Upcoming events.
Our next JAZZ in the LOFT event is on SUNDAY JUNE 21st with the award winning Saxophonist and Composer IAIN BALLAMY!!!
Iain Ballamy, an award-winning saxophonist and composer, is an influential figure in contemporary European jazz. His distinctive approach, characterised by a warm, lyrical tone and thoughtful phrasing, bridges avant-garde experimentation with accessible melodic sensibility.
He has been described variously as urbane, original, melodic, freethinking and uncompromising.
Listed in the BBC’s publication ‘100 Jazz Greats’ between Count Basie and Chet Baker his work is contemporary with both strong jazz and classical references and yet un-encumbered by formality and tradition.
His musical journey spans decades of significant collaborations, including the groundbreaking big band Loose Tubes, Bill Bruford's Earthworks and an enduring partnership with Django Bates. The innovative Anglo-Norwegian ensemble Food with Thomas Strønen and the trio Quercus with folk singer June Tabor and pianist Huw Warren exemplify his cross-genre approach.
Ballamy's critically acclaimed recordings include his debut "Balloon Man", the introspective "All Men Amen", and releases ECM Records. He has worked with musical luminaries including Gil Evans, George Coleman and Hermeto Pascoal.
As a soloist, he has performed with prestigious orchestras including the BBC Philharmonic and London Sinfonietta. His venture beyond jazz includes saxophone concertos written specifically for him and film scores for Dave McKean's "Mirrormask" and "Luna".
Ballamy's musical personality combines improvisational spontaneity with profound appreciation for harmony and form. His performances unfold with narrative purpose, creating a captivating tension between freedom and discipline.
As an educator, he holds Saxophone professor positions at the Royal Academy of Music and Guildhall School of Music, developing innovative approaches to teaching, improvisation and composition that inspire the next generation of musicians.
Ballamys most recent solo album entitled “Riversphere vol 1” was John Fordham's 'Guardian of the month CD feature' in Jan 2026
Joining Iain for BJF's Jazz in the Loft concert, is the superb pianist Gareth Williams and exceptional double bassist Nick Pini.
This trio has performed many times and shares a rapport and empathy which communicates directly to the listener leaving a strong and lasting impression.
The repertoire draws upon the music of Bill Evans, Tom Jobim, Harry Warren, the great American songbook and some original works, showing imaginative and contemporary interpretations and approaches to present familiar works in new settings, pushing the boundaries of harmony and melodic subtlety.
Sunday June 21st
Tickets available here: https://hdfst.uk/e154216
Doors at 7pm Concert at 7:30pm
Jazz in the Loft - Dennis Rollins
One of the most distinctive trombonists of his generation, Rollins has lent his unmistakable sound to artists like Blur, Jamiroquai, and Pee Wee Ellis, while leading his own award-winning projects. He’s received Trombonist of the Year at the British Jazz Awards, a BBC Jazz Award for Best Band, nominations for the Parliamentary Jazz Awards, and an MBE for services to music.
Now he steps into Jazz in the Loft’s spotlight with a top tier band featuring Cameron Pierre (guitar) and Tiago Coimbra (bass), plus a special guest on drums. It’s rhythm, brass, and the Caribbean warmth. Impossible to sit still for.
Entry requirements: no age restrictions (under 18s to be accompanied by an adult over 21yrs, 1:1 ratio)
Please note: Audience members should enter via the Raleigh Road entrance and take the lift to the third floor to access the Loft.
Jazz in the Loft - Nigel Price Organ Trio
As the nights draw in, Jazz in the Loft returns to the Tobacco Factory, and on October 10th, the Nigel Price Organ Trio takes the stage. Winners of the 2016 British Jazz Award for Best Small Group and 2021 Parliamentary Jazz Award nominees, the trio will perform favourites from their back catalogue alongside music from their forthcoming album, It’s On!
At the helm of the trio is guitarist Nigel Price, celebrated for his clear, no-nonsense, driving style. He is joined by Ross Stanley, widely regarded as one of the UK’s finest Hammond B3 organists. Completing the line-up is Joel Barford, a fast-rising drummer already hailed as a “man of the moment” on the jazz circuit.
As usual at Jazz in the Loft, expect a moving, intimate, and unfiltered performance.
Jazz in the Loft - Liane Carroll
Bristol Jazz Festival welcomes to the next Jazz in the Loft edition the incomparable Liane Carroll, a towering figure in British jazz and one of its most deeply soulful and heartfelt performers. With a career spanning decades, she has collaborated with artists ranging from Sir Paul McCartney to the BBC Concert Orchestra, and has been honoured with awards including Best Vocalist and Best of Jazz at the BBC Jazz Awards. Liane Carroll remains a rare and compelling presence in jazz—authentic, unfiltered, and essential.
Entry requirements: no age restrictions (under 18s to be accompanied by an adult over 21yrs, 1:1 ratio)
One-Night-Only Festival Fundraiser
Join us on May 28th for a spectacular one-day fundraising event at The Mount Without—a unique 900-year-old landmark in the heart of Bristol. This historic church, beautifully reimagined as a modern creative hub, provides an outstanding backdrop for a day filled with music, creativity, and community spirit.
Workshop & Masterclass with Joe Webb in The Loft @ Tobacco Factory Theatre
We're excited to welcome one of the UK's most captivating young pianists, Joe Webb, for a masterclass on Jazz. Joe Webb is very highly regarded in the Jazz world and we can't wait for him to join us and share with us his approach and experience.
Joe Webb Trio Live in The Loft @ Tobacco Factory Theatre
This special performance is presented by Bristol Jazz Festival in partnership with Bristol Jazz Workshop, and promises a night of dynamic improvisation, rich harmonies, and electrifying swing. Whether you're a lifelong jazz lover or new to the scene, this is an opportunity to experience world-class musicianship up close in an intimate and atmospheric venue.