Anna Chandler Nonet

Anna Chandler-King brings an intimate and deeply emotional set of intricately arranged music written around the passing of her mother, and a nonet comprised of some of her favourite musicians that were there for her when she needed them. Each piece represents a specific moment from that time. She draws on large ensemble, contemporary jazz, avante-garde improvisation and the variety of jazz and improvised music that excites her to bring an eclectic and varied sound that is tied together by the message and incredible musicianship.

Expect compositions that are deeply heartfelt and intense, but also some that are light-hearted and playful, with a selection of amazing improvisers to bring their interpretations to her music.

Why Can I Still See You, the new album by Leeds-based saxophonist and composer Anna Chandler-King, is an intimate and deeply emotional set of intricately arranged music written around the passing of her mother Ruth, with each composition representing a specific moment from that time spanning darkness, fond reflection, and joy. To perform the music, Anna assembled a nonet of some of her favourite musicians and closest friends who were there for her when she needed them the most, and importantly, all emotionally sensitive improvisers who she trusted to interpret such a personal collection of pieces.

“I made this album to share those times with others that have had similar experiences losing loved ones, but also for myself, to help me process my own feelings and emotions. Sharing these with everyone that worked on this project turned out to be so much more valuable to me than I could have expected. Whenever I listen to it or play it I’m truly transported back to those moments the pieces are about, which of course can be quite hard but is often very beautiful.”

"This album is dedicated to my mum, Ruth Chandler. She was an incredible person, beloved by everyone that met her."

Anna Chandler-King // Alto & Baritone Saxophones & Composition
Riley Stone-Lonergan // Tenor & Soprano Saxophones
Nadim Teimoori // Tenor & Alto Saxophones
Laurence Mason // Bass Saxophone & Bassoon
Ellie Whitley // Trombone
Tom Harris // Piano
Sam Quintana // Double Bass
Steve Hanley // Drums
Kel Àlvaro // Voice