Alistair Martin presents music from his latest album, MONOMYTH 1K, alongside some of London’s most creative improvisers: Shirley Smart, Tom Smith, Eddie Lee, and Oren Mcloughlin.

Diarra Walcott-Ivanhoe is a pianist and composer currently undertaking a post-graduate degree in Jazz at Guildhall. Having grown up in London, Diarra has had a rich and diverse musical upbringing that exposed him to an array of different genres including jazz, soul, reggae and soca.

Curated by cellist Shirley Smart, Creations features a set by invited artists from the UKs vibrant free improvisation scene, followed by an acoustic jam session.

Jamie Pye is a London-based jazz guitarist and composer with roots in both Australia and New Zealand. Drawing influence from all music and art and traditions, he pays particular attention towards the work of composers and bandleaders Brian Blade, Kendrick Scott, Petros Klampanis, Aaron Parks, Mike Moreno and Gilad Hekselman.

Gan Gemi (pronounced Gan-je-mee) is a young artist gaining a serious reputation as an arranger, producer and beatmaker, creating soundscapes which incorporate elements of jazz, electronic, classical and hip hop into a heady brew that speak directly to the soul.

A new series of monthly Whirlpool concerts continues at the Vortex, with a new cohort of musicians. They are all recent graduates of the main London music conservatoires and have […]

Saxophonist and composer Nikita Korzoun, born in Tallinn, has always been passionate about jazz. He strives to bring back traditional jazz through his music while incorporating modern knowledge, skills, and sounds. The concert is supported by the Estonian Embassy in London.

Composer, electronic musician, improviser and field recordist Tullis Rennie launches his new album Safe Operating Space (Efpi Records) – a vivid hybrid of club music-influenced analogue electronics and free improvisation.

Chiara Spigariol is an Italian drummer and composer based in London. Her project is a concept album that mixes jazz with folk music and is a collection of stories based on books, myth, theatre and art.

Our Jazz and Wine event, hosted by Liv Kessler, is in collaboration with Italian winery Cantina Le Pietre with winemaker Andrea Cavallari. Music is by the Phelan Burgoyne Trio. We […]

Emerald with Maria Chiara Argirò and Dolomite with Ruth Goller are the most recent releases part of Maddalena Ghezzi’s series Minerals. At the Vortex Emerald “delicate world in osmosis with nature and humans” is meeting Dolomite “quixotic moments” in a trio concert that will see Ghezzi, Goller and Argirò merging the two works.

Cloudy Peaks is a new band formed in 2024 by pianist and composer Lorenzo Bellini together with saxophonist Kasper Rietkerk, double bassist Guy Dempsey and drummer Luke McCarthy.

BBC Young Jazz Musician finalist and twice Dankworth Prize winner Reuben Goldmark brings his newly formed piano trio to the Vortex. The group will present a set of original material featuring music that is dynamic and ever-evolving, refusing definition and challenging the performers to create music at their absolute limit.

Curated by cellist Shirley Smart, Creations features a set by invited artists from the UKs vibrant free improvisation scene, followed by an acoustic jam session.

Post-fusion, nu-jazz group DREAMSCAPES is a UK based collective that transcends genre, producing music with a sense of true freedom. It unites the compositions and improvisational prowess of five unique musicians drawing from a melting-pot of influences.

Local & Live in Hackney proudly present London-based band Awalé Jant. A blend of Afro-Latin, funk and soul with a unique Senegalese twist.

Winner of the 2018 BBC Young Jazz Musician of the year, Xhosa Cole is an embodiment of the success of numerous community arts programmes in Birmingham including the Midland Youth Jazz Orchestra, Jazzlines Ensemble and Birmingham Music Service.

Winner of the 2018 BBC Young Jazz Musician of the year, Xhosa Cole is an embodiment of the success of numerous community arts programmes in Birmingham including the Midland Youth Jazz Orchestra, Jazzlines Ensemble and Birmingham Music Service.

Matt Cook is a London based tenor saxophonist who established his quintet whilst at The Royal Academy of Music in London combining some of the most creative young musicians on the London jazz scene.

Becca Wilkins’ latest project ‘rêverie’ is a collection of French Chanson, reimagined with her trio of Olly Chalk (piano), Sam Ingvorsen (bass) and Billy Pod (drums).

OWL Quartet is a new double trumpet group co-led by London-based Charlotte Keeffe and Norwich-based Chris Dowding.

Curated by cellist Shirley Smart, Creations features a set by invited artists from the UKs vibrant free improvisation scene, followed by an acoustic jam session.

Dynamic saxophonist, composer and arranger, Asha Parkinson founded Kalpadruma in 2017 to explore exciting meeting points between Jazz, Contemporary Classical, Flamenco, Mediterranean, Arab and Indian musics.

Intense and focussed improvisations from this new quintet. One set.

Sheldon Agwu is a Guitarist and has worked as a session musician for several years he has collaborated, performed, and shared the stage with artists such as Jordan Rakei, Tom Misch, Yussef Dayes, Bonobo, Jamie Woon, Ego Ella May, Hiatus Kaiyote Alfa Mist, Loyle Carner

Tereza Catarov is a musician born in Romania and based in London (UK), who is gifted with the talent of composition and the art of singing.

The Matt Hurley Group is a contemporary chamber ensemble of young professional freelance musicians, graduates of the Guildhall School of Music and Royal Academy of Music combining nuanced compositions and melodic group improvisations.

Featuring: Alan Wilkinson (saxophone), Jamie Coleman (trumpet), Ed Lucas (trombone), Dave Tucker (guitar), Marcio Mattos (double bass) & Phillip Marks (drums)

Two songwriters join Matthew Herd to perform in the round as part of this intimate, late night series.
This month features lilo and Joseph Futak.

