Saxophonist and composer Alex Hitchcock presents a specially devised programme at World Heart Beat as part of the EFG London Jazz Festival. The first set features a spontaneous, exploratory trio with acclaimed improvisers cellist/vocalist Midori Jaeger and pianist Robert Mitchell.

London-born, New York-based Alex Hitchcock is an immediately distinctive improviser and a leading voice on the saxophone on the international stage. An Ivor Novello-nominated composer, his innovative collaborations have confirmed his growing reputation as an instigator and catalyst for captivating musical encounters that continually push the envelope a little further. Described by The Guardian as a ‘virtuoso’ saxophonist, he tours and records trailblazing musicians in new combinations for his Dream Band series.

Midori Jaeger is a cellist, singer and composer originally from Japan. She writes emotive songs from the cello. As a solo artist, she has released three studio EPs and toured the UK and Europe from 2023-2024. Midori tours Europe and the world regularly as a session performer in music and theatre. As a genre-defying collaborator, she has lent her creative touch to Courtney Pine, Shards, Daughter, Patrick Watson, China Moses, Tanita Tikaram, JADE, Calum Scott, Lucinda Chua and Heather Nova.

Robert Mitchell is an award-winning pianist, composer, bandleader, teacher, and poet. He has released 13 albums and has led the bands Epiphany 3 and TRUE THINK. His latest release in 2024 is a solo piano improvisation EP – A Study (In The Key Of Now) on 577 Records (NYC). He has worked with (amongst many) – Billy Harper, Phil Ranelin, Steve Coleman, Courtney Pine, Julien Lourau, Dayme Arocena, Alicia Olatuja, Bournemouth Symphony Chorus, Ty, Shirley Smart, Orphy Robinson, Basement Jaxx, Matana Roberts, Jhelisa Anderson, Soweto Kinch, Empirical and Norma Winstone. He has won the Hamlyn Award for Composition, A Broadcast Award (as MD on Jazz 625 Live BBC4), and has composed commissions for the London Sinfonietta and Jazz South.