Award-winning initiative Jazz Camp for Girls made a triumphant return to Leeds Conservatoire on Saturday 8 March 2025, inspiring the next generation of jazz musicians.
Since its UK launch by Jazz North in 2019, Jazz Camp for Girls has gone from strength to strength, expanding its reach across the North of England and helping to address the gender imbalance in jazz.
This year, 23 female and non-binary musicians aged between 8 and 15 were welcomed to Leeds Conservatoire on 8 March for a day of jazz music and improvisation in a supportive and encouraging environment. Thanks to funding from Arts Council England and our partnership with ArtForms, free places were offered to individuals studying or living in Leeds, making the camp more accessible to young musicians.
The day was a collaborative venture between Leeds Junior Conservatoire and the conservatoire’s School of Music and Education. It was delivered by a talented team lead by Becca Wilkins, with conservatoire staff, Marie Brown, Amy Clark, Hollie McDowall, Flo Taylor, and Caroline Webb. Becca Wilkins described the day:
"Jazz Camp for Girls was a really special day with over 20 young girls coming together to learn, create and improvise together. As tutors, it was a really rewarding experience getting to know these musicians and explore jazz together. There were brand new compositions, group improvisations, and a mass ensemble performance of Memphis Underground!"
Participants also watched Generation Big Band rehearse. This was a great opportunity to hear a different style of jazz music, as well as witness a live performance from Leeds Conservatoire students and graduates, alongside Leeds Junior Conservatoire musicians.
The day concluded with a performance to family and friends, where participants showcased their fantastic arrangements and compositions from the day.
Karen Gourlay, Head of Leeds Junior Conservatoire, reflected on the day’s success:
“It was incredible to see the creativity and confidence of the young musicians grow throughout the day. Providing a supportive and encouraging space for them to explore jazz and improvisation is so important. Seeing returning participants from previous camps was particularly rewarding and these days are making a lasting impact. The final performance was a real highlight, and the applause at the end was well-deserved.”
With thanks to our partners:
Arts Council England
ArtForms Music and Arts
