Biography
Iain Ballamy is a key figure in contemporary European jazz with a distinctive musical voice merging avant-garde experimentation with accessible melodic sensibility.
Listed in the BBC's '100 Jazz Greats' between Count Basie and Chet Baker, Ballamy has been described as urbane, original, and uncompromising.
His work merges both strong jazz and classical references but remains un-encumbered by formality and tradition.
Significant partnerships include innovative big band Loose Tubes, Bill Bruford's Earthworks, Django Bate's Human Chain, Anglo/ Norwegian duo ‘Food’.
Notable recordings as leader include debut album ‘Balloon Man’, the revered ‘All Men Amen’ and the fusion-oriented ‘Acme’.
Further acclaimed releases for ECM include 'Quiet inlet' by Food with Thomas Strønen, and 'Quercus' with folk singer June Tabor and pianist Huw Warren which masterfully blends folk and chamber music with improvisation.
Concerto premieres with major orchestras include BBC Philharmonic, Liverpool Philharmonic and London Sinfonietta.
Film writing credits include scores for Dave McKean's ‘Mirrormask’ and ‘Luna’.
As saxophone professor at Royal Academy of Music, RWCMD and the Guildhall School of Music, Ballamy has developed innovative approaches to teaching improvisation and composition.
Ballamy's musical essence combines improvisational spontaneity with a profound appreciation for harmony and form, creating performances that unfold with narrative purpose and emotional depth.
“Ballamy’s is a melodic thoughtful style, born out in beautiful original tunes.”
“Intensly melodic, eventful and full of surprises... The beauty of tone that Iain Ballamy gets is certainly one of the joys of the current scene, and his concern with creating it echoes Stan Getz’s.”
“Technically flawless performances.”
“A major international voice.”
“Ballamy does indeed have a unique sound that owes little to the usual sax masters.”
“Ballamy’s melodies may one day be seen as legendary, as they are inspired and searching, with an amazing care for detail...”