SATURDAY, MAY 2, 2026
Derry Jazz Fest 2026: Sylvie Noble
Photo: Lorcan Doherty Photography
Like a nightingale with the virtuoso of a hummingbird, London-based vocalist and composer Sylvie Noble lands at this year's City Of Derry Jazz & Big Band Festival with an eclectic fly through vocal scales and musical subgenres which unexpectedly and pleasingly takes one's breath away. In recognising the relaxing and entrancing appeal within jazz while blending in uniquely surprising and lyrical elements of her own, drawn from notable inspirations like Joni Mitchell, Betty Carter and Carla Bley, Noble establishes herself as an utterly distinctive voice, a force among harmonious and melodious talents both on the Playhouse Theatre stage and off it.
With the impressive trio of Joseph Leighton on guitar, Micheal Murray on saxophone and Lorenzo Morabito on bass alongside her, Noble delves into her catalogue of tunes with ever increasing confidence, each song entirely fascinating and often mesmerising the viewer with experimental and compelling initiative. Soothing soul singing, a fair amount of theatrical finger-clicking and instances of scatting worthy of a female Bobby McFerrin stand out in a sturdily and soulfully performed set list that gives the Playhouse audience every reason to not worry and simply be happy.
Equally pleasing, and welcome, is the tonal balance among all four performers, with Leighton, Murray and Morabito all having clear and very well taken opportunities for ear-catching solos. The sounds created by the quartet align rather beautifully, with each musician instinctively recognising when and how to enjoy their moment both individually and as part of the band. It is as much a showcase for tremendous singing as it is for a collective of accomplished instrumentalists - a highly enjoyable experience.
Simon Fallaha
Sylvie Noble performed at Derry-Londonderry's Playhouse Theatre on Friday May 1 as part of the City Of Derry Jazz & Big Band Festival #DerryJazzFest 2026. For more information about what's on at the festival, click here.