Jess Gillam with Zeynep Özsuca and Sam Becker

In the world of classical music, there are rising stars – and then there’s Jess Gillam. She stands out as one of the most exceptional talents of the moment. With her deep passion for classical music and her choice of the saxophone – an instrument not often associated with classical repertoire – Gillam embodies a new wave of British musicians who are redefining tradition with creativity and freedom.

Gillam first made history as the youngest saxophonist ever to perform at the BBC Young Musician finals and later became the youngest soloist to grace the legendary closing concert of the BBC Proms, the celebrated event at London’s Royal Albert Hall. Since then, she has toured the globe, performing with prestigious orchestras, including the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, and has even formed her own ensemble.

This November, she brings to De Doelen a captivating chamber music programme that mirrors her personality and spirit. Audiences can expect an adventurous blend of contemporary and classic compositions, with pieces crafted specifically for the saxophone as well as inventive reinterpretations of older works.