This exciting three-piece band, led by Portuguese-born, London-based pianist/composer Vicente Magalhães plays music with a mixed DNA. They explore and develop on the work of their European contemporaries and also honour the American tradition, with an equal mix of modern takes on standards and original compositions.

SFQ is a new UK-Norway collaboration that draws together four of Europe’s leading improvisers. The quartet’s core repertoire is music written by saxophonist, composer and researcher Mike Fletcher to explore ideas about how melody and form influence free improvisation.

For the past year, the Whirlpool team, including Caius Williams on bass, Kasper Rietkerk on saxes, Alex Lockheart and  Jakub Klimiuk on guitar and vocalists Rebecka Edlund and Marta Gornitzka. […]

The Austrian Cultural Forum London are proud to present this years JazzExchange concert connecting cutting edge groups from Austria and the UK curated by Guido Spannocchi.

UK Label Edition Records take over the Vortex downstairs bar with a Pop-Up Vinyl Shop. Includes exclusive discounts, merch items and maybe even some secret performances from artists on the label….

Open to all musicians, industry and fans wanting to understand a little more about the workings of releasing music, join this FREE event to meet the Edition Records team, and discover insights into the challenges and solutions of releasing music in today’s world.

Our summer Jazz and Wine event, hosted by Liv Kessler, is in collaboration with acclaimed importer Sager And Wine (“Atmospheric and forward thinking.” Olive Magazine) As we continue our deepening […]

Curated by cellist Shirley Smart, Creations features a set by invited artists from the UKs vibrant free improvisation scene, followed by an acoustic jam session.

Bringing beat-heavy electronic improv jazz, Enemies of Turin fuse diverse influences from across modern music in epic improvised sets interweaving big grooves, heavy bass lines, fierce hooks and gleaming electronics!

An up-and-coming quartet hailing from around the UK and beyond, RA are coming to the Vortex! Taking influence from jazz, world and free music we provide an eclectic, vibrant sound fusing strong, driven rhythms with broad and expansive melodies.

Hailing from Hackney, East London, pianist Jesse Doniach is quickly emerging as one of the bright young talents in London’s vibrant jazz scene. Graduating from Trinity Laban conservatoire in 2021, he has since accumulated a breadth of performance experience.

Ronan Guilfoyle who has been a major figure in Irish jazz for more than thirty years, presents Bemusement Arcade, his innovative new quartet devoted to expanding the rhythmic language of jazz via the tradition of blues, swing and standards.

Bruno Heinen joins forces with ECM recording artist Tom Challenger to play arrangements of Horace Silver, Bobby Hutcherson and Dorothy Ashby alongside originals from the co-leaders with a fiery young rhythm section of Kobe Heath and Will Cleasby.

Together Montague and Morcaldi blend electric guitar, classical guitar and sonic exploration within a broad repertoire from Joni Mitchell and The Beatles, Bill Frisell and Ralph Towner, to original compositions and improvisations.

Discover this new trio featuring clarinetist Andreas Røysum, bassist John Edwards & drummer Mark Sanders currently touring in Norway and the UK.

UFO (Unidentified Folk Outfit), led by Tom Ridout on the electric recorder, is a Rock/Folk power trio that reinvents traditional English folk music. The band combines innovative arrangements with a focus on improvisation, creating a unique and dynamic sound. Expect to hear well-known melodies, but with intriguing and unexpected twists.

Silvia Leonzio Quartet is a new project that brings together various genres such as modern jazz, folk, world music, improvised music, and songwriting. The project introduces a fresh and captivating sound by combining these diverse elements.

Unfortunately and due to unforeseen events, we are currently unable to host this performance in our downstairs bar. We hope to announce a new date very soon so keep an eye on our website.

Unfortunately and due to unforeseen events, we are currently unable to host this performance in our downstairs bar. We hope to announce a new date very soon so keep an eye on our website. 

Unfortunately and due to unforeseen events, we are currently unable to host this performance in our downstairs bar. We hope to announce a new date very soon so keep an eye on our website. 

Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances we are unable to host today’s jam session. We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience. Next session will take place on December 9th.

Join us for the launch event at the multi-award winning Vortex Jazz Club for an Azalea Arts production to enjoy an evening filled with art, music, poetry and dance! An […]

UK guitarist Steve Saunders (Xhosa Cole, Paul Dunmall) and Berlin saxophonist Asger Nissen (Jim Black, Jeff Ballard, Loren Stillman) present ‘arche’ (ar-kay), a unique, bassless trio infused with contemporary classical and jazz/improvised music influences.

A new series of events at the Vortex Downstairs organised by Local & Live in Hackney, a small group of local musicians and artists. They organise gigs to support musicians, and their communities, across the rich traditions of Hackney and East London.

For the latest in our new monthly series of up-and-coming musicians of the scene here in London, we have a night programmed by guitarist Jakub Klimiuk. New music, new line-ups. What could be more exciting. Take the plunge and come along!

Awen Ensemble are an alternative folk jazz collective featuring spoken word, shimmering instrumentation and a Celtic mystique, they bring a unique offering to the live performance table.

Maddalena Ghezzi and Maria Chiara Argirò will present Emerald, a sci-fi feminist EP by Maddalena and part of her series “Minerals” with live sound manipulation by Anything Pointless.

Francisco Garcia de Paredes is a jazz guitarist and composer from North London and a graduate of the Guildhall School of Music & Drama and Tomorrow’s Warriors jazz programme. Drawing inspiration from a diverse array of artists including Gretchen Parlato, Aaron Parks, Jim Hall, Kurt Rosenwinkel, Francisco strives to weave these influences into his music, shaping his unique compositional voice.

