Jazz pianist, singer and composer releases new album feat. the award winning Engine's Orchestra in Autumn 2026

Joy Ellis is a pianist, singer and composer based in London. Joy has toured all over the UK supported by the Arts Council, England and Help Musicians UK performing her original music. Performance highlights include Manchester, Cheltenham and London Jazz Festivals, the Roundhouse in Camden and Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club. As a leader, Joy has released three critically acclaimed albums of her original compositions. Her most recent release ‘Peaceful Place’ was featured as Editor’s Choice in UK jazz periodical Jazzwise.

Joy is excited to release her fourth studio album entitled One Hundred Years in Autumn 2026. Her new compositions expand her established sound as a jazz piano-vocalist into a richer, orchestral context in collaboration with contemporary ensemble The Engine’s Orchestra. Her music fuses jazz harmony and improvisation with classical and groove-based influences, continuing her exploration of song-based contemporary jazz. Joy is heavily influenced by artists such as Esperanza Spalding, Camila Meza and Joni Mitchell. 

‘Fantastically wistful ambiance and beautiful voice.’  Kevin Le Gendre, BBC Radio 3

‘Fiery improvisations from Ellis who provides well-structured hard-bop solos on piano and Fender Rhodes.’ John Lewis, The Guardian ★★★★

‘Stylish maturity of composition and playing.’ Tony Benjamin, Jazzwise ★★★★ (Editor’s Choice)

‘Highly original work that creates a world of it’s own.’ Chris Ingham, MOJO ★★★★