A big leader in a little body
So proud of my youngest student who was awarded a music scholarship 🏆 She went for it, under exceptionally challenging circumstances, with only 1 coaching session, performing very alternative material which she was determined to do.
Performance is everything.
One of the most creative, brave, modest young people I've worked with.. She'll go far. A big leader in a little body!
Limited Edition Vinyl now available!
Feels so good to have this in my hands. Limited edition vinyl of my album 'As We Stand' now available!
Looks and sounds more amazing than I ever could have imagined. Thank you to everyone who worked with me on this and helped me make this a reality.
Tori Handsley in the Guardian's 30 Artists to Watch for 2021!
Wow! I'm honoured to be in the Guardian's 30 artists to watch for 2021!!
See the full article on the Guardian's website:
https://www.theguardian.com/music/2021/jan/01/irish-drill-jazz-violin-and-supermarket-musicals-30-new-artists-for-2021
DEBUT ALBUM RELEASED ON CADILLAC RECORDS 27TH NOVEMBER 2020
I'm so happy to let you know the exciting news that my debut album 'As We Stand' will be released on Cadillac Records on the 27th November 2020, with Mercury Prize Nominee Moses Boyd and Ruth Goller.
Available on Vinyl Double LP, CD and Digitally.
New Video on youtube:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e-uKOnM1B10
1st Single out Friday 10th October.
2nd Single out on the 23rd!
Review in Clash Magazine!
Appreciating the support and review from the great Clash Magazine
"Tori Handsley has shared her blistering new track 'What's In A Tune'...
"A full album lands on November 27th, and it underlines the sheer versatility of her artistry.
"Out via Cadillac Records, the album is trailed by furious percussive workout 'What's In A Tune'.
"Tori rides a Moses Boyd beat, with the relentless up tempo improvisation melding together beatific harp notes and traces of club culture.
"Tune in now."
Moses Boyd Mercury Prize Nomination
Rooting for my comrade and band mate Moses Boyd and his Mercury Prize Nomination. If anyone can step up and rock it it's him!
Can't wait to hear what I know he's got in store for us. Tune in to the Mercury Awards 2020 23rd September.
Remote Music Lessons and Coaching - with Tori Handsley I.L.M.,A.L.C.M., BSc (Hons)
20th March 2020
Dear All,
To creatively deal with the difficult times we are in, I am now offering REMOTE sessions via Skype, Whats app video, or facetime for harp/piano/coaching sessions for young people and adults, which I have been holding this week and have been very successful.
I believe music will be an important therapeutic tool and focus for people during this time, and so I want to support and help people, by adapting to this situation to get through it creatively together!
I am also offering COACHING, as a qualified Performance Coach with the Institute of Leadership and Management, and trained in NLP. More info will follow.
Please contact me directly should this be of interest
toris.hands@gmail.com
Creative Calm Clinic - with Performance Coach Tori Handsley I.L.M.,A.L.C.M., BSc (Hons)
20th March 2020
I wanted to reach out to my communities to offer my Coaching services. I am a Performance Coach, and I am now doing an increased amount of Coaching with young people and adults, to help with increasing anxiety, to help people to relax, and focus through this difficult time.
Here is some more information and please do get in touch if you know anyone who is struggling and would benefit.
.....
Creative Calm Clinic
with qualified Performance Coach Tori Handsley I.L.M., A.L.C.M., BSc (Hons)
I have worked with people who are:
-struggling to focus
-struggling with now working from home
-feeling anxious about the unknown
-worried about uncertainty
I help people to feel:
-more calm and at ease
-more focused
-more relaxed
-more empowered and productive
I am passionate about helping people to feel more positive and help you find creative solutions and structure for your work, home life, day to day and personal productivity and wellbeing. I can also help with simple, practical, easily applicable tips for day to day, or more developed sessions giving you tools to help you access positive, confident, empowered states.
I am a qualified Coach with the Institute of Leadership and Management and trained in NLP. I have been working with people for over 10 years helping people fulfill their potential. I am also very familiar with going into the unknown and do so on a daily basis and want to help people with current challenges to work together bravely to create a better world.
“Coaching with Tori helped me focus and reduce my anxiety. Much of her advice was practical and actionable - which is definitely my speed.”
James, studying for his A levels (now at Imperial University)
"I wanted to say a big thank you and for your coaching sessions. You are an amazing wonderful person and you took time to make me feel calm. You have a very calming influence and certainly help me be a lot more relaxed.” Allison, freelance.
Photo credits - Stephen Cropper
International Women's Day 2020 - Youngest pupil smashes her first performance!
I celebrated International Women's Day seeing one of the youngest people I've worked with totally rock her first ever performance in a care home. She smashed it and with so much poise and ease (and funk!) for a small person!! And she held down a killer bassline whilst going for it with the other hand!
Performing is an art and something to practice, responding to your audience live at the time -not a careful, totally preplanned execution tredding on eggshells to be feared and get over with- and so proud to see this powerful little person getting out there and sharing what she has with the world.
