Nick Jones, also known as 'The Violin Guy,' is an award-winning professional musician, recording artist, session musician, and teacher.

He began his classical training on the violin and piano at the age of four and graduated from The New Zealand School of Music with a Bachelor of Music degree, earning postgraduate honors in Jazz Performance. For the past 21 years, he has worked as a solo performer and session musician, showcasing his versatility by playing in a variety of genres and adding his unique flair to musical arrangements. He has collaborated with numerous artists both on stage and in the recording studio and contributed violin recordings for the soundtrack of the popular video game Path of Exile. Nick performs and records a wide range of music styles and genres, including classical, folk, rock, pop, jazz, and electronica. He is known for his instrumental interpretations of popular classical works, famous operas, and timeless musical classics, as well as modern pop and rock songs, all reimagined for the violin or piano. He has recorded an album as part of the acoustic duo ensemble 'In2Strings' with guitarist Petrus Fourie and several EPs with his band 'Mojo Crow,' which he co-founded with his brother Chris in 2013. All of their music is available on Spotify and other streaming platforms. Inspired by violinists such as Nigel Kennedy, Joshua Bell, Stéphane Grappelli, Jean-Luc Ponty, and Mark O'Connor, Nick will be performing a selection of well-known jazz standards in swing and Latin styles, along with standards from the gypsy-jazz repertoire popularized by Django Reinhardt and Stéphane Grappelli.

He will be joined by a talented band that includes the renowned Dr. Olivier Holland on bass, Ben Fernandez on piano, Paul Naveen on drums, and virtuoso guitarist Doug Robertson.

Members $10 cash
Non-members $25 cash
No EFTPOS
Non-member contact registration required at time of entry.

We regret to advise that this concert has been CANCELLED.

We will re-book the Mike Murane Quintet for a future concert.

VOXNOVA will now perform on 18 March.

The Mike Murane quintet is a collaboration of friends that bring you their fresh interpretations of standards and modern jazz arrangements of popular tunes.

They will delight you with their creative and spontaneous interplay.
Mike Murane on vocals is well known in the Auckland jazz scene having played with many of Auckland’s top line artists. He has a polished and swinging vocal style that’s ideal to the standards made popular by Sinatra and Bennett.

Niduk Wijetilleke on piano is a graduate from Berklee College of Music in USA and arrived in New Zealand in 2016. Since then he has widely performed as a solo pianist and with groups. His sophisticated approach to jazz makes him a much sought after performer.

Aaron Coddel is a versatile freelance musician and a photographer. Being highly sought after, he has played electric and acoustic bass for jazz greats such as Cleo Laine, Mark Murphy and saxophonist George Coleman. Additional engagements include hip-hop artist King Kapisi, singer Annie Crummer, iconic
New Zealand band Hello Sailor and blues outfit Chicago Smoke Shop.

Steve Sherriff has performed with the RNZN band, Rodger Fox Big Band, Auckland Jazz Orchestra, Blue Train and John Key’s Strange Fruit and has toured with Natalie Cole, Eartha Kitt, Johnny Dankworth, Cleo Laine and Randy Crawford. He has also performed in stage shows including West Side Story,
Anything Goes, Rocky Horror Picture Show, and Hot Shoe Shuffle.

Jason Orme graduated from P.I.T at the Musicians Institute, Los Angeles in 1988 receiving an honours diploma. He is a highly sought after drummer who has worked with a number of popular Auckland bands and bandleaders such as Rodger Fox, Nairobi Trio, Phil Broadhurst & Julie Mason, Trudy Lile’s ‘Mojave
Group’ & album and Nathan Haines.

Members $10 cash
Non-members $25 cash
No EFTPOS.
Non-member contact registration required at time of entry.

Please note: This concert replaces the Mike Murane Quintet that was originally booked for 18 March.

VoxNova (NewVoice) was formed in 1997 by percussionist Alan MacDonald to perform mainly Vintage Latin Jazz. We include tunes the from fantastic documentary movie Latcho Drom following the journey of the Romani People out of India, across Europe to end up settling in Andalusia and Spain. Our repertoire includes: Gitanos (Spanish Romani), Jazz Manouche (French Romani), Catalan (Nuevo Flamenco) as well as Vintage Latin jazz. This music conveys a joyful village-like atmosphere loved by all ages due especially to the Flamenco Rumba rhythm being based on the human heartbeat.

Richard Adams - violin
Aaron Codell - double bass
Nigel Gavin - guitar
Alan MacDonald - percussion

Members $10 cash
Non-members $25 cash
No EFTPOS
Non-member contact registration required at time of entry.

CAT TUNKS – BACK TO THE ROOTS
feat Krissy Jackson (fiddle) and Kim Halliday (guitar) and guests

Songstress Catherine (Cat) Tunks is a genre blending songwriter, re known vocalist, recording artist, and band leader. Recognised across NZ and the South Pacific for her individual approach to blending music genres, her Jazz and Blues background has seen her last perform at the club in previous years with her original soul/jazz funk group Black Sand Diva, German Pianist/Organist Stefan Nagler, and supporting many of NZ’s top Jazz and Blues artists.

