Spring has sprung and with a jam-packed calendar of projects to look forward to this March 2026, we are sure feeling inspired here at NYJO. From upcoming live music and performances to new learning projects, here’s an update on what we’ve been working on, alongside a peek at what is to come…
NYJO Learning: New Sounds with Sam Eastmond
This February half-term, the fantastic conductor and composer Sam Eastmond teamed up with NYJO to deliver an incredible 2-day holiday project at our home in Woolwich Works. Aimed at young musicians aged 12-18 who were approx. Grade 3+ on their instruments; participants got the chance to develop soloing skills and group writing, exploring spontaneous systems of arrangement and organisation to generate new works and sounds!
NYJO Learning: Leicestershire, Manchester ongoing projects
We have loved partnering with Leicestershire Music Hub since February to deliver local music workshops this Spring! Three secondary school ensembles have been mentored by NYJO Emerging Professional musicians, building their confidence in improvisation and experimenting with new musical styles.
On Friday March 20th the project will culminate in a recording, where the young people will be brought together digitally to embrace playing in one huge ensemble.
As for our Manchester project, it has been a real pleasure getting to know all our participants and seeing them develop in confidence since sessions kicked off in January. The project at Band on the Wall will also culminate in a live show for family and friends at the venue on Saturday 4th of April.
A summary so far of Jazz Nation…
Developing musical collaborations conceived at our Peckham Levels residency and exporting the finished result in new contexts around the country; our Jazz Nation series has seen us in so many awesome venues this 2026. From Levitation Orchestra at Voodoo Daddy’s in Norwich, Acoustickle in Nottingham to Jasmine Myra in Cambridge, we aren’t done yet. March will see three more gigs as part of this epic tour of youth-led contemporary jazz.
NYJO X JMI Big Band, London
Sun 15 March, 3pm
Jewish Community Centre, Camden, London
Under the guidance of bandleader Sam Eastmond, the ensemble brings fresh energy to traditional melodies, offering a unique and heartfelt take on Jewish musical heritage. It’s a chance to hear how the next generation is engaging with culture, creativity, and collaboration.
This special concert is a joint event with JMI Youth Big Band – a group of dedicated young musicians aged 11–19 exploring Jewish music through jazz and creative improvisation. Together, they’ll present an exciting mix of styles and influences, highlighting the richness and diversity of youth music today.
Find out more and book tickets.
NYJO & Sam Eastmond Present: John Zorn’s MASADA, London
Monday 16 March, 5:30pm
Ronnie Scott’s, Soho, London
NYJO and Eastmond join forces for the second spot on a national tour of the masterful music of Zorn’s Masada, performed by a 17-piece orchestra of talented young musicians. Expect tight punchy horn lines, a relentlessly driving rhythm section, soaring solos, and Eastmond’s signature punk energy.
Find out more and book your tickets.
NYJO x Theon Cross, Newcastle
Friday 20 March, 6.30pm
Cobalt Studios, Newcastle
A key figure in London’s vital jazz scene, Theon Cross is one of those rare musicians whose vision has redefined their instrument. His unique approach to the tuba has expanded the instrument’s sonic possibilities in revolutionary fashion, restoring it to a long-forgotten prominence as a crucial part of the contemporary jazz ensemble. This gig will also feature support from Ballet Lorent multi-arts collective.
Find out more and book your tickets.
NYJO & Sam Eastmond Present: John Zorn’s MASADA, Cardiff
Thurs 26 March, 6.30pm
Cardiff University School of Music, Wales
The final stop on a tour that celebrates a cultural Jewish identity independent of national or political ideology. Radical in its sonic fusion and improvisational spirit, the performance honours Zorn’s vision of a bold, diasporic celebration of cultural heritage. MASADA comes to Wales!
Find out more and book your tickets.
NYJO X Steam Down, Brick Lane Jazz Festival
Sat 25 April, 7.30pm
Village Underground, London
As part of the iconic Brick Lane Jazz Festival in East London, Steam Down collective will perform alongside NYJO Emerging Professionals for a fantastic Big Band experience. In their own words, Steam Down say:
“There’s something deeply nostalgic about this one – in April 2019 we stood on this same stage presenting The Steam Down Orchestra, and exactly seven years later we’re returning to bring you a very special big band performance with NYJO bringing the story forward while honouring where it all began.”
Find out more and book your tickets.
More NYJO events and announcements…
NYJO Learning: Network Hub Launch Event
Sat 21 March, 3pm
Woolwich Works, London
We are launching a brand new Network Digital Hub, designed as a place to share best practice in the training and professional development of musicians interested in growing their skills as jazz educators. Join us on 21 March for a chance to network with national Music Hub staff and hear from our NYJO Under 18s programme members about their views on current jazz education provision. A full overview of the NYJO Network Digital Hub content and how it can be used by your Music Hub/school. A closing gig delivered by Steam Down, an incredible London-based jazz collective specialising in communal, improvised music-making.
Find out more and book tickets.
Jazz Scholarships for CSVPA
We’re offering two fully funded jazz scholarships, in partnership with Cambridge School of Visual and Performing Arts. This opportunity is open for young musicians aged 17+ who have completed their Level 3 qualifications (A-levels / BTEC or equivalent) with a strong potential, dedication, and a passion for jazz. No formal music background is necessary to apply. The course in question in a one-year Level 4 Music Foundation course at CSVPA in Cambridge (jazz pathway).
The scholarship covers the following:
-Full course tuition fees
-Term-time accommodation in CSVPA standard ensuite single bedrooms for the duration of study
-Three meals a day during the week and two meals a day at the weekend
-Weekly one-to-one lessons
For more information please click the link to find out more.
A brand new interview series with NYJO alumni starts this Spring 2026