J Steps is a jazz ensemble that places creativity, inclusion, and empowerment at the heart of its artistic project. This year, the recording of an album at the legendary Abbey Road Studios will offer participants a concrete immersion in a professional music creation process.
Artistes
J Steps: Expanding the Voices of Jazz
A project led by Hannah Horton
Founded by British jazz saxophonist Hannah Horton, J Step is an award-winning jazz ensemble dedicated to the development of young female and non-binary musicians under the age of 18. By supporting these emerging talents, the project works toward greater representation in Jazz.
In an inclusive and stimulating environment, each young artist is encouraged to explore their own musical voice, affirm their creative identity, and build confidence.
Awarded the Parliamentary Jazz Award and supported by leading figures, including Maxine Gordon, J Steps is now a major player in the renewal of practices and representations in jazz.
An album recorded at Abbey Road Studios
This year, J Steps will record an original album at Abbey Road Studios, with the support of Arts Council England.
Scheduled from 2 to 4 April 2026, the recording will place young musicians at the heart of a real professional creative process. They will take part in every stage of the project: composition, arrangements, rehearsals, discovery of studio professions, and communication (visual identity, audiovisual content production, media, and public relations).
The project will also be accompanied by a short documentary and a series of podcasts giving voice to the participants around essential themes such as creativity, identity, and self-confidence. This approach makes it possible to reach a wider and younger audience, particularly through media aimed at teenagers and young people.
By demystifying the music industry, the project provides young musicians with tools, skills, and confidence — not only stage experience. A structured artistic and educational initiative for a new generation of jazz musicians.
