Jacqui Hicks

Jacqui Hicks studied saxophone, flute and clarinet on the jazz course at Leeds College of Music and started singing during her three years there. She then went on to the Guildhall School of Music and Drama and completed the one year course in post-graduate jazz studies.

In 1989 she joined the National Youth Jazz Orchestra as their vocalist and spent the next four years both touring and recording with them. Album credits include "These Are The Jokes", recorded live at Ronnie Scotts, and "Cooking With Gas".

In 1992 she was the feature of N.Y.J.O.'s third vocal album, "Looking Forward : Looking Back" which was well received by the critics :

"It's a worthy C.D. full of wry humour,hard swing and splendid musicianship." Jazz Express

"Please go out and buy this one, you won't regret it." Jazz Journal

Jacqui left N.Y.J.O. primarily to work with the group Shakatak, as both backing vocalist and sax player. As well as being credited on their albums "Let The Piano Play", "View From The City" and the M.O.B.O. nominated "Live At Ronnie Scotts". She has also toured Japan, South Africa, Indonesia, Thailand, Europe and Eastern Europe with them. A particular highlight was supporting George Benson in 1993.

She has also worked closely with the band Matt Bianco, touring Japan, Indonesia and Europe with them and appearing on their albums "Gran Via" "Another Time : Another Place" and a re-recording of their greatest hits called "A Collection".

Recently she has received some excellent reviews for her work with the Mulford MacFarlane Group. Their album "Bright Lights Big City" (Jazzizit Records) features her on three tracks.