Live at Jazz Refreshed 21st November-London Jazz Festival
TORI HANDSLEY 21ST NOVEMBER
JAZZ REFRESHED, MAUMAU BAR
LONDON JAZZ FESTIVAL
Doors 7.45pm
£6 Tickets
Early booking is highly advised
LINK BELOW FOR TICKETS
https://www.tickettailor.com/events/jazzrefreshed/302888?fbclid=IwAR3E-uUoboo5h72fOXcZ0htuhAopEtVRze_HFeVga3PDx__en2oL71nr8HU
I'm very happy to invite you to a fantastic gig coming up 21st November for the London Jazz Festival at Jazz Refreshed. Come out for a killer night of live music to one of the most welcoming, funky, intimate atmospheres for live music, to uplift you and connect with some other great souls!
Freedom: The Art of Improvisation - September Sessions
What an incredible night and pleasure to host our monthly Freedom session, at the prestigious Vortex, voted one of the top 6 jams in UK by the Evening Standard & Nominated for Innovation Award Jazz FM.
Thanks so much to everyone who came down.
Freedom means so much to me and we need it so much right now in the world we live in to remember to take risks and speak to people different to yourself and create new conversations. See you next month!
Always a pleasure to walk through these gates
A supreme honour to be back performing for Blenheim Palace as their recommended harpist.
Interview live on Radio 1 Xtra
Over the moon to be in the studio at BBC1Xtra with the wonderful Moses Boyd, talking about my coming album, performance coaching, and doing an improvisation live 'on the spot'! Listen in!
TORI HANDSLEY TRIO plays CHAOS FESTIVAL London!!! Saturday 2nd Feb
Can't wait to play for this rocking festival by Chaos Theory in London Saturday 2nd February 2019!!
It's a great festival, with a very cross over line up, and this will be their 9th anniversary celebration. Hope to see you there!
THT PLAYS LIVE AT DINGWALLS -with Giles Peterson
Over the moon to announce Tori Handsley Trio will be playing for Dingwalls renowned club night with Giles Peterson SUNDAY 2ND DECEMBER. Gonna be hot mad and wild.
Tickets on sale 10am Thursday 18th October and will go like hotcakes. Be swift....
http://dingwalls.com/event/gilles-peterson-patrick-forge-present-another-sunday-afternoon-at-dingwalls/
TORI HANDSLEY TRIO @ JAZZ CAFE -Saturday 28th July
Tori Handsley presents Afro Harping with Dorothy Ashby & Alice Coltrane
Saturday 28th July - Jazz Cafe, London
Tori Handsley Trio will be headlining the renowned JAZZ CAFE in London, this July, for a special one off evening showcasing a selection of original compositions written by band leader Tori Handsley, alongside their unique interpretations celebrating the music of Tori's key inspiration, Dorothy Ashby, and the legend Alice Coltrane.
Early booking is recommended
https://thejazzcafelondon.com/event/afro-harping-dorothy-ashby-alice-coltrane
Supporting Courtney Pine at Ronnie Scotts
Awesome and surreal to hang with legend Courtney Pine and be on the same bill together at Ronnies, after years back meeting him CD signing. Power to the music.
RONNIE SCOTTS supporting COURTNEY PINE!
Ronnie Scotts was a blast this week supporting Courtney Pine! These guys were on fire! Had a ball on stage!
Big up to amazing audiences for embracing new sounds and loving hearing the harp out of its 'box'!...
My fave comment from the man who said it was like Nigel Kennedy on the harp -feeling blessed ❤
February Shows Confirmed at Ronnie Scotts - supporting Courtney Pine
Nuts to be asked to support the legend Courtney Pine at Ronnie Scots. Should be a mega night!
Even more special too as Courtney was one of the guys who inspired me many years back, to do what I do and believe in the music, when I saw him playing with my dad and we chatted afterwards whilst he signed our CD.
Surreal to be now sharing a stage with him - can't wait!
Tickets - see link below
https://www.ronniescotts.co.uk/performances/view/4421-courtney-pine-and-omar-andquotblack-notes-from-the-deepandquot
Killer London Jazz Festival Review!!
just came across this wicked review -big up to Rob Mallows for his wild words!
"Handling what is in effect a piano on its side with real aplomb, Handsley’s playing challenges your preconceptions of what a harp sounds like...
"Handsley doesn’t so much play as manhandle the harp. Furiously pressing the pitch pedals like a church organist in a hurry to get to the pub, she created groove, chest-thumping power and exciting flourishes from this most grandiose of instruments."
