Leon Foster Thomas: Steel Pan Meets Contemporary Jazz
Leon Foster Thomas brings his extraordinary steel-pan virtuosity to Jazz Box at Fulham Pier on Friday 13 November, as part of the EFG London Jazz Festival. The evening is hosted by One Jazz contributors Gordon & Gillian Wedderburn.
Born in Trinidad & Tobago, Thomas is a remarkable improviser who has pushed the chromatic steel pan far beyond its traditional associations, exploring its remarkable melodic and harmonic possibilities within contemporary jazz. A winner of the World Steelband Music Festival Soloist and Duet competitions, he has worked with artists including Hugh Masekela, Randy Brecker, Vince Mendoza and Dolly Parton.
His music reflects the rich musical traditions of Trinidad while embracing the freedom, complexity and improvisational spirit of modern jazz — a fascinating meeting point between Caribbean musical heritage and contemporary jazz expression.
Thomas will be joined at Fulham Pier by Sam Leak (piano), Mirko Scarcia (bass), Ebow “Lox” Mensah (drums) and Ben Glasser (guitar), performing music from his acclaimed album Calasanitus alongside original compositions and fresh interpretations.
Friday 13 November 2026 · Jazz Box, Fulham Pier, Stevenage Road, London SW6 6HH · 7pm