Renowned jazz and folk acts headline at the Howard Assembly Room, Leeds, November and December 2026.

The Howard Assembly Room in Leeds is preparing to showcase a diverse lineup of jazz and folk musicians in November and December 2026. The upcoming events highlight leading international and UK-based artists performing in an intimate venue known for its distinctive acoustics.

On 18 November, Danish bassist Jasper Høiby will present music from his third album, Conversations of Hope, with his trio 3Elements. The group, which includes pianist Xavi Torres and drummer Naíma Acuña, explores dynamic interplay and collective momentum. This appearance continues Høiby’s work beyond his previous role with the acclaimed band Phronesis.

Two days later, on 20 November, the venue hosts New York-based drummer Ari Hoenig and his trio. Hoenig's approach blends complex polyrhythms with melodic elements using tuned drum skins. Guitarist Tom Ollendorff and bassist Conor Chaplin join him to deliver a performance focused on rhythmic innovation and improvisation.

The folk segment begins on 28 November with Dove Ellis, a Mercury Prize-nominated indie-folk artist from Ireland. Ellis will perform songs from his debut album Blizzard, bringing a blend of nostalgic and contemporary sounds to the setting. This event is presented by Future Sound, marking a highlight for the folk audience.

December’s schedule includes The Dunwells on 5 December, a band that formed in Leeds and developed a sound mixing rock, pop, and indie roots. Their upcoming concert is a rare full-band show in their hometown, offering fans a chance to experience their live energy firsthand.

The following evening, Cara Dillon, an award-winning Northern Irish folk singer, will perform her Christmas tour Upon a Winter’s Night. Accompanied by her band, Dillon’s repertoire combines traditional carols with modern folk, creating an immersive seasonal atmosphere.

Tony Green, who programs the Howard Assembly Room, expressed a commitment to presenting a broad range of artists to attract diverse audiences. The venue aims to balance internationally respected jazz musicians with contemporary folk performers, both established and emerging.

The inclusion of discounted tickets for under-30s at Jasper Høiby’s concert indicates a strategy to attract younger audiences, potentially cultivating new fans of jazz music. Standard ticket prices for other shows start from £17.50 and are available online.

The Howard Assembly Room’s location in Leeds and its partnership with organizations such as Jazz Leeds, Future Sound, and Hurricane Promotions underline its role as a cultural hub. Its combination of historic architecture, modern facilities, and a dedicated bar and food service offers an appealing environment for live music.

This programming strategy emphasizes the venue’s function beyond a simple concert space, encouraging patrons to enjoy full evenings that include dining and socializing. These characteristics support the broader trend of venue experiences becoming increasingly holistic.

The November and December schedule reflects an intention to provide varied musical offerings during the lead-up to the holiday season. This period traditionally attracts audiences seeking both festive and culturally enriching entertainment.

The presence of international artists like Jasper Høiby and Ari Hoenig alongside local talents such as The Dunwells and Leeds Conservatoire alumni Fight the Giant suggests a deliberate mix of global and domestic music influences.

These concerts will also form part of the artists’ wider touring activities, with Ari Hoenig’s Leeds date noted as part of a major European tour. For others, such as The Dunwells, the shows offer a distinctive hometown return.

Further details on ticketing and additional events at the Howard Assembly Room can be accessed through the Opera North Box Office. The venue’s continued booking of diverse jazz and folk acts indicates ongoing investment in expanding live music opportunities in Leeds.