Excitement is building in London as the city prepares to host a groundbreaking monthly event dedicated to celebrating LGBTQ+ musicians in the jazz scene. This new initiative promises to "platform, nurture and celebrate" emerging queer jazz talent, not just in London, but further afield.
The monthly event, aptly named Queer Jazz, will take place at the renowned Vortex Jazz Club in Dalston. Co-founders of the event, DJ and music journalist Tina Edwards, along with award-winning musician Arowah, are thrilled to bring their vision to life. Arowah remarked on the journey leading up to this moment, stating, "It’s been a few years of build-up to this moment as we’ve tried to make space for queer jazz to exist." The anticipation and excitement are palpable as they prepare to showcase the incredible, vibrant community of queer jazz musicians.
The Vision Behind Queer Jazz
Edwards and Arowah are passionate about providing a platform that not only brings visibility to queer jazz artists but also helps them expand their communities and fan bases. This vision is supported by Arts Council England, allowing the creators to turn their dream into a reality.
"We’re over the moon to be launching a monthly residency," Edwards shared. "There’s an incredible spectrum of queer talent across the UK and Europe, and we’re proud to be able to provide a vessel for queer jazz artists to further build their communities and fan bases." With only six live shows under their belt, the enthusiasm for this new venture is clear.
The first event is scheduled for 5 February, kicking off at 7.45 pm, with live music starting 45 minutes later. Attendees can look forward to captivating performances by Moroccan singer-songwriter Queen Kaltoum and Norfolk-based singer Maya Law. The lineup promises a diverse range of talent, ensuring each event is a unique celebration of queer music.
Future Performances and Community Building
Future shows will feature a variety of artists, including renowned performer Jessica Lauren, the Swiss band Knobil, and the dynamic group Peng Femme Jam. This impressive roster is a testament to the rich diversity within the queer jazz community and the dedication of Edwards and Arowah to highlight these artists.
The Vortex Jazz Club, located at 11 Gillett Square, London, N16, will serve as the perfect backdrop for what promises to be a vibrant and inclusive event series. The club is known for its intimate atmosphere and commitment to showcasing cutting-edge jazz music, making it an ideal venue for Queer Jazz nights.
Tickets for the inaugural event on 5 February are already available for purchase. Jazz enthusiasts and supporters of the LGBTQ+ community are encouraged to secure their spots early to be part of this exciting new chapter in London’s music scene.
This initiative is more than just a series of events; it’s a movement to bring queer jazz to the forefront, encouraging inclusivity and creativity within the music industry. By attending, audiences will not only witness incredible performances but also support the growth and visibility of queer artists.
Join the conversation and share your thoughts on this exciting development in the comments below. Remember to keep discussions respectful and inclusive as we celebrate the diversity and talent within the queer jazz community.
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