Hello Members
We are resending the March ezine newsletter as we have had feedback that some members didn’t receive it. Our sincere apologies if you missed out or are receiving it for a second time.
Well here we are in 2009 with another hugely successful Jazzfest behind us, and what a fantastic festival it was. With its truly international flavour in quality artists such as Mimi Fox and Mike Nock, and national acts that anchored the many events and concerts on offer. Our weekly jazz at Vic Mac’s Brewbar goes from strength to strength with some record attendances and great jazz presented by our members. I heard one international visitor comment that she would have to pay top dollars to hear similar acts from where she came from. It just goes to show what we locals can do. As always we need the support of all our members and supporters, so any ideas or features you would like included in the E-News, then email in the details and we will do our best to accommodate your contributions.

MEMBERSHIPS DUE
The 2008 subscriptions expired December 31st 2008. For those who have not yet renewed your membership this will be the last newsletter you will receive so don’t delay.

A reminder that if your fees are overdue at 28th February then you may be excluded from the roster. The club is not able to remunerate non-financial players due to our club status so you must treat this as urgent. All band-leaders are aware of the requirement, so in not paying your fees, you may also let the rest of your team players down and miss the next roster period.

Let’s remind ourselves again of the benefits of membership.

· Performing Members $30.00
· Non Performing Members $10
· Students (18years and under) – FREE

Performing Members $30.00 annually. This gives you the ability to use the Club Rooms for rehearsal free. (Only for fully paid members - non members in a group must join the club before that group can use the venue) This is to ensure we know who is using the Club and its equipment, and it is the responsibility of the band leaders to ensure their members are current. We don’t want to be the police so we ask that we all consider each other. The Club rooms are provided very kindly by our major sponsor the Radio Network, or as we all know it Radio Nelson. Mike and his team are very supportive of our club and it’s fantastic to have access to the facility they provide. Also a fully paid active member has the opportunity to rehearse for their group to be included on our club performance roster at the New Vic Mac’s Brewbar. Remember too that we direct all band enquiries to the Jazz Club website so of course bands will want to have their band profile on the club website – another perk for our members.

Non Performing Members $10.00 annually. If you don’t play an instrument or sing then you can become a support member for only $10.00 per annum. This will enable you to be kept right up to date with what is happening Jazz wise in Nelson including the Woollaston Nelson Jazzfest. It gets better if you are under 18 years old and a student as membership to the Nelson Jazz Club is FREE!

OUR NEW CLUB CARD
Our new Club Card is being issued with your renewed membership. Initially, in association with Vic Macs Brewbar, Smugglers Bar and Cafe and Playhouse Café, upon presenting your card you will be entitled to a 10% discount off your drinks and meals. That is 10% per card holder and you won’t need a calculator to figure out what a saving this is for regular patrons of both those venues. Thank you The Vic Brew Bar, Smugglers Pub & Café and The Playhouse for your generous offer and on-going support.

NOTICE OF UP-COMING AGM

11 March 2009
Radio Nelson Clubrooms
commencing 7-30 pm

Please note that the meeting is open to all members and supporters, however only financial members have voting rights. We want to see a good turnout and please remember, it is your club and we value your input and welcome you to have your say.

The subscription invoice will be available at the AGM, should you wish to pay your subs on the night. This will need to be completed prior to the meeting commencing.

Nominations for Executive and Committee

Nomination forms for positions are available from our secretary Ken Richards. If you or someone you know will accept a nomination and help our club grow, then we want to hear from you.

That’s it from me for now. See you at the AGM
Tony Bowater (Chairman)

FESTIVAL BAND REGISTRATIONS
The Woollaston Nelson Jazz & Blues Festival (yes note the changes in our branding) is taking band registrations NOW. Email ro@nelsonjazzfest.co.nz for a registration form.

REVIEWS

2009 Jazzfest - Nev Claughton

From where I stood the 2009 Woollaston Nelson Jazzfest had to be the best yet. This year I was fortunate to participate with my Cactus Swing Band yet was still able to assist by being part of the back-up team in support of Rowena. Seeing things from both angles reinforced to me what an outstanding job she did in not only coordinating the event – sponsors - venues, yet at the same time making the participants job an absolute breeze. I can tell you every band I rubbed shoulders with commented on the experience and organisation many in awe of how easy it was, with no dramas or hiccups. Think about it folks, we all had the chance to show off Nelson to all the visitors, some from international festivals experience, and the compliments were flying.

