London Jazz Festival 2016

London Jazz Festival 2016

CREATIVE

The EFG London Jazz Festival, currently in its twenty-fifth year, has been dubbed by many as one of the best jazz festivals in the world. With over two thousand artists playing in more than fifty venues across the city, the London Jazz Festival plays host to some of the industry’s most renowned jazz artists and best new talent. 2016’s event has been no exception to the rule, featuring the likes of the esteemed Joey Alexander, jazz heavyweight Wayne Shorter and MOBO award-winning Binker and Moses, to name just a few.

On the opening night, teams from the BBC and 7digital Creative took over the infamous Pizza Express Jazz Club in Soho, for the live recording of BBC Radio 3’s Jazz Now, hosted by the award winning alto-saxophonist and MC Soweto Kinch, broadcaster and trumpeter Al Ryan and jazz singer Emma Smith. The show was simulcast across BBC Radio 3 and BBC Music Jazz, the pop-up station from BBC Music and JazzFM.  

Emma Smith, Soweto Kinch and Al Ryan – Jazz Now presenters

We asked Kerry Luter, our Group Production Manager at 7digital Creative, for her thoughts on this year’s festival:

For me, the best part of the London Jazz Festival is the variety, not only in the style and presentation of the performances, but also across the different locations throughout the city. From concert halls to intimate venues, there truly is something for everyone. It makes the festival accessible at every level and appeals to such a wide audience. Whether you are just starting your love affair with jazz or you are a lifelong devotee, everyone is welcome.

Michael Wollny and Vincent Peirani at Pizza Express Jazz Club. Photo credit: Ravi Chandarana

Heather Wall, who was part of the team on the ground at this years festival had this to say:

This is my first time at the London Jazz Festival as more than a spectator and it’s been a very exciting experience. It really feels like we are at the forefront of contemporary jazz, especially as we get to see so many fantastic up-and-coming and well established musicians side by side. Jazz is reaching a younger audience, and it’s inevitable – with artists like Joey Alexander and Binker and Moses coming through – that the fresh style they have shakes up the typical associations people may have of the genre.

The festival runs until the 20th November, so there isn’t much more time to watch some fantastic performances live, but if you don’t fancy leaving the comfort of your own home you can catch up on the action on BBC Radio 3 – Jazz Now or tune in to the show every Monday at 11pm to get your weekly jazz fix.

Joey Alexander Trio at Pizza Express Jazz Club. Photo credit: Ravi Chandarana

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