British Jazz Musician Julian Joseph

British jazz pianist and composer Julian Joseph OBE was awarded an Honorary Doctorate (Doctor of Music) for his extraordinary contributions to music, education, and cultural life by the University of Southampton at a Graduation Ceremony on Wednesday 23 July 2025.

One of the finest jazz musicians to emerge this side of the Atlantic, Julian has devoted his distinguished career to championing music across the UK and around the world. His performances, compositions, and broadcasts have inspired audiences globally, while his charitable work and dedication to education have made a lasting impact on Britain’s cultural landscape.

Julian has been a formative presence in jazz education, generously sharing his expertise through a wide range of educational programmes. His commitment to nurturing young talent has helped preserve and promote the heritage of jazz for future generations.

His relationship with Southampton spans over 30 years. His first performance at the University’s music venue Turner Sims was in 1994, and he has delighted our audiences regularly ever since. This autumn, he returns to the concert hall with his latest project, ‘Atmospheres in Audio Theatre’ – a bold and immersive exploration of sound and storytelling.

Turner Sims Concert Hall Manager Kevin Appleby, who nominated Julian said,
“Julian Joseph’s longstanding relationship with Southampton – the city, the University, and Turner Sims – along with his national and international profile and influence made him a perfect artist choice for nomination for an honorary degree.  To be able to celebrate his artistry and inspiration when the concert hall was marking its own 50th  anniversary has added to the sense of a special occasion at the end of a landmark year.”

Julian Joseph said,
“Southampton has been a city of amazing good fortune for me. A city of knowledge, education and performance and a place absolutely about family born of close musical ties. The Solent Youth Jazz Orchestra in the mid 1990s led by brilliant charismatic teenager back then Dan Mar-Molinero fostered a long term engagement with young musicians and an ongoing enduring and soulful friendship and musical collaboration with Dan to this very day. The university’s wonderful venue Turner Sims under the expert guidance and artistic programming of Kevin Appleby has been a haven of encouragement and positivity radiating the highest level of music making, thinking and creation to a very receptive audience in and around Southampton including students and faculty from the university it’s situated in.  To be recognised with an honorary doctorate underlines the interest and care Turner Sims and their wonderful team led by Kevin takes in the wider work of an artist to welcome me back numerous times over decades for me to share my music and I look forward to returning in October to continue the story. Thank you University of Southampton, Turner Sims Concert Hall, The Mar-Molinero family and Kevin Appleby.”

Turner Sims is the University of Southampton’s music venue, welcoming all for the joy of music. Opened at Highfield campus in 1974, the venue plays an influential role in Southampton and the region’s cultural scene. Audiences travel miles to experience music legends and rising stars in Turner Sims’ ‘brilliant acoustics’ and ‘varied and imaginative programme’ (Audience comments).www. turnersims.co.uk  

 The University of Southampton drives original thinking, turns knowledge into action and impact, and creates solutions to the world’s challenges. It is among the top 100 institutions globally (QS World University Rankings 2023). The University’s academics are leaders in their fields, forging links with high-profile international businesses and organisations, and inspiring a 22,000-strong community of exceptional students, from over 135 countries worldwide. Through high-quality education, the University helps students on a journey of discovery to realise their potential and join a global network of over 200,000 alumni.
http://www.southampton.ac.uk  
 

Turner Sims is an Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation, which means funding thanks to taxpayers plays a huge part in supporting our work.

Peter Slavid - ‘European Modern Jazz’ on the radio playlist,  first broadcast 27/07/2025.

