Transatlantic Grooves: How the UK Jazz Scene Stacks Up Against the US

Friday 24th April • 16:15-17:15 • Flow State Hub, Ely’s Yard, E1 6QR

Jazz has distinct historical roots in the United States, shaped by African American history and the Civil Rights movement. In contrast, the UK scene has developed within its own social and political contexts, including post-war migration and evolving cultural policy.

This panel examines how these differing histories have influenced infrastructure, audience development and artistic identity on both sides of the Atlantic. What distinguishes the UK’s recent jazz resurgence from longer-established US ecosystems? How do funding models, education pathways and immigration policies shape opportunity and exchange?

By placing the two scenes in dialogue, the conversation offers comparative insight into how history informs both art and practice, providing a critical framework for understanding both shared lineage and structural differences within global music culture.

Speakers:

• Emma Warren —- Author & journalist

• Soweto Kinch — Award-winning saxophonist, BBC broadcaster

• Gary Crosby OBE —- Co-founder, Tomorrow's Warriors

• Brian Jackson —- Musician & Jazz-funk pioneer

• Moderated by: Jane Cornwell — Award-winning jazz journalist