Jazz talent in the spotlight as Scottish jazz award nominees announced

Published: 11 Nov 2021

Scottish Jazz Awards

The high calibre of talent within Scotland’s jazz scene is set to be celebrated next month with the return of the Scottish Jazz Awards.

Nominees for the 9th edition have been announced, with a public vote open at 4pm today, Thursday 11 November, to decide who among the country’s dynamic and thriving musical scene is honoured.

From soulful jazz singing to experimental crossover sounds, the awards will recognise exceptional talent across its exciting spectrum.

The public have until 5pm on Monday 29 November to vote for their favourite vocalist, band, instrumentalist, and more.

A panel of industry specialists, including media, press and promoters from across the UK, alongside last year’s winners who were ineligible to be nominated in the same category as last year, have carefully selected the shortlist and it’s now up to the public to decide who scoops which Scottish Jazz award.

Albums released between 1 April 2020 and 30 September 2021 were eligible to be nominated in the Best Album category.

All the winners will be named at a glittering ceremony at Glasgow venue The Savings Bank on Wednesday 8 December.

Jill RodgerDirector of Glasgow Jazz Festival and Producer of the Scottish Jazz Awards, said: “The Scottish Jazz Awards are always a highlight on the musical calendar for jazz musicians and those who work tirelessly to support the industry and scene all year round. We’re very much looking forward to bringing everyone together to celebrate in person once again. It will be fantastic to applaud the triumphs, recognise some incredible talent and have the opportunity to reconnect with one another. I would like to congratulate everyone on their richly deserved nominations, it’s now up to the public to decide who wins those special awards this December.”

Clare Hewitt, Music Officer at Creative Scotland said: “The 2021 Scottish Jazz Award nominations highlight just how richly inventive Scotland’s thriving jazz scene is. With voting now open, music fans get the chance to explore, discover and celebrate some of the music and artists breathing freshness and ingenuity into this incredible art form.”

Two further award winners will be chosen by the expert panel including the Services to Scottish Jazz Award, which celebrates those working behind the scenes in the industry. The Lifetime Achievement Award in association with Help Musicians Scotland will also be presented on the night. Previous winners include Martin Taylor, Fionna Duncan, Carol Kidd, Ken Mathieson, Bobby Wellins, Tam White and Ronnie Rae.

The Scottish Jazz Awards are produced as an independent event by the organisers of Glasgow Jazz Festival and supported by the National Lottery through Creative Scotland.

Voting closes at 5pm on Monday 29 November -

Discover the nominees and vote on the Glasgow Jazz Festival website