She brings a female led trio to AJBC featuring multi instrumentalist Kim Halliday (guitars/percussion) and Krissy Jackson (fiddle) to present ‘Back to the Roots’ – a night of stripped back jazz, blues, and soul with its heart in the deep American south of early years. An intimate conversation of Gospel and heart provoking song.

Her powerhouse vocal presence has led to accomplishments working in Europe and across the globe, and her love of soul, blues and jazz blended with acoustic folk and country, with her songs being featured in NZ film and TV - she is a self described ‘Gypsy’ of the music scene at home and abroad. With a rock n roll edge she describes proudly as part of her West Auckland roots, she has two Music award nominations under her belt and was asked to tour with legendary Blues man John Mayall in 2020.

Read Audioculture article: https://www.audioculture.co.nz/profile/cat-tunks

Krissy Jackson:
Krissy Jackson’s fiddle takes the listener on a musical journey, from foot-stomping to heart-wrenching and everything in between. Described as “an extraordinary musician and heartfelt performer,” Krissy’s music dances with melody and tone, honoring the historical depth of music while still making it her own. Through her voice and fiddle, Krissy connects deeply with her audience, transcending genres and stylistic boundaries. A highly sought-after fiddler immersed in New Zealand’s folk scene, you may have seen her with Waitai, Frank Burkitt Band, Hot Diggity, Adam McGrath, Reb Fountain, Cat Tunks and Turkey the Bird amongst others.

Kim Halliday:
Having toured the world extensively with many of her different musical offerings, Kim Halliday is universally known for her work with the highly acclaimed group Pacific Curls - a multi instrumentalist, percussionist and guitarist with Gitbox Rebellion, 9 piece group The Voyagers, she is consistently touring with artists such as Whirimako Black, Eden Iris Trio, and more. From the infamous Northland blues band Big Belly Woman, she has been in the forefront of the Blues, Jazz, world music and folk scene from North to South.

Members $10 cash
Non-members $25 cash
No EFTPOS
Non-member contact registration required at time of entry.

prior to lock down as a straight jazz group, it has developed and now provides a broad repertoire crossing many musical genres. This has been made possible by many of the group's musicians contributing their own arrangements. Today, the band offers jazz numbers as well as songs by artists like Marilyn Monroe, Elton John, Amy Winehouse and more.

Members $10 cash
Non-members $25 cash
No EFTPOS
Non-member contact registration required at time of entry.

PLEAE NOTE: This concert is organised by the Northern Jazz Society, in Whangarei. The Auckland Jazz and Blues Club is happy to support this concert.

DAVE MACRAE

Dave MacRae has been described by many as a brilliant and
informed musician, producer, composer, arranger and an emotive
performer with outstanding credentials especially in the Jazz world.
Born in NZ and arriving in Australia aged 19, in the 1960’s he was
fortunate to play with a cross section of Australian musicians
including Bernie McGann, John Pochee, Graeme Lyall, Don
Burrows, John Sangster, Bob Barnard and many others.
Moving to USA in 1969 he toured the United States, Britain and
Europe with the great Buddy Rich Band. Residing in London for 15
years from late 1970 he continued working with a wealth of jazz
artists: Ronnie Scott, Clifford Jordan, Chet Baker, Annie Ross, Jon
Hendricks, Clarke Terry, Ernestine Anderson and the bands of
Mike Gibbs, Mike Westbrooke, jazz fusion pioneers Nucleus, the
indefinable Matching Mole and many more as well as being
included in the popular music scene recording and travelling with
Cliff Richard, Cilla Black and others.
Among his production credits are The Walker Bros Night Flights
album, All Pacific Eardrum albums and The Goodies recordings
and as their musical director for 8 years.
This 15 year London based period was the busiest in his life and
includes a huge number of sessions as arranger or pianist or synth
player.
Returning to Australia in 1985 he has been involved as pianist on
innumerable and varied gigs and concert presentations from 1985
till the present day. Venues include The Opera House, cafes,
SIMA gigs and Jazz Festivals etc. etc.
“Southern Roots” recorded in 1990, with Lloyd Swanton on bass
and Alan Turnbull on drums presents some of MacRae’s original
compositions. In the past or presently Musical Director to:-
The Sing for Joy School, The Global Vocal Focal Workshops,
Mistyville Music, the 10 Newport Jazz Festivals at Pittwater
presentations during the 90’s and tutor at the Australian Institute of
Music for 18 years. Also sharing with Joy Yates, the musical
direction and production of vocal group JUBILATION. His CD,
“Some History” reveals his mastery as musician and composer.
The critical review of performances of the group “Bloodlines”
featuring Joy Yates and Jade MacRae, was glowing.
Delighted to be included in The Bob Henderson Band for the last 7
years and looking forward to continuing life as an active musician
when the occasion presents itself.