Sam Braysher’s new project explores the work of Kurt Weill, a fascinating composer who lies at the intersection of European classical music, jazz, opera and American musical theatre.

Trumpeter Alexandra Ridout returns to the Vortex with a trio feat. Freddie Jensen (bass) & Gene Calderazzo (drums) for an early downstairs show.

The Matt Jacobs Quartet is made up of four of London’s up-and-coming jazz musicians. Having initially met in NYJO, the quartet continues to play straight ahead jazz to a high standard.

Shirley, Demi and James are long-time collaborators in a variety of different projects spanning a wide range of musical genres. Stories is a trilogy of freely improvised albums, recorded immediately after the lockdown in April 2021 during the Covid 19 pandemic.

Maddy is a tenor saxophone player based in London, and her band featuring Sultan Stevenson, Menelik Claffey and Zoe Pascal, has been playing together for a long time after first meeting through Tomorrow’s Warriors classes when they were younger.

The Austrian Cultural Forum London is delighted to invite you to this year’s JazzExchange celebrating cutting edge Austrian music in a cultural exchange with some of the most exciting UK ensembles.

Come down for a drink downstairs with performances from a rotating group of London-based singers and instrumentalists. Arrive early if you’d also like to join in for when the sets open to the floor – all welcome!

Two London-based ex-Tomorrow’s Warriors Tom Remon and Alex Ho join forces and explore standard repertoire and improvisations in the unusual but fairly explored guitar/piano duo. They are exploring this format on a 5 date tour across the UK

“In At The Deep End.” An informal evening of chat and music downstairs with guitarist John Etheridge, one of the leading and influential UK guitarists for over 50. (And a […]

An evening of music celebrating the music of Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers. Expect some well known favourites and a few less commonly played tunes as we spend an evening with one of the iconic figures of 20th century jazz.

Tom Challenger (Saxophone), Alex Bonney (Trumpet/Electronics) and Mark Sanders (Drums) join together to improvise as a trio. Having played together in various combinations with others (Alex Hawkins, John Edwards, Brass […]

Azalea Arts will be hosting a variety Show filled with Artistic Expression including Art, Music, Literature and Dance. It will be held at the multi-award winning Vortex Jazz Club, East […]

This is not specifically a Jazz night but a multimedia platform  DOWNSTAIRS filled with a range of entertainment and artistic expression to suite a range of creative interests. A chance […]

James Allsopp, one of our most imaginative saxophonists, both technically and lyrically,  has managed to get together for this one-off show two of our great jazz musicians, generally nowadays not […]

Leading to Christmas Azalea Arts presents a mixed media variety show at the multi award winning Vortex Jazz Club on Friday the 9th of December. The evening will be filled […]

Long-time night manager at the Vortex Laurie Evans celebrates the release of their new book ‘Derry Boys’ – join us to hear from the author, grab copies of the new book and listen to special performances from two members of the Undertones.

Special performances hosted by Richard Brice. Gary Sansome Barbara Fernandez Daphna Baram Stephen Catling HEADLINING: SAM RHODES

An evening of music celebrating the first great Miles Davis quintet, focussing on their Prestige recordings

Emerging out of the popular Vortex downstairs jams, this new sextet presents a selection of lesser-known, more recent jazz standards

Enjoy an afternoon drink with live music from London-based instrumentalists and singers performing jazz standards.

Due to the extremely high temperatures expected this coming Tuesday and the absence of air conditioning in our downstairs area we had to cancel the mid-week jam. Apologies for the inconvenience and hope to see you at the next session on August 2nd.

Trumpet player Alistair Martin will be joined by some of London’s most gifted players: James Allsopp (Saxophone), Dave Storey (Drums), Flo Moore (Bass) and Eddie Lee (Keys), to perform music from his acclaimed debut album ‘Oblivion’

Trumpet player Alistair Martin will be joined by some of London’s most gifted players: James Allsopp (Saxophone), Dave Storey (Drums), Flo Moore (Bass) and Eddie Lee (Keys), to perform music from his acclaimed debut album ‘Oblivion’

OK Aurora is an up-and-coming Jazz/Pop octet that comprises of some of the London jazz scene’s fastest rising stars.
Playing the original songs of Amsterdam-based drummer/composer Rod Oughton, the band was called ‘the most exciting thing I’ve heard for ages’ by Jeremy Isaac at Jazz Journal.

A weekly session on Sunday evenings, hosted by four of London’s finest: drummer Jas Kayser, pianist Rick Simpson and tenor saxophonists Helena Kay and Riley Stone-Lonergan, each one hosting one session on rotation.

Book launch with a conversation between Christian Marclay and Steve Beresford about their new book Call and Response, with a performance from Pat Thomas.

Saxophonist Jean Toussaint presents a special edition of his quartet JT4 feat. John Turville (piano), Alec Dankworth (bass) & Ben Brown (drums).

Saxophonist Jean Toussaint presents a special edition of his quartet JT4 feat. John Turville (piano), Alec Dankworth (bass) & Ben Brown (drums).

The Miguel Gorodi Nonet features many of London’s leading jazz musicians who bring their own personalities to the sound through their unique improvisations. Influences include Steve Coleman, Steve Lehman, Louis Andriessen, Gerard Grisey, Thelonious Monk, Stravinsky, and many others.

The Miguel Gorodi Nonet features many of London’s leading jazz musicians who bring their own personalities to the sound through their unique improvisations. Influences include Steve Coleman, Steve Lehman, Louis Andriessen, Gerard Grisey, Thelonious Monk, Stravinsky, and many others.

