Freight’ consists of five musicians. Marcus Wilson (Guitar, harp and vocals) Nigel Bioletti (Sax and vocals) Greer Wilcox (Bass and vocals), Richard Linklater (Drums) and Noah Lee (Guitar) The band have performed for the local blues fraternity at many of the historic blues scene venues - at the ‘Naval and Family’ - a favourite location, ‘The Thirsty Dog’, the ‘Winchester’, and more recently at the ‘Longroom’ in Ponsonby Road.

Greer Wilcox (Bass, vocals) joined the group in 2025. Greer had, for many years, led the very successful ‘Blue Collar Band’.(Who will be playing at AJ&BClub on the 25th August) Richard Linklater (Drums) also joined in 2025. Noah Lee (Guitar) had been jamming with Marcus and Greer and also joined the group in 2025.

Freight has played at the ‘Bay of Islands Jazz and Blues Festival’ for the past six years, to very appreciative audiences and will be playing at this year's festival, scheduled for 7 - 9 August. Freight will be playing for the first time at the Auckland Jazz and Blues Club on the 8th September.

The names from left in photo:- Marcus Wilson; Greer Wilcox; Richard Linklater; Nigel Bioletti; Noah Lee.

AJBC Members - $15 
Birkenhead RSA Members - $15 
Non-members - $25
Tertiary Students - $10 (Student ID Card must be produced)
Children - Free
Cash only. No EFTPOS 
Non-member contact registration required at time of entry.

The Mike Sung Big Band is a youth big band made up of some of the best young musicians in Auckland. We're an enthusiastic group that enjoys playing together and has built a solid sound across a range of styles.

Our repertoire covers the breadth of the big band tradition swing, Latin, funk, and ballads and we put care into playing each style well, with plenty of room for the players to feature as soloists.

For our set at the Auckland Jazz and Blues Club, we'll bring an energetic mix of these styles, balancing up-tempo numbers with a few slower pieces. We think it makes for an engaging set, and we're looking forward to playing for the club.

AJBC Members - $15
Birkenhead RSA Members - $15
Non-members - $25
Tertiary Students - $10 (Student ID Card must be produced)
Children - Free
Cash only. No EFTPOS
Non-member contact registration required at time of entry.

BLUE COLLAR BAND was first established in 2000 and has (like many Bands) had a few Musician changes over the years.

We have performed at around 14 Bay of Islands Jazz & Blues Festivals and other great Festivals like the Blues, Brews & BBQ's in Tauranga, the Mission Bay Jazz & Blues Festival and the Devonport Wine & Food Festival. Sadly the last 3 are no longer operating due to various procedural issues with which the Council were unhappy.

BLUE COLLAR BAND have performed for many private Clubs such as Cosmopolitan, RSA’s, RSC, Boating clubs : for at least 6 years we performed at the annual Tall Ships Regatta after party Hangi & fundraiser.

Two members of the Band passed away over the past 2 years. The Band have recorded 4-5 Albums and are also members of the Auckland Blues Music Club and also perform for that club. Several members belong to VAC club too.

Members are : Vocals : Dorothy (Dot) Takerei who has a stunning Blues / Soul voice

Bass & Vocals : Greer Wilcox - original founding member on 5 string Bass

Slide guitar, harmonica & Vocals :Marcus Wilson

Lead guitar : Noah Lee - an extremely gifted guitarist from Seoul, Sth Korea

Drummer : Jane Bissell - a popular drummer - previously from the Jazz sector

Tony Smith : Tony performs with us sometimes and is a member of 2 other Bands often at the Birkenhead RSA

Paul Crowther (your own Club Sound-Tech) was also a member of Blue Collar Band.

AJBC Members - $15
Birkenhead RSA Members - $15
Non-members - $25
Tertiary Students - $10 (Student ID Card must be produced)
Children - Free
Cash only. No EFTPOS
Non-member contact registration required at time of entry.