JOY YATES

Joy Yates a snapshot of life in music.
I was born in New Zealand’s Far North but have travelled extensively from a young age. I have
broad international concert, television, recording and jazz vocal performance and education
credentials. In1969 and 1970 I worked in the USA. From 1970 till 1985 in the UK and Europe with or
supporting such great artists as: Orson Wells, The Waters Family, The Time Capsule with writers Dory Previn, and Rick Marlow.Neil Sedaka, Elvin Jones, Art Blakey, Clark Terry, Chaka Khan, Van Morrison, Ronnie Scott, Nucleus. Also during this period, I can be heard and seen with my vocal group “Bones” on
several recordings and TV shows with major artists, such as Cliff Richard, Cat Stevens, Olivia
Newton John, Leo Sayer, Charles Aznavour, Tim Rice, Andrew Lloyd Weber, Van Morrison, Neil
Sedaka, Gus Dudgeon, Trevor Horn, Lulu, Elaine Paige, Wham, Gang of Four, Status Quo, Cilla
Black, Petula Clarke, The Goodies, Boney M, Monty Python, Kenny Everitt, Les Dawson,
The Two Ronnies, Gladys Knight and the Pips, Chaka Khan, Van Ghelis, Demis Roussos,
Karen Carpenter, Barbara Streisand, Womac and Womac, Jimmy Cliff, Janis Ian, and more!
I also toured Europe and recorded with The James Last Orchestra.
I Joined Esperanto, the 12- piece British Rock Orchestra in the early 70’s, recorded 2 albums for
A and M Records and toured Britain and Europe. Highlight! The Paris Olympia!
1975 formed jazz/fusion band, Pacific Eardrum, with husband Dave MacRae; recorded 2 albums
of original music for Charisma Records and toured Britain.
Guest tutor at Cleo Laine’s Wavendon Jazz Workshops 1980–1984.
Lecturer: London Art Festival /Purcell Room: The Use of The Voice in Jazz Improvisation.
Vocal Co-ordinator and Soloist for John Boorman film, Emerald Forest.
Returning to Sydney in 1985, I founded the Sing for Joy School, for singers + musicians aspiring
to a professional level. Many are now working internationally.
From 1993 to 2007 I was the jazz vocal tutor at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music.
I Founded JUBILATION in 1993, to further develop singers in harmony and performance.
Guests on “Carols in the Domain” for the last 15 years, is one of their many credits.
I Founded Global Vocal Focal in 1994, an intense annual performance vocal workshop program,
featuring guest consultants, Kurt Elling, Kitty Margolis, Barbra Morrison, Vince Jones,
Judy Bailey, Kerrie Biddell, Tina Harrod, Jade MacRae, Shannon Dolan. Plus.
With Dave MacRae, I co-ordinated the Youth in Jazz Quest, and then the Re-emergence of The
Newport Jazz Festival at Pittwater for 9 years. Vocal consultant to the Talent Development Project, CASPA and many other organizations. Artistic Director of The Kiwi Waka (Maori Cultural) Festival, now in its 10th year. My compelling performance (press description) as Lady Day in the play “Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill” vividly evoked the Billie Holiday persona; as was evidenced in a 9 week sold out
season at Sydney’s Ensemble Theatre, followed by a successful tour of Australia and N.Z.
In 2011, I was invited to perform “Lady Day” at The Adelaide Cabaret Festival.
Recordings available on CD are, “Songs from Lady Day” and “Midnight Blue”.
In 2012, Dave MacRae and I combined with talented daughter Jade in a project called
Bloodlines, presenting a body of original works to critical acclaim.
Most recently, I perform mostly with the Dave MacRae Trio: their vast repertoire includes classic
jazz standards, old school and contemporary favourites and some original material.
Together they have performed at major jazz and music festivals and venues internationally and
here, at home, Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra, Brisbane, Perth, Townsville and Adelaide.

Members $10 cash
Non-members $25 cash
No EFTPOS.
Non-member contact registration required at time of entry.

Named after the train line frequented to rehearsals and jams, Western Line are a young and exciting
quartet fresh on the local jazz scene.
The band has won various awards at national and local competitions, including Saxophonist Ben Ridsdale winning Outstanding Soloist award 3 times, right here at the Auckland Jazz and Blues Club!

Western Line features:
Saxophones: Ben Ridsdale; Piano: Francis Gallichan-Stewart;
Bass: Claude Wedde; Drums: Ruhan Ediweera-Wjesuriya
The band will play a varied programme of modern jazz and standards plus charts from established NZ
jazz composers, with their signature bite and energy.
Be sure to tune in for some Stan Getz, Hank Mobley, Chet Baker, Sonny Rollins, maybe a touch of Coltrane, and tunes from more modern day composers such as Joe Chambers and Joshua Redman, and New Zealand’s very own Norman Meehan.

Members $10 cash
Non-members $25 cash
No EFTPOS
Non-member contact registration required at time of entry.

Ruckus are an improvising quartet playing original music by guitarist DAVID WARD, as well as selected delicacies from the jazz tradition. Long marinated in such juices as Monk, Coleman, Mingus, Lacy, Zappa and Frisell, David writes music that is melodic, humourous, rhythmic and joyous.

