Saxophonist Tommy Smith has stepped down from his role as Artistic Director of the Scottish National Jazz Orchestra with effect from 19th June.
Smith, who founded the SNJO in 1995 has also relinquished his place on the SNJO Board and doesn’t expect to work with either the SNJO or its youth wing again.
“After more than three decades at the helm, it was a difficult decision,” said Smith. “I remain deeply proud of the artistic legacy we have built together.”
Through his wide-ranging contacts Smith was able to bring some of the greatest jazz artists to Scotland. Among the collaborators who complimented the orchestra’s soloing and ensemble playing are trumpeter Randy Brecker, vocalists Dame Cleo Laine and Kurt Elling, drummer Peter Erskine, percussionist Trilok Gurtu, saxophonist Benny Golson and guitarists John Scofield and Mike Stern.
“Working with musicians of that calibre helped to shape the orchestra into a world-class ensemble and gave the SNJO a rare international standing while providing homegrown talent with the opportunity to perform at the highest level,” said Smith. “I leave with a heavy heart, but with confidence that the musical and institutional foundations we have laid will serve the SNJO well in the years ahead.”
In addition to founding the SNJO, in 2002 Smith instigated the Tommy Smith Youth Jazz Orchestra to provide an outlet for the best young jazz musicians in Scotland. The TSYJO has already been renamed the Scottish National Jazz Youth Orchestra, showing how quickly things move on.