Arohana – Redefining Jazz & Indian Classical Carnatic Music
Fusion

Arohana is where the ancient soul and traditions of Indian Classical Carnatic music meet the limitless spirit of jazz. Born from a passion for deep musical exploration by some of the leading jazz musicians in the country- Arohana blends intricate ragas, expressive improvisation and dynamic rhythms to create
a unique new sound. The band’s compositions are influenced by their collective experience and bridge the worlds of South Indian classical carnatic music and modern jazz - offering listeners a very unique experience.

With each performance they invite their audience to a journey that transcends borders, connects various cultures and celebrates the constantly evolving nature of music.

Arohana is more than a band , they embrace innovation and more importantly try to connect communities and cultures through their music. Besides their own compositions Arohana will also play jazz standards from the American Songbook and tunes by Stevie Wonder, Sting, the Beatles , etc played in their unique style which is a blend of East and West. Their music has been very well
received and the band has had sold out performances at venues around the North Island. Recent performances include - Music in Parks - Auckland Domain, Sir Howard Morrison Theatre - Rotorua, Rotorua Jazz Club, Dr John Gallagher Performing Arts Centre - Hamilton and many more.

Musicians:
Andrew Hall - saxophone and vocals
Paul Naveen - drums and percussion
Seyorn Aruna - carnatic violin
Avinash Jeyeshankar - mridangam
Joel Griffin - bass
Gopal Nair - vocals
Ben Fernandez - piano

AJBC Members - $15
Birkenhead RSA Members - $15
Non-members - $25
Tertiary Students - $10 (Student ID Card must be produced)
Children - Free
Cash only. No EFTPOS
Non-member contact registration required at time of entry.

The Alex Pipes Band

New Zealand jazz guitarist, composer and producer, Alex Pipes, is a sonic artist providing a strong voice for the next generation of instrumental music.

A now familiar face on the Auckland music scene, Alex’s creative vision is built on infectious house and funk grooves, catchy hooks, and transcendent improvisation, with some tunes morphing into full-blown fusion displays of virtuosic ability, and even moody ambient soundscapes.

Join Alex Pipes at the Auckland Jazz and Blues Club as he leads his band through a set of unreleased music (plus a few crowd favourites), igniting the fuse as each composition takes off on an improvisational journey. He's joined by a stellar line up of local
musicians.

FEATURING
Alex Pipes - guitar
Andrew Isdale - sax
Joe Kaptein - keys
Wil Goodinson - bass
Elijah Whyte - drums

AJBC Members - $15
Birkenhead RSA Members - $15
Non-members - $25
Tertiary Students - $10 (Student ID Card must be produced)
Children - Free
Cash only. No EFTPOS
Non-member contact registration required at time of entry.

Auckland Secondary School Jazz Competition - FINAL

$15 entry. (cash only)

Chihiro Yamazaki formed the band in Tokyo in summer 2010. Their unique sound, known as "Singing Instruments," is based on Instrumental Pop drawing from jazz, fusion, classical and rock.
The band holds distribution deals in Korea and China since 2017.

We are so pleased and honoured to be playing at the Auckland Jazz and Blues Club again after our wonderful welcome last year, thank you.

International appearances:

SXSW (2013–2025, 10 appearances)
Dallas New New Festival (2021–2024, 3 appearances)
NZ Bay of Islands Jazz & Blues Festival (2017–2025, 8 appearances)
Chilpo Jazz Festival, Korea (2 appearances)
Korean hall concerts (3 performances)
Up Late Austin — TV live appearance (March 2026)

Our Band Members
Chihiro Yamazaki (Trumpet)
Satoshi Yamashita (Drums)
Koji Yamamoto (Bass)
Hana Takami(Keyboards)

AJBC Members - $15
Birkenhead RSA Members - $15
Non-members - $25
Tertiary Students - $10 (Student ID Card must be produced)
Children - Free
Cash only. No EFTPOS
Non-member contact registration required at time of entry.