Born and bred in East London, Meg Bird is an emerging young artist right at the cusp of an exciting musical career. Her sound is rooted in the jazz tradition, though and she is constantly pushing songs, both old and new, to fresh boundaries

Heavy music with big instruments. Leading from the back is Twm Dylan (Maisha, Gary Bartz) in a double double bass shoot out with Huw V Williams (Gruff Rhys). Up front we have Rosie Turton (Nerija) and Dan Smith (Howl Quartet) with Jake Long (Maisha) providing the swing.

Heavy music with big instruments. Leading from the back is Twm Dylan (Maisha, Gary Bartz) in a double double bass shoot out with Huw V Williams (Gruff Rhys). Up front we have Rosie Turton (Nerija) and Dan Smith (Howl Quartet) with Jake Long (Maisha) providing the swing.

A weekly session on Sunday evenings, hosted by four of London’s finest: drummer Jas Kayser, pianist Rick Simpson and tenor saxophonists Helena Kay and Riley Stone-Lonergan, each one hosting one session on rotation.

Unfortunately, due to Covid, Red Circle won’t be able to perform as planned. However, Simon Purcell has arranged another brilliant line-up featuring: Simon Purcell (piano), Jean Toussaint (saxophones), Steve Watts (double bass) & Mark Taylor (drums).

Unfortunately, due to Covid, Red Circle won’t be able to perform as planned. However, Simon Purcell has arranged another brilliant line-up featuring: Simon Purcell (piano), Jean Toussaint (saxophones), Steve Watts (double bass) & Mark Taylor (drums).

Elina Duni and Rob Luft’s programme of songs of love and exile has been gathering momentum since 2017, when the Albanian-Swiss singer and the British guitarist began their collaboration. Along the way the duo has been augmented by several distinguished guests, with multi-instrumentalist Fred Thomas making a significant contribution to the overarching concept.

Elina Duni and Rob Luft’s programme of songs of love and exile has been gathering momentum since 2017, when the Albanian-Swiss singer and the British guitarist began their collaboration. Along the way the duo has been augmented by several distinguished guests, with multi-instrumentalist Fred Thomas making a significant contribution to the overarching concept.

Little Weaver Bird is a contemporary take on the unique music and poetry of Molly Drake. Fronted by award-winning Irish vocalist Lauren Kinsella (Snowpoet), this new quintet features some of the U.K’s most in demand musicians; James Kitchman, (guitar) Riley Stone Lonergan, (sax) Andrea Di Biase, (bass) and Phelan Burgoyne (drums).

Scottish jazz vocalist Louise Dodds will be making her debut at The Vortex tonight performing songs from her latest album ‘The Story Needs an Ending’ as part of her UK tour. Released in March 2022, the album is a deeply personal collection of songs written and arranged by Louise, which are both moving and uplifting.

A night of close harmony and lush arrangements from Guildhall’s 2022 vocal ensemble ‘The Guildhall Jazz Singers’ including the work of Gene Puerling, Duncan Lamont and Scott Stroman.

The Austrian Cultural Forum is pleased to welcome Max Plattner Trio to this year’s edition of the ongoing JazzExchange Series.

Unfortunately, we had to cancel this Sunday’s jam session but we look forward to welcoming you next week for a session hosted by saxophonist Helena Kay.

The Blue Spirits Trio John is leading tonight is a classic guitar-led jazz organ trio and showcases the bluesier side of John’s musical repertoire. With Pete Whittaker on organ, a superb accompanist as well as soloist and in demand drummer George Double.

The Blue Spirits Trio John is leading tonight is a classic guitar-led jazz organ trio and showcases the bluesier side of John’s musical repertoire. With Pete Whittaker on organ, a superb accompanist as well as soloist and in demand drummer George Double.

Enjoy an afternoon drink with live music from London-based instrumentalists and singers performing jazz standards.

Bass player, composer and producer Liran Donin and his band 1000 Boats are returning to the Vortex for their first London debut since Covid, and will be showcasing some new material.

Bass player, composer and producer Liran Donin and his band 1000 Boats are returning to the Vortex for their first London debut since Covid, and will be showcasing some new material.

Gravy Boat is a contemporary, cinematic jazz quintet led by Leeds based saxophonist and composer Emma Johnson.

Gravy Boat is a contemporary, cinematic jazz quintet led by Leeds based saxophonist and composer Emma Johnson.

Sultan is an upcoming young talent, aged only 21. He is joined by his other young and talented partner in crime: Joel Waters on drums and special guest Larry Bartley at the bass.This concert will feature Sultan’s original compositions, many of which will soon be released on Sultan’s debut album.

Sultan is an upcoming young talent, aged only 21. He is joined by his other young and talented partner in crime: Joel Waters on drums and special guest Larry Bartley at the bass.This concert will feature Sultan’s original compositions, many of which will soon be released on Sultan’s debut album.

A weekly session on Sunday evenings, hosted by four of London’s finest: drummer Jas Kayser, pianist Rick Simpson and tenor saxophonists Helena Kay and Riley Stone-Lonergan, each one hosting one session on rotation.

Sean Gibbs is a London based trumpet player/composer, known for his work with the Scottish National Jazz Orchestra, Calum Gourlay Big Band, Young Pilgrims and many others. Tonight he will be performing material from his album ‘When Can I See You Again?’, released with Ubuntu Music.

Sean Gibbs is a London based trumpet player/composer, known for his work with the Scottish National Jazz Orchestra, Calum Gourlay Big Band, Young Pilgrims and many others. Tonight he will be performing material from his album ‘When Can I See You Again?’, released with Ubuntu Music.