DAVID WARD - Guitar
CALLUM PASSELLS - Saxophones
CHRIS O'CONNOR - Drums
EAMON EDMUNDSON WELLS- Double Bass

https://www.davidwardmusician.com/ruckus-jazz-ensemble.html

Members $10 cash
Non-members $25 cash
No EFTPOS
Non-member contact registration required at time of entry.

BACK HOME is a project that brings together my two musical Worlds, Aotearoa and Switzerland
Through both old and new compositions I hope to bring to light some of the experiences I have had since I left to study in Basel 18 months ago. During this time, I have met and played with some
amazing musicians, and been privileged to have had lessons from some of the World’s leading pianists, Aaron Parks, Shai Maestro, Malcolm Braff, Fred Hersch, Kris Davis, Kit Downes to name a
few. I have also made some very special friends.

The concert at AJ&BClub on the 4th will include vocalist Neža Ozinger (Slovenia) four musician friends from Auckland Toby Barrett (Tenor saxophone) Tyler Diprose (Bass) Robin Beak (Guitar) and Max Crook (Drums) with me, Lucas Kewell on piano.

2024 was a busy year, apart from my studies at the Jazz Campus I performed concerts in my home
town of Penzance (Cornwall UK) Hastings (UK) Budapest (Hungary) and played with the wonderful
Roger Manins in Rotterdam (Holland) and on December 7th the album 'Orange and Teal' that I
recorded in Istanbul with Serkan Hakki (clarinet) was released.
The concert on the 4th February at the Auckland Jazz and Blues Club will be the first of our mini-
tour where we will be playing mostly original music, focussing on a jazz sound with influences from
contemporary classical and filmic music. “For me music is a means to evoke images and tell
stories, linked to the human experience. The band members love all aspects of 'free' music, in
between the long written forms there are opportunities for each person to shine. I hope by bringing
this music and these musicians together it will give you a taste of what I have experienced during
my first year at the Jazz Campus Switzerland.” L.K.

Members $10 cash
Non-members $25 cash
No EFTPOS
Non-member contact registration required at time of entry.

PLEASE NOTE:- This concert is provided by the Northern Jazz Society in Whangarei.

HIGHLIGHTS: THE BLONDES & THEIR SONGS

A sassy salute to the Golden Divas of popular song, and the hits that made them Superstars.  

A light-hearted tour through Planet Blonde, the show celebrates Hollywood bombshells and girls-next-door, songstresses of jazz and soul, and Queens of Pop, Rock and Country.  

Highlights: The Blondes & Their Songs showcases the hits, wits and gifts of some of the greatest entertainers of our time…all with one thing in common…

ARIATHEA: BIO  

A graduate of Toi Whakaari: The New Zealand Drama School, Ariathea began her career in Australian musical theatre, continuing in cabaret, burlesque, soul, r’n’b, jazz, and latterly, original songs.  

Career highlights include performing the role of Madame Thenardier for Claude-Michel Schönberg, the composer of Les Misérables; a one woman rock-opera as Boadicea; and a Royal Command performance for King Charles of Hairy McClary, as the singing narrator.  

Jazz and soul residencies in Auckland include multiple years at Sky City Casino and at jazz-era venueProhibition, and her work as an actor includes Auckland Theatre Company, NZ Opera and The Auckland Philharmonia.  

Recordings include Salutations, jazz interpretations of soul and pop faves; Original Lullabies for Sarah, new sleepytime songs featuring the sounds of nature; and Super Love, original Neo-Soul. 

She is currently co-creating The Third Ear Project, original jazz-soul  – or … “music for your mind, booty & spirit”  - with musical director/producer Dixon Nacey and producer Andre ‘Modre’ Brown.

Members $10 cash
Non-members $25 cash

No EFTPOS
Non-member contact registration required at time of entry.

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Formed in 2009, in Auckland, The Flaming Mudcats have established themselves as one of this country’s premier, contemporary, Blues combos who share a common, driving passion to play the blues in their own way.
The band is fronted by Craig Bracken on vocals, harmonica and tenor sax, along with guitar slinger, Doug Bygrave while drummer Ian Thomson and bassman Pete Parnham form the tight, rhythm section.

Now into their second decade, the Flaming Mudcats have toured throughout NZ and performed at festivals and clubs in Australia, Samoa, Fiji and the USA. Their memorable Chicago and Austin appearances were especially well received and remain a band highlight.

The band has recorded four self-produced albums of predominantly original material drawn from their lifetime experiences and eclectic influences. Their evolving song writing talents look to ensure ongoing fresh set and album material.
Their energetic sets blend originals and covers. Simply listen up or dance your socks off to butt-shaking belters, soulful grinders with everything in between … welcome to the Flaming Mudcats show.

“Being a blues band is a real calling because it demands a big commitment. So, it’s hats off to the ‘Mudcats.’ Not for doing this but doing it so well.”
Graham Reid, Auckland 2018

Members $10 cash
Non-members $25 cash

No EFTPOS
Non-member contact registration required at time of entry.

PLEASE NOTE: The Alex Keatley "Sounds of the Motherland" concert was originally advertised for 17 Dec. This concert will now take place on 10 December. .

