Harry Toulson
Saxophonist – Pianist – Composer
Harry Toulson is a London-based saxophonist, pianist, and composer whose career bridges jazz and classical music. After studying at Chetham’s School of Music and the Guildhall School of Music and Drama under leading musicians including Iain Dixon and Stan Sulzmann, he has established himself as an active performer across the UK jazz scene, collaborating with artists such as Emily Roberts, Milena Granci and Ralph Porrett. He is currently preparing the release of his debut nonet project, Staithes, which blends classical textures with contemporary jazz improvisation.
Saxophone
Harry began playing saxophone at the age of nine in the North East of England before relocating to London in 2018. Career highlights include performing at The Last Dinner Party’s album launch at The Roundhouse and appearing alongside Mark Lockheart in his ‘Days on Earth’ project.
His achievements include earning a diploma in jazz saxophone at the age of 11, winning the concerto competition at Chetham’s School of Music, and gaining direct entry into the second year at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama.
Harry performs regularly with a range of artists across the UK jazz scene and has held a monthly residency for over 4 years at Oxford House in Bethnal Green. A few of his saxophone musical influences include Kenny Garrett, Michael Brecker, John Coltrane, and Cannonball Adderley.
Pianist
Harry has studied piano since the age of six, earning numerous awards over the past fifteen years. His achievements include winning the Junior Championship at the Darlington Music Festival and receiving third prize in the Chetham’s School of Music J.S. Bach Competition against first-study pianists.
Alongside continuing his studies in classical repertoire, Harry performs piano with Ralph Porrett’s quartet. His piano playing plays a central role in his compositional approach, drawing inspiration from composers and musicians including Sergei Prokofiev, Dmitri Shostakovich, Bill Evans, and Tigran Hamasyan.
Discography
From folk influenced jazz to funk and contemporary, Toulson’s full discography shows an artist in full control of his talents.
Staithes
Harry’s Nonet Album featuring a blend of classical textures with jazz improv
Persistence of Memory
The Last Dinner Party’s Emily Robert’s Album of Rock / Jazz Fusion
To Some Place New
Folk inspired music by Milena Granci