Read the full review here
http://www.londonjazznews.com/2017/11/review-tori-handsley-trio-pixel-at.html
Photo credit Paul Ottavio - pottavio@gmail.com<. All Rights Reserved
26th November - Headlining Cambridge Jazz Festival - Binker & Moses
sunday 26th november, ill be playing with Binker & Moses headlining for the Cambridge Jazz Festival if anyone's around!
https://www.cambridgejazzfestival.info/binker-moses-friends
Feature in Bandcamp
Blessed to be a part of Bandcamp's 10 selected artists in their article "Guide to UK Jazz 2017", alongside some of my great contemporaries who i highly recommend checking out.
https://daily.bandcamp.com/2017/09/29/uk-jazz-guide/
"During the dark years of Thatcherism in the early- to mid-‘80s, the U.K.’s jazz musicians responded with an outpouring of creativity. From the post-punk uproar of Rip Rig & Panic, to the black arts of The Jazz Warriors and the big band experimentation of Loose Tubes, the scene was defined by its sprawling diversity. Thirty years on, and with the U.K. facing similarly divisive times, jazz—in all its forms—is again providing an antidote to the divisions."....
...read on...
Live Concert & BBC broadcast with Nikki Yeoh - 14th October
Tickets are now available for my concert with Nikki Yeoh (Winner of Instrumentalist of the Year Awards Jazz FM).
14th October - Wellcome Collection, London
183 Euston Road, London NW1 2BE, UK.
It is our first concert playing together and will be broadcast live on the BBC
https://wellcomecollection.org/events/jazz-line-improvising-memory
TORI HANDSLEY TRIO - London Jazz Festival 2017
10th November 2017 - Spice of Life, London
6 Moor St, Soho, London W1D 5NA
Delighted to be be invited to play for the renowned man in jazz, Paul Pace, for his night at the Spice of Life for the London Jazz Festival, alongside Pixel all the way from Norway. Set to be a great night....
Tickets available here:
http://efglondonjazzfestival.org.uk/events/pixel
Feature in new Straight No Chaser Magazine
Chuffed to be featured in this special new edition, and stunning magazine, by Straight no Chaser, 'Down the rabbit hole looking for Alice' re my recent experience of Record Store Day 2017.
There's also a great interview with Binker & Moses re the making of the new album on Gearbox Records.
5 Star Review in Evening Standard! - Binker & Moses Album Launch
"There's a jazz revolution going on all over London right now, in back rooms, pop-up clubs and hidden warehouse spaces like Dalston’s Total Refreshment Centre, and young guns Binker & Moses are leading the charge.
"This packed gig marked the launch of Journey to the Mountain of Forever, the second album from the semi-free jazz duo, with a mesmeric first half that featured Binker Golding on tenor sax and Moses Boyd on drums, their chemistry, like their love of everything from funk to grime, Coltrane to Caribbean rhythms, obvious.
"Post-interval, an expanded line-up proved as inspiring as it was audacious, as trumpeter Byron Wallen, harpist Tori Handsley, drummer Yussef Dayes and the free-sax icon Evan Parker joined Golding and Boyd in a wild ride that soared outside comfort zones and into another realm entirely. Different tones and textures — rim clicks, a muted trumpet, deep harp riffs — were given space; solos came, stunned and went. But it was the sheer improvisational force wielded by these musicians in the moment, on the same tip, that drew whoops and catcalls.
"This was exploratory music, very often galvanised by Parker, whose fluent whorls of sound seemed to invest Golding’s shamanic tenor with even greater power, while Wallen’s trumpet skronked, Handsley threw new shapes and Boyd and Dayes layered their fast-shifting grooves. Together, they reached peaks then went higher, and higher still. Phenomenal."
Jane Cornwell - Evening Standard
http://www.standard.co.uk/goingout/music/blinker-moses-review-jazzers-take-wild-ride-to-a-higher-place-a3573041.html
photo credit - Kings Davis
Game of Thrones - Tori Handsley Style
For all you Game of Thrones lovers, check out my new arrangement and version of the theme tune here for the new series!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-LAqTwJRdYY
30th July - Pat Thomas Residency at Oto, London
I'm very honoured to have been asked to play for the final night of PAT THOMAS' (piano) 4 Day Residency at the renowned Improvisation Venue, Cafe Oto, London.
One of the most creative, powerful musicians I have had the pleasure of meeting and playing with to date. His biography is vast, most recently he was the winner of the prestigious Paul Hamlyn Award.
It's set to be a great night, and a great residency I highly recommend.
https://www.cafeoto.co.uk/events/pat-thomas-four-day-residency/
New collaboration... watch this space!..
Alongside working on my new album with Tori Handsley Trio, I've been excited to work with some other fantastic projects and like-minds this year.
Following the Binker & Moses Album launch, I was delighted to meet up to play with Nikki Yeoh - a pianist I've followed and looked up to for many years, for her fire, conviction and prowess of the piano, recently winning 'Instrumentalist of the Year in the JAZZ FM Awards'.
Aside from the music, it also turns out has a shared love of cats!...
watch this space....
Performance Coaching
Just had a great, positive session coaching one of my understandably nervous teenage pupils, who's singing at her first festival! Working on keeping on going no matter what happens, being true to the music and believing in herself.
