NYJO: The Fire Next Time! (A Tribute to James Baldwin)

For NYJO’s The Fire Next Time! A Tribute To James Baldwin, guest MD Peter Edwards, curator Lucy-Anne Daniels, and the next generation of NYJO jazz musicians, come together to commemorate the life and legacy of one of the twentieth century’s most significant writers.

The performance draws from Baldwin‘s work to explore the emotional and intellectual motifs that run through it, and how music – and jazz in particular – can capture the same themes he helped propel into the important conversations around race, gender, and power dynamics in the last century. It is a touching musical journey interweaving contemporary jazz music with his words performed as lyrics.

About NYJO

NYJO exists to empower and inspire young people across the UK through jazz. It has grown from a single jazz orchestra to a vibrant, varied organisation delivering engaging participation projects and impactful live performances for everyone. We are committed to supporting and developing musicians of all styles and standards: whether you want to become the next emerging artist or simply play for fun – we’re here for it.

About Peter Edwards – guest MD

Pianist, musical director, and composer Peter Edwards directs the Nu Civilisation ensemble alongside his own trio. He was selected for the 2023-24 Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences inaugural Jonas Gwangwa Music Composition Initiative.  

About Lucy-Anne Daniels – project curator and lead vocalist

Lucy-Anne Daniels is a natural performer, creative improviser and talented musician. The Leeds native draws inspiration from singers such as Betty Carter, gospel duo Mary Mary and Amy Winehouse and has taken to The Royal Albert Hall stage several times, including an appearance as part of the BBC Proms for Sarah Vaughan’s centenary in 2024.  

“Freedom of choice, you go either way; choose good, choose love,” came Baldwin’s stentorian voiceover at the end. The standing ovation was immediate, the ripple effect powerful. The path – in these oh-so-chaotic times – once again made clear by music. – Jazzwise