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.

Lockie Bennett Trio

Lockie Bennett is a jazz guitarist based in Wellington, who specialises in bop-oriented music. Lockie is regarded as one of New Zealand’s most in-demand straight-ahead jazz guitarists. Since graduating from the New Zealand School of Music in 2021, Lockie has performed and recorded regularly as both a leader and a side man with some of New Zealand’s top musicians.

The trio features Wellington stalwart, Elijah Mulheron on upright bass and Auckland local, George Brajkovich. The trio will be playing songs made popular by the likes of Charlie Parker, Bud Powell and Tadd Dameron.

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

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

Simone Waddell was the first Australian to win a scholarship to the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston. After completing her music degree, Simone continued her career internationally into Asia, Europe, the U.S.A and Australia, performing in countless top venues both solo and with world class musicians.

‘THE ART OF COLLABORATION’
The new contemporary jazz studio album from Simone Waddell was
released 8TH APRIL 2022

A stunning contemporary jazz album featuring sixty of Australia’s best jazz musicians. The Art of Collaboration showcases the incredible jazz talent in Australia.

Simone collaborated with the country’s top jazz musicians to pay homage to five iconic Australian hits; Beds Are Burning (Midnight Oil), Burn For You (John Farnham), Fall At Your Feet (Crowded House), The Horses (Daryl Braithwaite) and Mystify (INXS) as well as her own original music.

The album features some of the biggest names in Australian jazz including Tommy Emmanuel, James Morrison, Rai Thistlethwayte, and Paul Grabowsky – as well as a cohort of 60 Aussie heavyweights collaborating on ONE album with all Australian iconic songs, including some of her original songs, and all Australian players.

Every artist on the album is a standout in the field of jazz and the cover songs that have been carefully selected are embedded into the hearts and souls of so many. Simone has been writing songs since her teenage years, and it is only natural that her own artistry would be an element of the album as well.

Simone is one of Australia’s Top Contemporary Jazz Artists performing jazz, soul, and funk infused with groove. Genres also include pop, R&B, zouk, gospel, and even some classical. Simone won the Nescafe Big Break and was awarded $20,000 for her musical achievements and was the first jazz vocalist in Australian history to achieve a Masters Degree in Performance at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music. She was mentored by the late Australian iconic singer Kerrie Biddell, who was the focus of Simone’s research.

Simone, a prolific songwriter, has recorded five albums, “Take My Love,” “Make It Happen,” “My Romance,” (jazz album) and “Surrender,” plus two EPS, “New Day” and “Keeping My Peace On,” as well as multiple singles. Most recently, “The Art of Collaboration” which is receiving world class reviews.

“My Romance” and “Surrender,” produced by Australian legend Jim Kelly, were launched as live events in Sydney to sold out venues. Her music videos have 500,000+ views worldwide.

Simone is an ambassador for Messenger Rescue to raise awareness and resources to bring freedom to those trapped in sex trafficking. Her EP, “New Day” was created for this purpose with Signature Music Design in the US, and was released in December 2017.

Highlights include playing keyboard and singing backing vocals on the Australian tour for Grammy nominated hit artist, Taylor Dayne, performing numerous times at Parliament House for State and National Government Leaders, and being the Opening Act for Australia’s well known jazz singer, Vince Jones for Australian Music Week.

Simone’s inspirational song “Born to Win” had high rotation on Sydney radio and was selected as the headlining song at the crowning of Miss World Australia and as the theme song at Heal For Life, a healing program for adults and teens recovering from abuse.

As one of the leading voice coaches in Australia, Simone has run many of her uniquely designed, “YOU HAVE A VOICE!” live vocal workshops and taught thousands of voice lessons for over twenty five years, including her recent work in Uganda with the globally recognised Watoto Children’s Choir.

Simone also facilitates stunning four and five day retreats in natural settings which are transformational and life changing for all who attend. “Song of Your Life Retreat” and “You Have A Voice Summit” are world class programs.

As a live artist, a show including exceptional musicality, heartfelt original songs, and incredible vocals, is what you can expect when Simone Waddell hits the stage. She is known for her stunning mix of contemporary jazz, and soulful melodies with groove. Her recent original music has already been hailed as, “the best music coming out of Australia right now.”
Simone’s voice and music have been described as “world class”, “drenched with soul and feeling” and “utterly amazing.”

Simone has performed at various events and venues such as Manly Jazz Festival, the Devonport Jazz Festival Concert Series, (Tas) the 5th and 6th annual Bastille Festival, The Basement (Sydney) Bennetts Lane Jazz Club, (Melb) Paris Cat Jazz Club (Melb) and at a number of well known Japanese jazz clubs on her recent and past tours in Japan.

Her collaboration “Breathe” a duet with Cornell Thigpen (Mary J.Blige, Steve Nicks, Babyface, Isley Brothers) was released October 2017.

Simone is known to perform with the absolute best musicians, who are a perfect match for this Australian songstress.

AJBC members $15

Birkenhead RSA members $15

Mon-members $25

No EFTPOS - cash only.

Non-member contact details required at time of entry..

Over the years the band has played at Jazz Festivals in Tauranga, Auckland, Bay of Islands and more and were a regular featured band at the Mandalay Tea Dances in the 80’s.

Band leaders have included Jack Morris, Barry Clewett, Alastair McMillan, Peter Ward and currently Alan James. Sally Sadler was the feature singer for many years and after Sally’s retirement for a rural lifestyle up north, June Hays.

