Joe Downard
As one of the most in demand bassists in the UK, Joe Downard is widely recognised for his skills as a performer and improvisor. Joe is a crucial component to many of the UK’s top rhythm sections that range from modern contemporary Jazz and Soul to Electronic and Western African music.

In his early years, Joe made the move to London and soon embedded himself within the Jazz scene and notably the National Youth Jazz Orchestra. Joe recently graduated from the Royal Academy of Music having received the Sir Elton John Scholarship and the foundation prize for excellence after after his year there studying predominantly under Jasper Hoiby, Tom Cawley, Pete Churchill, and Barak Schmool. Across multiple genres, Joe is seen regularly playing in clubs and concert halls across the UK and Europe and has also seen success having had music play-listed by BBC radio 1Xtra and Worldwide FM.

Joe has received much recognition for his contribution to the music scene he thrives in today with accolades such as being named “one to watch” in Bass Guitar Magazine, The Worshipful Company Of Musicians -‘Jazz Musician of the Year’ finalist and is to be featured in ‘Taking Off’ for Jazzwise magazine in March ‘20. This year will see Joe release his debut album that features original compositions of his and boasts a roster of the finest jazz musicians in Europe with ‘Seven Japanese Tales’ to be released 12th June 2020.