The Jazzlab

Hilary Geddes is a guitarist, improviser and composer based in Sydney. She is the 2019 recipient of the Jann Rutherford Memorial Award, which aims to assist the professional development of a young female jazz instrumentalist. Initially inspired by the theatrics of Angus Young from AC/DC and Murray from The Wiggles, Hilary began playing the guitar in her hometown of Griffith in south-west New South Wales. Since then, her musical tastes have remained just as eclectic, if not more expansive, ranging from the likes of Carla Bley to Big Mama Thornton.

**Live recording**

Andrea Keller’s ongoing Monday night residency at the Jazzlab delivers a varied program including the Masters & Apprentices series, Five Below, the Composers Circle, Piano Club and more. This performance, as part of the MWIJF program, is a celebration of Solo/Duo/Trio formats and features Fran Swinn (guitar), Tamara Murphy (double bass) & Andrea Keller (piano).

The festival student night features an exciting group of young musicians that plays big band music from traditional to more contemporary styles. This year the line up features performers from Mac.Robertson Girls High School, Melbourne Girls College, Ruyton Girls School and Siena College. 

Melbourne’s own Jazzlab Orchestra presses re-set on the big band tradition: creating visionary, original, genre-bending jazz music with a focus on diversity and inclusivity. Led by composer/arrangers Cheryl Durongpisitkul and Madison James Smith, the orchestra celebrates Melbourne’s next generation of instrumentalists. 

New instrumental quartet ThunderGrass launched at La Mama Musica in October 2019. Focusing on long form improvisation and taking inspiration from The Necks, the Art Orchestra of Chicago, and Sun Ra Arkestra amongst others, they move freely between groove based riffs and abstract soundscapes.

Harmonic and melodic bliss of 4 trombones entwined with 4 part vocal harmony supported by rhythm section. Youkali quartet is the euphoric sound that has long been searched for.

One of Australia’s finest and most popular young singer-songwriters and piano players. Frances’ shows are a mix of her own enchanting swing, ballads and blues along with her unique take on some timeless classics. Supported by a five-piece all star band, one show only not to be missed. 

Vocalist and lyricist Iseula Hingano leads a band that joins together to create a sonically beautiful yet interesting sound that draws on soul, blues, and jazz-noir. It’s atmospheric, edgy and makes a bold statement of unmistakable intent. This is music that pushes the envelope yet reflects the obvious dexterity of the musicians.