Intensive workshop will give students the chance to perform with one of the stars

Budding young musicians from Birmingham are being given the opportunity to learn from a ‘sensation’ in the world of classical music.

Classic BRIT Award winner and world-acclaimed saxophonist Jess Gillam is working with students from three Birmingham schools as part of an exclusive masterclass on 13 March 2020.

Delivered in partnership with Birmingham-based Services For Education’s Music Service, Jess Gillam – universally applauded as one of the world’s most inspiring and innovative saxophonists – will work with students in a bid to inspire the next generation of musicians. The schools participating include Bishop Vesey’s Grammar, Sutton Coldfield; Plantsbrook School, Sutton Coldfield and Sutton Coldfield Grammar School for Girls.

Jess Gillam – who the previous evening is performing at Town Hall, Birmingham, recently released her debut album ‘Rise’ on Decca Classics, which shot to number one in the Official UK Classical Charts. The album features a selection of her favourite pieces ranging from Marcello and Shostakovich to David Bowie and Kate Bush. A recipient of a Classic BRIT Award, Jess was the first ever saxophonist to reach the final of BBC Young Musician of the Year and last year performed live at the BAFTAs (British Academy of Film and Television Awards) to millions of viewers. Her performance at the Last Night of the Proms in 2018 was described as “the undisputable highlight”.

Students from the three Birmingham schools, which each have large numbers of saxophonists, have been selected to participate in the masterclass which will give them the opportunity to both perform and get feedback from Jess – and potentially, perform with her.

Mrs Charlotte Buxton, Deputy Head of Music Service and Head of Ensembles at Services For Education – the award-winning nationally recognised education and charity that each week teaches music to 38,000 children in Birmingham – said this was a dream come true.

“Jess is an unbelievable, vibrant musician who excites and enthrals audiences wherever she performs. We are so delighted that she has agreed to give up her valuable time to meet and perform with Birmingham’s young saxophonists. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for them to learn from such a young and inspiring musician. We are thrilled that she is supporting Birmingham children. It is a rare privilege.”