Q & A with our newest Alumni Patron: jazz pianist Deschanel Gordon

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Born in Hackney, Deschanel was supported through Furthering Talent from 2009 until 2013. We funded his jazz piano lessons and connected him with a fantastic mentor, professional jazz pianist Steve Lodder. 

In 2020 Deschanel graduated from Trinity Laban with first class honours and won the prestigious BBC Young Jazz Musician competition.  

In his new role as Alumni Patron, Deschanel will support our work in a range of ways, from leading master classes for young jazz musicians to performing on the charity’s behalf. 

In his first act as Alumni Patron, Deschanel led an online session for young people currently supported through Furthering Talent, from both Lewisham and the programme’s 14 other regions. Deschanel performed for the young musicians and answered questions about his musical journey and his passion for jazz.

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Header photograph: Deschanel in 2011 during his participation in Furthering Talent and then, ten years later, in conversation with current Furthering Talent students in June 2021.

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