Andrew Duncan & Mentor Rachael Cohen

Birmingham-based drummer Andrew Duncan was a BBC Young Jazz Musician of the Year semi-finalist in 2022. Originally from Aberdeen, Scotland, he studied jazz at Birmingham Conservatoire and since graduating in 2022 has become much in demand as a sideman on the city’s vibrant jazz scene, and is first call for a wide range of projects ranging from small jazz ensembles to New Orleans-style Brass Bands.

His current sextet, includes key musicians from both the Birmingham and London jazz scenes and have performed frequently together over the last four years across the West Midlands and further afield. During that time they have developed a deep musical connection. 

As part of the Jazz Central Mentoring Scheme, Andrew’s band is joined by renowned alto saxophonist Rachael Cohen, one of London’s most in-demand jazz musicians. While working under Rachel’s mentorship, Andrew has composed and arranged some new music that his sextet will debut, alongside tracks from his 2022 debut album Islands in his upcoming performances. Expect influences of not only jazz but folk, classical and fusion in his ever-exciting sets.

"I really, really like [his] playing, I could listen to it all day." – Ari Hoenig

“He’s a strong and confident player… [who] can swing at a moment’s notice!” – Gregory Porter

Line-up:

Andrew Duncan – drumkit and compositions

Rachael Cohen – alto saxophone

David Bustos – tenor saxophone

Julien Durand – electric guitar*

Cameron Sheehy - piano

Sam Casey – double bass

*only performing 7th September