Dave Whitford

Dave Whitford is a talented British jazz bassist from Cornwall who discovered his passion for music early on, starting to play bass guitar at age 13. He became involved with the Cornwall Youth Jazz Orchestra and went on to study jazz at Middlesex University in London, later pursuing postgraduate studies at the Guildhall School of Music. He gained wider recognition with the collective quartet Neverland, supported by a Paul Hamlyn Foundation award, which enabled touring and recording opportunities. Over the years, Whitford has built an impressive career as one of London’s most sought-after jazz sidemen, performing regularly at prestigious venues like Ronnie Scott’s and The Jazz Café, and touring internationally at festivals such as the Xerox Rochester International Jazz Festival and the Love Supreme Festival.

Whitford has collaborated with noted musicians including Bill Frisell, Steve Lacy, and Kenny Wheeler and has played in projects led by Christine Tobin, Liam Noble, and the late saxophonist Bobby Wellins. His recording credits span over 50 sessions between 1997 and 2021, and he has appeared with ensembles such as the NDR Big Band and the BBC Big Band. His versatility and presence in the UK jazz scene have made him a respected figure admired for both his technical skill and musicality.