Auckland Secondary School Jazz Competition - Heat 4

Updated 21-7-26

Auckland Secondary School Jazz Competition - Heat 3

Andrew Hall Quartet

Led by Dr Andrew Hall - multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, composer, and Senior Lecturer in acoustics at the University of Auckland. The Andrew Hall Quartet delivers a night of soulful jazz, blues, and original music with high energy and passion. Equally at home on saxophone, flute, clarinet, and vocals, Andrew is a versatile performer and former member of dDub and the Rodger Fox Big Band. He has shared stages with the likes of Eric Marienthal, Georgie Fame, Ray Charles, and Dave Matthews, and has appeared at festivals including the Monterey Jazz Festival and Melbourne Fringe Festival.

Joined by the exceptional talents of Ant Hunt on piano and keyboards, David Hodkinson on bass, and Paul Naveen on drums, the quartet brings dynamic arrangements of jazz standards, blues classics, and original compositions.. From Stevie Wonder, Ray Charles to the Great American Songbook, expect groove, soul, and plenty of surprises performed by some of Auckland's finest musicians.

Featuring:

• Andrew Hall — Saxophones & Vocals
• Ant Hunt — Piano & Keyboards
• David Hodkinson — Bass
• Paul Naveen — Drums

AJBC Members - $15
Birkenhead RSA Members - $15
Non-members - $25
Tertiary Students - $10 (Student ID Card must be produced)
Children - Free
Cash only. No EFTPOS
Non-member contact registration required at time of entry.

Auckland Secondary School Jazz Competition - Heat 2

Updated 21-7-26

Auckland Secondary School Jazz Competition - Heat 1

Updated 21-7-26

BILL EVANS TRIBUTE

Alan Brown is a highly respected figure in the New Zealand jazz scene, renowned for his work as a pianist and Hammond organist.

He first gained prominence as bandleader of the acclaimed jazz-funk ensemble Blue Train during the 1990s, before leading the organ-driven Alan Brown Trio throughout the 2000s. Since 2010, he has been a regular collaborator with acclaimed saxophonist Nathan Haines, and currently performs with Indo-fusion ensemble Takadimi and funk outfit Junglefowl.

In this performance, Alan pays tribute to one of his greatest musical influences, Bill Evans. Leading his trio through a selection of Evans’ original compositions alongside jazz standards closely associated with the legendary pianist, Alan celebrates the lyricism, sophistication, and enduring legacy of one of jazz’s most influential voices.

AJBC Members - $15
Birkenhead RSA Members - $15
Non-members - $25
Tertiary Students - $10 (Student ID Card must be produced)
Children - Free
Cash only. No EFTPOS
Non-member contact registration required at time of entry.

Annual General Meeting.

Attendance open to AJBC financial members

Carlos Plá — BASS

Mike Booth — TRUMPET

Curtis Edwards — DRUMS

Pieter Bos — KEYS

La Tina explores the meeting point between jazz standards and Latin rhythms, with a focus on groove,

interaction, and individual voice. The band draws on influences from both South America and Aotearoa’s

jazz scene, bringing a repertoire grounded in jazz tradition and Latin idioms, with an emphasis on

ensemble playing and musical conversation. The group is made up of experienced musicians with diverse international backgrounds:

Uruguayan-born bassist Carlos Plá has a career spanning more than three decades, including over

30 album recordings. In Montevideo, he performed with Cuban saxophonist Nicolás Reinoso (AfroCuba), before relocating to Aotearoa, where he remains active across local venues and jazz festivals.

Auckland-based trumpeter Mike Booth is an accomplished performer across jazz, classical, and

contemporary music. He spent several years in the Netherlands performing and teaching, including

work with the band de Dijk, and continues to perform and tour regularly in New Zealand.

Curt Edwards is a Tauranga-based drummer and percussionist with over 30 years of experience across

jazz, Latin, fusion, rock, and blues. He has performed in New Zealand, the United States, and Germany,

including regular appearances at Munich’s renowned jazz club Unterfahrt. Known for his versatility and

strong sense of groove, Curt brings a broad musical background and rhythmic depth to the group.

