Image: Jess Gillam, credit Robin Clewley.
A joy-filled programme of exceptional artists, bold collaborations and the first Turner Sims Folk Weekend are featured in the new season at the University of Southampton’s intimate music venue.
Turner Sims, has launched its Spring 2026 season.
From internationally renowned classical musicians and genre-defying jazz artists to global folk traditions and boundary-pushing contemporary voices, there’s something for every musical taste. Highlights include the first ever Turner Sims Folk Weekend. This three-day celebration brings some of the very best folk artists to Southampton, including Lisa Knapp & Gerry Diver, Malin Lewis and The Furrow Collective, alongside free performances and family-friendly activities.
There are many more highlights across the new season.
Following a spellbinding Turner Sims debut in 2024, saxophonist, flautist and composer Jasmine Myra returns with Rising, the radiant follow-up to her critically acclaimed album Horizons. Widely recognised as one of the UK’s most exciting jazz voices, Myra’s music is uplifting, expansive and emotionally rich. Produced by Matthew Halsall and mixed by Greg Freeman, Rising draws subtle influence from artists such as Kenny Wheeler, Bonobo and Shabaka Hutchings, while remaining unmistakably her own – meditative, cinematic and deeply moving.
Lady Nade sings Nina Simon is a vibrant tribute to one of the twentieth century’s most powerful and influential voices. Bristol-based singer-songwriter Lady Nade leads a high-energy performance that channels Simone’s fearless storytelling and genre-defying sound. Joined by some of Bristol’s finest jazz musicians, Lady Nade reimagines Simone’s iconic songs with passion and authenticity, honouring her not only as a musical pioneer but also as a trailblazer who reshaped the landscape for Black women in music.
Drummer, percussionist and composer Sarathy Korwar makes his Turner Sims debut with music from his latest album There is Beauty, There Already. Blending Indian folk traditions with jazz and minimalism, Korwar creates a mesmerising, trance-like sound world built on circular rhythms and flowing textures. Featuring tabla, ghatam, drum kit and Buchla synthesiser, the music moves with the ceaseless energy of a river – immersive, meditative and quietly powerful.
Ngoni master Bassekou Kouyate and revered griot singer Amy Sacko perform as a duo, drawing on ancient texts and new stories sung in Bambara and Peul. Their music explores love, legacy and hope, forging a rare closeness between artists and audience. This deeply personal performance offers a unique opportunity to experience the heart of Mali through sound.
Jess Gillam Trio – colourful, energetic and full of joy, saxophonist Jess Gillam returns with a programme that reflects her boundless musical curiosity. Joined by pianist Zeynep Özsuca and bassist Sam Becker, Gillam moves effortlessly between jazz, baroque and folk-inflected repertoire, from Phil Woods and Sidney Bechet to Corelli and Gershwin. Expect favourites with a twist, playful surprises and infectious enthusiasm from one of classical music’s most magnetic performers.
The John Martyn Project – brought together by a shared love of the iconic Scottish singer-songwriter, this six piece band of respected leftfield and folk artists have established a huge national following for a sound that blends blues, rock, jazz and folk.
Turner Sims’ Spring programme is now open for booking. Visit turnersims.co.uk to grab your tickets and discover the full line-up.
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