Special Tori Handsley Trio Gig Announced - Sunday 4th June!
Its official! We will be doing a very special TORI HANDSLEY TRIO gig on the 4th June at the Total Refreshment Centre.
The 1st Set will pay tribute to the great DOROTHY ASHBY - RENOWNED JAZZ HARPIST of the 60s and 70s - and my core inspiration for what I do.
The 2nd Set will feature original compositions, as a taster before our release of our album.
Featuring:
Tori Handsley -harp
Ruth Goller - bass
Moses Boyd - drums
Special guest
Sahra Gure - vocals
Moses & Binker Album Launch Gig Announced! 25th June
Excited the album launch gig for Journey to the Mountain of Forever has been announced:
25th June - Total Refreshment Centre, London, N16 7UU.
Come down, should be a ball!
Binker Golding - Saxophone
Moses Boyd - Drums
Evan Parker - Saxophone
Tori Handsley - Harp
Byron Wallen - Trumpet
Sarathy Korwar - Tabla
Yussef Dayes - Drums & Percussion
http://totalrefreshment.net/
Moses & Binker Album Release
An honour to be a part of the 2nd Moses & Binker Album 'Journey to the Mountain of Forever' and excited it is now available for pre-release on Gearbox Records. Featuring Evan Parker-saxophone, Tori Handsley - harp, Byron Wallen - trumpet, Yussef Dayes - drums & percussion, and Sarathy Korwar - tabla.
Moses & Binker's critically acclaimed 1st album received awards 2015 MOBO award Best Jazz Act, 2016 Parliamentary Jazz Awards, Jazz FM- Best Jazz Act & also Best Breakthrough Act.
Release date: 2nd June 2017
Pre-orders open now
https://gearboxrecords.wazala.com/products/binker-and-moses-1/
https://gearboxrecords.wazala.com/products/binker-and-moses-cd-1/
Put your mind to it - the world is your oyster!...
Over the moon and so incredibly proud of my teenage student who rose to the challenge of taking Grade 8 piano, from start to finish, in under 2 terms, and he did it!! And with top marks for musicality!!
Quite an astonishing achievement, not having taken his grade 7 too, and whilst also doing 3 intense A levels.
Put your mind to it, focus, and give it your all, whatever happens and you can do it!!...
Deeply touched....
..by these kind words from Paul Bradshaw, Straight No Chaser - Former Editor/Publisher; Ancient to Future
"I first met Tori Handsley through the radical Warriors International 'FREEDOM! The Art Of Improvisation' sessions. Her punky attitude and bold approach to the harp led me to working with her on the 'Enlightenment - In The Spirit Of 'A Love Supreme' concerts.
"Tori's radical new trio is built around her own carefully crafted compositions and features excellent electric bassist Ruth Goller and in-demand trap drummer Moses Boyd. This threesome joins a new generation of trios, like GoGo Penguin, who are pioneering new dimensions, expanding expectations and successfully reaching out to fresh audiences. Time to check them out."
Paul Bradshaw, Straight No Chaser - Former Editor/Publisher; Ancient to Future.
Performance Coaching
Had a wonderful coaching session today with a head teacher, dealing with difficult challenges, that come with positions of great responsibility and care.
We worked together on strategies for: INNER RESILIENCE - how to deal with challenging, confrontational situations as positively as possible. Also, how to lead a team more positively, to PERFORM collectively as confidentally and authentically as possible under pressure, to be the best they can.
We discussed the all importance of being in the present, and how to encourage others with strategies to do the same: to be in the moment to see as clearly as possible, react and go with the flow.
Feeling blessed for the lessons of creativity and to people for letting me in to help with their plight for their cause!
Some people just make your day...
from some amazing people I recently had the pleasure of playing for....slightly choked up right now!
"What a find!
If you want someone and something special for your big day then book Tori. Effervescent and absolutely charming as well as extremely talented. Tori is an absolute delight to work with and so warm to all who meet her that you cannot help feel enchanted. The tone of her harp will add magic to any event and when played by Tori creates a unique atmosphere, be it classical, jazz or pop. The range is vast with so many styles that there is always something for everyone. Booking her will be one of the best features of your event.
Tom & Jen August 2016"
120 STRINGS - Pat Thomas & Tori Handsley
What a great evening and journey last night it was at the Vortex playing with Pat Thomas for the debut of our new duo - 120 Strings. Feeling really alive and excited about the potential of music and live creativity :)
thanks everyone who came down for the journey! thanks to Orphy Robinson and Cleveland Watkiss for their mind bending, mental menageries of sound
wonderful people in the world
This made my day and makes me remember why I do what I do and what a privilege it is to play for and to meet such lovely people in the world.
"Hi Tori
Just to say thank you again so much for your wonderful performance at mum's birthday party on Sunday. It was ABSOLUTELY fantastic thank you so much. It meant a great deal to all of us, not just your beautiful music but how lovely you were to everybody as well and they all absolutely love you.