Pianist and keyboardist Pieter Bos has performed across Europe, Asia, and South America. His time

in Latin music environments informs a playing style that combines jazz improvisation with rhythmic and

AJBC Members $15

Birkenhead RSA Members $15

Non-members $25

Cash only. No EFTPOS

Non-member contact registration required at time of entry.

“Leading Australian sax player, Andy Sugg, is touring NZ in July and he’s assembled a stellar line-up of NZ jazzers—Roger Mannins (tenor sax), Kevin Field (piano), Umar Zakaria (bass) and Mark Lockett (drums)—to play with. This will be the first time this quintet formation has played together.

Also premiering are a collection of Andy’s original tunes, which together with some choice standards, make great vehicles for improvisation in the best tradition of contemporary jazz.

Andy and Roger’s collaboration goes back a long way, starting with the powerhouse three-sax group TTTenor (which also included John Mackey) and continuing more recently with the band led by American bass heavyweight, Gene Perla. Andy and Roger share great respect and admiration for each other’s playing. On stage they challenge and spur each other on. It makes for fiery music-making.”

AJBC Members $15
Birkenhead RSA Members $15
Non-Members $25
Cash only. No EFTPOS
Non-Member contact information required at time of entry.

With expert musicians & extensive repertoire, Queen City Big Band is Auckland's premier big band.

AJBC Members - $15
Birkenhead RSA Members - $15
Non-members - $25
Tertiary Students - $10 (Student ID Card must be produced)
Children - Free
Cash only. No EFTPOS
Non-member contact registration required at time of entry.

Love for Sale

Drummer Thomas Friggens brings together an exceptional quartet featuring Verity Burgess (vocals), Kevin Fields (piano), and David Hodkinson (bass) for an evening of classic vocal jazz at the Auckland Jazz & Blues Club.

Love for Sale celebrates the rich legacy of iconic jazz vocalists including Ella Fitzgerald, Betty Carter, Carmen McRae, and Anita O’Day, with a repertoire that blends timeless standards and expressive improvisation.
Don’t miss this special performance on Tuesday 23rd June 2026.

AJBC Members $15
Birkenhead RSA Members $15
Non-members $25
Cash only. No EFTPOS
Non-member contact registration required at time of entry.

The Turing project is a 7 piece group including vocals and horn players. Initially setup prior to lock down as a straight jazz group but transitioned into more modern hits as we developed our own arrangements. Artists covered range from Edith Piaf, Marilyn Monroe to Elton John and Amy Winehouse and even Dragon.

AJBC Members - $15
Birkenhead RSA Members - $15
Non-members - $25
Tertiary Students - $10 (Student ID Card must be produced)
Children - Free
Cash only. No EFTPOS
Non-member contact registration required at time of entry.

Auckland-based Americana band The DeSotos are delighted to be performing once again at the Auckland Jazz & Blues Club, located at the Birkenhead RSA.

 The DeSotos sound mixes elements of Americana, country rock and blues to produce a gumbo of roots-based and harmonically driven music.

  The band has been recording further tracks for a new studio album and some of those will be on the setlist. 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 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:
Paul Gurney - lead vocals, guitars & blues harp
Stuart McIntyre - bass & vocals
Ron Stevens - Hammond, keyboards & vocals
Greg Tell - drums & percussion

AJBC members $15

Birkenhead RSA Members $15

Non-members $25

Cash only. No EFTPOS

 Non-member contact details required at time of entry.

HOUSE OF GREEN BRANCHES

Born and raised in West Auckland, Max Crook has established himself as a young artist in the local scene as drummer and composer alike. Since age eighteen, he has been a student and regular sideman of the pianist Jonathan Crayford and performs regularly alongside many of the country's top improvisers.

