Eilish Wilson

Kia ora! I’m Eilish Wilson, a saxophonist and educator from Te Whanganui-a-Tara (Wellington), Aotearoa.

I am currently based in Los Angeles on a Fulbright Scholarship, pursuing a Master of Fine Arts in performance at California Institute of the Arts.

Highlights of my playing career thus far include playing at the Monterey Jazz Festival with the Rodger Fox Big Band, and recording albums at the legendary United Studios (L.A) & at the acclaimed Bunker Studios in Brooklyn, New York City. In summer 2021, I toured with Trinity Roots.

I perform with a variety of bands and collectives, including Newtown Rocksteady, Raw Collective, The Wellington Mingus Ensemble, and most recently Fun ⅋ Funner.

I recently had the privilege of recording at Capitol Studios, Los Angeles, as part of the annual CalArts Jazz Album, which you can listen to below.

People who inspire me include Alexa Tarantino, Stephen Lehman, Cannonball Adderley, NyOh, Kae Tempest, Cécile McLorin Salvant, Darcy James Argue, Jackie McLean, Questlove, John Coltrane, & Melissa Aldana.

When I'm not busy with music, I love capturing moments on film (my addiction is supported by Splendid Photo), listening to RadioActive, and going on road trips & skiing with my friends.

I want this song played at my funeral.

News:

Here are two press items regarding what I'm doing in Los Angeles, thanks to Fulbright New Zealand:

An article in the Massey University news alongside 3 amazing Fulbrighters in my cohort here

And an interview with Maggie Tweedie on RadioActive (88.6fm) here

Records out now!

CalArts Jazz 2022 - 31st Annual CD

The Rodger Fox Big Band Live at the Rogue and Vagabond (Thelonious Records)

---------------------------------------------------

You can find out more about my teaching work here. I'd love to hear from you!