April 27th: Today’s Feature

April

Tomorrow’s Warriors

Gary Crosby, in addition to his role as a working musician and band leader, holds the esteemed position of Artistic Director at Tomorrow's Warriors. This not-for-profit organisation was established by Crosby in 1992 with the noble aim of promoting diversity in the UK music industry, particularly in terms of race, culture, and gender. Over the years, Tomorrow's Warriors has grown into a highly respected institution that provides valuable development opportunities to a wide range of musicians, spanning from newcomers to established artists.

One of the key initiatives of Tomorrow's Warriors is the weekend residency program held at the prestigious Southbank Centre in London. This iconic venue, known for being the largest single-run arts centre in the world, serves as the backdrop for a series of workshops, performances, and collaborations that aim to nurture talent and foster creativity among participants. Through this residency program, Tomorrow's Warriors has been able to reach out to hundreds of individuals from diverse backgrounds, offering them a platform to showcase their skills and connect with like-minded artists.

Gary & Co-founder take great pride in the impact that Tomorrow's Warriors has had on the music scene in the UK. By championing diversity and inclusivity, the organisation has been able to create a more vibrant and dynamic industry that celebrates the richness of different cultures and perspectives. As the Artistic Director, Crosby continues to lead Tomorrow's Warriors with passion and dedication, ensuring that the legacy of the organisation lives on and continues to inspire future generations of musicians.

Tomorrow’s Warriors receive core funding from Arts Council England as one of the organisation's beacon National Portfolio Organisations (NPO). Despite this support, the majority of their activities are sustained through donated income. These activities are currently offered free of charge to the public. Gary, a representative of Tomorrow’s Warriors, welcomes any individuals interested in contributing to help support the development of their exceptionally talented young musicians as they strive to reach their full potential in the field of music.

The financial backing provided by Arts Council England as a core funder allows Tomorrow’s Warriors to maintain its status as a beacon National Portfolio Organisation (NPO). However, the organisation heavily relies on donations to ensure the continuation of their various programs and initiatives. These programs are accessible to all individuals without any cost, emphasising Tomorrow’s Warriors' commitment to providing opportunities for young musicians to excel in their musical pursuits.

Gary, a key figure within Tomorrow’s Warriors, is always eager to engage with individuals who are interested in contributing to the organisation's mission of nurturing and empowering talented young musicians. By supporting Tomorrow’s Warriors, donors play a crucial role in helping these aspiring artists achieve their full potential in the realm of music. The combination of core funding from Arts Council England and generous donations from supporters enables Tomorrow’s Warriors to offer high-quality, accessible music programs that have a lasting impact on the lives of the young musicians involved.

Established in 1991, Tomorrow’s Warriors is a prominent organisation dedicated to talent development, creative production, education, consultancy, and charitable work within the realm of jazz. Their mission is to assist up-and-coming artists in uncovering their unique talents, fostering their potential, realising their creative aspirations, and cultivating a diverse and engaged audience base. We are committed to promoting diversity, inclusivity, and equality in all aspects of our work.

At Tomorrow’s Warriors, they prioritise the advancement of young musicians through our innovative Young Artist Development Programme. This initiative is designed to provide crucial support to emerging artists at the outset of their careers, particularly focusing on individuals from Black and female backgrounds, as well as those facing financial or other barriers that may hinder their access to opportunities in the music industry. By offering tailored guidance, resources, and mentorship, they aim to empower these talented individuals to thrive in their artistic pursuits.

Through their multifaceted approach, Tomorrow’s Warriors strives to create a more inclusive and equitable landscape within the jazz community. By championing underrepresented voices and providing a platform for diverse talents to shine, we contribute to the enrichment of the cultural fabric of society. Our dedication to nurturing the next generation of musicians and fostering a sense of belonging for all aspiring artists underscores our commitment to building a vibrant and sustainable future for jazz music.

Tomorrow’s Warriors has played a significant role in shaping the landscape of the international jazz scene over the past three decades. The organisation has served as a crucial platform for emerging artists who have gone on to make a mark in the industry. Notable musicians such as Moses Boyd, Nubya Garcia, and Cassie Kinoshi have all benefited from the support and mentorship provided by Tomorrow’s Warriors.

The impact of Tomorrow’s Warriors extends beyond just individual artists, as the organisation has been instrumental in fostering a sense of community and collaboration within the jazz world. Through their programs and initiatives, Tomorrow’s Warriors has helped to create a more inclusive and diverse jazz scene in the UK. Artists like Femi Koleoso, Ezra Collective, and Sons Of Kemet have all been part of this transformative journey.

In addition to supporting emerging talent, Tomorrow’s Warriors has also been a driving force behind the innovation and evolution of jazz music. Musicians such as Shabaka Hutchings, Cherise Adams-Burnett, and Soweto Kinch have all pushed the boundaries of the genre, drawing inspiration from their experiences with Tomorrow’s Warriors. The organisation continues to nurture the next generation of jazz artists, ensuring that the legacy of innovation and creativity lives on.