This summer marked the triumphant return of Jazz Sundays at Bermondsey Square, now in its 8th consecutive season. Held on the first Sunday of each month from June to September, these free outdoor events have become a beloved fixture in the local calendar – bringing together music lovers, families, and passers-by for afternoons filled with soulful sounds and community spirit.
A Stage for Emerging Talent
Since its grassroots beginnings in 2017, Jazz Sundays have proudly supported over 200 different musicians, many of them students and graduates from London’s leading music colleges. The series continues to champion creative music talent, diversity, and community enrichment, offering a platform for emerging artists to share their passion for jazz in a welcoming, open-air setting.
Highlights from Summer 2025
Each event this season brought something unique to the square:
Sunday 1st June kicked off with a powerful trombone ensemble tribute marking the 80th anniversary of VE Day, blending musical excellence with historical reflection.
Sunday 6th July extended its programme to support Pride in Southwark, featuring a vibrant mix of live jazz, salsa dancing, and a moving performance by an LGBTQ+ community choir.
The August and September editions continued the tradition of showcasing local talent, with warm crowds and a relaxed atmosphere – even under cloudy skies.
With seating provided and no tickets required, the square became a space for spontaneous joy, shared experiences, and musical discovery.
A Community-Driven Legacy
The series is organised and hosted by vocalist Stephen Pierre, founder of Unity Arts Music (UMAT), a community music initiative. Stephen’s vision for Jazz Sundays was embraced by local councillors and has grown into a multi-season celebration of music and togetherness.
“Even in this modern age of digital communication, good old-fashioned local events, such as the Bermondsey Square Jazz Days, are a positive way to bring the community together,” says Stephen. “I believe that music is a form of medicine and therapy – it is also a harmonious universal language.”
In 2020, UMAT was honoured with Southwark’s ‘Contribution to the Community’ Business Excellence Award, recognising the impact of this initiative on local life.
Looking Ahead
As the 2025 season wraps up, we’re already looking forward to what next year might bring. Whether it’s marking historic milestones, celebrating cultural pride, or simply enjoying a sunny Sunday with live jazz, Jazz Sundays at Bermondsey Square continue to prove that music really does bring people together.
For more information check out the Jazz Days Facebook Page: https://wwwbermondseysquarejazzdaysSE13UN
Thank you to Sue Pile and Stephen Pierre at UMAT for capturing and sharing these wonderful moments from Jazz Sundays.
Photos courtesy of Sue Pile
Photos courtesy of Stephen Pierre