The Intermediate and Advanced Jazz programmes at Camden Music’s Senior Saturday Centre have been inspiring young musicians for nearly 30 years. With a focus on learning by ear and developing improvisation skills, these groups have helped hundreds of students across Camden discover their passion for jazz and grow as confident performers. Their progress is proudly showcased each year at events like our annual performance at Lauderdale House—a true highlight of the calendar!

On a sunny afternoon in Highgate, students from Camden Music’s Intermediate and Advanced Jazz Groups took to the stage for an afternoon of live jazz. This was the eighth time Camden Music students have performed at this much-loved event—and it was one of the best yet!

Led by renowned jazz musicians and educators Nikki Yeoh and Binker Golding, the students wowed the audience with their energy, skill and style. They were joined by the Parliament Hill Jazz Band, directed by Camden Music tutor Joe McGrail, who also delivered a fantastic set.

“On a scorching hot day at Lauderdale House, Camden Jazz bands performed with verve and enthusiasm. Nikki Yeoh concluded the entertaining set by urging the audience to get up and dance, defying the heat and refusing to take ‘no’ for an answer!”

Jenny Morgan, Senior Saturday Music Centre Director

“Camden Music has such a great tradition of jazz and we are so lucky to have such inspirational tutors like Nikki, Binker and Joe to work with our young people and teach them about the genre. As always, performing at Lauderdale House is a real highlight of our year and something that we always look forward to.”

Gareth Gay, Head of Service at Camden Music

The audience enjoyed a lively mix of jazz classics and funk favourites, including The Chicken (made famous by Jaco Pastorius), I Got You (I Feel Good) by James Brown, and Hip Pockets by Billy Cobham. The music was so infectious that some audience members even got up and danced!

#WeMakeMusic

Both Jazz courses run at the Senior Music Centre (Camden School for Girls) on Saturday mornings during term time:

• Advanced Jazz: 9:00 – 11:00 am

This group is for players aged 14+ at Grade 5+ level with jazz experience who want to play with other young jazz musicians. Members improvise and play the many musical styles and traditions that influence contemporary jazz. There is a concert at the end of every term and chances to perform at famous music venues.

• Intermediate Jazz: 11:15 – 12:30 pm

For players aged 11-14 with a Grade 2+ level of proficiency who want to play with other young jazz musicians. Members improvise and play the many musical styles and traditions that influence contemporary jazz. There is a concert at the end of every term, as well as opportunities to perform at famous music venues.

Register via our online registration page.
Regular rehearsals will resume in September.

🎷 Camden Music is proud to support young musicians as they grow in confidence, creativity and musical skill. Events like this show just how powerful music can be in bringing people together.