Monday, July 28, 2025

Broadcaster & journalist Peter Slavid has forwarded details of the music played on his UK & European Jazz radio show on 27/07/2025, which is available via a number of UK & international radio stations

Peter Slavid writes;

Radio playlist from Sunday 27th July 2025

This week’s show starts with a quick look back to a couple of favourite tracks from the start of the year from Joachim Kuhn and then from Sergio Armaroli/Giancarlo Schiaffini. After that its back to new releases:

Olivia Moore and Adam Fairhall
Maggie Meade
Triangles
NEWJAIM

Kasper Rietkerk
Tea Lights
The Happy Worrier
ECN

Neil Charles
Children
Dark Days
Jazz Now

Vincent Meissner
Palma Amore
Eigengrau
ACT

Tony Tixier
Magic
Poems Never End
Whirlwind

Rosa Ensemble
Muzak/Muzak3/Stalker
Oddments
Cuneiform

Stefano Ottogalli
R.I. blues
Colors
Caligola

Theon Cross
Candace of Meroe
Affirmations: Live At Blue Note New York
New Soil

European Modern Jazz on the radio;

At any time:
http://www.mixcloud.com/ukjazz.

Weekly:

http://www.hayesfm.org.uk 91.8 FM – West London Community Radio Sundays 12.00

http://www.purebeatradio.co.uk Sundays 10am

http://www.listen.camp/ Sundays 7pm onward

Later as “Peter’s Eurojazz Podcast” on Apple, Amazon, Deezer and other podcast sites.

Barbican and Serious announce Keith Jarrett 80th anniversary celebration, March and April 2026.

Wednesday, July 23, 2025

The Barbican and Serious have announced a celebration of jazz pianist Keith Jarrett in his 80th year and 50 years since The Köln Concert with two special performances and a supporting film screening.

We have received the following press release;

Barbican and Serious announce Keith Jarrett 80th anniversary celebration, fifty years since the iconic Köln Concert

The Barbican and Serious today announce a celebration of jazz pianist Keith Jarrett in his 80th year and fifty years since his iconic The Köln Concert. Across two special performances and a supporting film screening, the Barbican will play host to a showcase of key moments from the revolutionary pianist’s career.

American Quartet - The Bad Plus: Chris Potter and Craig Taborn (30 Mar 2026, 8pm)
https://www.barbican.org.uk/whats-on/2026/event/the-bad-plus-chris-potter-and-craig-taborn

Film Screening: Keith Jarrett – The Art of Improvisation (15) (11 Apr 2026, 3.30pm)
https://www.barbican.org.uk/whats-on/2026/event/keith-jarrett-the-art-of-improvisation

The Köln Concert - Maki Namekawa and Thomas Enhco (11 Apr 2026, 7.30pm)
https://www.barbican.org.uk/whats-on/2026/event/the-koln-concert

Keith Jarrett, one of the most visionary improvisers in jazz history, turns 80 this year - a milestone that coincides with the 50th anniversary of his seminal The Köln Concert (ECM, 1975), an album that reshaped the landscape of solo jazz piano. Keith Jarrett’s ability to fuse lyricism, classical influences, and unbroken improvisational flow has inspired generations of jazz and experimental musicians worldwide. His boundless creativity and spiritual intensity, bridges jazz, classical music, free improvisation, and folk traditions.

Marking the occasion of these two landmark anniversaries, the Barbican and Serious are proud to announce this special focus programme in the Barbican Hall, inviting two new projects to respond, in sound and spirit, to The Köln Concert and the American Quartet era. Through reinterpretation and inspiration, the programme celebrates Jarrett’s immense influence on the evolution of modern jazz.

On Monday 30 March 2026, The Bad Plus with Chris Potter and Craig Taborn reinterpret and celebrate Jarrett’s repertoire from his American Quartet era. The project is not a casual homage, but a continuation of the spirit of Jarrett’s American Quartet - balancing swing, freedom, folk-like melody, structured improvisation, and deep musical dialogue - with fresh perspectives from the contemporary ensemble members, which features Reid Anderson, Dave King, Chris Potter, and Craig Taborn. (Find out more)

