Denys Baptiste live in York

Experience Denys Baptiste live on November 25th

Denys Baptiste is a British jazz saxophonist and composer known for his energetic and deeply melodic style, often incorporating influences from Caribbean and African music alongside traditional jazz forms. His work frequently explores themes of identity, history, and spirituality, delivered through complex arrangements and improvisational skill. He has released several critically acclaimed albums and collaborated with a diverse range of musicians.

The National Centre for Early Music (NCEM) in York is dedicated to the study and performance of historical music, particularly from the medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque periods. Housed within St Margaret’s Church, a historic parish church dating back to the 15th century, the NCEM was established in 1985 following a period of campaigning to save the church from potential demolition. The building’s acoustics are highly regarded for early music performance.

The NCEM hosts a varied programme encompassing concerts, workshops, research projects and educational initiatives. While primarily focused on early music, the centre also presents performances across genres that complement its core mission or utilise the unique acoustic properties of St Margaret’s Church. The inclusion of Denys Baptiste’s performance represents part of this broader programming approach.