Jazz Prodigies Reunite for Unique Proms Concerto 2026

The jazz prodigies Sheku Kanneh-Mason, Jess Gillam, and Ben Goldscheider are set to premiere a groundbreaking triple concerto at the Proms, reuniting the finalists from the 2016 BBC Young Musician competition.

The Unlikely Trio: Cello, Horn, and Saxophone

When a cellist, a horn player, and a soprano saxophonist walk into the Royal Albert Hall, it might sound like the start of a nerdy joke. But for Gwilym Simcock, the Mercury-shortlisted composer, it's a dream come true. His new triple concerto, premiering on the final weekend of the Proms, brings together three extraordinary soloists in a combination never heard before.

"This is a unique combination of instruments," says saxophonist Jess Gillam. "I'm fascinated by the colours that we're going to find. I hope we'll be able to make a sound where people will think: what instrument is that?"

From BBC Young Musician to Stardom

The 2016 BBC Young Musician competition was exceptional. All three finalists have become major names in the classical and jazz worlds. Sheku Kanneh-Mason, the overall winner, has performed for royalty and sold out venues worldwide. Jess Gillam has become a BBC Radio 3 presenter and a passionate advocate for music education. Ben Goldscheider, the brass section winner, has established himself as a leading horn player.

"It's not like you win the competition and all these things fall from the sky, but it does give you a bit of public exposure," says Goldscheider. "Then it's up to you and the people around you what you make of that."

Why This Reunion Matters

Goldscheider, reflecting on the competition's impact, reached out to his fellow finalists to propose a collaboration. The result is a concerto that defies genre boundaries, blending jazz improvisation with classical structure. Simcock, himself a jazz pianist and horn player, has crafted a work that showcases each instrument's unique voice while creating a cohesive whole.

The Concerto's Musical Palette

The concerto promises a rich tapestry of sounds. The cello provides a warm, lyrical foundation, the horn adds a bold, heroic edge, and the soprano saxophone brings a bright, jazzy flair. Together, they create a dialogue that is both innovative and accessible.

Key Takeaways for Music Lovers

• Premieres at the Proms final weekend, a highlight of the classical calendar.
• Reunites the 2016 BBC Young Musician finalists, showcasing their evolution.
• Blends jazz and classical traditions, appealing to diverse audiences.
• Highlights the importance of music competitions in launching careers.

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