Eilish Wilson

Saxophonist and Creator in Te Whanganui-a-Tara (Wellington, Aotearoa)

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

I recently returned from Los Angeles, where I was on a Fulbright Scholarship, graduating with a Master of Fine Arts in Jazz from 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 had a blast touring in North America with the amazing Bret McKenzie Band in 2022. In March 2023, I had the privilege of supporting my friend Ny Oh in opening for Harry Styles. Our set has been released as an EP, which you can listen to here:

Live in Aotearoa - Ny Oh

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

In 2022, I was fortunate to record at Capitol Studios, Los Angeles, as part of the annual CalArts Jazz Album, which you can listen to here

People who inspire me include Ny Oh, Cynthia Erivo, Stephen Lehman, Josh Johnson, Jonathan Pinson, Kae Tempest, Cécile McLorin Salvant, Darcy James Argue, Questlove, Dick Oatts, & Melissa Aldana.

When I'm not busy with music, I enjoy gardening, hanging out with my dog Stevie, and building things.

Upcoming Performances:

Raw Collective,15th November, 8pm, Raumati Social Club.TICKETS HERE

Brooklyn Festival with Fun ⅋ Funner,16th November, 4pm, Brooklyn. Free!

Raw Collective, 16th November, 8:30pm, The Rogue and Vagabond. TICKETS HERE

Covers Band: Lisa Tomlins and The Leg Shakers
7 piece covers band playing all the classics and hits!

Perfect for your next event, whether it's a conference, dinner, party, or wedding. Please get in touch below to book!

Teaching:

If you'd like to take lessons with me, you can find more information here

News:

Listen to Karen chatting about SaxoFun on RNZ

  • Education
    • Master of Fine Arts - Jazz
    • California Institute of the Arts
Contact Me