Oct28

The London Jazz Orchestra featuring Norma Winstone

The Vortex, 11 Gillett Square, London

“Right now, she is at the peak of her form…there is no jazz singer in the country to touch her.”

“The LJO took great music and made it even greater.”

Norma Winstone, one of Europe's most acclaimed singers, joins the outstanding soloists of the London Jazz Orchestra and director Scott Stroman for a grand benefit to raise funds for the Vortex Club. Norma and the LJO are a natural fit--they performed together regularly at the old club, and will be presenting both new music created for the occasion and favourites from past collaborations.

Norma has been at the forefront of her craft since the late 60s, performing and recording with a host of artists including Roland Kirk, Mike Westbrook, Michael Garrick, John Surman, Kenny Wheeler, Mike Gibbs, John Taylor, and the LJO. Her current group, Grammy-nominated for their ECM recording, features Italian pianist Glauco Venier and German saxophonist/ bass clarinetist Klaus Gesing, and she is a member of Nikki Iles’ group “The Printmakers”.

Since 1991 the Vortex Club has provided a home for the LJO; it presents the monthly "LJO Vortex Sessions" and rehearses and records at the club. Kenny Wheeler, John Taylor, Ian Carr, Stan Sulzmann and Pete Saberton all were all members; still today directed by Scott Stroman, the band features Noel Langley, Henry Lowther, Martin Speake, Alec Dankworth, Paul Clarvis, Alcyona Mick and a host of top soloists.

Norma and the LJO are donating all proceeds toward keeping the Vortex alive and thriving.