So thank you again and next time we're having a party hopefully we'll give you a call and see if you can come over for that.
Thanks very very much and best wishes to you.
Take care, lots of love.
Lorraine & Richard"
TORI HANDSLEY TRIO @ Ronnie Scotts Upstairs- what a night! ....
Thanks again to everyone who made "Classical Kicks @Ronnie Scotts Upstairs" the experience it was and all you lovely folk who sprung down to surround us. It was a really special evening.
Hosted by the fantastic Lizzie Ball - who reminded me of a classical Jools Holland!... springing here there and everywhere with different ensembles!
There was certainly a lot of improv and the evening reminded me of the importance of the experience and the journey, enjoying each moment... and whatever happens the music keeps going! And what better people to be playing with for the ride than the lovely "Roses" aka Ruth Goller and Moses Boyd. These 2 musicians each have such a unique way ... and as someone said afterwards it must be fantastic being in the middle of that melding pot... and it truly is.
Highly recommend checking this night out in future if you weren't able to come. Watching the other musos more classical set, their commitment to each note, the intensity and emotion of the music was intoxicating. At one point I had to walk out as I almost burst into tears - thanks Gabriella Swallow!
Ali Ward on sound who came specially for the evening, was outstandingly diligent and lovely to work with as ever, creating a spaghetti junction to serve the sprawl of musicians and gear!
Big up finally to Steven Cropper for his super pic!
http://www.transientlife.uk/
Tickets - Tori Handsley Trio @Ronnie Scotts Upstairs - Tomorrow!
Just a note to let anyone know who is hoping to come tomorrow, the tickets are apparently selling like hot-cakes, so we are advising people to book in advance if you are planning to come.
Here's the ticket link :
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/classical-kicks-at-ronnie-scotts-upstairs-tickets-22337077801?aff=es2
Hope to see you there!
Tori, Ruth & Moses
Just had a little boy break dancing around me whilst I was playing some Jimi Hendrix... Gigs don't get much better than this!
Review of Love Supreme Reinvisioned - 22nd June
Lovely review of 'Love Supreme Reinvisioned' at Queen Elizabeth Hall, one of the nicest gigs I've had the pleasure of being a part of recently. Nice bit about the trio with Rowland Sutherland and Emi Watanabe which has just been confirmed I will also be playing with during the LONDON JAZZ FESTIVAL at the Servant Jazz Quarters on the 20th November 2014!
"A beautiful rearrangement by Sutherland of the Joe Henderson tune Earth played by the inspirational and eloquent Emi Watanabe on Japanese flute, with Tori Handsley teasing out some gorgeous jazz harmonies on harp and Rowland himself suitably soulful and earthy on alto flute." Sarah Chaplin
http://www.flutefocus.com/Reviews/enlightenment-a-love-supreme-re-envisioned.html
Great review from UK Vibe
UK Vibe - Michael J Edwards
"Harp player extraordinaire Tori Handsley releases her first musical offering in the form of a self titled four track EP.
"The trio who first performed together at the end of summer 2013 sound like a well oiled and seasoned jazz combo, playing off each other to maximum effect. This is evident from the get go with one listen to the opening track ‘Setting in the Sun’, an impactful and punchy track with a chugging urgency that once it grips you draws you in further.
"The unity, oneness and intuition between the musicians is a joy to behold as they bounce off each other, with Tori’s subtle, teasing harp playing dancing in between the drum and bass. The mystical air of ‘Mistake of Thinking’ is embellished by the gentle and soothing introduction of Chantelle Nandi’s vocal inflections towards the tail end of the tune, which intertwines with the musical notes beautifully.
"With at least three changes of tempo and rhythm throughout, ‘What’s In A Tune’ definitely keeps the listener in the moment. As if giving a musical narrative to the short story of ‘The ‘Tortoise and the Hare,’ the tune races away at one hundred miles an hour, with all guns blazing, before abruptly arresting after two minutes and thirty seconds leaving just the clear, crisp and compelling solitary harp playing of Ms Handsley to slow the BPM down dramatically for the next minute or so. Once again first the bass and then the drum are stealthily reintroduced as the tune builds to another full on high tempo musical attack. The tune continues to undulate throughout; eventually leaving the listener washed up on imaginary seashore completely spent but satisfied.
"Overall the Tori Handsley Trio have served up a very impressive introduction to their sound and musical styling. Be ready to be beguiled by Ms Handsley’s perfectly precise laid-back tones...."
Read more @ http://ukvibe.org/
NIGEL KENNEDY – ELLINGTON / BACH TOUR
Bad Worishofen, Germany
I was delighted to be asked back to perform with Nigel and the band, for the final concert of the Ellington / Bach tour in Bad Worishofen, Germany. Another phenomenal, challenging and creative week!
