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Jess Gillam shines in BBC Young Musician final

Jess Gillam shines in BBC Young Musician final

Posted: Monday, 16 May 2016

Yanagisawa Saxophones and Vandoren Reeds are extremely proud of saxophonist Jess Gillam following her progress to the final of this year’s BBC Young Musician of the Year competition.

Seventeen year old Jess’ outstanding performances throughout the competition saw her earn a place in the final alongside French Horn player Ben Goldscheider and this year’s competition winner, cellist Sheku Kanneh-Mason. Jess’ stunning final performance of ‘Where the Bee Dances’ (Michael Nyman) wowed judges and TV audiences.

Jess’ exceptional achievement demonstrates her remarkable talent and dedication. She became the youngest ever endorsee of Yanagisawa Saxophones aged only 13 and uses Vandoren reeds. Jess has played Yanagisawa Custom Engraved AWO20 Alto and S901U Un-lacquered Soprano Saxophones and used Vandoren reeds, ligatures and saxophone slings throughout the competition. She states, “I choose to play Yanagisawa Saxophones for their ability to produce such a warm, rounded and human sound whilst being reliable and easy to play.” Jess goes on to say, “I can rely on Vandoren Reeds for their consistent and resonant tone in every musical genre.”

Jess began playing saxophone aged seven. Her long list of achievements include a guest appearance with Jools Holland and his Rhythm and Blues Orchestra and performing as a concerto soloist with the Worthing Symphony Orchestra. She has recently been studying with saxophonist, composer, conductor and record producer John Harle and will be taught by composer and educator Rob Buckland at the Royal Northern College of Music from September this year.

Having reached the Woodwind Category final in the 2014 competition, Jess’ competition final performance this year highlights her ongoing development of her musical craft and talent and further establishes her as one of the UK’s most exciting, promising and inspiring musicians.