Photo by Wouter Le Duc

Alice Leggett is an alto saxophonist, composer, and bandleader who has a distinct voice within the European jazz scene. Originally from Cardiff, Wales, she is now based in Amsterdam after spending seven formative years in London. She is known for her expressive sound, melodic statements, and a compositional approach that balances lyricism with bold rhythmic and harmonic exploration.

Deeply rooted in the jazz tradition, whilst very much speaking to the ‘here and now’, Alice showcases these elements within her playing and compositional approach whilst remaining deeply personal and explorative. Her own writing blends intriguing forms and emotive themes with a strong improvisational core, showcasing a voice that is both distinct and vibrant. She draws upon her diverse influences from the UK and the Netherlands, but her time in New York has been especially impactful. Through an exchange program in 2023, she immersed herself in the vibrant music scene, gaining invaluable and profound inspiration. Additionally, her frequent visits to New York, along with collaborations with local musicians, have enriched her artistic expression. This blend of experiences shapes her work, creating a unique sound that reflects her journey across different cultures.

Alice released her debut album Birdsong in 2025, featuring an ensemble of leading UK and Dutch musicians. The album received critical acclaim with reviews in Jazzism, De Volkskrant, and Jazzwise, and was supported by a six-date UK tour funded by Arts Council England.

In 2026, Alice toured across the Netherlands and Europe with her sextet, including a debut performance as a bandleader at the Bimhuis. The group featured an international lineup: Alex Hitchcock (tenor saxophone), Alex Ridout (trumpet), Noah Stoneman (piano), Tijs Klaassen (bass), and Wouter Kühne (drums).

Alice recorded her second album ‘Hummingbird’ which is set to be released in spring 2027 and features new material written by Alice, Alex Hitchcock (tenor saxophone), Alex Ridout (trumpet), Noah Stoneman (piano), Phil Donkin (bass) and Jamie Peet (Drums). They will tour the music within the EU and UK throughout 2027.

She performs regularly at leading Dutch venues such as the Bimhuis and collaborates widely within the Amsterdam scene. Alongside this, Alice keeps her connections to the UK jazz scene strong and performs periodically at venues such as The Vortex as well as collaborating with UK musicians. In 2024, she won the prestigious Keep an Eye International Jazz Award and in 2020 she was named a "One to Watch" by Jazzwise Magazine as well as a “Taking Off” feature in 2025.

Past collaborations include performances with Teis Semey’s Super Deluxe Orchestra (featuring artists such as Louis Cole, Liva Dumpe, and Jasper Høiby), Mark Lockheart’s Days on Earth project, and Calum Gourlay’s Big Band. During her time in London, she has performed at Ronnie Scott’s, The Vortex, the Southbank Centre, as well as part of London and Brecon Jazz Festival.

Alice holds degrees from Trinity Laban and the Conservatorium van Amsterdam, where she completed her Master’s in 2025. She is also part of the teaching faculty at the Junior Jazz Department of the CvA.

Alongside her vibrant performing career, Alice is making significant strides in education. She recently received an invitation to the Royal Academy of Music in London to coach an ensemble for their festival and to lead a masterclass with her sextet, alongside one - to - one lessons. Additionally, she conducted two masterclasses at Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance, and is scheduled to host a band masterclass at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama in spring 2027. Alice will also teach a compositional masterclass at The Conservatorium van Amsterdam and be a guest speaker for the Ivor Novello ‘Composers Week.’

Projects:

Alice Leggett Sextet; Alice Leggett (alto saxophone) Alex Hitchcock (tenor saxophone), Alex Ridout (trumpet), Noah Stoneman (piano), Tijs Klaassen (bass)/Phil Donkin (bass), and Wouter Kühne (drums)/Jamie Peet (drums)

Alice Leggett - ‘Lovely Sky Boat’; Alice Leggett (alto saxophone) Alex Hitchcock (tenor saxophone), Phil Donkin (bass) and James Maddren (drums)