This band is dedicated to Max's folk-inspired compositions and performs music that often reflects a sense of place. Since their formation in 2023, they have performed consistently across Aotearoa continually developing their sound and connection. Equally joyous as it is often melancholic, and frenzied as it is often meditative, this music draws from a rich catalogue of varied taste - taking cues from Modal Jazz, ECM, Contemporary Indie Music and more.

"Max Crook is an outstanding drummer, bandleader and composer. His music is rich in warmth, humour and integrity and is a joy to experience." - Roger Manins

FEATURING

Lukas Fritsch - Alto Sax & Bass Clarinet
Joe Kaptein - Piano
Robin Baek - Guitar
Tyler Diprose - Double Bass
Maximilian Crook - Drumset

AJBC Members $15
Birkenhead RSA Members $15
Non-members $25
Cash/No EFTPOS
Non member contact details required at time of entry.

The funeral for our wonderful friend and musical icon, Mike (Spike) Walker, will take place at the Birkenhead RSA commencing 10 am followed by some entertainment by his musician friends.

There will be a livestream for those who cannot attend. (Link below.)

https://247.stream/rooms/micwalker

Join with us for a celebration of Spike's life.

An rsvp would be appreciated to assist with catering,

Caitlin Smith as you all know is one of Auckland's best-known and loved jazz vocalist/musician, regularly seen performing at many venues.

Caitlin is a strong supporter of the local music & arts community and writes a popular column for NZ Musician magazine.

We welcome Caitlin back to our Jazz Club for another evening of her wonderful music and talent.

Caitlin Smith - Piano / Vocals
Oli Holland - Bass
Kevin Field - Piano
Hannah de Koster - Drums

AJBC Members - $15
Birkenhead RSA Members - $15
Non-members $25
Students with ID cards - $10
Children - Free
Cash only. No EFTPOS
Non-member contact details required at time of entry.

WBB (WARKWORTH BIG BAND) is a modern twenty-piece premium Auckland Big Band delivering high-energy musical performances.

Featuring two exceptional vocalists, Peter Glynn and Sara Jones, a 13-piece horn lineup, and a powerhouse rhythm section, WBB’s versatile repertoire entertains with modern hits and timeless classics.

Join us at the Auckland Jazz and Blues Club on Tuesday 19 May for a night of high-energy jazz, swing, funk and groove.

AJBC Members $15
Birkenhead RSA Members $15
Non-members $25
No EFTPOS. Cash only
Non-member contact registration required at time of entry

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

AJBC Members $15
Birkenhead RSA members $15
Non-members $25
Cash only. No EFTPOS
Non-member contact details required at time of entry.

Auckland Big Band

Established in June 2017, this dynamic community ensemble unites musicians from diverse international backgrounds, all committed to elevating Auckland’s big band scene.

While fostering a friendly and relaxed environment for its members, the band prides itself on delivering high-quality performances for its audience.

The band showcases a wide-ranging repertoire, spanning beloved big band classic charts to innovative, modern works, featuring arrangements by contemporary giants such as Gordon Goodwin. Featuring some really talented soloists and a selection of great vocalists, the Auckland Big Band promises a varied and thoroughly enjoyable night out..

Band Leader: Grant Langdon
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aucklandbigband
Website: https://sites.google.com/view/aucklandbigband/home

AJBC Members $15
Birkenhead RSA Members $15
Non-members $25
Cash only. No EFTPOS
Non-member contact information required at time of entry.

Born and raised in Wellington, New Zealand I started playing the bass at age seven. At eighteen I moved to Los Angeles to pursue a full time music career and to study with bass legends Charlie Haden, Alphonso Johnson and Darek Oles at the California Institute of Arts (CalArts). I was then fortunate enough to become one of the most versatile and in demand bassists in Los Angeles.

