About
The Brian Clemens Jazz Orchestra Ft. Francesca Confortini is a dazzling musical production that combines the allure of classic big band jazz, cinematic masterpieces, and timeless R&B, pop, and Motown hits. Featuring themed performances like Songs of the Silver Screen and Ella & Sinatra, the show presents energetic and inventive arrangements of iconic songs, alongside fresh interpretations that breathe new life into beloved classics. After a successful debut at London’s Wilton’s Music Hall, the production is now being brought to a wide variety of exciting venues across the UK.
With legendary jazz vocalist Francesca Confortini at the forefront, one of London’s leading jazz vocalists, known for her powerful, melodic voice and charismatic stage presence, Francesca has shared the stage with music legends like Cat Stevens and Rod Stewart. She joins Brian and his 13-piece jazz orchestra—comprised of some of London’s finest musicians—to deliver a thrilling musical journey, performing hits ranging from 1930s Hollywood classics and James Bond themes to Count Basie-inspired pizazz and disco magic.
Cast
Full cast details are coming soon—stay tuned!
Brian Clemens - Piano/Director
Brian Clemens is a London-based jazz pianist, arranger, and bandleader, originally from Los Angeles, California. After earning his master’s degree in Jazz Performance and studying under former Sinatra and Buddy Rich pianist, Grammy Award-winning Bill Cunliffe, Brian established himself as a prominent figure in Los Angeles’ vibrant music scene. He headlined renowned international jazz venues with his jazz band Luminoso and has been written about in All About Jazz and Jazzwise for his contributions to the jazz scene.
Now based in London, Brian is the founder, producer, director, arranger, and pianist of The Brian Clemens Jazz Orchestra Ft. Francesca. He is honored to continue leading the orchestra into its second year, channeling his passion for big band music and arranging to shape and guide the production forward. In addition to his work with the orchestra, he currently serves as a resident pianist at The Ritz in London.
Daniele Antenucci - Drums
Daniele is an accomplished Italian-born drummer specializing in Jazz, Funk, and Latin rhythms. Growing up in a musical family, he was immersed in Soul, Motown, and Blues, which influenced his diverse style.
A graduate of the British and Irish Modern Music Institute (BIMM) in London, Daniele honed his craft under renowned industry figures. He has collaborated with artists such as the Ayoub Sisters, Imaani, Lex Cameron, and Beverly Skeete. His ability to blend technical precision with expressive musicality has made him a sought-after drummer in both live performances and recordings.
Daniele has performed at prestigious festivals, including the iconic Glastonbury Festival, and his dedication continues to shape his evolution as a versatile force in the music industry.
Ed Babar - Bass
“Babar lays down the percolating cadence with his deep, dark reverberating tones. He also showcases his instrumental prowess as he takes centre stage..” All About Jazz
Ed Babar is a jazz/orchestral double bassist, bass guitarist and music educator based in London. Ed has performed on Jools Holland and the Graham Norton Show (Liam Gallagher), Radio 1 Live Lounge and the Michael Macintyre Show (Tom Odell), played live on BBC’sThe One Show (The Bevin Boys) and on BBC Radio 3’s In Tune (Tara Minton). More recent performance highlights include Bobby-Jane Gardner’s “Music of the Unseen” at London’s Southbank Centre and a contemporary opera festival at TivoliVredenburg Utrecht with The Futurists Foundation. As a studio musician Ed has recorded soundtracks for Sky Arts, BBC, ITV and Apple TV, as well as various recording artists.
Francesca Confortini - vocals
“Francesca brings such energy, drive, and musicianship to the task of bandleader that it all works.” – The Arts Desk
Italian-born jazz vocalist Francesca Confortini brings a soulful tone to every performance. With a background in musical theatre and international experience as a singer for Yusuf Islam (Cat Stevens), as well as sharing the stage with Rod Stewart, she has also performed with gypsy-jazz ensembles like Trio Manouche, Gypsy Dynamite, and her own trio, Jazz Silhouettes. Francesca exudes sophistication and warmth in everything she does. A versatile vocalist, she effortlessly transitions from her neo-jazz originals to interpretations of American Songbook classics. Without a doubt, Francesca is “one to watch!”