Following a sell-out gig at the Centrestage Theatre in Orewa in September, the Queen City Big Band are pleased to once again be celebrating the festive season with the Auckland Jazz & Blues Club this year. Directed by Markus Fritsch and featuring the fabulous Chelsea Prastiti on vocals, you'll hear selections from the Ella Fitzgerald songbook as well as some of your favourite Christmas tunes.

Members $10 cash
Non-members $25 cash
No EFTPOS
Non-member contact registration required at time of entry.

PLEASE NOTE: This concert has been changed from 17 December to 10 December.

Diving into his roots, young Auckland bassist Alex Keatley is excited to present ‘Sounds from the Motherland’.

‘Sounds from the Motherland’ is a project that aims to showcase and share some of the rich and vibrant jazz from South Africa. During his last year studying at Auckland University Alex has discovered his love for the style and compositions that come from all over South Africa. Taking inspiration from modern greats and legends in the past Alex and his band will be presenting a few of his own original compositions and showcasing some of the music he has discovered on this journey.

Featuring Jenna Aspeling on Alto Saxophone, Toby Barrett on Tenor Saxophone, Iggy Palmero Epstein on Flute & Saxophone, Ryan Tomov on Piano, Finn McNeill on Drums & Alex Keatley on Double Bass.

Members $10 cash
Non-members $25 cash
No EFTPOS
Non-member contact registration required at time of entry.

Alex Ventling Quartet, featuring Phelan Burgoyne

Alex Venting - piano
Michael Howell - guitar
Mostyn Cole - double bass
Phelan Burgoyne - drums

A special ‘returning home’ concert: kiwi pianist Alex Ventling is back again from Europe, this time with renowned British drummer, Phelan Burgoyne. The two team up with their favourite locals, Michael Howell and Mostyn Cole, forming their a dream quartet.
European elegance meets kiwi authenticity – the four have selected their favourite standards and originals, where deep listening and an open approach to form and improvising can unfold on stage.

Alex Ventling has been living in Europe for the last 10 years where he met Phelan Burgoyne, the two having collaborated in a range of musical projects. Michael Howell and Mostyn Cole are household names in the Auckland jazz scene, having played with Alex for many of his visits home. A treat for the ears.

Members $10 cash
Non-members $25 cash
No EFTPOS
Non-member contact registration required at time of entry.

Ray Woolf began his career as a thirteen year old in London. It was the beginning of the Rock revolution & Ray was in three bands before arriving in N.Z. in 1962 He sang in Aucklands Oriental Ballroom, was spotted , signed to to ZODIAC records & and in late 62 toured the country with Helen Shapiro.

Ray went on to appear in all the early T.V. shows. IN THE GROOVE, C,MON, ON THE BEAT SIDE, & was resident on HAPPEN INN for two years. He went on to host PLAY SCHOOL, Sang the winning song on STUDIO ONE, & a whole lot of shows before hosting TWO ON ONE in 1977 & 1978 & the RAY WOOLF SHOW in 1979 1980 1981 1982.

The T.V. acting career was also under way with a year on A GOING CONCERN in 1972. He went on to do 3 seasons in MARLIN BAY & guest roles in HERCULES, ZENA, YOUNG HERCULES, ST. LEGAL, THE STRIP, ORANGE ROUGHIES, & more Recently NOTHING TRIVIAL. Musical Theatre was also on Ray,s agenda
beginning with HANS CHRISTIAN ANDERSON in 1980. Then THE MUSIC MAN, A SLICE OF SATURDAY NIGHT, THE NEW ROCKY HORROR SHOW. BLOOD BROTHERS, GOLF, & over a hundred performances as Captain Von Trapp in THE SOUND OF MUSIC, The King in THE KING & I. & the Aussie production
of WEST SIDE STORY. The Movies include, LUCY, BACK RIVER ROAD, MAIDEN VOYAGE, SUPER FIRE, KING KONG, INSATIABLE MOON, SIEGE.

Now a pensioner Ray still performs in Caberet & concerts. Awards include ENTERTAINER OF THE YEAR 1975, MOST PROFESSIONAL ENTERTAINER 1976 PEGASUS AWARD 1981, BENNY AWARD 2007, M.N.Z.M 2008. Ray lives in the far North with Wife Chrissy, Has 12 grandchildren , 7 great grandchildren. Supports Diabetes Auckland & is a Jambassodor for Starjam for special needs children & is an ambassador for the Prostate Cancer Awareness Foundation.

Members $10 cash
Non-members $25 cash
No EFTPOS
Non-member contact registration required at time of entry.

Jane is a performer, singing coach and musical director. She has taught for over 30 years within Performing Arts with extensive experience in secondary school environments in Drama, Music and in Choral programmes.
In 2020 she was the vocal director for AMICI’s Production of ‘Mary Poppins’ as well as playing the Bird Woman, in 2021 she was Musical Director for StageIt’s production of ‘Chicago’, in 2022 vocal director for G&T’s concert version of ‘CHESS’. Her latest stage appearance was as Mrs Paroo in G&T’s concert version of ‘The Music Man’ at the Kiri Te Kanawa theatre in 2023.
A highlight in Jane’s career has been singing with Auckland band Prima Swing Riot for many years. She is an accomplished pianist and accompanist. In 2019, Jane was the recipient of a Scroll of Honour Awarded by the Variety Artists Club NZ, recognising her contributions as a celebrated singer, musical theatre performer, musical director and vocal tutor. Jane works as a freelance vocal coach/singing teacher, music director and performer.
She is joined by award winning musicians - Mike Walker, Pete McGregor and Bruce King to bring you a mix of Dusty Springfield, Carole King, Tina Turner and plenty of swing and jazz.

