Live Music in Oxfordshire

Open mics, pub sessions, and gigs where the sound engineer is someone's nephew. If it makes a noise and people clap, it's in here.

Live Music

Around £60

Jazz Night

Join us for an evening of live jazz with the exceptional Aret Komlosy, whose soulful vocals are inspired by the timeless sounds of Ella Fitzgerald, Dusty Springfield and Billie Holiday. Plus, a 3 course meal for £60pp

Fri 21 AugThe Lamb Inn

via The Lamb InnCurated

Live Music

Jeremy Viner / John Edwards / Andrew Lisle

Doors 6:45 PM, Music 7:15 PM - 1 set of music Line-up: Jeremy Viner - Tenor saxophone John Edwards - Double bass Andrew Lisle - Drum kit About Improvised music from a trio of three leading voices of the US, UK, and European avant-garde. JEREMY VINER (b. 1986, Ellsworth, ME) is a Berlin-based multi-instrumentalist, improviser, composer, and educator whose work spans a wide array of musical idioms. After nearly two decades in New York City, he relocated to Berlin in 2023, maintaining an active presence in both the New York and European experimental music scenes. Viner is a founding member of the collaborative trio SIFTERS, with Kate Gentile and Marc Ducret — a group exploring complex polyrhythmic frameworks, counterpoint, and the integration of composed and spontaneous form. He is also a long-standing member of the tenor saxophone quartet Battle Trance and the chamber minimalist ensemble Bing & Ruth, both central outlets for his interest in ensemble sound and extended musical form. JOHN EDWARDS is a true virtuoso whose staggering range of techniques and boundless musical imagination have redefined the possibility of the double bass and dramatically expanded its role, whether playing solo or with others. Perpetually in demand, he has played with Evan Parker, Roscoe Mitchell, Sunny Murray, Derek Bailey, Joe McPhee, Lol Coxhill, Louis Moholo, Peter Brötzmann, Mulatu Astatke, Jonny Greenwood and countless others.

Fri 21 Aug19:45Vortex

via Vortex

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Live Music

Tomorrow’s Warriors presents BXL x LDN Interplay III

Doors 7:45 PM, Music 8:30 PM - 2 sets of music Line-up: Lauren Breen - Tenor and Soprano Sax - Alto saxophone Donovan Haffner - Alto saxophone Christ-Stéphane Boizi - trombone Alice J. R. S. Cool - Bass guitar Lorenzo Kobina - Piano Simon Mouctar de Rover - Drum kit About: This is now the third edition of Tomorrow’s Warriors BXL x LDN Interplay, a ground-breaking, vibrant, cross-channel jazz collaboration uniting rising stars from London and Brussels, in partnership with Brosella Festival. This special showcase brings together six of the most exciting young voices in contemporary jazz and creative music, celebrating collaboration, experimentation, and cultural exchange. Expect an electrifying night of boundary-pushing sounds, fresh compositions and fearless improvisation, as emerging artists from both scenes share the stage and spark new musical conversations. A platform for innovation and connection, Interplay III captures the energy of two cities redefining the future of jazz. This year the project has already headlined at Brick Lane Jazz Festival, opened for Brazilian legend Marcos Valle at Jazz Middleheim, and is set to take the stage at We Out Here Festival the day after this exclusive London show.

Fri 21 Aug20:45Vortex

via Vortex

Live Music

Kaimana - Live Music

A fun acoustic duo bringing their own touch of whimsy, along with great cover songs that everyone can sing along to.

Sat 22 AugPrince Of Wales

via Prince Of WalesCurated

Live Music

Headon Fly In and Hangar Bash

Live music with Beggars Belief in the evening

Sat 22 Aug12:00British Microlight Aircraft Association

via British Microlight Aircraft AssociationLocal gem

Live Music

Vortex Collective presents: Future Standards & Downstairs Jam

Doors 2:30 PM, Music 3:00 PM About "Standards are engaging and accessible for musicians and listeners alike, but nearly all of jazz’s standard repertoire is from a 50 year period ca. 1920 – 1970. Another half century has since passed, where new compositions have not been added to this shared language. Join a collective of musicians who met through the Vortex jazz club in imagining future standards. 3 – 7.30pm: accessible open jam session open to all to join in from 3pm, for standards from the real book and "future standards". House band will play a number of future standards throughout the afternoon. For more details on the future standards project, including sheet music, workshops, and to suggest additions to the repertoire, contact https://open.spotify.com/playlist/72DeFa18IBvWJD8P8pyX8T?si=e5YnxemiRMuh__x-7iaT_w&nd=1&dlsi=e80d6a1d1d3a46e8

Sun 23 Aug15:30Vortex

via Vortex

Live Music

Vortex Jam Session

Doors 7:45 PM, Music 8:15 PM House Band TBC About A weekly session on Sunday evenings, hosted by four of London’s finest: guitarist Nick Costley-White, Trumpeter Sean Gibbs, pianist Rick Simpson and tenor saxophonists and Riley Stone-Lonergan, each one hosting one session on rotation. If you’re an instrumentalist – we can’t wait to welcome you back to the club – you can attend for free if you’re planning on playing with the house band. No need to book in advance! Our dear Vortex members are also welcome to these sessions free of charge.

