Diarra Walcott-Ivanhoe is a pianist and composer from north London whose lyrical improvisational style and harmonic depth have marked him as a uniquely special musician. His compositions are distinct in their beautifully crafted melodies, and yet there is also a dedication in his playing which speaks to a deep need to push forward and challenge the sound.
Diarra seeks to render the most abstruse aspects of the human experience tangible through sound. His compositions touch on themes such as loss, remembrance, isolation, and personal and familial connection. The Diarra Walcott-Ivanhoe Quintet have inspired audiences at venues such as the Vortex Jazz Club, 606 Club, and 91 Living Room with jazz re:freshed.
Having grown up in London, Diarra has been immersed in a rich and diverse musical upbringing, exposing him to an array of different genres including jazz, soul, reggae and soca. Having also studied at Goldsmiths and the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, Diarra is heavily informed by both the classical music and jazz traditions. As an artist, he aspires to reflect the breadth of these stylistic interests, and yet also remain truthful to his own personal experiences of life in the city and his own distinctive voice. Diarra strives to reach unexplored territories through his music, unearthing the deeper truths that fuel his artistry through introspection and understanding.
Fostering a love and appreciation for all of these styles has led Diarra to perform with a wide variety of projects at venues such as the Jazz Café, the Royal Albert Hall, Koko Camden, the Barbican Hall, and Westminster Abbey. Highly in-demand as a performer and composer, he plays and writes with artists such as neo-soul band Orchard, R&B singer Liv East, jazz saxophonist Phil Meadows, and Black Midi’s frontman Geordie Greep, including touring across the UK and Europe. You might also have caught him playing as part of Gary Crosby’s “Mingus Moves” quintet in August. However, his own work is now his focus, and he is set to release his debut EP in 2026.
Line-up: Diarra Walcott-Ivanhoe (piano), Kassa Green-Jakcsi (alto saxophone), Luke McCarthy (drums), Tom Sheen (bass), + TBC
This performance is part of our Generation Jazz 2.0 series of gigs, showcasing brilliant young jazz musicians across the summer and autumn of 2026. Discounted ticket pricing applies for those under 25, students, and universal credit beneficiaries.
“the impressive pianist Walcott-Ivanhoe…included a lyrical piano solo…inspired”
Doors 7pm / Music 8.30pm / Tickets £16.50 / £10.50 for members/ £5 concessions
All tables are first come first served.