On Saturday 11 April 2026, two inspired pianists from very different musical spheres - Maki Namekawa and Thomas Enhco - will together tackle Keith Jarrett’s legendary album and performance: The Köln Concert (ECM Records, 1975). Produced and premiered originally by Philharmonie de Paris, the two artists will take two approaches: Maki Namekawa will play, note for note, the first and last sections, while Thomas Enhco will improvise through the central sections, together rendering the incredible luminance of this iconic music and freely oscillating between jazz and classical. (Find out more)

Alongside the performance on 11 April, Barbican Cinema will also screen Keith Jarrett: The Art of Improvisation (15 - Mike Dibb, 2005) which offers an intimate portrait of the legendary pianist, exploring his groundbreaking career and diverse musical influences - from Bach and Mozart to ethnic music - as well as documenting his creative process through interviews and performances. With full cooperation from Jarrett, the film features rare insights from the man himself, alongside interviews with his collaborators, family, and close associates, offering a deep dive into the contrasting worlds of jazz and classical music. Keith Jarrett: The Art of Improvisation is the first major documentary on the pianist, made in collaboration between director Mike Dibb and Jarrett’s biographer Ian Carr. (Find out more)

UPCOMING BARBICAN JAZZ PERFORMANCES:

Summer Jazz Series: Herbie Hancock (Thu 24 – Sat 26 Jul 2025, Barbican Hall, 8pm)
Quinteto Astor Piazzolla (Sun 27 Jul 2025, Barbican Hall, 7.30pm)
Hand to Earth & Shabaka – Fragile Earth Series (Fri 12 Sep 2025, St Giles Cripplegate, 7.30pm)
Balimaya Project x Discos Pacífico All Stars (Sat 27 Sep 2025, Barbican Hall, 7.30pm)
Ustad Noor Bakhsh + Jaubi + Amrit Kaur (Fri 3 Oct 2025, Barbican Hall 7.30pm)
EFG London Jazz Festival: aja monet with guests (Fri 14 Nov 2025, Barbican Hall, 7.30pm)
EFG London Jazz Festival: We Exist! The Dee Dee Bridgewater Quartet (Sat 15 Nov, Barbican Hall, 7.30pm)
EFG London Jazz Festival: Hermeto Pascoal & Grupo (Sun 16 Nov 2025, Barbican Hall, 7.30pm)
EFG London Jazz Festival: Dhamaal (Sun 16 Nov 2025, Milton Court Concert Hall, 7.30pm)
EFG London Jazz Festival: Anthony Joseph: Rowing Up River To Get Our Names Back (Mon 17 Nov 2025, Milton Court Concert Hall, 7.30pm)
EFG London Jazz Festival: The Evolution of UK Jazz – 20 Years On (Wed 19 Nov 2025, Barbican Hall, 7.30pm)
EFG London Jazz Festival: Hiromi’s Sonicwonder (Fri 21 Nov 2025, Barbican Hall, 7.30pm)
EFG London Jazz Festival: Tortoise (Sat 22 Nov 2025, Barbican Hall, 7.30pm)
EFG London Jazz Festival: Japanese Jazz (Sun 23 Nov 2025, Barbican Hall, 7.30pm)
GoGo Penguin + special guest Daudi Matsiko (Wed 3 Dec 2025, Barbican Hall, 7.30pm)
NEW - American Quartet - The Bad Plus: Chris Potter and Craig Taborn (Mon 30 Mar 2026, Barbican Hall, 8pm)
NEW - Film Screening: Keith Jarrett – The Art of Improvisation (15) (Sat 11 Apr 2026, Barbican Cinema 3, 3.30pm)
NEW - The Köln Concert - Maki Namekawa and Thomas Enhco (Sat 11 Apr 2026, Barbican Hall, 7.30pm)

