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:
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 below.
People who inspire me include Ny Oh, 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 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.
Upcoming Performances:
Grayson Gilmour Album Release Tour:Friday 8th December, Meow. Tickets here
Greta O'Leary and Goodnight My Darling Live:Saturday 9th December, Old St Pauls. Tickets here
Lost Tribe Aotearoa w/ Casual Healing & Richter City Rebels:Friday 15th December, San Fran. Tickets here
Watch this space for an upcoming Fringe Festival show with my partner Karen O'Leary in Feb 2024….
News:
Here are two press items regarding what I got up to 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)
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