Guildhall Stage – Brecon Jazz Festival 2025
Historic vibes, live energy. Join us at one of Brecon’s most iconic venues for unforgettable performances in a truly atmospheric setting.
15:00 – 16:15
CHUBE
Cardiff-based trio CHUBE push boundaries with their genre-fusing sound, blending jazz fusion with electronic textures, groove-driven basslines, and a wildly inventive use of the electric harp. Led by Ben Creighton Griffiths on harp and keys, with Ashley John Long on basses and Jon Bradford-Jones on drums, CHUBE create a bold electroacoustic landscape that’s both intricate and exhilarating. Expect soaring solos, deep grooves and surprises at every turn.
18:45 – 20:00
Saskia
Internationally acclaimed trumpeter Saskia Laroo brings her dynamic band to The Guildhall for a joyful, high-energy set rooted in classic jazz traditions with a modern twist. Blending bebop, swing and groove with effortless style, Saskia’s trumpet takes centre stage alongside a tight, soulful ensemble. Known for her infectious stage presence and genre-crossing career, this is jazz at its most vibrant — accessible, uplifting, and full of flair.
17:30 – 18:45
Remi Harris' Hot Club Trio
Virtuosic guitarist Remi Harris leads his Hot Club Trio in a dazzling display of gypsy swing, jazz standards, and blues-soaked improvisation. With influences from Django Reinhardt to Wes Montgomery, Remi’s inventive style, infectious energy and breathtaking technique have earned him international acclaim. Joined by double bass and rhythm guitar, this trio delivers a vibrant, toe-tapping set that celebrates the golden era of jazz — with a contemporary edge.
15:00 – 16:15
Double, Double
Two double basses, two guitars, two generations — Double Double is a genre-hopping, groove-laden trio led by Welsh jazz icon Paula Gardiner, joined by rising star Ursula Harrison and dynamic drummer Liz Exell. Their music weaves baroque textures, South African swing, blues, and Argentine rhythms into a deeply creative and playful set. Expect rich contrasts, deep bass resonance, and a joyful celebration of musical collaboration.
15:00 – 16:15
Emily Masser and Alex Clarke
Rising vocal sensation Emily Masser – hailed as a “new star of British jazz” – teams up with acclaimed saxophonist Alex Clarke, a BBC Young Jazz Musician of the Year finalist and British Jazz Awards Rising Star, to lead a quintet that’s turning heads on the UK jazz scene. Uniting fiery bebop energy with fresh, innovative arrangements of timeless standards, their performance effortlessly blends youthful dynamism with swing and tradition. Expect soulful vocals, razor-sharp improvisation, and a set that redefines modern British jazz. Don’t miss this vibrant display of creativity and technical mastery!
18:45 – 20:00
Ashley John Long Quintet
Bassist and composer Ashley John Long brings his powerhouse quintet to Brecon Jazz Festival for a thrilling set of original music that fuses contemporary jazz with classical influence and fearless improvisation. Known for his technical brilliance and deep musicality, Ashley leads a dynamic ensemble of top-tier musicians through richly textured compositions, lyrical moments, and explosive interplay. This is bold, intelligent jazz from one of Wales’s most exciting creative voices.