Born in Edinburgh, began learning the saxophone at 15. In 1992 she won 'The Young Scottish Jazz Musician of the Year'. Inspired and encouraged by local Edinburgh musicians, Jo went on to study saxophone at the Guildhall School of music in London (1995-99). She also studied at the Berklee School of music in Boston after receiving a full fee scholarship for the summer jazz programme.
After recording her debut album "Here and Now!", the legendary British trumpeter Humphrey Lyttelton invited her to join his eight-piece band. With whom she toured and performed in some of the most amazing theatres and venues in Britain. Humphs fun filled and melodic approach to music was to be a huge influence. And through performing in his band Jo also recorded and worked with Acker Bilk and played alongside Tina May, Joe Temperley, Scott Hamilton, Elkie Brooks,and many others.
Jo's other influences include Illinois Jacquet, Sonny Rollins, Dexter Gorden, Stan Getz and Cannonball Adderley. Her mellow tone is reminiscent of Stan getz and Zoot Simms.
Jo began to compose her own music in2004 after learning and analysing a wide variety of Jazz standards. She currently gigs in and around the London area and her teaching positions have included tutoring the RAF bands men (2000-2006).
The Drawtones
PizzaExpress Jazz Clubs regulars, The Drawtones, create a warm and engaging atmosphere. Featuring seasoned jazz artists, they also nurture and spotlight new and young talent in the band. Relaxed and groovy, bluesy and funky, the sax /guitar /organ combination gives them access to the hippest tunes from the '50s and '60s jazz era, to the dance floor iconic instrumentals of the '70s and '80s. They adapt to the 'room' and crowd, entertaining without imposing, building energetic improvisations whilst delivering the goods of the coolest and most recognisable tunes of the genre.