My studio and live credits include: Peter Erskine, Billy Childs, John Beasley and MONKestra, David Archuleta, Jeff Lorber, Ellis Hall, Megan Hilty, Niki Harris, Steve Weingart, Dave Weckl, Mike Stern, Jamison Ross, Amanda Seales, Chance the Rapper, Isaiah Rashad, Kris Bowers, Lee Ritenour, Joe LaBarbara, Gary Novak, Dave Grusin, Patrice Rushen, Marquis Hill, Myele Manzanza, James Brandon Lewis, Sam Barsh, Zara Mcfarlane, Miguel Atwood-Ferguson, Mark de Clive-Lowe, Rachel Eckroth and many more.

Members $15
Birkenhead RSA members $15
Non-members $25
No EFTPOS
Non-member contact registration required at time of entry.

VoxNova (NewVoice) was formed in 1997 by percussionist Alan MacDonald to perform mainly Vintage Latin Jazz. We include tunes from the 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.

James Sneyd – violin

Aaron Coddel - double bass

Nigel Gavin – guitar

Alan MacDonald - percussion 

AJBC Members $15

Birkenhead RSA members $15

Non members $25

Cash only. No EFTPOS

Non-member contact registration required at time of entry.

acqui Naylor Quartet

Vocalist & Composer from USA

Jacqui Naylor vocals, Ayrton Foote piano, Mostyn Cole bass, Max Crook drums

Jacqui Naylor is an internationally acclaimed American jazz vocalist and composer with twelve albums to her credit. The singer is known for her deeply rich, soulful voice, and innovative approach to jazz standards, rock anthems, and original compositions. Naylor’s albums have made exclusive top-ten lists and her music featured in ad campaigns, television shows and films, including a documentary made about her. Her concerts include highlights from her most recent album Treasures of the Heart, new music, and requested favorites from throughout her illustrious career. Naylor attributes her unique sound to the tight and spontaneous interplay between she and her extremely talented bandmates. What this outstanding vocalist and her band achieve on stage together is sensitive, dynamic, and thoroughly captivating! To learn more about Jacqui Naylor and to listen to her music visit www.linktr.ee/JacquiNaylor and www.jacquinaylor.com

“Naylor is a once-in-a-generation singing talent.” Wild Mercury Rhythm
“Naylor remains one of the most superbly arresting vocalists around.” JazzTimes
“She excels as a sensitive song interpreter with unerring intonation.” Downbeat
“Treasures of the Heart is a supremely interesting and extremely well-performed album by a hip, versatile vocalist.” All About Jazz

Member $15
Birkenhead RSA members $15
Non-members $25
No EFTPOS
Non-member contact registration required at time of entry.

The Ben Fernandez Trio with special guests Mike Booth - trumpet and Maria O’Flaherty - vocals

Ben Fernandez presents ‘Sentimental Journey’ – A concert reflecting on the influences that have shaped his path as a musician, featuring a programme inspired by the people, composers and fellow musicians who have guided his musical journey.

The trio is made up of Ben Fernandez - piano, Ron Samsom - drums and Russell McNaughton - bass. The band has a unique sound and improvisational style that is influenced by music from around the world especially Jazz, Latin, Classical, Indian and world music. These are some of the finest musicians in the country and have won many awards and accolades for their work. They are well experienced and perform regularly at concerts and festivals in NZ and overseas.

Ron is a Senior Lecturer in Jazz and Improvisation at the University of Auckland. Ben teaches jazz at schools and colleges in Auckland and conducts regular workshops on Improvisation around the country. He is also a composer and music producer. Russell is one of the most in demand bassists in the country and is also an expert in audio technology. Ben, Ron and Russell certainly look forward to performing and sharing their music in concert at the Auckland Jazz and Blues Club. They will be joined by Mike Booth on trumpet, Joshua Fernandez on clarinet and Maria O’Flaherty on vocals.

Instagram - @benfernandezmusic
Facebook - www.facebook.com/benfernandezmusic
Youtube - www.youtube.com/benfernandezmusic

AJBC Members $15
Birkenhead RSA Members $15
Non-members $25
Cash only. No EFTPOS
Non-member contact registration required at time of entry.