Meet the Board

Fergal is a Sound Engineer and Music Producer originally from Hebden Bridge. Passionate about sound technology and climbing, he take's influences of jazz into hip hop tracks and electronic composition.

Ariale is a musician from salford and a previous participant of our soundcheck talent development programme. She is hoping, that through YAB, she can help people on there musical journeys in the same way that she feels mjf has helped her.

Georgie is a singer, performer and creative based in Manchester. Classically trained, now turned jazz singer, cabaret performer, artistic facilitator and drag king, they are establishing themselves as a multi-disciplinary performance artist curious to explore the artistic sphere of the North West. Georgie is particularly interested in expanding accessibility and encouraging community within Manchester's jazz scene.

Oliver Boyle is a DJ, radio presenter & event producer based in Manchester. As a core member of STEAM Radio, he believes in fostering & amplifying the voices that make up Manchester’s underground music scene. He hopes to further this in his role on mjf’s Youth Advisory Board.

Soundcheck alumni, Jennifer Dala is a singer & songwriter who blends soul, alternative indie, folk, & jazz to craft her unique sound. Her music is defined by heartfelt lyrics, catchy rhythms & introspective, often melancholic themes. Jennifer is passionate about live music & is excited to bring her love for the arts & growing experience in event coordination to manchester jazz festival’s youth advisory board.

Moon is a university student specialising in Music Production & Vocal Performance. Aspiring to soon create & release their own songs, they draw inspiration from the vibrant sounds of Jazz Funk, Soul, & R&B, blending personal storytelling with rich musicality. Moon’s dedication to music is deeply personal, & they are committed to amplifying diverse voices & shaping inclusive spaces for emerging talent in jazz & beyond, with hopes to one day be able to ‘give back to music what it has given to them’.

Gloria is a Manchester based composer, originally from Shanghai, China. Her passion for music spans a wide range of styles & eras, & her work has also been influenced by many other form of arts & installations, exploring various sound palates & gestures, both physically & musically. Gloria’s work has been showcased internationally, with performances in the USA, UK, & Austria. She is currently pursuing her composition degree at the Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM). Through her involvement in the manchester jazz festival Youth Advisory Board, Gloria hopes to champion inclusivity & inspire broader engagement with the arts.

Kalina is an artist, writer, & lifelong language learner passionate about music that inspires creativity & cultural connection. Though not a musician, she enjoys practicing the ukulele & being in a musical environment. She has some experience volunteering at musical events & is committed to fostering inclusive, welcoming spaces where people can explore & delight in jazz.

Finn Muir-Cochrane is a dedicated music professional with a strong passion for jazz & a focus on creating meaningful live music experiences. A graduate of Leeds Conservatoire, he has gained extensive experience in both studio production & live event coordination. As a member of the Youth Advisory Board, Finn is committed to contributing to the growth of Manchester’s jazz scene, supporting emerging talent, & ensuring the festival remains dynamic, inclusive, & reflective of the city’s diverse musical landscape.

Rosie Callaghan is originally from the North East but has now lived in Manchester for nearly 4 years. She brings a diverse creative background in filmmaking, photography, multimedia, & painting. Through her work, she explores the world around her, connecting with individuals & documenting their stories through various artistic mediums. As a member of the Youth Advisory Board, Rosie will contribute to both the pre production & post production of the manchester jazz festival 2025, using her technical abilities & creative mind!