The 2014 Yamaha Jazz Scholars

Michael Underwood went to the All Party Parliamentary Jazz Appreciation Group (APPJAG)’s annual Summer Jazz event presenting the new Yamaha Jazz Scholars at the House of Commons. He writes:

Compere for the evening, Michael Connarty MP, introduced Arun Ghosh for a set of rousing, Asian-inspired music. Arun Ghosh is a great example of where a young musician can go on their journey with the support of awards such as the Yamaha Jazz Scholars scheme.

The scheme is in its eighth year and MP Michael Connarty, APPJAG Co-Chairman, said of the awards, “It is so crucial to support young musicians in the transition between education and the profession. The Yamaha awards fill a hole in the funding system where by backing these fantastic musicians means that the younger generation of jazz musicians can keep the integrity and individuality of the British jazz scene alive.”

Peter Ross, representing Yamaha, commented that “Yamaha have true passion and commitment in supporting jazz education”.

After being presented with their awards by Darius Brubeck, the jazz scholars played a set of original music.

Trumpeter Tom Dennis, recipient of the award from Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance, remarked, “It’s a great opportunity to meet and work with like-minded musicians from other conservatoires. It’ll also be a real boost to my career, allowing me to buy much needed equipment, and giving me the opportunity to record some of my own music in a professional studio”.

The Yamaha Jazz Scholars this year (announced a few days ago) are:

Ed Haine, tenor saxophone – Birmingham Conservatoire
Ashley Henry, piano – Leeds College of Music
Mark Lewandowski, double bass -Guildhall School of Music and Drama
Tom Dennis, trumpet – Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance
Dan Smith, alto saxophone – Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama
Utsav Lal, piano – Royal Conservatoire of Scotland
Scott Chapman, drums – Royal Academy of Music.

The Yamaha Jazz Scholars evening is hosted by PPL; media partner is Jazzwise