Downbeat is now thrilled to have worked for the past year with the talented Alex Walls .

Downbeat’s music selection for the Jazz Club appearance will be a mix of traditional big band standards; like Sweet Georgia Brown and Satin Doll, more contemporary tunes like Stu Buchanan's Mr Scruff and Storm Zone by Doug Beach and Alex’s interpretations of some of her favourites.

Band Leader - Alan James

Vocalist - Alex Walls
https://www.tvnz.co.nz/shows/love-it-or-list-it-nz
(From Love It or List It - TV1)

AJBC members $15

Birkenhead RSA members $15

Mon-members $25

No EFTPOS - cash only.

Non-member contact details required at time of entry.

Fundraiser film show - 'Making the Grade'
PG Ireland 85 mins

An uplifting, award winning Irish film that explores the world of piano lessons, focussing on the emotional, humorous and therapeutic aspects of learning to play rather than the technical exam.

An afternoon screening with some live music.

Tickets: $15.00 ($12.00 Gold Card holders)

An early St Patrick’s Day celebration brought to you by Flicks Cinema (Titirangi).

The link to the trailer for this movie - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PWHMY-aby0I

The proceeds will be donated to the Birkenhead RSA as a contribution to the roof replacement.

Ke lo Ke is a contemporary Afro-Cuban jazz ensemble dedicated to exploring and honouring Cuba’s rich musical lineage — from traditional roots to modern innovation — performed by an international collective of accomplished jazz and Latin musicians.
Drawing inspiration from seminal Cuban artists, including: Celia Cruz, Irakere, Buena Vista Social Club, Juan Formell and Los Van Van, Afro-Cuban All Stars, and Alexander Abreu y Habana D’ Primera, Ke lo Ke’s sound sits firmly within the Afro-Cuban tradition while embracing the harmonic language, improvisation and rhythmic sophistication of modern jazz. Influences from leading Afro-Latin jazz figures such as Poncho Sanchez
further inform the band’s dynamic, groove-driven approach.

The ensemble is led by Isbert Ramos Mediaceja — known as ‘Vivio’ — a pioneering figure in the development of Cuban music and dance in Aotearoa New Zealand. Vivio brings together a seasoned line-up of musicians whose backgrounds span jazz, Afro-Cuban, and Latin American traditions. The band features Chilean vocalist Marcelo Valencia; Colombian vocalist Tatiana Jimenez; Chilean conguero Edwin Westermeier; Chilean
drummer Ignacio Valencia; Scottish saxophonist Pete France; New Zealanders’ Karl Benton (piano), Alex Griffiths (bass), and Mike Booth (trumpet).

Ke lo Ke has appeared at the National Jazz Festival, Kerikeri Jazz Festival, SkyCity Auckland, Ponsonby Social Club, Salsa Tumbao Festival and Crown Range Lounge, among others, earning a reputation for performances that balance deep rhythmic authenticity with expansive improvisation and high-level ensemble interplay.

This is Afro-Cuban jazz with authority, vitality and soul — music that speaks equally to the
dancer, the listener and the serious jazz devotee.

More information:
https://www.facebook.com/KeloKeBand

AJBC members $15

Birkenhead RSA members $15

Mon-members $25

No EFTPOS - cash only.

Non-member contact details required at time of entry.

The Aisha Quartet (previously The Shane Warman Quartet)

The Aisha quartet is excited to present a series of original works by pianist Will Mcintosh and saxophonist Shane Warman that are inspired by different aspects of the natural world that we live in. The quartet aims to explore a deep tapestry of colour, emotion and scenery that embody the natural environment of New Zealand.

The name “Aisha”, is derived from Arabic roots, and has a variety of meanings across languages and cultures including: living, prosperity, growth and blessing. Combined with the exploration of natural themes through music, these meanings related to “living” are used by the band to personify nature, giving character to the ideas and imagery behind the compositions.

The quartet also pays homage to prominent composers like Kenny Garrett, Wayne Shorter, McCoy Tyner, Herbie Hancock and many more who have shaped not only the language, but the harmony, style and melody that the band is inspired by. 

Featuring Shane Warman on saxophone, Will McIntosh on piano, Imogen Pearce on bass and Jeffery Garus on drums, this is a performance not to be missed!

AJBC members $15

Birkenhead RSA members $15

Mon-members $25

No EFTPOS - cash only.

Non-member contact details required at time of entry..

Mike Booth Quintet

Mike Booth - trumpet
Hank Trenton - bass
Bruce King - drums
Pete France - saxophone
Kevin Fields - piano (replacing Mike Walker)

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

Described as “New Zealand's Favourite Jazz Entertainers” the Nairobi trio have thirty five years of international touring experience, performing in all manner of settings - Village halls, Theatres, Festivals, Clubs and Concert halls . They perform an engaging live show with a breadth of repertoire and dynamic delivery. Always playing to the crowd, the Nairobi trio showcase skillfully crafted original material and reimagined standards, delivered in their inimitable style.

The Nairobi Trio are Richard Adams (Violin/ Vocals), John Quigley (Guitar/ Vocals) and Aaron Coddel (Double Bass/ Vocals).

AJBC members $15

Birkenhead RSA members $15

Mon-members $25

No EFTPOS - cash only.

Non-member contact details required at time of entry..