Sun 23 Aug20:45Vortex

via Vortex

Live Music

The Hectet

Doors 6:45 PM, Music 7:15 PM - 1 set of music Line-up: Hector McLachlan - Piano Lily Shaw - Tenor saxophone Jamie Pye - Electric guitar Harrison Scholes - Double bass Myele Manzanza - Drum kit About: The Hectet is the melodious jazz project of Hector McLachlan: a pianist, composer and producer based in Te Whanganui-a-Tara, New Zealand. His creative practice is rooted in deep listening and historical materialism, informing a varied and multi-disciplinary output. Hector’s compositions use heraldic melodies, and blend acoustic and electronic elements, to conjure forces of history and emotion. They will be presenting an exclusive set of music for their London debut, with a unique and world-class line-up of musicians from the Wellington scene who are living in London. Hector has written, arranged and produced three albums of original music. The latest is French Politics (2026) by The Hectet, an ambitious and conceptual work that follows their debut, Here Comes The Hectet (2025). His first record, an album of evocative electronic works called Forest Music (2018), was released on Virginia-based cassette label Become Eternal. As a session musician, Hector has toured Aotearoa and the world with acts like The Teskey Brothers, Revulva, Salvia Palth and Rachel Andie, performing at prestigious venues like Glastonbury's Other Stage and The Montreux Jazz Festival, as well as on radio and TV.

Wed 26 Aug19:45Vortex

via Vortex

Live Music

Sorin Zlat Trio "Changing Times"

Doors 7:45 PM, Music 8:30 PM - 2 sets of music Line-up: Sorin Zlat - Piano Mikele Montolli - Double bass Andy Trim - Drum kit About Award-winning Romanian pianist and composer Sorin Zlat returns to London with his acclaimed Sorin Zlat Trio, presenting music from his latest project Changing Times. Known for his virtuosic playing and lyrical improvisation, Zlat has won over 30 international awards, including the Grand Prize at the Montreux Jazz Competition, Monaco Jazz Competition, and the Great American Jazz Piano Competition in the USA. He has performed at major venues and festivals worldwide such as London Jazz Festival, Birdland Jazz Club, Blue Note New York, and Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club. Blending post-bop energy, contemporary jazz language and cinematic textures, the trio delivers an exciting musical dialogue full of spontaneity, groove and expressive improvisation. https://youtu.be/bqKRPEldbwU?si=6gqj4emCibvIl60u https://youtu.be/-JoPK-YTatE?si=uKWGW18qdBymn_Tz

Wed 26 Aug20:45Vortex

via Vortex

Live Music

Hugh Pascall Quintet

Doors 7:30 PM, Music 8:00 PM - 2 sets of music Line-up: Hugh Pascall - Trumpet James Allsopp - Tenor saxophone Liam Dunachie - Piano Oli Hayhurst - Double bass Tim Giles - Drum kit About Trumpeter Hugh Pascall returns to the Vortex with his dynamic quintet. Having toured together for several years, they perform music from his acclaimed ’25 album Viewfinder alongside brand-new originals. Expect melodic, exploratory grooves and atmospheric ballads from the unique voices of these special musicians. Praised throughout the jazz press as “an outstanding soloist” with “the most beautiful, elegant and melodic delivery”, Hugh Pascall has developed a highly individual sound. Marked by “remarkable fluency and assurance”, his playing combines lyrical invention and warmth with a vibrant, contemporary approach to post-bop jazz. An award-winning trumpeter and composer, he studied at the Royal Academy of Music and the Paris Conservatoire. In February 2023 he was elected an Associate of the Royal Academy of Music (ARAM) in recognition of his significant contribution to UK jazz. "There's such a joyful bounce to the way they swing" — Soweto Kinch, BBC Radio 3 "The most beautiful, elegant and melodic delivery" — UK Jazz News "Remarkable fluency and assurance... Fluent, lyrical solos that unfold gradually and gracefully" — The Jazzmann "Equally stylish and arresting on trumpet and flugelhorn" — Jazz Journal "A magical tone...

Thu 27 Aug20:30Vortex

via Vortex

Live Music

Eddie Prévost, Binker Golding, Olie Brice – trio

Doors 7:45 PM, Music 8:30 PM - 2 sets of music Line-up: Eddie Prévost - Drum kit Binker Golding - Tenor saxophone Olie Brice - Double bass About: Expect an evening of improvised music from a trio made up of three of the U.K’s most interesting improvisors. Percussionist and drummer Eddie Prevost is a key figure in the free improvisation and avant-garde music scenes. Best known as a co-founder of the long-running improvised music group AMM, his career also includes work as a writer and educator. Double bassist Olie Brice is an improviser, and composer recognized as a major figure in the UK’s creative jazz and free improvisation scenes. His musical style is noted for its ability to integrate compositional ideas within improvised and free jazz settings. Saxophonist, composer, and bandleader Binker Golding is known as a key innovator in the contemporary London jazz scene, he has gained acclaim for his versatility, both as a member of the award-winning duo Binker and Moses and through his own solo work. 'Sounding-Out — jazz is dead, long live jazz ' Matchless Recordings MRCD120.

