Queer Jazz – the collective platform that aims to amplify queer identities within the jazz world – is gearing up for the launch of its monthly London-based residency at Dalston’s not-for-profit jazz club, Vortex. Kicking off in February 2025, the purpose of the inclusive space is to unify and connect artists within the sphere, increasing visibility and building community in the process.
Organised by DJ, broadcaster and producer Tina Edwards and award-winning jazz musician Arowah (the co-founders and brains behind Queer Jazz), the residency will showcase both upcoming and more established talents. The series will kick off on February 5, with a performance from Moroccan-Italian singer/songwriter Queen Kaltoum, supported by singer Maya Law. Other confirmed artists include musician, producer and composer Jessica Lauren, bass and clarinet player Knobil and gender-diverse group Peng Femme Jam. There will also be a Summer Showcase, with details to be confirmed closer to the time, that will take place in June. Having seen its start in April 2023, this series is an exciting addition to Queer Jazz’s accomplishments. It is a chance to celebrate, as Edwards put it, “an incredible spectrum of queer talent”, and strengthen those ever-important community bonds.
“We’re so excited for 2025!,” says Arowah. “It’s been a few years of build-up to this moment as we’ve tried to make space for queer jazz to exist. We’re now getting to bring this incredible, vibrant, queer jazz community into the spotlight and we’re also hoping to grow and nurture our community in the process.”
Tickets for the residency are on sale now. Purchase yours here.
Top image by Olivia Brissett. Photography courtesy of Queer Jazz.
Queer Jazz founders Tina Edwards and Arowah