Watch highlights of our latest tour in Limonest France, where we celebrated 50 years of big band music from Doncaster:
Doncaster Jazz Alumni (DJA) are a professional ensemble made up of past members of the Doncaster Youth Jazz Association. Our mission is simple: Give back to music what it gave to us – unforgettable experiences, friendship, skills for life and wonderful memories.
Everything we do is to help future generations of musicians both in our region and further afield. We feel passionately that music should be accessible for ALL children and yet that is not the case in today’s society.
We want to change that.
Therefore, EVERYTHING we do and sell is NOT FOR PROFIT. Our musicians have all agreed that we should not profit from DJA and so concert fees and ticket sales all go towards financing projects that benefit the next generation of musicians.
You can be part of this and help us. Every time you purchase our new landmark album “50 Years” you are providing valuable equipment and workshops for young people. Every time you grab yourself a limited edition print or t-shirt, you are creating the next generation of musicians.
2023 marks 50 years of jazz in Doncaster led by John Ellis MBE. For their golden anniversary the ensemble have recorded an album in celebration of the enduring legacy of its founder, as well as their individual and collective success in the music industry.
Over the past 5 decades, and thanks to John’s enthusiasm and encouragement, many young musicians have found their voice in this ensemble and subsequently gone on to perform professionally alongside such artists as Herbie Hancock, Sting, Quincy Jones, Gil Evans, The BBC Big Band, Syd Lawrence, Jools Holland, Jamiroquai, Boy George, Paloma Faith, The Temptations, Groove Armada, Faithless, Sir Cliff Richard and The Royal Philharmonic. It’s fair to say that there are Doncaster Jazz Alumni all around the world performing at the very highest level.
There is not a working musician in London who doesn’t know someone that came through the Doncaster Jazz Orchestra
The album “50 Years” (available now) is a heartfelt thankyou to John from the DJA, for his unwavering service, inspiring dedication and the impact he has had on countless lives. Their gratitude towards him is immeasurable.
You can listen to the singles off the album at the below links
Purchase “50 Years” from our bandcamp store
50 Years
Listen/buy our newly released album ’50 Years’ now
© Doncaster Jazz Alumni 2023
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