Tonight, Fini comes together with Tom Cawley (piano) and Corrie Dick (drums) to perform songs from her most recent record ‘La Loba’, in the wonderfully intimate atmosphere of the Vortex.

A weekly session on Sunday evenings, hosted by four of London’s finest: drummer Jas Kayser, pianist Rick Simpson and tenor saxophonists Helena Kay and Riley Stone-Lonergan, each one hosting one session on rotation.

Award-winning clarinettist and composer Arun Ghosh makes an eagerly anticipated return to The Vortex, performing music from new album, Seclused in Light.

Award-winning clarinettist and composer Arun Ghosh makes an eagerly anticipated return to The Vortex, performing music from new album, Seclused in Light.

Enjoy an afternoon drink with live music from London-based instrumentalists and singers performing jazz standards.

Guitarist Nick Costley-White leads an all star cross-generational trio playing a unique selection of songbook classics and jazz standards. Nick performs extensively with his trio across the city and has developed a distinct and swinging ensemble sound with regular drummer Josh Morrison. For this special performance they invite Dave Green to feature on double bass.

Guitarist Nick Costley-White leads an all star cross-generational trio playing a unique selection of songbook classics and jazz standards. Nick performs extensively with his trio across the city and has developed a distinct and swinging ensemble sound with regular drummer Josh Morrison. For this special performance they invite Dave Green to feature on double bass.

For this special, one-off performance the Elliot Galvin Trio will be playing brand new music with special guest Binker Golding. 

For this special, one-off performance the Elliot Galvin Trio will be playing brand new music with special guest Binker Golding. 

Playing the music of Sarah Vaughan, singer Heidi Vogel returns to the Vortex with a fantastic band featuring: Will Barry (piano), Tom Farmer (bass) & Shane Forbes (drums).

Playing the music of Sarah Vaughan, singer Heidi Vogel returns to the Vortex with a fantastic band featuring: Will Barry (piano), Tom Farmer (bass) & Shane Forbes (drums).

Alto-sax master Tony Kofi fronts this loving celebration of the jazz giant Julian ‘Cannonball’ Adderley. With Andy Davies (trumpet) Alex Webb (piano), Andy Champion (bass) and Alfonso Vitale (drums) the group traces the explosive music of Cannonball Adderley from his first session as leader in 1955 through work with Miles Davis to the soul-jazz of the 1960s.

Alto-sax master Tony Kofi fronts this loving celebration of the jazz giant Julian ‘Cannonball’ Adderley. With Andy Davies (trumpet) Alex Webb (piano), Andy Champion (bass) and Alfonso Vitale (drums) the group traces the explosive music of Cannonball Adderley from his first session as leader in 1955 through work with Miles Davis to the soul-jazz of the 1960s.

Petter Eldh (bass), Kit Downes (piano) and James Maddren (drums) are ‘ENEMY’. Based in London and Berlin, they play expressive and complex music – light-speed rhythmic patterns and dense harmonic clusters collide in a unique and formidable combination of voices that has been described as both “fiercely intense” and “beautifully intricate”.

Petter Eldh (bass), Kit Downes (piano) and James Maddren (drums) are ‘ENEMY’. Based in London and Berlin, they play expressive and complex music – light-speed rhythmic patterns and dense harmonic clusters collide in a unique and formidable combination of voices that has been described as both “fiercely intense” and “beautifully intricate”.

To celebrate Huw Warren’s 60th birthday – a special one off performance by one of the UK’s most individual and influential
Jazz groups.

To celebrate Huw Warren’s 60th birthday – a special one off performance by one of the UK’s most individual and influential
Jazz groups.

On tour throughout the UK with his debut album, trumpeter Hugh Pascall brings his quartet to the Vortex for the final gig of the tour and to celebrate the album launch.

On tour throughout the UK with his debut album, trumpeter Hugh Pascall brings his quartet to the Vortex for the final gig of the tour and to celebrate the album launch.

“IMPROV NIGHTS” is a regular event at The Vortex Jazz Club – Downstairs curated by London-based drummer and percussionist Stefano Ancora. For this occasion he will be doing a drums & percussion solo set.

Enjoy an afternoon drink with live music from London-based instrumentalists and singers performing jazz standards.

Following on from his critically acclaimed release, Climbing in Circles pt. 3 (Ubuntu Music, 2021), this new album from drummer Will Glaser features long-time collaborator, Matthew Herd, on saxophones and piano, alongside trumpeter, electronic artist and producer, Alex Bonney.

Following on from his critically acclaimed release, Climbing in Circles pt. 3 (Ubuntu Music, 2021), this new album from drummer Will Glaser features long-time collaborator, Matthew Herd, on saxophones and piano, alongside trumpeter, electronic artist and producer, Alex Bonney.

Campus celebrates twenty years of eclectic artistic career since she left Sardinia to move to London. This project presents new compositions written with pianist Steve Lodder and arrangements of tunes that have been part of her repertoire and international collaborations.

Brigitte Beraha’s early incarnation of ‘Lucid Dreamers’ premiered at London’s Queen Elizabeth Hall as a trio with George Crowley and Tim Giles in November 2019. Now extended to a quartet with Alcyona Mick, they released their debut album ‘Lucid Dreamers’ on Let Me Out Records in July 2020.

Brigitte Beraha’s early incarnation of ‘Lucid Dreamers’ premiered at London’s Queen Elizabeth Hall as a trio with George Crowley and Tim Giles in November 2019. Now extended to a quartet with Alcyona Mick, they released their debut album ‘Lucid Dreamers’ on Let Me Out Records in July 2020.

