The EFG Elements Series is a musical snapshot of specially selected shows that reflect EFG and the Festival’s shared underlying principles to foster innovation and collaboration, to work with passion, and to be driven by quality and excellence. We are also equally committed to supporting the next generation of emerging talent and the creation of new music.
Each year, together with Serious, we hand pick four shows that exemplify the richness and diversity of the Festival programme. This year, more than ever, we want to celebrate the energy and life that are inherent to jazz and live music in general. To echo our own values, we are particularly keen to feature artists with a strong focus on collaboration and that represent the next generation of talent
Richard AA Thomas, MBE, Head of UK Region, EFG International
Jazz Voice | Friday 12 November | Royal Festival Hall
The glittering extravaganza that opens the Festival in style
We’re thrilled to announce the soloists that will be joining Guy Barker and the specially created EFG London Jazz Festival Orchestra as they perform classics of jazz from the world of film.
We welcome special guest singers Ayanna Witter-Johnson, Aynur, Ego Ella May, Georgia Cécile, and Sachal Vasandani to the show, also Lakecia Benjamin on saxophone and spoken word, plus more names to be announced soon.
Dave Holland & John Scofield | Sunday 14 November 4pm & 7pm | Cadogan Hall
Guitarist John Scofield and bassist Dave Holland join forces to present audiences with a new conversation.
Due to phenomenal demand, we have added a matinee show for this new duo, playing original compositions each have contributed to their repertoire, with a selection of jazz standards added to the mix.
‘Scofield at full jazz-improv pelt is always something to behold’ (The Guardian)
What’s Going On: Nu Civilisation Orchestra | Thursday 18 November | Queen Elizabeth Hall
Marvin Gaye’s landmark album What’s Going On is pivotal in music history not only with its statement making story line around inequality, struggle and injustice but also as an artistic masterpiece to lead to progression in soul, characterising the revolutionary vision of Black music. Still relevant in its 50th year, EFG London Jazz Festival is proud to present the celebration of this iconic recording through the lens and talent of brilliant Nu Civilisation Orchestra (NCO) and Peter Edwards.
During this special evening, the 24-piece NCO will reflect on our current times from the perspective of of Marvin Gaye’s incredible catalogue, with special guests, accompanied by the NCO string section and visual projections by Yeast Culture, plus a special guest performance from spoken word artist Colin Salmon.
We are thrilled to strengthen our continuing collaborations with Tomorrow’s Warriors in their 30th year with this monumental project.
Omar Sosa & Seckou Keita | Friday 19 November | Queen Elizabeth Hall
Legendary Cuban pianist and African kora master join forces for a special collaboration.
Grammy-nominated musician, composer and bandleader, Omar Sosa has released more than 30 albums across his glittering career, but his first album with Seckou Keita, Transparent Water, received terrific acclaim – Songlines described it as “beautiful, rhapsodic and spiritual”. Composer and kora virtuoso Seckou Keita continues to enjoy an award-winning career as a fearless artist at the top of his game. His stunning collaboration with harpist Catrin Finch and his recent BBC Radio 2 Folk Award, as Folk Musician of the Year, underline his extraordinary versatility and critical reputation.
