Jazz At The Merchants House presents Stephen Henderson : Modern Vikings

MODERN VIKINGS

Stephen Henderson - Drums and Composition

Fergus McCreadie – Piano

David Bowden – Bass

Graeme Stephen – Guitar and pedals

Konrad Wisniewski – Saxophones

Band Description

As with their Scandinavian jazz cousins, Modern Vikings play music with a strong emphasis on melody with the added grooves, urgency and colours of the American jazz tradition. Their music reflects Henderson’s many influences and experiences from the beginning of his musical upbringing to present, creating a fresh sound that is unique, bold and emotive.

“I’m particularly inspired by jazz musicians who incorporate elements of their own countries’ folk music into their writings and playing. Modern Jazz artists such as Shai Maestro, Avishai Cohen, Lionel Loueke, Leo Blanco and John Scofield have been huge influences on my style more recently.”

Stephen Henderson

Born and raised in Ayrshire, Stephen Henderson has been emersed in music from the womb. His parents both being musicians gave him an exceptional musical upbringing. At aged 9, he started learning snare drum at his local pipe band giving him a great foundation for moving on to the drums.

He found his passion for jazz upon gaining entry to the National Youth Jazz Orchestra of Scotland, there Stephen met many of his current esteemed collegues such as Fergus McCreadie, Helena Kay and Pete Johnstone.

In 2015 Stephen graduated from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland with First Class Honors. Since then, he has been touring and recording with various artists. Currently his most prominent role is that of the drummer for mercury nominated artist Fergus McCreadie. Playing with this trio has allowed Stephen to play in many of the top venues and festivals in the UK and Europe including The North Sea Jazz Festival, Love Supreme, Oslo Jazz Festival and South by South-West.

As an active side person he has played with global music artists such as: Laura Jurd, Tim Garland, Rob Luft, James Tormé (LA) Aidan O’Rourke, Leroy Brown (New Orleans), Elchin Shirinov (Azerbaijan) and more.

“a remarkably sensitive performer, listening intently to the other musicians in whatever setting he finds himself, demonstrating why he’s becoming one of the go-to drummers on the Scottish scene.” London Jazz News

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