musical sensitivity, incredible responsiveness, and strong individual artistic voice

Lancaster Jazz Festival

Growing up in a musical family exposed Richard to a broad range of styles and his career reflects that; studying classical violin before focusing on the piano with jazz and improvisation. He has toured the world with the award winning Beats & Pieces Big Band and can be seen regularly with groups such as Nishla Smith Quintet, Emma Johnson’s Gravy Boat and Graham South Quartet. He has also been involved in crossover projects with Manchester Camerata and Manchester Collective.

After years of contributing to other artists’ projects, Richard has recently formed his own trio with Joshua Cavanagh-Brierley and Johnny Hunter. His playing has been described as ‘achingly lyrical’ by All About Jazz and London Jazz News have noted his ‘scintillating piano inventions’. The trio formed in spring 2021 as lockdown restrictions began to be lifted and musicians felt comfortable being in the same room again.

Taking inspiration from the likes of Kit Downes, Jim Black and Moskus, each member contributes with compositions that whilst maintaining strong melodic identities, invite the players to continually find new paths through the music.

Richard Jones // Piano
Joshua Cavanagh-Brierley // Bass
Johnny Hunter // Drums