Critically acclaimed saxophonist, flautist and composer, Xhosa Cole is an embodiment of the success of numerous community outreach arts programmes in Birmingham. 

Having started playing tenor saxophone at Andy Hamilton MBE’s Ladywood Community Music School, Xhosa has now established himself among the long legacy of Birmingham saxophonists including Soweto Kinch and Shabaka Hutchings.

In 2018 he was the recipient of the BBC Young Jazz Musician of the Year Award and has since performed alongside artists including Monty Alexander and Courtney Pine and as a soloist for the BBC National Orchestra of Wales; had the opportunity to perform at prestigious venues and events including the BBC Proms, Birmingham’s Symphony Hall and Ronnie Scotts; and in 2020 received the Parliamentary Jazz Award for Best Newcomer as well as having been nominated for the Jazz FM Breakthrough act.

Xhosa’s deep and authentic connection to the lineage of jazz music has helped to establish him among the most exciting young talents in the country. We're thrilled that he's chosen to play for us in Watford and we expect a fabulous evening in his company.