New album by London-based jazz pianist, singer and composer Joy Ellis
due for release in Autumn 2026 featuring the award-winning Engines Orchestra

In Autumn 2026, pianist, singer and composer Joy Ellis will be releasing her fourth studio album entitled One Hundred Years. Her new compositions expand her established sound as a jazz piano-vocalist into a richer, orchestral context in collaboration with contemporary ensemble, Engines Orchestra.

Joy’s 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, Laura Mvula and Joni Mitchell. 

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 Festival, 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.

‘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 ★★★★

‘Evocative, completely immersive, and unapologetically beautiful.’
Mike Gates, UK Vibe ★★★★★

‘Contemporary jazz piano playing of studied elegance and constantly absorbing interest.’ 
Bruce Crowther, Jazz Journal

Line-ups & Touring Options

This project is designed to be flexible and scalable, with three core formats to suit a range of venues, budgets and programming contexts:

1. Small Ensemble (4–5 piece) A compact, intimate version of the project - ideal for touring jazz clubs.

Joy Ellis (piano/vocals) with rhythm section (guitar, bass & drums). Optional guest: Phil Meadows (saxophone)

2. Chamber Ensemble (9 piece) A rich, textural expansion of the core band, balancing intimacy with the added depth of strings.

Joy Ellis (piano/vocals), rhythm section (guitar, bass, drums), Phil Meadows (saxophone & conductor) and Engines Orchestra String Quartet

3. Full Ensemble (15–19 piece) The complete orchestral version, offering the full impact of the project - suited to concert halls, festivals and major stages.

Joy Ellis (piano/vocals), rhythm section (guitar, bass, drums), Phil Meadows (conductor), string section (7 or 13 piece) and horn section (4-piece)