The Roots of Jazz

The Arts Society Steyning is delighted to welcome Emma Johnson, a highly acclaimed clarinettist and former winner of the Young Musician of the Year, who will give our annual Millicent Honeywood lecture on the evening of Tuesday 23rd June 2026.

Emma will be speaking on The Roots of Jazz, from its birth and how it evolved into a revolutionary and democratising force in music and culture.

She will examine the impact of African Blues, Cakewalk and American classical music, as well as Vaudeville, Latin American dance and Middle Eastern Klezmer. She will also highlight the importance of New Orleans, a vibrant port in the late 19th century where these diverse musical and cultural traditions converged.

The lecture will be richly illustrated with slides and music from some of the 20th century greats including Louis Armstrong, Benny Goodman, Artie Shaw, Ella Fitzgerald and Duke Ellington. 

There will be an opportunity to ask questions after what we are sure will be a fascinating lecture.  

Doors will open at 7pm, and the lecture will start at 7.45pm. You ticket includes a complimentary glass of wine. Further glasses can be bought for £3.00 in cash. 

Emma’s biography is available by this link: https://www.emmajohnson.co.uk/biography/