It was amazing again to see the constant drive and energy of Nigel, to motivate every individual and constantly pushing the music. It was incredible also to see the live, dynamic energy as he was accompanied by Cora Lunny for the Bach double, as they dipped and dived through the music, viscously spurring each other on.
Such an honour to play with Nigel and each of the individual musicians and to have the opportunity to take part in such an inspiring, progressive collaboration.
NIGEL KENNEDY – ELLINGTON / BACH TOUR
Plovdiv, Bulgaria - September 2010
Playing with Nigel Kennedy and his killer band including: Orphy Robinson (vibes), Doug Boyle (guitar), Tomasz Grzegorski (sax), Krzysztof Dziedzic (drums), Adam Kowalewski (bass).
This was an experience I will never forget playing with Nigel Kennedy, one of my childhood heros, who I’ve looked up to since a young age for his passion and unwavering dedication to the music, regardless of any conventional dictations of style; breaking boundaries to communicate music to all types of people, and has been a huge inspiration to me.
Performing in the most stunning amphitheatre with the Philharmonic Orchestra; during sound check with music fluttering over the stage (as sudden huge gusts of wind conveniently arrived just as the orchestra did!) it was a real privilege to be part of such a creative concert.
An intense week of rehearsals in the charming, cobbled streets of Plovdiv, culminated in a rollercoaster of a concert, breathing new life into music from one of the jazz legends Duke Ellington.
UNION CHAPEL - 9TH DECEMBER
An indescribable pleasure to play last night alongside some of the UKs top jazz musicians: Rowland Sutherland, Emi Watanabe, Pat Thomas, Orphy Robinson and Ansuman Biswas.
A dream even to play with them, and the icing on the cake was also being invited to bring in one of my new replica watchescompositions 'Remembering Kenny', after the late Kenny Wheeler.
Thanks to Michael Edwards for capturing some of the evenings events:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bKC3ZQCvEFU
TORI HANDSLEY TRIO Announced to be playing for London Jazz Festival 2014
Enormous privilege to have been asked to play with my band for this year's LONDON JAZZ FESTIVAL at the Vortex Jazz Club - Venue of the year 2013. One of my favourite venues to see live music and where I've been going to see bands for nearly 10 years! Can't wait!
Book Tickets via the link below:
http://www.vortexjazz.co.uk/event/tori-handsley-trio/
http://www.wegottickets.com/event/279187
www.torihandsleytrio.com
TORI HANDSLEY TRIO - Featured in Guardian Gig Review Guide 2015!!
Unbeknownest to me, I just found out that my band, the TORI HANDSLEY TRIO, performing one of my recent compositions 'Home,' was chosen to represent the Vortex Jazz Club, London, in the Guardian Gig Review Guide 2015!! Also one of my favourite venues for live music in the UK and voted venue of the year in Parliamentary Jazz Awards 2013.
...Completely stunned and very happy!..
http://www.theguardian.com/music/musicblog/2015/jan/20/the-gig-venue-guide-the-vortex-london
You can also see the youtube link directly here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IeHhpuqR90Y
LIVE PAINTING BY PAINTER OF LIVE MUSIC - ARTIST GINA SOUTHGATE
Tickled pink to be greeted by renowned artist Gina Southgate, painter of live music, during two of my gigs in the London Jazz Festival.
Featured here with her incredible painting from my gig with my band the TORI HANDSLEY TRIO at the Vortex.
GINA SOUTHGATE:
http://artistginasouthgate.weebly.com
John Coltrane's A Love Supreme- Re-envisioned @ Southbank 22nd June
A truly amazing night at the Queen Elizabeth Hall and honour to be a part of, featuring some of the most incredible jazz and improv players I've been lucky to encounter, and lovely people and spirits. People who have come to mean a lot to me over the years and represent what I love about jazz and music and what it's all about for me.
Rowland Sutherland's interpretation of John Coltrane's Love Supreme was a serious work of art and tapestry of sounds from beautiful arranged sections, to mental no holes barred free improv! Mind blowing experience!
Featuring: Pat Thomas, Orphy Robinson, Cleveland Watkiss, Paul Bradshaw, Neil Charles, Shabaka Hutchings, Nikki Yeoh, Rowland Sutherland, Emi Watanabe, Steve Williamson, Byron Wallen, Rachel Musson, Mark Mondesir....
Photo credits - CARL HYDE PHOTOGRAPHY
www.hydeandhyde-photography.com
UK VIBE MAGAZINE - FREEDOM: THE ART OF IMPROVISATION
Honoured to be mentioned in the recent UK Vibe piece on FREEDOM by Michael Edwards. Featuring interviews with: multi-instrumentalist and initiator of Jazz Warriors International Orphy Robinson, who I had the privilege of meeting whilst I was playing with Nigel Kennedy, and has been a great inspiration to me over the years and great pleasure to still be working alongside; and also curator / publicist Paul Bradshaw (Straight no Chaser).