Members $10 cash
Non-members $25 cash
No EFTPOS
Non-member contact registration required at time of entry.

This will be the first show of an eight-date North Island tour, culminating in a major Festival appearance in Rotorua. Prior to then Paul is off to play some shows in the UK and Europe.

The DeSotos tour also celebrates the release of four new original songs that the band has been recording at the LAB in Mt Eden, with Wayne Bell handling production duties and Olly Harmer engineering.

These tracks will form part of their upcoming album scheduled for release in 2025, with further updates to be posted on the band's Facebook page.

Since the early 2000's The DeSotos have occupied a unique space in the New Zealand country blues scene, with their melodic songwriting accompanied by strong vocal harmonies and tight musicianship.

As well as their original material the band features reference cover songs from the likes of Neil Young, Tom Petty and the Allman Brothers Band in their setlist.

The DeSotos lineup includes;

Paul Gurney - lead vocals, guitars & blues harp

Stuart McIntyre - bass & vocals

Ron Stevens - Hammond, keyboards & vocals

Greg Tell - drums & percussion

www.facebook.com/thedesotos

www.thedesotos.com

www.paulgurneymusic.com

Members $10 cash
Non-members $25 cash
No EFTPOS
Non-member contact registration required at time of entry.

John Leigh Calder

Double Bassist/ Vocalist/ composer

John started his music career in the mid 60s with school friend Bill Taitoka who later became Billy T James, playing at venues in Northland & Auckland until the late 6os. He then moved to Sydney where he performed for two years before returning to NZ briefly then moving to London performing with different bands and in 1978 joined a UK band American Echoes. They attained BBC radio 1 record of the week & power play of the month Radio Luxembourg which gave national exposure touring concerts etc.

In 1984 John moved to Sydney forming the John
Leigh Calder indentity featuring some of Australia's best musicians doing all the main Jazz circuit and festivals etc.
In 2017 John moved back to the UK where he has been gaining recognition around the London Jazz scene recently performing at Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club and The B3 Club and festivals, He has also been visiting NZ for the last 6 years performing when he comes here.

John is joined on the 5th Nov at The Auckland Jazz& Blues Club with Joe Kaptein Piano- Tim Hopkin Tenor Saxophone & Cam Sangster Drums.

FEATURING
John Leigh Calder - Double Bass / Vocals
Joe Kaptain - Piano
Tim Hopkins - Tenor Saxophone
Cam Sangster - Drums

This will be John's first Auckland booking since returning from performing in London.

FEATURING
John Leigh Calder - Double Bass / Vocals
Joe Kaptain - Piano
Tim Hopkins - Tenor Saxophone
Cam Sangster - Drums

Members $10 cash
Non-members $25 cash
Non EFTPOS
Non-member contact registration required at time of entry.

This concert concept is the brainchild of pianist/ vocalist and composer Julie Mason.

It features three of New Zealand’s First Ladies of Jazz:
Linn Lorkin, Caitlin Smith and Julie Mason. All three women are highly experienced ( both nationally and internationally) pianists/ vocalists and composers, and none of them are strangers to The Auckland Jazz and Blues Club.

Accompanied by the stellar rhythm section of Aaron Codell ( bass) and Steve Cournane ( drums),
they will each perform a 40 minute set of their own material.

This concert is always a Club favourite, so make sure you arrive early to grab the best seats!

Members $10 cash
Non-members $25 cash
No EFTPOS
Non-member contact registration required at time of entry.

PLEASE NOTE: This concert replaces JT & Agnostics that was originally advertised for 22 October.

Joe Kaptein plays a selection of standards, originals, and yacht rock classics on piano and Fender Rhodes, with Hank Trenton in bass and Dan Waterson on drums on cymbals.

Joe Kaptein - piano and Rhodes
Hank Trenton - bass
Steve Thomas - drums and cymbals

Members $10 cash

Non-members $25 cash

NO EFTPOS

Non-member contact registration required at time of entry.

Peter Wood - piano and vocals;   Kirby Wood - bass

Jeremy Wood - drums;   Mike Croft - Baritone Sax

Rick Roff - Trumpet, Trombone and vocals

Rick Roff writes - I met Peter in 1984.  I was looking for a piano player for Rick's Cafe Americain.  I loved Pete's playing immediately, a wild crazy mix of jazz and pop and wow that gravelly unique voice. In 1987 we recorded "Live at Rick's" CD live over three consecutive nights in the cafe. He played at Rick's Cafe and Blue Falcon for 15 years. One night @ the Blue Falcon Jimmy Smith walked into one of our jam sessions in the Attic Bar. He ended up playing long into the night with Peter and the band. Later in the week Jimmy was doing his show at the Glue Pot, saw Pete in the audience and said "Hey Pete, come on up and join us".

