One of the highlights of spending Christmas in London is experiencing the city’s festive spirit firsthand. From carol services at iconic locations like the Actors Church in Covent Garden, to local choir performances on high streets, the city is alive with music and joy. Among these offerings, a standout event is the much-anticipated Jazz Carols at the Great Hall, Methodist Central Hall Westminster, on Sunday 15 December 2024 at 6pm.
This unique event, led by award-winning saxophonist Dan Forshaw and the Jazz Vespers group, blends the soulful, improvisational sounds of jazz with beloved Christmas carols, creating a truly uplifting and festive experience. The stunning Great Hall (the venue for the first meeting of the United Nations in 1946) is known for its rich acoustics and architectural grandeur, making Jazz Carols a celebration like no other.
Since its debut in 2016, Jazz Carols has grown into a cherished holiday tradition, captivating audiences of all ages. Each year, the event offers an unforgettable evening of carols reimagined with a jazz flair, classic Christmas readings, and unique arrangements of timeless songs. This year’s program promises to be no exception, featuring fresh takes on traditional carols by Bob Mintzer, Wayne Shorter, and Dan Forshaw. A highlight is a special rendition of ‘Silent Night’, originally commissioned in 2018 by Methodist Central Hall and arranged for jazz sextet and organ by renowned German saxophonist Birgitta Flick. New arrangements by Guy Dempsey and two beloved Yellowjackets carol arrangements from last year further enhance the programme.
The evening also boasts an exceptional lineup of vocal performances. Libby Key, a versatile artist celebrated for her work across jazz, pop, and gospel music, brings her soulful interpretations and dynamic stage presence to the event. Becca Wilkins, a graduate of the University of Birmingham and Guildhall School of Music and Drama, has toured the UK with her collaborative project wilkins/harris and frequently works with award-winning composer Olivia Murphy on critically acclaimed projects such as moonrise (2022). Helen Bond, deeply involved in worship singing, regularly performs with the King/Cave project and is part of the worship team at Soul Survivor Watford, where she appeared on Songs of Praise in 2021 as a backing vocalist.
Adding to the richness of the evening is the ensemble, featuring three exceptional musicians. Drummer Lewis Isaacs was a runner-up in the International Percussion Youth Competition in Belgium in 2017, and twice a national finalist in the Young Drummer of the Year Competition in 2019 and 2020. He is now in his final year at Royal College of Music. Isaacs is joined by Guy Dempsey on bass and Lewis James on piano, both students at the Royal Academy of Music’s jazz programme whose names will likely be ones to watch out for in the next few years. All three honed their craft as part of the Guildhall Centre for Young Musicians at Saffron Hall. The trio performed at last year’s Jazz Carols and during the 10th Anniversary celebrations of Saffron Hall in 2023, showcasing their talent and chemistry.
What sets Jazz Carols apart is its ability to combine the traditions of a church carol service with the vibrant energy of jazz. The event invites audiences to sing along with beloved classics while enjoying a concert-quality performance. The improvisational nature of jazz brings a fresh, dynamic element to the carols, ensuring no two performances will ever be the same. The results have always been a deeply moving experience that connects the festive spirit with the artistry of live music.
This year’s event is especially significant as it is free for the public to attend, making it accessible to everyone. Whether you’re a jazz enthusiast, a Christmas music lover, or simply looking for a joyful way to celebrate the season, Jazz Carols has something for you. The Christmas spirit will be in full swing (pun intended!) by the 15th of December, and this event offers the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the magic of the season. With its stunning venue, talented performers, and a programme that seamlessly blends tradition with innovation, Jazz Carols promises to be a highlight of the festive calendar. Don’t miss this chance to be part of a unique celebration that truly captures the joy and wonder of Christmas.