See the full review:
http://ukvibe.org/excursions/freedom/
7th - 8th July 2014 - ENGINES ORCHESTRA
Recording for Phil Meadow's Engines Orchestra @ Angel Studios London
My home for the next 2 days, after a very early start! Just waiting for the music and for my eyes to open....
22nd June - 'JOHN COLTRANE'S LOVE SUPREME RE-ENVISIONED' @ Queen Elizabeth Hall, Southbank Centre
Extremely honoured to be playing alongside some incredible musicians on the UK jazz and improvisation scene for the opening set of 'JOHN COLTRANE'S LOVE SUPREME RE-ENVISIONED' as part of the MELTDOWN FESTIVAL.
Tickets available via the following link, although are selling fast!
http://www.southbankcentre.co.uk/whatson/john-coltranes-a-love-supreme-83523
28TH APRIL - TORI HANDSLEY TRIO @ JAZZ IN THE ROUND, for Live Jazz on Radio 3 with Jez Nelson
TORI HANDSLEY TRIO will be performing for Jazz in The Round on the 28th April, Live Jazz on Radio 3 with Jez Nelson. A beautiful intimate setting, the cockpit theatre, where I have seen many awesome bands play, and we are very honoured to be playing for!
Tickets available via:
http://thecockpit.org.uk/show/jazz_in_the_round
For upcoming gigs you can also follow TORI HANDSLEY TRIO @ https://www.facebook.com/ToriHandsleyTrio, or email management@torishands.com to be added to the mailing list.
Photo credits: Nadjib Le Fleurier https://www.facebook.com/nadjiblefleurier.artist
Listen again - TORI HANDSLEY TRIO - Live on JAZZ FM
Listen again to TORI HANDSLEY TRIO Live on JazzFM with Mike Chadwick, and also on Soulandjazz.com for his 'European Jazz Union' show, apparently showcasing the best Jazz in Europe!
https://soundcloud.com/tori-handsley
8TH APRIL - TORI HANDSLEY TRIO at the SOUTHBANK CENTRE, PURCELL ROOM
Very excited to announce the next TORI HANDSLEY TRIO gig where we will be headlining at the Purcell Room, Southbank Centre, on the 8th April.
We will be performing music from our new EP alongside some new material. http://www.torihandsleytrio.com
The night will also feature 2 other bands: PROVINCIALS, and ALISON TEALE, and should be a great eclectic evening of music!
Tickets officially now on sale and advanced booking recommended!
https://tickets.southbankcentre.co.uk/booking/production/syos/82512?performance
Photos credits: Roger Thomas
Tori Handsley Trio - Live on JAZZ FM
Just found out my tune 'Settling into the Sun' was played live on JAZZ FM on 'The Cutting Edge with Mike Chadwick: the very best in contemporary jazz covering a variety of styles, it’s an exciting tour of current and upcoming releases in the world of jazz.'
...."in a moment, speaking of great music, is a recommendation from Philip Martindale, who tipped me off to this young lady, who is making some amazing music on the harp, and I will play it for you next on Jazz FM! Fabulous ...torihandsleytrio.com if you want to get hold of that, and I suggest that you do. Definitely one to watch!!"....
Listen here @ JAZZ FM on demand 'The Cutting Edge with Mike Chadwick' at about 40 minutes in!
http://www.jazzfm.com/uncut/ondemand/
TORI HANDSLEY TRIO - Southbank Centre -14th February
TORI HANDSLEY TRIO will be playing alongside Fofoulah at 1pm in the Clore Ballroom.
TORI HANDSLEY TRIO @ The Vortex - 27th January
TORI HANDSLEY TRIO will be playing at the Vortex Jazz Club, 27th Jan - Live Venue of the Year 2013 Jazz Parliamentary Awards.
Extremely pleased to have been asked to play with my band at one of my favourite jazz venues, and general haunts!
And for those who've seen us before, will be playing some new tunes currently in the mix but will hopefully be ready for airing!....
Details and link for tickets below:
http://www.wegottickets.com/event/251929
http://www.vortexjazz.co.uk/gigs.php?gd=20140127
Keep an eye out for Tori Handsley
Extremely flattered to be featured in Jazzwise magazine article 'Who to Look out for':
"Keep an eye out for harpist Tori Handsley whose uncluttered approach delivers a fresh angle to the scene."
Paul Pace, Ronnie Scotts Jazz Club, Spice of Life.
SOLUS 3 @ 12 BAR - 27th November
Excited to be playing at 12 Bar later this month - one of my favourite rock haunts in London.
https://soundcloud.com/solus3
http://www.solus3.com/
http://www.12barclub.com/gig_listings.html
FREEDOM: THE ART OF IMPROVISATION - LONDON JAZZ FESTIVAL
JAZZ WARRIORS INTERNATIONAL PRESENTS: Freedom - The Art of Improvisation - London Jazz Festival
Sunday 27th October - Charlie Wrights International, 45 Pitfield Street, Hoxton, London, N1 6DA.
