Doncaster Jazz Alumni and Doncaster Youth Jazz Orchestra to issue '50 Years' album on Ubuntu on 24 November

The Doncaster Jazz Alumni (DJA) mark the golden anniversary of the Doncaster Youth Jazz Orchestra (DYJO), with the release on Ubuntu of 50 Years, an album showcasing the remarkable journey and enduring legacy of its founder, John Ellis MBE, as well as the musicians’ own individual and collective achievements.

50 Years – released on 24 November – was recorded with the intention to try and help support students at the Doncaster Youth Jazz Association (DYJA). The DJA’s  passion for jazz and the community is a motivating factor to “give back to the next generation of talented musicians”. While DJA (whose members include Pete Beachill, Mark Ellis, Reuben Fowler, Rory Ingham, Nadim Teimoori and Andy Vinter) operates independently from DYJA, their core values remain intertwined, and DJA remains “steadfast” in its commitment to support the Association’s current students. As a result, DJA aims to donate a "substantial portion" of the proceeds from the sales of this album to help inspire and assist these young musicians. DJA is most grateful for the public’s support of this project, which will have a direct and meaningful impact on empowering young musicians' lives, allowing them to pursue their musical ambitions.

In 1973, Ellis established a pioneering music training programme, with the goal of offering local children performance opportunities while nurturing their love for jazz and big bands. Now, half a century later, this 50th anniversary album by the DJA is a heartfelt thank-you to John Ellis for his unwavering service, inspiration, and the impact he has had on countless lives.

John explains the idea behind the project: “The album is the brainchild of a group of the Doncaster Jazz alumni who wanted to acknowledge and celebrate our collective success in our 50th anniversary year. It is a testament to the commitment, passion, and professionalism of these remarkable musicians, many of whom I’ve had the enormous pleasure to watch grow and develop as both musicians and people. Despite the obvious difficulties of the recent pandemic, geography, and family/work commitments, they managed to organise rehearsals, performances and a recording at British Grove Studios, London. The recording experience was a revelation and a wonderful thing to witness. After greeting each other with smiles and hugs, the jokes and laughs were quickly put on hold as they took their respective chairs. They all worked passionately and tirelessly over two days to create a unique tribute to many of the great writers who have been inspired us all over the last 50 years.”

In celebration of this anniversary, 50 Years provides the DJA with an opportunity to delve into a diverse collection of music that embraces the vibrant jazz scene of today. It also pays tribute to their musical roots by showcasing compositions from esteemed artists including Bob Brookmeyer, Bob Mintzer, Laurence Cottle, Tom Kubis, Sammy Nestico, Patrick Williams, Al Wood, Steve Parry, Allan Ganley, and Bob Florence.

Throughout the past 50 years, an incalculable number of aspiring young musicians have found their creative voices through their participation in DYJO. Since then, many have embarked on successful professional careers, performing worldwide alongside renowned artists such as Herbie Hancock, Sting, Quincy Jones, Gil Evans, Jools Holland, and The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.

Reuben Fowler, Music Director and Producer of the project,comments: “50 Years signifies a milestone for the DJA, as we are thrilled to collaborate with Ubuntu Music for the first time to realise this momentous recording. Ubuntu's dedication to delivering high-quality, accessible music resonates with our own values, as we continue to celebrate the legacy of the DYJO whose former members form our ensemble.

“Throughout the past 50 years, the DYJO's influence has resonated across the globe, igniting a passion for jazz among younger generations from all corners of the world. With Ubuntu's support, we know that we can continue to share this message with an even wider audience. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to Ubuntu and its director, Martin Hummel, for their willingness to join forces on this landmark endeavour. Martin's involvement adds an extra layer of significance to this already special project.”

For more information, and to help the DJA, visit: www.doncasterjazzalumni.co.uk