Name: Small Academy of Jazz in London
Start: 2024-10-06T16:00:00+01:00
Location: Polish Social & Cultural Association

We are delighted to announce that the renowned Small Academy of Jazz (Mała Akademia Jazzu) will be held in London for the first time! This extraordinary event, which has inspired youth in Poland for 40 years, was founded and initiated by Bogusław Dziekański, director of the renowned Jazz Club Pod Filarami. Dedicated to promoting jazz music in Poland, he has been supporting young talents for many years.
The Small Academy of Jazz is Europe's oldest initiative for informal jazz education, celebrated for fostering contemporary music culture rooted in Afro-American genres such as blues and jazz, validated by extensive research into its achievements.
Organised by the Polish Social and Cultural Association (POSK) in London and Maezztro Music Education, this event features a unique partnership with Yamaha Music London, the flagship store in Soho and the UK's largest music store. Yamaha will provide several instruments for the presentation, enabling our musicians to showcase their talent.
The event will feature a musical presentation and lecture aimed at children and youth aged 8-15. Participants will engage in improvisation, experience live artist dialogues, and explore jazz styles and repertoire tailored to their age group. The open stage setup will encourage their active participation. The organisers announce a quiz, a musical surprise, and promise lots of enjoyment.
Leading the academy is the distinguished saxophonist Marek Konarski, who has performed at major European festivals such as the Copenhagen Jazz Festival and London Jazz Festival, and venues like Ronnie Scott’s and Pizza Express. Marek has directed numerous editions of MAJ in Poland and is renowned as an educator and improviser.
He will be accompanied by the excellent pianist Tomasz Zyrmont, well-known to London audiences. Tomasz has performed at legendary venues such as Ronnie Scott's, the 606 Club, and even the British Parliament. He has gained recognition through events like the London Jazz Festival, and Yamaha Music Live.
Both Marek and Tomasz are alumni of the Small Academy of Jazz, where they took their initial musical steps at Jazz Club Pod Filarami in Gorzów Wielkopolski, Poland.
The event will also feature acclaimed London jazz artists enhancing the rhythm section, promising an engaging jazz jam session following the educational evening.
Parents are invited to join and observe from the club's elevated floor to ensure they do not disturb their children. POSK offers a café, restaurants, galleries, and other amenities, promising a delightful day out during the event.