Ever felt like the jazz scene is stuck on repeat, with the same faces getting all the spotlight? Women in Jazz (WIJ) are here to change all that. They’ve just announced ‘The Year of Women in Jazz‘, a groundbreaking 12-month initiative to uplift, amplify, and celebrate women in jazz across the UK. And it’s about bloody time.
This isn’t just another token campaign with a catchy hashtag; it’s a full-blown movement backed by industry heavyweights like the Love Supreme Festival, the London Jazz Festival, Soho Radio, and Soho House. WIJ has put in the work, conducting in-depth research that revealed a glaring issue: 55.8% of people think women in jazz are underrepresented, and only 16.4% feel they’re getting fair recognition. Women in Jazz are stepping up to fix this.
What’s the Gig?
So, what’s the plan for The Year of Women in Jazz? It’s a packed programme, and we’re vibing with their vision. Here’s the gist:
– Representation
– Mentorship & Career Development
– Collaborative & Inclusive Spaces
– Financial & Educational Support
– Gender-Equal Programming & Networking
And the killer idea of releasing 12 singles over 12 months produced by artists in the WIJ network. Each track will be built from the diversity and creativity of women in jazz, offering mentorship, studio time, and performance opportunities along the way.
Kicking Things Off: Rosa Brunello’s ‘Uno Punto Uno’
The first single, ‘Uno Punto Uno‘ by Italian bassist and composer Rosa Brunello, is already here to set the stage. Brunello’s creative chops shine through in this track, which is all about new beginnings and unity. Oh, and there’s a gorgeous visualiser to boot. Listen here or watch the visualiser below if you’re ready to be transported.
Who Are Women in Jazz?
Founded by Louise Paley and Nina Fine, the Women in Jazz community has 10,500 members and includes singer-songwriters, producers, composers, and instrumentalists. Whether they produce radio shows for Jazz FM, host panels at Love Supreme, or program at Ronnie Scott’s, these women are rewriting the rulebook. If anyone can pull off a jazz revolution, it’s them.
Why This Matters
Jazz has always been about pushing boundaries, but it’s overdue for a rethink when it comes to inclusion. Women in Jazz are building a platform where women’s voices can genuinely thrive, from the main stage to the mixing desk. We love to see it.
Visit the official Women in Jazz website at womeninjazz.co.uk/