A bi-monthly session on Sunday evenings, hosted by four of London’s finest: drummer Jas Kayser, pianist Rick Simpson and tenor saxophonists Helena Kay and Riley Stone-Lonergan, each one hosting one session on rotation.

Led by saxophonist Xhosa Cole, join us for a night of improvised duos and trio featuring drummer Mark Sanders and bassist Neil Charles.

Led by saxophonist Xhosa Cole, join us for a night of improvised duos and trio featuring drummer Mark Sanders and bassist Neil Charles.

Improvised beats – big harmonies – sonic adventures

Improvised beats – big harmonies – sonic adventures

Since VEIN was founded, the trio has regularly joined forces with guest musicians in horizon-expanding and ground breaking projects. They have now come together again, forming an equally exciting and unconventional quartet with Stan Sulzmann, the great saxophonist with whom VEIN is collaborating since 2018.

Since VEIN was founded, the trio has regularly joined forces with guest musicians in horizon-expanding and ground breaking projects. They have now come together again, forming an equally exciting and unconventional quartet with Stan Sulzmann, the great saxophonist with whom VEIN is collaborating since 2018.

Antoine Boyer is widely seen as one of the best guitarists of his generation. He is joined by virtuosic Korean Harmonica player Yeore Kim and three in demand London based musicians: Tobie Medland (Violin), Harry Diplock (Rhythm Guitar) & Eleazar Ruiz (Double Bass).

Antoine Boyer is widely seen as one of the best guitarists of his generation. He is joined by virtuosic Korean Harmonica player Yeore Kim and three in demand London based musicians: Tobie Medland (Violin), Harry Diplock (Rhythm Guitar) & Eleazar Ruiz (Double Bass).

With her debut album “Vapour”, Italian Jazz Singer and Storyteller Germana Stella La Sorsa has set out to break down both aesthetic and musical jazz conventions in a melting pot of styles.

With her debut album “Vapour”, Italian Jazz Singer and Storyteller Germana Stella La Sorsa has set out to break down both aesthetic and musical jazz conventions in a melting pot of styles.

Internationally renowned Alina Bzhezhinska, one of the leading harpists in the world today, has built a strong reputation for innovation.
Creating a unique sound on the harp, with layered effects and electronics, Bzhezhinska will be supported by music supremo’s Mikele Montolli (bass), Joel Prime (percussion) & Adam Teixeira (drums).

Internationally renowned Alina Bzhezhinska, one of the leading harpists in the world today, has built a strong reputation for innovation.
Creating a unique sound on the harp, with layered effects and electronics, Bzhezhinska will be supported by music supremo’s Mikele Montolli (bass), Joel Prime (percussion) & Adam Teixeira (drums).

First ever gig for this new improvising duo. 

Maddy Coombs is a young up-and-coming tenor saxophonist from Northampton, and is currently in her third year at the Guildhall School.

Maddy Coombs is a young up-and-coming tenor saxophonist from Northampton, and is currently in her third year at the Guildhall School.

Pigfoot (Chris Batchelor, James Allsopp, Liam Noble & Paul Clarvis) was formed by Chris Batchelor in 2014 to play classic 1920’s New Orleans themes with an open and original improvised approach to the material.

Pigfoot (Chris Batchelor, James Allsopp, Liam Noble & Paul Clarvis) was formed by Chris Batchelor in 2014 to play classic 1920’s New Orleans themes with an open and original improvised approach to the material.

A UK jazz super group, Out Front formed to play the music of two of Jazz’s greatest ‘inside-outside’ masters: Booker Little and Andrew Hill.

A UK jazz super group, Out Front formed to play the music of two of Jazz’s greatest ‘inside-outside’ masters: Booker Little and Andrew Hill.

Pianist Bruno Heinen joins forces with Larry Bartley (Courtney Pine) – one of the most sought after bassists on the scene, and Rod Youngs (Gil Scott-Heron) –  one of the most expressive and adept musicians in the music arena today.

Pianist Bruno Heinen joins forces with Larry Bartley (Courtney Pine) – one of the most sought after bassists on the scene, and Rod Youngs (Gil Scott-Heron) –  one of the most expressive and adept musicians in the music arena today.

Moonscape is an exciting contemporary group – feat. Jim Howard (trumpet, flugelhorn & electronics), Luke Annesley (alto sax), Julie Walkington (bass) and Mike Pickering drums – playing original music drawn from a wide range of influences.

Moonscape is an exciting contemporary group – feat. Jim Howard (trumpet, flugelhorn & electronics), Luke Annesley (alto sax), Julie Walkington (bass) and Mike Pickering drums – playing original music drawn from a wide range of influences.

A reunion for Barry and Helena to develop and explore unique jazz repertoire and standards. A melting pot of Barry and Helena’s exploration of the New York and Dutch jazz scenes.

A reunion for Barry and Helena to develop and explore unique jazz repertoire and standards. A melting pot of Barry and Helena’s exploration of the New York and Dutch jazz scenes.

Rachael Cohen presents her international Trio featuring Joe Downard on double bass and New York drummer Jason Brown.

Rachael Cohen presents her international Trio featuring Joe Downard on double bass and New York drummer Jason Brown.

Harry Christelis and Pedro Velasco form a guitar duo that explores and challenges the boundaries of improvised music. They recorded their first album, ‘Scribbling’, in December 2020. The result is a truly distinct album that challenges the ideas of what a guitar duo should sound like. ‘Scribbling’ (Ubuntu Music) will be available worldwide in March 2022 on Vinyl/CD/Digital.

