JMI Youth Big Band
The JMI Youth Big band is made up of 12 - 18 year olds who play drums, bass, guitar, piano, tuba, saxophone, trumpet and trombone. JMI first formed the band in Summer 2017 to bring a contemporary edge to music of Jewish origin and enable talented young musicians from a wide variety of different backgrounds to explore a rich musical and cultural heritage whilst performing at the highest level.
Tzadik label artist, composer, trumpeter and band leader Sam Eastmond (Spike Orchestra, Gulgoleth) has expertly honed the ensemble to a remarkable degree in the short time since its formation. The band’s debut album ‘Alef’ (released December 2019) features an array of expert musicians from the jazz and cutting edge new music scene including; Jon Madof (guitar), Moss Freed (guitar), Josephine Davies (saxophone), Mike Wilkins (saxophone) and Andy Watts (Trumpet).
The JMI Youth Big Band regularly feature collaborations with guest artists and all-star performers from the UK music scene. Past and future guests include; Stewart Curtis (33 Jazz Records, K-Groove, The Spike Orchestra), Fran and Flora (Talvin Singh, Sam Lee, London Klezmer Quartet), Moss Freed (The Spike Orchestra, Let Spin, The Moss Project), Bahla (Jordan Rakei, Coco Mbassi, Afla Sackey) as well as transatlantic music collaborations with Zion80 (John Zorn, Jon Madof, Chant Records, Tzadik Records).
NYJO Academy Big Band
For younger musicians within reach of London, the NYJO Academy offers improvisation and ensemble training from grade 5-standard upwards, through a combination of notated and aural groups. Young musicians perform six times a year, and the NYJO Academy hosts free monthly jazz jams for under 18s.
With iconic venues such as the Regents Park Bandstand, RAH's Elgar Room and Grosvenor Square under its belt, the group's main focus lies on big band repertoires, performing key figures' work, from Ellington and Basie to Stan Tracey.
