The Woodsiders Collective is an international jazz ensemble rooted in the vibrant neighborhood of Woodside, Queens, NYC.
Formed by musicians from across the globe, the group features Ecuadorian saxophonist Luis Sigüenza, German trombonist Justus Heher, New Orleans native Andrew McGowan on keys, Japanese guitarist Yuto Kanazawa, and the drummer Ilya Dynov from Russia/Belgium.
Since 2019, the band has hosted a popular weekly jam session in the Woodside–Sunnyside area. Currently, it takes place every Tuesday from 8–11pm at Chowk NYC (59-10 Woodside Ave). The session has become a community hub for local and international musicians.
The jam session has featured collaborations with renowned artists including Lonnie Plaxico, Tyler Mitchell, Mike Boone, Steve Davis, Stacy Dillard, Steve Wilson, and Alex Norris, offering unique opportunities for musicians to perform with jazz veterans.
Original compositions are a key part of the Woodsiders’ sound. Their original music has been featured on NPR’s Jazz Night in America, Spotify’s All New Jazz, and YouTube Music’s Jazz Hotlist.
Putting together an international band in NYC comes with challenges, but the Woodsiders’ dedication has earned them recognition in the local scene. They’ve been featured on WBGO Jazz Radio, performed at Woodside Festival and Smalls Jazz Club (hosted by Mike Boone), and since June 2025, their weekly jam has been co-sponsored by Keyed Up and Jazz Generation, also endorsed by Woodside on the Move.
Performance Videos
Photos
History
Woodsiders First Concert – big band at Legends bar 2019
Woodsiders jam session at Legends Bar 2019
2021 Woodsiders Recording Session
2021 Woodsiders Jam at Wild Goose
2021 Woodsiders Jam Sanger Hall, Fall – Winter
2022 May – Claret Wine Bar Jam Session
2023 Cafe Erzulie
2023 National Museum in Harlem
2024 Bula Arts & Culture Jam Session