Ian Shaw sings Stephen Sondheim at Leeds Jazz Festival

A joint promotion between JazzLeeds and Clothworkers Hall at University of Leeds as part of Leeds Jazz Festival

Jazz meets Broadway as multi-award-winning singer Ian Shaw brings his soulful artistry to perform the music of Stephen Sondheim to Clothworkers Hall as part of the Leeds Jazz Festival 2026 A must-see for lovers of jazz, theatre and lyrical genius!
“Stephensong” the Leeds concert

Join us for an unforgettable and exclusive evening as acclaimed jazz vocalist Ian Shaw brings the genius of Stephen Sondheim to life in a spellbinding album launch concert. With his signature blend of emotional depth, wit, and vocal virtuosity, Shaw reimagines Sondheim’s iconic songs through a jazz lens – infusing them with fresh nuance while honouring their melodic, emotional and theatrical brilliance.

From the aching introspection of Children Will Listen and the vocally dexterous Another Hundred People to the biting irony of Being Alive, Shaw’s interpretations are both intimate and grand, capturing the heart of Sondheim’s storytelling. Accompanied by the world-class Netherlands-based pianist, Barry Green, this performance promises rich harmonies, inventive arrangements, and moments of pure musical theatre magic.

Whether you’re a lifelong Sondheim devotee or discovering his work anew, this concert offers a rare chance to experience his songs in a new light – filtered through the soul of one of Britain’s most expressive jazz voices. Expect laughter, pathos, a masterclass in musical interpretation and ‘a fearless intimacy’ (The Guardian).

Ian Shaw Sings Stephen Sondheim is more than a tribute – it’s a celebration of two masters of their craft, colliding in a night of lyrical beauty, daring and emotional resonance.

Sondheim’s lyrics are conversational but poetic, and every phrase carries its own resolution. It’s tough, disciplined writing – but that’s what makes it brilliant. These songs are about real people, and they tell truths we all recognise.”

‘One of the finest singers in contemporary music’ All About Jazz (US) 

‘Praised far and wide as the greatest male jazz singer Britain has to offer’ Jazz Times (US) 

‘A profoundly sophisticated artist … an affecting, emotional and sometimes very funny singer’ The Guardian

Music: https://ianshaw.biz/p/epk/videos-solo.php

The bar at Clothworkers Hall opens 6.45pm. Doors open 7.15pm. Music starts 7.30pm

Tickets are also available through the University of Leeds website https://concerts.leeds.ac.uk/events/ian-shaw-sings-stephen-sondheim/

£20/18 plus fees in advance, £20 on the door. Student tickets £5