London Concertante is delighted to announce a brand-new production for Autumn 2025: Ella and Friends – a heartfelt tribute to the First Lady of Song, Ella Fitzgerald. Known primarily for its classical repertoire, the orchestra continues to explore exciting new territory with this jazz-inspired programme, following the success of its genre-defying Radiohead Reimagined tour earlier this year.
The show stars award-winning jazz vocalist Emma Smith, recently named Jazz Vocalist of the Year at the 2024 Parliamentary Jazz Awards. Smith has shared the stage with international icons including Michael Bublé, The Quincy Jones Orchestra, Jeff Goldblum, Bobby McFerrin, Gregory Porter, and Postmodern Jukebox. She was the only UK finalist in the 2023 Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition, and is a former BBC Radio 3 presenter and a long-time member of Ronnie Scott’s All Stars. Widely recognised as one of the most exciting voices in jazz today, Smith brings unmatched charisma and warmth to every performance.
Performing alongside an expanded orchestral ensemble featuring strings, harp, trumpet, cor anglais, and drum kit, Smith will bring to life new arrangements by David Gordon, Ali Vennart, Alan Gout, Ryan Lynam, and others. These innovative arrangements blend classical and jazz influences to create a rich and emotionally resonant tribute to Fitzgerald’s enduring legacy.
Ella and Friends explores Fitzgerald’s extraordinary career through the music that defined her—from her unforgettable interpretations of the Great American Songbook to her iconic duets with Louis Armstrong. The concert also pays tribute to her legendary contemporaries, including Billie Holiday, Sarah Vaughan, and Nina Simone.
Set within the majestic surroundings of Manchester Cathedral, and illuminated by the soft glow of candlelight, this concert promises a soul-stirring, genre-blending evening of truly unforgettable music.
Chris Grist, Artistic Director of London Concertante, commented:
“I’ve wanted to create a show around Ella Fitzgerald’s music for as long as I can remember. I recall staying up late as a teenager, trying to tune into a grainy TV broadcast of Ella performing live at Ronnie Scott’s. That moment stuck with me — the atmosphere, the voice, the magic of it all. With this show, I wanted to recreate that feeling. London Concertante’s concerts are always distinctive, and we’re thrilled to be working with Emma Smith — a very special talent who brings such depth, warmth, and charisma to the music.”
Emma Smith added:
“It’s a huge pleasure — and a real thrill — to be working with London Concertante for the first time, an ensemble I’ve long admired. Ella Fitzgerald has always been one of my greatest inspirations — her joy, her phrasing, her effortless command of a song. It’s a privilege to bring her music to life in such stunning venues, and with this remarkable group of musicians.”
Details & Booking Information
Ella and Friends – A Tribute to Ella Fitzgerald
Manchester Cathedral, Manchester
Sunday 14th September 2025
7:30 PM
Tickets available via London Concertante’s website:
https://londonconcertante.com
