Josephine Davies (Artist in Residence) with Cambridge University Jazz Orchestra (CUJO)

We are very pleased to welcome Josephine Davies as this year’s artist in residence with the Cambridge University Jazz Orchestra.

Josephine is an award-winning saxophonist, conductor and composer. Her debut orchestral album was released last year to great critical acclaim (“A landmark recording” – Jazzwise Magazine).

Cambridge University Jazz Orchestra (CUJO) is an assemblage of the top student jazz musicians in Cambridge. CUJO prides itself on being a fully student-led ensemble that strives to bring underrated and unique styles of big band music to a public audience.

About Josephine Davies (CJF 2026 Artist in Residence)

Award-winning saxophonist, conductor and composer Josephine Davies has been writing for large ensembles for the past 15 years, beginning during her residency as tenor saxophonist in the London Jazz Orchestra led by Scott Stroman. This was an opportunity for her to experiment with ideas and sounds, and eventually begin her own band. Deeply inspired by a range of composers from Vince Mendoza to Maria Schneider, Josephine’s writing focuses on flowing melodies, rich harmonies and creative use of instrumental textures.

Her debut jazz orchestra album, The Celtic Wheel of the Year Suite, was released last year on Ubuntu Records to widespread critical acclaim, and she will be joined in the studio at the beginning of 2027 for a follow-up album by the wonderful up-and-coming vocalist Immy Churchill.

What the critics said about The Celtic Wheel of the Year Suite

“A landmark recording… Davies handles the large ensemble with confidence and aplomb.” — Jazzwise

“A superb achievement… intelligent and evocative… rich, wide-ranging and colourful.” — The Jazz Mann

“Beautifully poised and crafted… music of great beauty and detail.” — Jazz Views

“Imbued with a form of poetic purity… an unapologetic style… enthralling.” — Paris Move

Doors 6:45pm, music 7:30pm.