Fri 28 Aug20:45Vortex

via Vortex

Festivals & EventsLive Music

Hestia Festival

There’s no better way to enjoy the late August bank holiday weekend than with delicious food, fantastic drinks and wonderful live music in Hestia Garden, kicking off at 1pm. There will also be a silent disco all day for the kids (or anyone who fancies a dance). Fernando will be giving a cocktail demonstration at 3pm (featuring our favourite products from the Henley Distillery) and Chef Kaine will share our secrets for pizza perfection at 5pm. Our evening entertainment, THE GENTLEMEN , come on at 6pm to create a proper night out.

Sat 29 AugThe Plough

via The PloughCurated

Live Music

Around £40

Summer Party

Join us on Saturday 29th August for an unforgettable day of live music, incredible open-fire cooking, family entertainment and summer drinks at the Bottle & Glass Inn. From 11:00am until 10:00pm, we're transforming our grounds into the ultimate summer celebration, with something for everyone. Your £40 ticket includes: Open-fire street food cooked fresh over the flames Live music throughout the day and into the evening Free face painting Bouncy castle Kids' entertainer Hawkstone Bar Double Dutch Cocktail Bar Champagne & Oyster Bar Children go FREE, making it the perfect family day out before summer comes to an end. Whether you're catching up with friends, bringing the family together or simply looking for a fantastic day in the sunshine, expect amazing food, flowing drinks, live music and an unforgettable atmosphere from start to finish. Saturday 29th August 11:00am – 10:00pm Adults: £40

Sat 29 Aug11:00The Barn at the Bottle & Glass

via The Barn at the Bottle & Glass

Live Music

Alexandra Ridout & Fabrice Tarel Quartet: Symbiosis

Doors 7:45 PM, Music 8:30 PM - 2 sets of music Line-up: Fabrice Tarel - Piano Alex Ridout - Trumpet Ewan Hastie - Double bass James Maddren - Drum kit About: Fabrice Tarel began playing music on the violin at the age of 7, adding the piano shortly after. His early interest in composition intensified over the years, allowing him to gradually develop a highly unique musical universe. At just 27, Alexandra Ridout stands out as one of the most captivating trumpet virtuosos on the global stage—a prodigy whose bold tone and fearless phrasing redefine jazz's boundaries. Fresh from her triumph at the BBC Young Musician competition, she now calls New York home, immersing herself in the city's electric jazz pulse. With unerring command of her horn and a profound grasp of the genre—from its Delta blues origins to its avant-garde frontiers—Ridout's improvisations weave seamlessly into the poetic landscapes of pianist Fabrice Tarel's compositions, celebrated for their lyrical grace and architectural finesse. Rounding out this powerhouse quartet are Ewan Hastie, a rising double-bass sensation buzzing across the UK scene, and James Maddren, a drumming maestro whose blend of subtlety and thunder drives the music forward with irresistible momentum. https://youtu.be/K_PMU-lwzd4?si=Xlzi4ommRdDh-7I5

Sat 29 Aug20:45Vortex

via Vortex

Live Music

Summer Jazz

This bank holiday weekend, in addition to HESTIA FESTIVAL (Saturday 29 August) we are also hosting a relaxing afternoon of live jazz in the garden. Enjoy our award winning Sunday roast while you listen to the exceptional talent of Robert Otwinowski & friends . A regular performer at The Plough, Robert’s talent and passion for jazz brings the most gorgeous atmosphere to Hestia Garden. A performance not to be missed.

Sun 30 AugThe Plough

via The PloughCurated

Live Music

Vortex Jam Session

Doors 7:45 PM, Music 8:15 PM House Band TBC About A weekly session on Sunday evenings, hosted by four of London’s finest: guitarist Nick Costley-White, Trumpeter Sean Gibbs, pianist Rick Simpson and tenor saxophonists and Riley Stone-Lonergan, each one hosting one session on rotation. If you’re an instrumentalist – we can’t wait to welcome you back to the club – you can attend for free if you’re planning on playing with the house band. No need to book in advance! Our dear Vortex members are also welcome to these sessions free of charge.

Sun 30 Aug20:45Vortex

via Vortex

Likely freeLive Music

Midweek Downstairs Jam

Welcoming and relaxed, come for a drink, sit back and enjoy the music, or bring your horns, sticks and strings to join in during the second set. First set from house band: David Miller (saxophone), Davide Melis (piano), Duncan McKenzie (bass) & Bobby James (drums) followed by a jam session till close. Entry is free all night 19:00 – 22:30.

Tue 1 Sept20:00Vortex

via Vortex

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