Written by 
Award-winning saxophonist, composer, and multi-instrumentalist Betty Accorsi launches her new album Nature Prints at Toulouse Lautrec, London on 24th July. Fast becoming a standout name in the UK jazz scene, Italian-born and Brighton-based, she leads the Betty Accorsi Quartet, crafting music that blends melodic soprano sax lines with a powerful, expressive rhythm section.
Her compositions echo the spirit of ECM jazz, drawing inspiration from John Surman to Pat Metheny, as well as Dvořák, Debussy, and European folk traditions. Her debut Cutty Sark Suite (2020) and follow-up Growing Roots (2022) earned acclaim and support from Help Musicians and MOBO, and her live shows—at venues like Pizza Express Soho, EFG London Jazz Festival, and Sidmouth Jazz Festival—showcase her creative energy and emotional depth. Nature Prints, her most ambitious project yet, promises to enchant audiences with its fusion of nature, literature, and jazz. Don’t miss the chance to witness this rising artist in full bloom.
The album launch is set to be a magical evening of richly melodic, deeply poetic jazz inspired by nature, poetry, mythology and personal experience. Promising a ‘set full of wonder, emotional nuance, and sonic beauty from one of the UK’s most distinctive voices in contemporary jazz and a must-see performance for those who crave intimate, meaningful live music.’ We caught up with Betty to find out more!
‘My new album Nature Prints explores the relationship between art and nature. I drew inspiration from various art forms—poetry, sculpture, gardening—to investigate how natural elements have been used to create beauty. I believe there is a deep and powerful connection between nature and humanity, one that we sometimes forget. This album is my way of reflecting on and celebrating that bond.’
With an inspired line up, Betty will be performing with Dan Hewson (piano, trombone), Andy Hamil (bass) Joe Edwards (drums) and of course Betty on saxophone and voice.
I first met Andy Hamill at Goldsmiths University—he was supporting students in their concerts and helped me during my final exam. We’ve recorded all three of my albums together, and his kindness, sensitivity, and great sense of humour are a huge support for the quartet. Dan Hewson came into my life through my saxophone teacher, Mick Foster, also at Goldsmiths. Dan is not only a fantastic pianist but also a composer and arranger who has given me valuable inspiration and suggestions for my compositions. I met Joe Edwards at a jam session in Brighton, and I was immediately struck by his talent and sensitivity. Working with all three is a joyful and creative experience.
Photo by Justyna Neryng
Betty’s press release says ‘Nature Prints, her most ambitious project’ and she explains that it is ambitious in many ways.
‘It’s my longest album, which allowed me to develop ideas in more depth. Also, I sing on four tracks for the first time, which is very important for me personally and artistically. The album represents a bigger step in exploring my musical identity.’
A must-see performance for those who crave intimate, meaningful live music, the audience can expect ‘a journey into my musical world, where every song has its own distinct voice and story. It’s a varied and heartfelt performance that invites listeners to connect with each piece’s unique character and atmosphere.’
Women in Jazz Media Presents: Betty Accorsi Quartet – Nature Prints Album Launch
July 24th, Toulouse Lautrec, London
Tickets here | Betty Accorsi website | Betty Accorsi Bandcamp
Last modified: September 30, 2025
