Events

Jazz Carols, a free event that began in 2017, draws inspiration from the Jazz Vespers services started 60 years ago by Pastor John Gensel at St. Peter’s Church in New York. Methodist Central Hall Westminster (MCHW) adopted the concept in 2015 after Dan Forshaw joined its staff. Forshaw, having organized jazz services at St Paul’s and other cathedrals, collaborated with Reverend Tony Miles, MCHW’s Superintendent Minister, to create a jazz service. This led to the monthly Jazz Vespers series and the recording of Forshaw’s 2016 album, Jazz Vespers.

Jazz Carols, introduced in 2018, has been broadcast by Premier Christian Radio since 2019, except for a break in 2020 due to COVID-19. Over the years, Forshaw has invited a diverse range of musicians, such as Berlin saxophonist Birgitta Flick, who performed her arrangement of “Silent Night” in 2018 to mark the centenary of the First World War. Gerard Brooks, President of the Royal College of Organists, has also joined the performances, reflecting the event’s blend of jazz, gospel, and classical styles.

This year’s Jazz Carols takes place on Sunday, 15th December 2024, following MCHW’s traditional carol service on 10th December. Familiar carols will be given a jazz twist, including “O Come, All Ye Faithful,” “The First Noël,” and “Ding Dong Merrily on High.” Forshaw has created new jazz arrangements of “Silent Night” and “O Little Town of Bethlehem.” A special feature will be Ike Sturm’s setting of the “Magnificat,” a song less common in Methodist and Anglican services.

The event will feature vocalists Libby Key and Adenike, along with readings, instrumentals, and audience participation. For a preview, recordings of past Jazz Carols are available on Spotify and Apple Music.