British composer/pianist, Simon Lasky, is known on both sides of the Atlantic for his expansive and melodic jazz compositions and arrangements which draw on his background as an improvising pianist and classically trained composer. Born in London, but now living in Central Florida, Simon’s composition ‘Close To Ecstasy’ won the 2018 Ivors Composer Award in the ‘Jazz Composition for Small Ensemble’ category. Upon receiving the award, BBC Radio 3 presenter Andrew McGregor described the winning composition as “a joyous exuberant piece, brilliantly crafted on all levels, and with great textural and melodic writing.” In 2019 Simon was awarded a Fellowship to complete his Masters in Jazz Studies at The University of South Florida, working as assistant to five time GRAMMY nominated jazz composer Chuck Owen. Group led by pianist, keyboard player and composer Simon Lasky. The 2018 album “About the Moment” (33 Jazz) features Luca Boscagin (guitars), Peter Billington (basses) and Sophie Alloway (drums) plus guest appearances from Kuljit Bhamra (tabla), Fergus Gerrand (percussion) and Philip Achille (harmonica).