Sunday 24th November 2013 - A Freedom: London Jazz Festival Special.
Led by Orphy Robinson & Claude Deppa.
House band:
Cleveland Watkiss - vocals
Pat Thomas - Piano
Tori Handsley - Harp
Neil Charles - Bass
Steve Noble - Drums
"When people believe in boundaries, they become part of them." Don Cherry
Drawing by Tori Handsley
Recording session with KAIROS4TET
7th March: Great day recording with amazing jazz group on the scene and MOBO award winners: Kairos 4tet, Jules Buckley and some fantastic players. Made me play 'football' for a while and may have even persuaded me to do a glissando, or two...!
you can check out their awesome tunes here - loving Russel's Resurgance
http://www.kairos4tet.com/
Playing with JAZZ WARRIORS - Launch of Cr8
22nd March
Fantastic night of free improv playing with the Jazz Warriors Orphy Robinson and Cleveland Watkiss. Thanks for having me down guys - absolute privilege to be there - had a great time and wicked vibe!
ps - I particularly liked the A natural in bar 562.5
NATURAL FORMS PRIVATE VIEW - RCA
9th May 2012
Performing for the Natural Forms private view at the Royal College of Art. Pictured here with the legendary artist John Norris Wood.
In remembrance of the wonderful Frank Stevens.
I played for Frank & Hazel's Golden Wedding Anniversary many moons ago, and last year I was so pleased to be asked to play again for him, this time his 80th birthday. He and Hazel then came to see me play with my Trio earlier this year, booking tickets immediately after I emailed him only on the off chance he could come.
I’ve played for many people in my life, but Frank was one of those few people you feel really privileged to have met, who really made a big impression on me and how I’d love to aim to live my life. He was such a kind and appreciative lovely man, and his church, where he always said he wanted me to play, was bursting at the seams for his funeral for which I recently played.
My best wishes to Hazel and all his family.
....'What's On' ...
Interesting what goes on in the world without you knowing!..(although I did obviously know about the concert!)
My dad just showed my this in the paper and asked if it was me?!... glad to know my dad also knows my name. although I think perhaps might have been his dry sense of humour.
And dammit I’m Miss Handsley if we must be formal!!
Photo credits: Luke Penketh
Tori Handsley Solo concert - Sunday 21st April – Kings Sutton.
Sunday 21st April, 3pm @ Kings Sutton Church, Oxon, OX17 3RJ.
£8 / £5-concessions.
A memorial concert I am doing for a very special client and man to me, Frank Stephens, who unfortunately recently passed away. This will be a celebration and memorial to him and the support he gave to my music, in his church where he always said he would like me to play. The concert is open to everyone and should be a lovely afternoon. The church put on yum cakes and tea after too!
Photo credits - LUKE PENKETH PHOTOGRAPHY - http://lukepenkethphotography.co.uk/
RONNIE SCOTTS - ENGINES ORCHESTRA - 1ST OCTOBER
A great pleasure to be playing as part of the Engines Orchestra, alongside the Phil Meadows Group at the legendary Ronnie Scotts.
"Tonights show features a myriad of award winning talent including trumpeter Laura Jurd, pianist Elliot Galvin, drummer Simon Roth and harpist Tori Handsley. Sumptuous vocals are provided by the popular Alice Zawadzki whilst Matt Roberts conducts."
“A great orchestra that have managed to mix so many genres.” - Jamie Cullum (BBC Radio 2)
See Ronnie Scotts website for more info & tickets
http://www.ronniescotts.co.uk/performances/view/2906-engines-orchestra-phil-meadows-group-lifecycles
NEW FILM - FROM ‘FEAR’ FREE IMPROV PERFORMANCE GROUP - RCA
New film I’m really excited to have been released for the free improv performance group FEAR I work with at the Royal College of Art, with stunning visuals and beautiful edited sound by Liam Taylor and Len Massey respectively:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ZeC0kIsKxA
Please see my other website, and performance page for more info:
http://torihandsley.wordpress.com/film/
MUSIC INTERACTION at the Bridge Specialist School
November 2010...until hopefully the ever future present!
Wednesday mornings are a real highlight to my week, when I volunteer to work at the Bridge School, for the music interaction session with the PMLD children (profound multiple learning difficulties), an essentially improvised session, using call and response amongst other methods to hopefully instigate vocal responses and communication between us and the children.
It is a truly inspiring, ongoing experience, in particular working alongside the highly versatile musician Mark Hanson, with his incredible ability to relate to, understand and connect with all the different, beautiful, little personalities in this session. Someone I feel highly indebted to for letting me in to this precious session, and creating such an unique environment, which to me however completely encapsulates and embraces the indescribable and powerful nature of music, beyond words, that I really believe in.
Photograph by Julian Peter – a wonderful photographer and insightful individual, who also helps with the sessions. www.julianpeter.co.uk
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