Jazz breaking news: Josh Arcoleo Wins Kenny Wheeler Jazz Prize
Friday, July 1, 2011
Saxophonist Josh Arcoleo has won the inaugural Kenny Wheeler Jazz Prize, Edition Records and The Royal Academy of Music have announced.
Awarded each year to a young artist who is able to demonstrate excellence in both performance and composition, chosen from all graduating jazz musicians at the Royal Academy of Music, Arcoleo will record for Edition, part of the prize package, with his album released next year.
Selected by a panel consisting of Edition Records boss Dave Stapleton, the Academy’s Head of Jazz Nick Smart, and saxophonist Evan Parker, Evan Parker said: “This was not an easy job at the outset because the standard from all the entrants was not only at a very high level, but represented diverse approaches to the music. Closer listening made it clear that one musician stood out to be a clear winner."
Arcoleo studied under Pee Wee Ellis, who he also went on to tour with, and joined the Academy in 2007. As well as working with Ellis Arcoleo has also performed with Jason Rebello, Tony Remy, Linley Marthe, Fred Wesley and is a member of the Kit Downes Sextet.