Peters played all over Auckland for more than fifty years, The Gluepot, The London Bar, The Regent Hotel, Tainui Tavern.....five years at Waipuna Lodge with his family band, Peter, KIrby (bass), Jeremy (drums) in the late eighties. Ten years at 121 in Ponsonby Road and as of late Botticellis in Anzac Ave Takapuna.

Peter Wood Bio 

Born in Palmerston North

Father - Sydney Wood, played trumpet and tenor sax

Peter played drums in his father’s band as a teenager - Peter Wood and the Aces

Peter plays piano, vibes, drums, trumpet, trombone, bass.

Members $10 cash

Non-members $25 cash

EFTPOS not available.

Non-member contact registration required at time of entry.

A 7-piece Traditional Jazz Band playing the music of the 1920’s and 30’s.
Featuring the music of Louis Armstrong, King Oliver through to the Kenny Ball Band of the 1960’s. Originally formed by Bob Ward and Tony Parker, Bob and Tony’s passing has seen the band with new personnel, the addition of piano (to a 7 piece) and Brian Kelly leading on trumpet. The new sound is more of a New Orleans and Chicago sound.

The band is unique in that it combines the experience of Thomas, King and Cummins, (a combined 180 years musical experience) with the youth of Trenton and Douglas. Kelly and Palmer sit somewhere in between !. It is happy, toe-tapping driving music that has attracted the attention of the Auckland Swing dance scene.

Personnel: Brian Kelly - Trumpet, Merv Thomas – Trombone, Carlos Palmer – Clarinet, Arthur Cummins – Piano, Jessie Douglas – Banjo, Hank Trenton – Double Bass, and Bruce King – Drums.

Members $10 cash
Non-members $25 cash
Non-member contact registration required at time of entry.

PLEASE NOTE: This concert is organised by the Northern Jazz Society, not the Auckland Jazz and Blues Club.

University of Auckland Monday and Tuesday night Big Bands

Come along and hear the Monday Night Big Band, directed by Callum Passells and the Tuesday Night Big Band, directed by Roger Manins.

Both big bands feature a fantastic lineup of talented students from in and around the University of Auckland. We have two great sets lined up for you including some great charts from the pen of Matt Harris, a set of arrangements of Charles Mingus, student charts, and 1940's classics.

Members $10 cash
Non-members $25 cash
Non-member contact registration required at time of entry.

Juliana Sian, a Brazilian pianist, is dedicated to introducing the rich sounds of Brazilian music to new audiences in New Zealand. Her passion lies in Bossa Nova and Samba, and she showcases this love through her own captivating compositions and interpretations of pieces by masters like Tom Jobim, Edu Lobo, Hermeto Pascoal, and others.

Juliana graduated with a music degree from Universidade Livre Tom Jobim in Brazil, where she had the privilege of participating in workshops with renowned musicians Wynton Marsalis and Moacir Santos. With over 20 years of experience, she is a versatile musician who has performed Jazz, Latin, and Brazilian music with various ensembles. In addition to her performing career, Juliana is also an experienced and dedicated music educator.

Furthering her studies at the University of Auckland, Juliana specialised in Jazz Performance. As an active performer, she has graced the stages of notable festivals like the Waiheke Jazz Festival and Mangawhai Soul Jazz Festival. Beyond these performances, she also curates concerts that pay homage to prominent Brazilian artists, bringing these vibrant sounds to various venues across Auckland.

In her performances, Juliana is accompanied by talented musicians like Thabani Gapara, Nick Taylor, Jake Krishnamurt and Adam Tobeck.

Members $10 cash
Non-members $25 cash
Non-member contact information required at time of entry.

The June Hayes Experience

JUNE HAYES – VOCALIST

June Hayes returns to the Auckland Jazz & Blues Club, bringing with her a stellar line-up of jazz musicians including pianist - Ben Fernandez, bassist - Dr Ollivier Holland, drummer - George Brajkovich, and Cameron Kelso on saxophone, for an evening of classic jazz.

Her career began in the 1990’s, in musical theatre, performing as a soloist, and as part of a four-part harmony female vocal group reminiscent of the Andrew Sisters, backed by a twenty-one strong big band jazz ensemble. Soon after, invitations to front small group jazz ensembles performing for a variety of private and public gigs, would eventually leading to numerous long-term residencies at restaurants, cafes, bars and hotels around wider Auckland, including the Stamford Plaza Hotel, and regular appearances at jazz festivals and concerts throughout the country and abroad including the Tauranga Jazz Festival and the Brecon International Jazz Festival in Wales.

During the early 2000’s, June helped Phil Broadhurst establish Massey University Auckland’s Jazz Studies programme, creating events that would hopefully build public awareness and attract student enrolments, and instigated various opportunities for live jazz performance.

She has independently produced jazz concert/workshop events, including the 2018 Matariki Starlight Jazz Concert, released three albums of music including the 2021 EP Whenua, Aroha, Marama collection of original compositions, and has written, recorded and published six bi-lingual childrens picture books with music.

