APPJAG Parliamentary Jazz Award shortlists announced

Jazz in the North is well-represented this year in the APPJAG Parliamentary Jazz Award shortlist, which was announced today.

Arun Ghosh and Mike Walker are both nominated for Instrumentalist of the Year, while Reuben Fowler and Phil Meadows are up for Newcomer of the Year. Leeds College of Music has been nominated for the Jazz Education Award, as has John Ellis for his work with the Doncaster Youth Jazz Association. All the nominations for Venue of the Year as festivals this time round, including Manchester Jazz Festival and Beats & Pieces are up for Large Ensemble of the Year.

The winners will be announced at the House of Commons on May 13th.

These shortlists demonstrate the wealth of talent and commitment that exists in the British jazz scene. Now in its 10^th year, the Parliamentary Jazz Awards honours the best of British jazz. MPs and Peers in the All Party Group are delighted to host another ceremony in the House of Commons and we are extremely grateful to PPL for sponsoring the event. Michael Connarty, MP

Eddie Harvey Arranger of the Year Award

In honour of Eddie Harvey's enormous contribution to Jazz in the UK, an award has been set up which reflects his view that jazz composers and arrangers should receive due acknowledgement of their work and position in the jazz community.

The £2,000 prize will be awarded to the winner at a premiere of the new work. Submissions will be judged through a 'blinding listening' process and the identities will remain hidden to the judging panel until after a decision has been made.