Jazz trumpet player Steve Waterman has been awarded the accolade of ‘Jazz Trumpet Player of the Year’ at the 27th annual British Jazz Awards.

The Geneva Trumpets artist beat strong off strong competition from the likes of Bruce Adams, Steve Fishwick, Freddie Gavita and 2013 winner Enrico Tomasso to receive the 2014 prize.

Influential

Each year the awards bring together some of the most influential writers, promoters and broadcasters in mainstream jazz to nominate those musicians, ensembles and albums most deserving of recognition.

The awards cover 16 individual categories which the public then vote on to decide the eventual winners.

World's best

Steve is recognised as one of the leading jazz trumpet and flugel horn artists in the world, having started his professional career while studying at Trinity College of Music in London.

He has since become one of the most ‘in demand’ performers, working with the likes of artists including Carla Bley Big Band, Andy Sheppard, Tony Coe, and Victor Mendoza.

Steve also has had a number of commissions ranging from small ensembles to big band, including compositions for Pendulum, George Haslam’s Meltdown and Robin Jones’ King Salsa.

New concerto

A new concerto for trumpet and brass band is also in the pipeline for 2015.

Steve holds the positions as professor of Jazz Trumpet at Trinity College and is visiting Jazz Trumpet specialist at The Royal Northern College of Music and The Welsh College of Music & Drama.

A big thank you to all the wonderful musicians, promoters and venues I work with, to everyone who voted for me and to Geneva Trumpets for their wonderful instruments and supportSteve Waterman

Very proud

Steve told 4BR: “I’m very proud and honoured to have received the British Jazz Award.

A big thank you to all the wonderful musicians, promoters and venues I work with, to everyone who voted for me and to Geneva Trumpets for their wonderful instruments and support.”