Yorkshire Jazz Orchestra
Led by the veteran composer, arranger, drummer and educator, Tony Faulkner, the Yorkshire Jazz Orchestra brings together the best musicians in the region to play quality original and contemporary jazz. Louise Gibbs is honoured to be resident singer with the band.
The project has been a labour or love for its musical director and 20 core players, tackling some of the most subtle and demanding writing for large ensemble in jazz today. The intention is for the Yorkshire Jazz Orchestra to become a permanent fixture, providing a platform for the abundant performing, composing and arranging talent currently based in Yorkshire. Faulkner sees his role as stewarding talent with plans to commission new repertoire and to invite guest conductors and soloists to keep the band refreshed. For example, for the inaugural YJO concert on 21 October 2011 at Seven Arts in Leeds, which featured music by Faulkner and by arrangements of songs by Louise Gibbs, Zezo Olimpio was guest conductor for the premiere of his Memories of Those Who Left and other works.
Yorkshire Jazz Orchestra Personnel
Musical Director and Conductor: Tony Faulkner
Voice: Louise Gibbs
Saxophones: Rod Mason – alto, soprano, flute, clarinet; Dave Hogan – alto, clarinet; Ben Lowman – tenor, soprano; Katie Hawcutt – tenor; Tony Harper – baritone, bass clarinet
Trumpets: Dale Gibson, Mark Chandler, Greg Nicholas, Ian Chalk, Kim Macari
Trombones: Lee Hallam, Brian Archer, Chris Burge; Tony Smith – bass trombone
Rhythm Section: Derrick Harris – guitar; Graham Hearn – piano; Garry Jackson – bass; Peter Fairclough – drums
