Jazz At St Andrews presents; Geoff Simkins / Tom Ollendorff Quintet

About

Alto saxophonist Geoff Simkins has long been at the forefront of the British modern jazz scene producing several outstanding albums with the likes of Nikki Isles, Dave Cliff and Howard Alden. His west coast style is influenced by the American alto player Lee Konitz and tenor player Warne Marsh and Geoff is known throughout the UK for his unique and individual sound.

Tom Ollendorff is rapidly gaining recognition as one of the leading young jazz guitarists on the international scene. A graduate of the Royal Welsh College of Music, he received the Yamaha Parliamentary Jazz Scholarship in 2016. His debut album, A Song For You (2021), earned international acclaim, leading to performances at renowned jazz venues across Europe, including Ronnie Scott's and the London Jazz Festival. His latest album, Open House (2023), features his long-term trio with Marc Michel and Conor Chaplin, and includes saxophonist Ben Wendel on several tracks. The album has further solidified his global reputation. In addition to his work as a bandleader, Tom has collaborated with artists like Ari Hoenig and Tim Garland. Known for his distinctive blend of virtuosic technique and sophisticated harmonic concepts, he published his solo guitar book, Etudes, in 2022. Tom also teaches at the Royal Welsh College of Music and has been a guest tutor at prestigious institutions worldwide.

The band comprise Tom Ollendorf (guitar), Geoff Simkins (alto sax) Will Sach (bass) as well as regulars to St Andrews, Angus Bishop (drums) and Chris Coull (trumpet).