About Serious
Serious is an Associate Producer at the Barbican, and one of the UK’s leading producers of live jazz, international and new music through concerts, festivals, tours, digital shows, talent development schemes, learning and participation programmes, and bespoke events for all.
Their mission is to curate and produce an original programme that engages a wide range of audiences and communities and nurtures both emerging artists and the next generation of the creative workforce. Through unique and ambitious projects, they aim to make meaningful music experiences and opportunities for everyone.
http://www.serious.org.uk

About the Barbican
The Barbican is a catalyst for creativity, sparking possibilities for artists, audiences, and communities. We showcase the most exciting art from around the world, pushing traditional artistic boundaries to entertain and inspire millions of people, create connections, provoke debate, and reflect the world we live in.
We are an international arts and events centre rooted firmly in our own neighbourhood, collaborating with local communities and putting the City of London on the map as a destination for everybody. Central to our purpose is supporting emerging talent and shaping opportunities that will accelerate the next generation of creatives.
As a not-for-profit, we rely on the generosity of individuals and organisations, including our principal funder the City of London Corporation. Every ticket purchased, donation made, and pound earned supports our arts and learning programme and enables the widest possible range of people to experience the joy of the arts.
Opened in 1982, the Barbican is a unique and audacious building, recognised globally as an architectural icon. As well as our theatres, galleries, concert halls and cinemas, we have a large conservatory with over 1,500 species of plants and trees, a library, conference facilities, public and community spaces, restaurants, bars, and a picturesque lakeside oasis.
We’re proud to be the home of the London Symphony Orchestra, our Resident Orchestra, and a London base for the Royal Shakespeare Company. We regularly co-commission, produce and showcase the work of our Artistic Associates the Academy of Ancient Music, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Boy Blue, Darbar Arts, Cultural and Heritage Trust, and Serious, who produce the EFG London Jazz Festival, alongside other associates and partners including Doc’n Roll Film Festival, London Palestine Film Festival, and Trafalgar Theatre Productions.
http://www.barbican.org.uk

Peter Slavid - ‘European Modern Jazz’ on the radio playlist,  first broadcast 13/07/2025.

Tuesday, July 15, 2025

Broadcaster & journalist Peter Slavid has forwarded details of the music played on his UK & European Jazz radio show on 13/07/2025, which is available via a number of UK & international radio stations

Peter Slavid writes;

Radio Playlist from Sunday 13th July 2025

Jasper Høiby: Fellow Creatures
We Must Fight
We Must Fight
Edition

Smooth Elevator
Urban Modesty
Moving Target
Losen

Indra trio
Mondadeira Alentejana
Brahma
Unit Records

Peter Johnstone
The Four Horsemen
Resistance is Futile
self

Olie Brice Quartet
And We Dance on the Firm Earth
All it Was
West Hill Records

Casimir Liberski ReTRio
Boss Suite II
The Z Suites
WRWTFWW records

Witold
Pastereczka
Witold plays Lutoslawski
Unit

Olga Amelchenko
Walking Shadows
Howling Silence
Edition

Saihs
Second Try
Distopia
Gleam

Snakioplatz
Limitato Avanti
Snakioplatz
Caligola Records

European Modern Jazz on the radio;

At any time:
http://www.mixcloud.com/ukjazz.

Weekly:

http://www.hayesfm.org.uk 91.8 FM – West London Community Radio Sundays 12.00

http://www.purebeatradio.co.uk Sundays 10am

http://www.listen.camp/ Sundays 7pm onward and available from then on

Later as “Peter’s Eurojazz Podcast” on Apple, Amazon, Deezer and other podcast sites.

Ludovico Einaudi Announces Solo Piano Tour for April and May 2026.

Friday, July 04, 2025

Italian pianist and composer Ludovico Einaudi is unveiling Solo Piano, a special series of intimate solo evenings in his favourite concert halls.

We have received the following press release;

Ludovico Einaudi Announces Solo Piano Tour for 2026

April - May 2026

Ludovico Einaudi: Solo Piano

At the end of his six-night record-breaking residency at the Royal Albert Hall, Italian composer Ludovico Einaudi is unveiling Solo Piano, a special series of intimate solo evenings in his favourite concert halls.