After returning from overseas in 2012, and musically reinventing herself by establishing the June Hayes Experience band, June continues to perform whenever she can supported by some of the best jazz musicians New Zealand has to offer.

Members $10 cash
Non-members $25 cash
No EFTPOS
Non-member contact registration required at time of entry

Hamin & The Songkoks:-

Hamin Derus- Vocals and guitar
Tom Ludvigson- Piano
Nigel Gavin – lead guitar
Jean Baptiste Josso - Violin
Heath King – Drums
Jared Greenwood - Bass

Hamin & The Songkoks is a music project centred around Hamin as a vocalist, supported by a string of musicians who share his passion for R & B, Soul, Reggae and Jazz. The band’s repertoire is made up of his originals, interpretation of kiwi songwriters music and some old classics.

Hamin Derus, a Malaysian born Kiwi singer-songwriter and guitarist, began playing music professionally in the mid70s in Dunedin before finally settling down in Auckland in the late 70s. He has fronted several bands namely Bamboo and Mango Crazy playing pubs, bars, clubs, cafes, and festivals all over NZ and is known for his dynamic performances and big voice. With Mango Crazy he toured Malaysia as a support act for John Mayall and appeared on a breakfast show on TV Malaysia.
He has recorded two albums, an EP and a single.

Tom Ludvigson, a Swedish born Kiwi is an accomplished multi-instrumentalist who has focused his energy on piano and synthesizer. He is a composer, arranger, band leader, record producer, session player and teacher whose musical interests range from Blues, Soul, Jazz, Reggae, Funk and experimental music. He has performed with Rick Bryant’s Jive Bombers, Bluespeak with Greg Johnson, electronic multimedia ensemble Nexus with Nigel Gavin, Inner City Jazz Workshop, Jack Morris Big Band and Trip to the Moon with Trevor Reekie.

Nigel Gavin, an American born Kiwi, is a guitar virtuoso, composer, solo and session musician with a vast musical vocabulary ranging from Blues, Folk, Rock, Jazz, Fusion, Klezmer and World Music. He has performed with the Nairobi Trio, The Jews Brothers, Robert Fripp’s The League of Crafty Guitarists, Caitlin Smith, harmonica maestro Brendon Power, and The Unsung Heroes. He founded a guitar collective Gitbox and Gitbox Rebellion.
He has performed internationally and recorded three solo albums.

Jean Baptiste Josso a French born NZ resident is a violinist and violist was a student of Versailles Conservatory of Music.

Heath King has played drums for several bands in Auckland namely, Rose and the Wooden Hearts, Royal Falcon and Trepidat.

Jared Greenwood, a close music collaborator of Heath King is a multi instrumentalist plays guitar, bass and piano.

Members $10 cash
Non-members $25 cash
No EFTPOS
Non-member contact registration required at time of entry.

New Zealand’s own Cuban Jazz band Ke lo Ke Es honour the incredible musical legacy of Cuba’s jazz musicians, past and present, with an exciting performance by eight musicians from around the globe.

Leaning on the Afro-Cuban roots of the music, Ke lo Ke Es channels the spirit of the ground-breaking musical laboratory Irakere, along with other Grammy-award winning artists like Buena Vista Social Club, Juan Formell and Los Van Van, Poncho Sanchez, Alexander Abreu, and Habana D’ Primera, and more.

Isbert Ramos Mediaceja ‘Vivio’, a pioneer of Cuban music and dance in New Zealand, brings together an exceptional ensemble of Latin and jazz musicians hailing from Cuba, Chile, Scotland, England and Aotearoa. Each has made their mark in Kiwi-Latino bands like: Fuente Baynes, Havana Groove, Matecito Latin Band, Calle Latina, Grupo Sa-Son, as well as in jazz ensembles like the Kevin Field Band, Auckland Jazz Orchestra, New Bop Quintet, Panacea, and Goldsmith Baynes. The line-up is:

Vocals and percussion — ISBERT RAMOS MEDIACEJA ‘VIVIO’ (Cuba)
Vocals and percussion — MARCELO VALENCIA STUARDO (Chile)
Piano — MARK BAYNES — (England)
Bass and vocals — ALEX GRIFFITH (Aotearoa)
Trumpet — MIKE BOOTH (Aotearoa)
Saxophone and flute — PETE FRANCE
Percussion — IGNACIO VALENCIA ‘NACHO’ (Chile)
Percussion and vocals — EDWIN WESTERMEIER (Chile)

Ke lo Ke Es (pronounced ‘Kay Low Kay Es’) also performs as ten-piece band Ke lo Ke, and four-to-six piece ensemble Vivio & Friends, and have taken the stage at the National Jazz Festival, Kerikeri Jazz Festival, Ponsonby Social Club, Salsa Tumbao Festival, Crown Range Lounge, Botticelli, among others.

Get ready to be transported to the heart of Cuba!

To view the band, go to: https://www.facebook.com/KeloKeBand

Members $10 cash
Non-members $25 cash
Non-member contact registration required at time of entry.