Amplifying gender diversity in jazz
The idea for Ivy Big Band was developed by Alice and Emma when discussing how, as women playing jazz, they were always a minority. They noticed that big bands they were part of and professional bands they had seen perform were almost entirely male, so role models were hard to find. They decided they wanted to create a space where women and gender minorities could get involved in jazz without judgement or fear.
They asked 8 of their friends to help them set up a launch band to introduce the idea to the world, performing their inaugural gig in April 2024 at Sneaky Pete’s in Edinburgh. This was a great success and attracted more applications to join the band than ever expected!
Now with 30 members, Ivy rehearses fortnightly in an open and honest environment. Collaboration and respect are at the heart of Ivy’s ethos: fostering an environment where everybody is comfortable and respected is the perfect way for creativity to bloom and for the music to be the best it can be. Being a safe and supportive group is Ivy’s first priority.
Ivy Big Band is now a registered CIC, established with the goal of championing gender diversity in jazz.
Since launching, Ivy have played as a full band at the Jazz Bar and their ‘In Full Bloom’ gig at La Belle Angele in May 2025. They also regularly play gigs with a small version of the band and have performed at International Women’s Day, Pride Breakfast, and many other events.
Ivy is not just about the musicians; it’s about everyone who could benefit from a space that champions women and gender minorities in jazz. Ivy wants to collaborate with organisations who share their ethos, so if you’d like to hire or collaborate with the band, contact us now!
