Julian Joseph
Virtuoso pianist, bandleader, composer, arranger and broadcaster, Julian Joseph has been a leading figure on the international jazz scene for over two decades. Acclaimed by critics and audiences the world over, he never fails to inspire with his mastery of the keyboard.
As well as releasing four albums, Julian has written a number of large-scale works for big band and symphony orchestra. In 2007 he premiered and toured his jazz opera Bridgetower: A Fable of 1807, the story of young black violin prodigy George Bridgetower.
Julian has been a long-time supporter of the 51st State Band. He has presented their concerts at the Putney Arts Theatre, and, along with his trio, performed with the band at the Royal Festival Hall in June 2009.
Cleveland Watkiss
Born in the East End of London, virtuoso vocalist, actor and composer, Cleveland Watkiss was one of the founders of the vastly influential Jazz Warriors Big Band. He has a great vocal talent and has performed with many artists from around the world including Bob Dylan, Stevie Wonder, Robbie Williams and The Who. He continues to sing in major concert halls, festivals and clubs around the world with VocalSuite and his quartet CWQ. Cleveland is a very keen music educator and works as a voice instructor around the UK. He presented the 51st State Band's performance in November 2010.
Alok Verma
Alok Verna started to learn the Tabla at the age of 7, and was soon practising seven hours a day. At 8, he had his first public performance and by 13 he was working with All India Radio on numerous recordings. Work with Bollywood followed this, and in 2001, Alok undertook his first tour of the UK. He continues to play around the world bringng his special percussion style to new audiences. The 51st State Band were delighted when Alok performed with them in November 2010 at the Putney Arts Theatre.
Floella Benjamin
Author, actress, producer, writer and children's campaigner, Floella Benjamin has been involved in TV, theatre and film for nearly years. She was awarded an OBE for her services for broadcasting and is Chancellor of the University of Exeter, President of Ramblers and Vice President of Barnados. She has campaigned tirelessly for children's causes and is a great believer in the importance of music in children's lives. She was delighted to present the 51st State Band as part of A Brighter Sound at the Royal Festival Hall in March 2010.
Floella has been made a life peer and in June 2010 she took her seat in the House of Lords.
