Twenty-year-old jazz pianist and composer from Bury St Edmunds, Oscar Lyons makes his debut on The Apex stage next week. Here, the British Mexican takes us on a musical journey
First things first, who are you and what do you do?
My name is Oscar Lyons, I’m 20 years old, I’m British Mexican, and I’m a jazz pianist and composer.
Are you Bury St Edmunds born and raised? What do you love about the town?
I’ve lived in Bury since I was one, so yes, I’ve been here for pretty much my whole life. It’s a beautiful place. You have everything you need here, and there’s also such a sense of stillness and silence.
When did your love of music in general (and jazz in particular) begin – and would you like to thank any of your music teachers?
My love of music mainly comes from my dad. He’s always been a fan of a very wide range of music. I have fond memories of listening to Stevie Wonder, Rachmaninov, the Doobie Brothers, John Coltrane and Buena Vista Social Club with him from a young age. He also sparked my enthusiasm for jazz specifically. He played the music when he was growing up and has always loved the freedom of creative expression that it offers.
Yes, I would like to thank my teachers. I’m very grateful to have had such kind people around me to guide me. I began learning the piano with Sarah Purves, who is an unbelievably patient, thoughtful teacher. She laid down the foundation for how to play the piano well, and she took me through the graded musical exams. I have also had lessons with local jazz pianist Chris Ingham, who is largely responsible for harnessing my passion for jazz. Like Sarah, he continues to be a great mentor and friend.
Where are you studying at the moment?
I’m studying at the Royal Academy of Music in London.
What does it mean to be making your debut at The Apex this month? Have you performed anywhere else, locally?
It’s an incredible privilege to be able to play at the Apex. I’ve been going to concerts there from a very young age, so to be the person giving the performance this time is very special. And yes, I’ve performed at various other local venues, including the Hunter Club and St Edmundsbury Cathedral.
What can people expect on the night? Who else will be performing with you?
I’m fascinated by the power that music has, to take us to the realm of the objective, so my hope is that the concert will point us to objective beauty. Music speaks to us in such a profound way, and I pray that it will communicate meaning and purpose to all who are there. I will be joined by the rest of my group, which features Immy Churchill on voice, George Johnson on saxophone, Zaki Osahn on double bass, and Ananda Brandão on drums. I met all of them at the Royal Academy of Music, and they’re fantastic. We’re going to be playing a mixture of my own compositions, and arrangements of some of my favourite songs.
How does it feel to be described as a once-in-a-generation talent?!
I’m unique, like everyone! All of us are valuable and unrepeatable. If I happen to have been blessed with certain gifts and opportunities, I want to make the best use of those.
What are your hopes and dreams, musically?
My hope is that the music I make will serve the purpose of helping me become a better person and helping others to do the same. And at the end of the day, that’s what all art comes back to: the people behind it!
Oscar Lyons is performing at The Apex in Bury St Edmunds on Friday January 16, 2025. Visit theapex.co.uk.
Featured image of Oscar Lyons by Charles Coldrey
Dear Oscar
¿Cómo estás?
I like jazz.
I think of jazz as flowing discordance full of surprises.
I would love to come and see you play.
I think it would have to wait though for economic reasons.
I am glad that your talent was nurtured.
Your imagination should feed those that listen to you well.
🙂
KR
David