Renowned for his ability to captivate audiences with both grandeur and intimacy, Einaudi’s concerts often reach their most profound moments when his accompanying musicians step offstage, leaving him alone at the piano. In those quiet, transcendent interludes, vast venues are transformed into spaces of deep personal connection.

In 2026, he will build this section out into a full show, playing the most loved songs from his catalogue alongside some deep cuts and surprises.

Solo Piano Tour 2026 Dates:

Tue 28 and Wed 29 April London Royal Albert Hall
Fri 01 May Gateshead The Glasshouse
Sat 02 May Birmingham Symphony Hall
Mon 04 May Bristol Beacon

Tickets go on sale next Thursday 10 July at 10am.

http://www.serious.org.uk

Peter Slavid - ‘European Modern Jazz’ on the radio playlist,  first broadcast 29/06/2025.

Monday, June 30, 2025

Broadcaster & journalist Peter Slavid has forwarded details of the music played on his UK & European Jazz radio show on 29/06/2025, which is available via a number of UK & international radio stations

Peter Slavid writes;

Radio playlist from June 29th 2025

Shez Raja
Spellbound
Spellbound
Gearbox Records

Carlo Cattano
Marzamemi
Rituals
AUT Records

DalaiQuartet,
Once
Brazzaville
AUT Records

Bastian Menz
Taking a Trip
Everything in between
A.MA Records

plop ensemble
playing after all
Social Bubbles
Unit Records

Vio 3io
Viology
Viology
self

Mark Solberg Tungemal
Cantamos
Confluencia
ILK Music

Gulliver + Roberto Ottaviano.
Nanita Nana
The Billia Session
Dodicilune

Anna Sophia Defant
dill
s:e
Unit Records

Alice Leggatt
Sunflower Song
Birdsong
ZenneZ

Olivier van Niekerk
7.1
U2146x6
Dox records

GoGo Penguin
Umbra
Necessary Fictions
Sony

Available now:

European Modern Jazz on the radio;

At any time:
http://www.mixcloud.com/ukjazz.

Weekly:

http://www.hayesfm.org.uk 91.8 FM – West London Community Radio Sundays 12.00

http://www.purebeatradio.co.uk Sundays 10am

http://www.listen.camp/ Sundays 7pm onward

Also as “Peter’s Eurojazz Podcast” on Apple, Amazon, Deezer and other podcast sites.

Peter Slavid - ‘European Modern Jazz’ on the radio playlist,  first broadcast 15/06/2025.

Tuesday, June 17, 2025

Broadcaster & journalist Peter Slavid has forwarded details of the music played on his UK & European Jazz radio show on 15/06/2025, which is available via a number of UK & international radio stations

Peter Slavid writes;

Radio Playlist from 15th June 2025

Tobias Wiklund
Atomic Stringency
Inner Flight Music
Stunt Records

Gary Brunton
Snecklifter
Spacecraft
Juste Une Trace

Chrome Hill
Walk With Me
En Route
Clean Feed

Beiggja
Tuvals
Morning
Hubro

Moanin’ Birds
Birds Suite (1)
Prophets and Profits
Hypnote

Van Herzeele & Galland
Fire
Songshan
Buzz

Bram De Looze
Flagey Blues Edition X
Live at Brussels Jazz Festival
Challenge Records

Luca Gusella
Goodbye Pork Pie Hat
Portraits
Caligola Music

Koro Almost Brass
Rhytm-a-ning
Plays Monk
Caligola Music

Antonio Borghini
The Applicant
Resta Chi Va
We Insist

Antoine Fafard
Paraorbital Vision
Quadra Spherium
Code 7

Lorenzo Bellini
Odruis
Source
Gleam

Tom Brunt’s Extended Acoustics
Acoustronic Space
Today
Unit Records