Harry Christelis and Pedro Velasco form a guitar duo that explores and challenges the boundaries of improvised music. They recorded their first album, ‘Scribbling’, in December 2020. The result is a truly distinct album that challenges the ideas of what a guitar duo should sound like. ‘Scribbling’ (Ubuntu Music) will be available worldwide in March 2022 on Vinyl/CD/Digital.

Formed in 2019 by Iranian composer and pianist, Ashkan Layegh, in London, Phemo aims is to explore freedom through a highly-detailed composition. Its current line up includes Academy graduate, Sam Norris (Alto Saxophone), Guildhall graduate Harry Ling (Drums), and Academy classical guitarist, Gonçalo Maia Caetano (Bass).

Formed in 2019 by Iranian composer and pianist, Ashkan Layegh, in London, Phemo aims is to explore freedom through a highly-detailed composition. Its current line up includes Academy graduate, Sam Norris (Alto Saxophone), Guildhall graduate Harry Ling (Drums), and Academy classical guitarist, Gonçalo Maia Caetano (Bass).

A Hologram Maze is led by pianist/composer David Austin Grey and features brand new music played by five of the UK’s finest improvising musicians, all close friends, bringing the music a deep sense of understanding and common purpose.

A Hologram Maze is led by pianist/composer David Austin Grey and features brand new music played by five of the UK’s finest improvising musicians, all close friends, bringing the music a deep sense of understanding and common purpose.

Martin Speake (UK) and Scott Stroman (USA) were born on the same day, half a world apart.  Guitarist Colin Oxley and bassist Larry Bartley join them as their lively “Twins” band returns to celebrate their birthdays.

Featuring a cast of London’s finest improvisers: pianist Bruno Heinen (Denys Baptiste); bassist Tom McCredie (Elliot Galvin); and drummer Shane Forbes (Empirical).

featuring a cast of London’s finest improvisers: pianist Bruno Heinen (Denys Baptiste); bassist Tom McCredie (Elliot Galvin); and drummer Shane Forbes (Empirical).

Saxophonist, double bassist, singer & composer Ben Somers brings his quartet to the Vortex featuring: Ron Updegraff (guitar), Steve Watts (double bass) and Tim Giles (drums).

A set from house band featuring: Guido Spannocchi (saxophone), Joe Armer (guitar), Jason Simpson (bass), Tristan Banks (drums)  followed by Jam.

Enjoy an afternoon coffee with live music from a rotating group of London-based instrumentalists and singers jamming over jazz standards.

A special stream of a concert for the environment featuring Joe Lovano, John Pattitucci and Terri-Lynne Carrington, along with live music led by Tom Challenger.

David Miller – Saxophone Eric Lounsbury – Trumpet Michael Richardson – Piano Duncan McKenzie – Bass Bobby James – Drums To mark the birthday of Thelonious Monk, we present a […]

Join us for a lovely afternoon of jazz standards and a few surprise numbers at the lovely Vortex Bar downstairs. A lovely intimate venue with a warm atmosphere. Limited numbers […]

ON THE EVE OF BLACK HISTORY MONTH WE PRESENT:
Man of Words and Music – Shake Keane (Part II)
Jazz & Poetry with Philip Nanton (poet), Henry Lowther (trumpet), Dave Green (Bass).

On the Eve of Black History Month we present: Man of Words and Music – Shake Keane (Part II) Jazz & Poetry with Philip Nanton (poet), Henry Lowther (trumpet), Dave Green (bass).

A set from house band featuring: Guido Spannocchi – alto sax, Phil Stevenson- guitar, Jihad Darwish – bass, Pete Hill – drums, followed by a jam session.   Come down, […]

For this special evening (taking place DOWNSTAIRS), tap dancer Petra Haller and pianist Meg Morley will play one improvised set of music, exploring rhythm and space, drawing from their combined […]

Live music from house band: David Miller (saxophone), Xie Cheng (piano), Duncan McKenzie (drums) & Leo Stimpfle (bass) followed by a jam session.

3 master improvisers collaborate DOWNSTAIRS. A great, and still all-too-rare, chance to hear their interplay LIVE. Tom Challenger (sax), Olie Brice (bass), Will Glaser (drums) Only limited advanced seating available. […]

Join Petra Haller and Meg Morley at an evening of Improvised Piano and Tap dance to celebrate Bill Bojangles Robinson’s Birthday. May 25th which is Robinson’s birthday (25/05/1878- 25/11/1949) was […]

“IMPROV NIGHTS” is a regular event at The Vortex Jazz Club – Downstairs curated by London-based drummer and percussionist Stefano Ancora.

“IMPROV NIGHTS” is a regular event at The Vortex Jazz Club – Downstairs curated by London-based drummer and percussionist Stefano Ancora. LIVE DUO and TRIO sets of improvised music, with […]

REALLY SORRY THAT WE HAVE BEEN UNABLE TO HAVE LIVE GIGS FROM 1 AUGUST. HOPEFULLY MORE NEWS SOON. APOLOGIES TO ALL WHO BOOKED.  

Petra Haller on tap and Richard Lewis on piano have gone on to develop a captivating partnership drawing on their diverse experiences in music and beyond. Their joint improvisations are […]

BAND MEMBERS: Legendary drummer Winston Clifford won the British Jazz awards in 2018. Keys player Dorian Ford is one of the most in demand keys players in the UK. Leading […]

Hosted by Huw V Williams, he chats to fellow musicians about life and music within the world of jazz and improvised music. Join for the first live recordings with musicians […]

“IMPROV NIGHTS” is a monthly event at the Vortex Downstairs curated by London-based drummer and percussionist Stefano Ancora. LIVE DUO and TRIO sets of improvised music, with a different set-up […]

Words & Jazz is proud to present a blistering night of the best in contemporary poetry and jazz this EFG London Jazz Festival. Come to the cosy bar downstairs at […]

New artists announced! Be transported at this event merging art, music, poetry and dance to a world of demas. Curated by artist Aurelie Freoua and will include musicians Zac Gvi, Dave O’Brien, Maurizio Ravalico and incredible Korean flautist Hyelim Kim, artists Ley Loosh and Gwen Heddle, poet Mervin Scott, tap dancer Petra Haller and Atomik Bubbles.

