EMBOLDENED JAZZ ORCHESTRA & CHOIR _
Emboldened: From Quintet to Orchestra & Choir _
A powerful journey of music, unity and resilience.
The Journey So Far _
In 2023, I released and toured my quintet album Emboldened which shares a universal message about the positivity of people facing adversity and the strength found in unity.
A New Chapter with Jonathan Silk _
Since releasing Emboldened, it has been an extraordinary experience to collaborate with Jonathan Silk as he expanded my quintet compositions into the dynamic, soaring landscapes of jazz orchestra with his unique musical voice.
Jonathan has a rare ability to extend a composition, adding rich textures and new movements without losing its original identity. His work reveals fresh, exciting directions I would never have imagined.
We also enhanced the jazz orchestra with a choir, adding emotional depth and a powerful connection with the audience. This has led to an exhilarating re-imagining of the music at its full scope and potential.
Performances Across the UK _
The project has reached audiences nationwide, including:
Wiltshire Youth Jazz Orchestra at Wiltshire Music Centre
2023
University of Birmingham Jazz Orchestra and Choir at CBSO Centre
2024
Guildhall Jazz Orchestra and Choir at The Barbican
2025
Leeds Contemporary Jazz Orchestra at The Venue
2025
Why We Need Your Support _
We now need investment to capture and share this music with an international audience and to support future collaborations.
The Emboldened Jazz Orchestra and Choir will become a double album released on Stoney Lane Records. We have been offered the world-class recording facilities at Royal Birmingham Conservatoire and have a strong network of respected jazz musicians and industry specialists across the UK.
Steve Banks
“Together, I hope we can offer an uplifting and inspiring experience to audiences everywhere.”
Support the Recording of ‘Emboldened’ _
Your support will ensure the music reaches far beyond the concert hall.
“All the compositions are heartfelt and honest, as are the performances. A chronicle of hard-won optimism and hope. An elegant response to troubled times ‘Emboldened’ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Jazz album of the month ”
“Banks conveys an authenticity that brings a fresh voice to the world of jazz. There is a delight in its originality ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️”