Jess Gillam: From carnival Bands to Classical Stages
Prepare to be captivated by the electrifying energy and musical versatility of Jess Gillam, a saxophonist who’s captivating audiences worldwide.
Few musicians can boast a career trajectory as impressive as Gillam’s. The first saxophonist to reach the finals of BBC Young Musician,she’s as etched her name in the world of classical music,scooping a Classical BRIT award,hosting her own show on BBC Radio 3 (“This Classical Life”),and gracing the BBC Proms stage both as the youngest ever soloist and as a presenter.
“Music has always been a huge part of my life,” Gillam shares, reflecting on her journey.”My dad was an indie rock drummer, and I even started playing saxophone in a carnival band when I was just seven years old.”
This eclectic upbringing has shaped Gillam’s musical style.“I play a massively eclectic mix,” she explains, “from contemporary classical to jazz, folk, minimalist, baroque, and classical — anything that speaks to me.”
Gillam’s musical influences are as diverse as her repertoire, spanning generations and genres.From the soul-stirring vocals of Aretha Franklin and Nina Simone to the innovative sounds of RAYE and Doechii, Gillam draws inspiration from a wide range of artists
Her upcoming tour, “Bach to Bowie,” promises to be a testament to her versatility, featuring a captivating blend of classical masterpieces like Bach’s Concerto in A Minor and Mendelssohn’s String Symphony No. 2, alongside modern interpretations of david Bowie’s iconic music, including Life on Mars.
“I’m really excited to bring this unique program to ireland,” Gillam says, adding, “it’s going to be a journey through different musical worlds, and I can’t wait to share it with all the amazing audiences.”
Catch Jess Gillam and the Irish Chamber Orchestra as thay bring “Bach to Bowie” to life in:
- Galway, Town Hall theatre, Thursday, February 6, at 8.00 pm.
- Balbriggan, The Lark Concert Hall, Friday, February 7, at 7.30 pm.
- Limerick, University Concert Hall, saturday, February 8, at 7.30 pm.
Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to experience the magic of Jess Gillam’s music.
Stay connected with Jess Gillam through her website www.jessgillamsax.co.uk, instagram, and Facebook.