Hosted by Huw V Williams, he chats to fellow musicians about life and music within the world of jazz and improvised music. Join for the first live recordings with musicians […]

Martin Speake – Saxophone Hans Koller – Euphonium/Piano Jeff Williams – Drums Fred Thomas – Double Bass Thelonious formed in 2015 to study and play the music of one of […]

“IMPROV NIGHTS” is a monthly event at the Vortex Downstairs curated by London-based drummer and percussionist Stefano Ancora. LIVE DUO and TRIO sets of improvised music, with a different set-up […]

Martin Speake – Saxophone Hans Koller – Euphonium Jeff Williams– Drums Fred Thomas – Double Bass Thelonious formed in 2015 to study and play the music of one of the […]

Words & Jazz is proud to present a blistering night of the best in contemporary poetry and jazz this EFG London Jazz Festival. Come to the cosy bar downstairs at […]

Voyager II are back with their monthly residency! This October edition will also feature a trip hop DJ set from SONNY DELIGHT

Come down to our cosy downstairs bar for the best in new poetry and jazz. This ‘outstanding summit
between contemporary poets and musicians’ (The Independent) will warm your soul and broaden
your horizons.

“IMPROV NIGHTS” is a monthly event at the Vortex Downstairs curated by London-based drummer and percussionist Stefano Ancora. LIVE DUO and TRIO sets of improvised music, with a different set-up […]

A wonderful trio led by drummer Jeff Herr, with Maxime Bender and Laurent Payfert, will totally submerge you in great music in this early evening downstairs gig.

Voyager II are back with their monthly residency! This time joined by some vinyl spinning in-between sets, courtesy of Sergiu. As the name suggests, Voyager II aren’t about standing still, […]

Open Decks at the Vortex Downstairs, an opportunity for vinyl lovers to play, talk and share music!

A night of musical emotion and dancin’ to support and raise awareness for Crohn’s and Colitis! 

hymn is a group from Norwich. They have a core trio of Chris Dowding (trumpets & electronics), George McKay (double bass) and David Ross (percussion & electronics). They play spacious […]

Words & Jazz is back! Hosted by Nikki Heinen it features poetry in the first half, followed by some of the great younger jazz musicians in the second.

Jazzexchange Austria showcasing cutting edge Austrian groups in combination with emerging UK talents facilitated by The Austrian Cultural Forum and curated by Guido Spannocchi are happy to invite you to […]

Drums – Erick Ford. Bass – Dennis Davis. Keyboard – Andre Louis. Tenor – Thomas Alleyne. Low Tenor – Daniel Louis   Daniel Louis‘s Pan-Ultimate Band with special guest “Thomas Alleyne“ […]

Words & Jazz RETURNS with a blistering line up for the start of spring. Come to this ‘outstanding summit between contemporary poets and musicians ‘ (The Independent) and prepare to be wowed!

Open decks is a once month session for vinyl lovers to play music in the relaxed atmosphere of The Vortex Jazz Club Downstairs. A monthly Sunday event where music lovers play […]

ndreaOur monthly Jazz Travellers nights continue on Friday 14 December with a journey from Italy via Holland with Amsterdam-based guitarist Dario Trapani who will join the well-honed London-based rhythm section […]

Words & Jazz SPECIAL!! Join us in the cosy downstairs bar for a night to remember – award winning poets and musicians!

Words & Jazz offers the BEST in contemporary poetry and jazz – this October we have hugely talented poets and musicians for your delectation! Come and have a cocktail in the cosy bar and be part of this ‘outstanding summit between contemporary poets and musicians’ (The Independent)
Not one to be missed

Open decks is a once month session for vinyl lovers to play music in the relaxed atmosphere of The Vortex Jazz Club Downstairs. A monthly Sunday event where music lovers play […]

The Great Harry Hillman is a Swiss post-jazz quartet, playing original compositions between jazz, rock and Improv since 2008.

In Blue Sheila (dancing girl press 2018), things can be spoken into existence, or sung. People can conjure up new ways, or exhaust their voices repeating the same thing over and over again. The story of Sheila and her slow-burning emancipation is a performance score. Marcel is violent. Ava is tender and flippant. The chorus reads the news and speaks the jazz tongue. Sheila needs to cross.

An evening of 3 established international improv duos showcasing some of the best the UK and Austria has to offer featuring Graham Dunning and Colin Webster, Mark Holub and Irene […]

A new monthly series Downstairs

 This early evening gig is part of a nationwide tour bringing together the furious sound of Alan Wilkinson (saxophone/bass clarinet) and Andrew Cheetham (drums) for the first time since recording together […]

11th May – Upstairs & Downstairs @ The Vortex, 2pm-8.30pm Raph Clarkson presents workshops and a gig featuring: Huw Warren, Elliot Galvin – Piano Stuart Silver – Spoken Word Mia […]

Every 4th Thursday of every month poet Nicki Heinen hosts Words & Jazz Downstairs  @ the Vortex Jazz Club expect a night of the very best spoken word and jazz. This is an […]

In the 1960 Rome Olympics, the world was introduced to one Cassius Clay: an 18 year-old boxer with the charisma to win over the crowds, and the talent to win […]