Jazz Music

	JAZZ

British jazz is defined by diversity. Artists work in many settings – anything from small groups to big bands to solo – and draw on myriad influences that reflect both the multi-cultural nature of British society and the many 'scenes' within the domestic jazz scene. In other words anything from Caribbean to Celtic rhythms may surface in the music alongside free improvisation, post-bop or funky, danceable grooves. Although British jazz doesn’t have a homogenous identity, it is greatly respected for its invention and quirkiness. At a symposium held in 2002 to discuss cross Channel jazz collaborations, Denis Lebas, programmer of the Coutances jazz festival, said that what he appreciated most about British jazz was its 'energetic, slightly crazy side'.

Kevin Le Gendre, Music journalist and broadcaster (Echoes magazine and BBC radio)

Alex Wilson Quartet jazz workshop. Photographer: Lyne Sneige Keyrouz.

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What does the British Council do in this area?

Some areas of UK jazz have proved to be compelling to overseas audiences. It is a popular artform across the globe, particularly in areas such as Central and Eastern Europe and South Africa. Our work in this field covers a wide variety of artists, from the renowned Courtney Pine who has travelled far and wide (including playing at the World Summit in South Africa in 2002) to the larger Jazz Jamaica All Stars. We have also worked with Bath Jazz Festival to bring British jazz to an overseas audience.