Jazz musicians from London’s most revered music schools will play just for Bermondsey today (Sunday 1 May) – the first in a series of free events set to run until September.
Fans of silky sax and swing rhythm will be delighted to hear Bermondsey Square Jazz Days is returning despite the “indescribable challenge” live music faced during the pandemic.
The free, outdoor event in Bermondsey Square is organised and hosted by Stephen Pierre, founder of Unity Arts Music (UMAT), a community music project.
Stephen said: “The Bermondsey Square Jazz Days have brought many hours of occupational therapy and happiness through music .
“There is a real buzz and appetite for these events to return as the past few years have been an indescribable challenge for musicians with gigs, tours and events cancelled due to the pandemic.
“I am particularly grateful to the Southwark Ward councillors who have shown great support with helping these daytime seasonal jazz events to grow and become a recognised contribution towards the borough’s cultural calendar of events.”
Each show will see a different collective of musicians, invited from school such as the Guildhall, Trinity College of Music and the Royal Academy, take time out of their tours to play to local people.
Having started in May 2018, this will be the event’s fifth season. In 2020, UMAT won Southwark’s ‘Contribution to the Community’ Business Excellence Award.
In 2019 the organisation, which promotes both fledgling and seasoned talent, was even nominated for a Mayor of London Culture and Creative Award.
Pierre warned “the one thing we cannot guarantee is the weather so bring an umbrella” but thankfully today looks set to stay dry.
All ages are invited and will benefit from outdoor heating and accessible toilets and, although the event is free, donations to cover productions costs are welcome.
Bermondsey Square Jazz Days will take place at Bermondsey Square, SE1 3UN, from 2pm to 5pm, on the first Sunday of each month, between 1 May and 4 September 2022.