Highlights for me? Too many to single out however as a participating musician, the camaraderie from groups like Brilleaux who brought a different dimension to the festival with their UK Rock style of music, Velox Brothers and their musical genius, and our own Big Band who’s competence and intonation puts them up there with some of NZ’s best big bands. Mike Delceg is to be congratulated for drawing the best from his players. I never got to see any of the other acts as I was tied up with playing and stage managing etc. Maybe some of you could do an article for the next newsletter giving us your perspective. Every little bit will help in making the 2010 Jazzfest bigger and brighter which I am positive it surely will be.

Again to Rowena and the team, especially to Tony and Ken for their unlimited support and expertise, the volunteers ranging from Johnny Morris right down to little Oscar, a superb effort guys. And to all the wives, partners and supporters, a very big thank-you. Without all your support I am sure the 2009 Jazzfest would not have evolved into the successful formula we have.

Until Next Year !

MONTHLY SOCIAL SUNDAYS - At The Vic Mac’s Brewbar – Nev Claughton

February Social Sunday had a different flavour and format with a guest appearance from Zoe Jackson. Always a class act, Zoe displayed her keyboard skills to compliment her excellent vocals and some lovely standards. Brett Holland on upright bass, Martin Hucklesby on guitar and Tony Bowater warming up the drummer’s seat . I wasn’t there right to the end, though I caught Dave Powdrell doing a turn. Andrew Leachman hit the floor and did a turn also. Always great to catch up with Andrew and Viv. If I missed anyone my apologies. A really good turnout of members too which was nice to see.

For info contact Ken at Good Vibrations P:545 8381 or E:kenr@goodvibrations.co.nz

Hammond Eggs – Vic Macs Brewbar 13 January – Mike Murphy

The gathering at the Jazz Club gig at The Vic Mac’s Brew Bar was, not surprisingly, relatively sparse compared to the Jazz Festival event the week before, but no doubt the Ceroc dance people who attended enjoyed having some room on the dance floor. Hammond Eggs provided them a range of tempo and mood, varying from ballads such as ‘Georgia’ and ‘Feel Like Makin’ Love’, through lively blues numbers such as ‘C-Jam Blues’ and ‘Route 66” to pop and rock tunes including ‘Can’t Buy Me Love’ and even Jimmy Hendrix’s ‘Hey, Joe’. The recent recruitments of Nathan Torvik on guitar and Steve Hainstock on acoustic and electric bass added their fine talents and contributed lively solos to complement the band’s ‘old guard’ of Barry Korcheski on Hammond organ and Alex Behrens on drums.

Free Wheelin’ - Vic Mac’s Brew Bar – Tuesday 3 February – Mike Murphy

Freewheelin’ presented a great evening of jazz on 3 February at The Vic Mac’s Brew Bar. The mood throughout was one of fun and enthusiasm that almost managed to distract those present from the sadness that it was Katie Needham’s last gig at the Jazz Club’s regular venue. Those emotions seemed to combine into a feeling of celebration of Katie’s time with the band and the club and, as usual, she led strongly from the front with support from new band member Annabel Boyes (tenor and baritone sax) and guest Andrew Leachman (tenor). And of course, from behind the almost-big-band line-up, Johnny Morris (piano and vocals), Paul Johnston (bass) and Paul Morris (drums) kept the engine room humming in the manner to which we have grown accustomed.

There was a good turnout of club members who clearly enjoyed the evening and, I am sure, along with the entire club, wish Katie all the best when she gets back home to England.

Something Else - Vic Mac’s Brew Bar – 10 February 2009 – Mike Murphy

As the ‘Something Else’ band set up at The Vic Mac’s Brew Bar on 10 February, the two groups of diners who had almost filled the seating got up to pay and leave. It seemed that the gig was competing with Billy Connelly and two diners and yours truly were the only audience left in the band room apart from the stalwart staff, who enthusiastically supplemented our almost desperate clapping at the end of each song.

John, Alan and Warren launched the evening with a soulful ‘Cantaloupe Island’ and then Daniel joined them for a set of great standards, including ‘It Had To Be You’, ‘The Way You Look Tonight’, ‘All Of Me’ and such-like. Despite the sparse audience, the guys were clearly having fun and played with a relaxed feel.

During the second set, the crowd began to gather and dancers began to occupy the floor. There were at least thirty people in the band room and the rest of the bar also appeared to be ticking along rather well. Daniel promised that the third set would be of the “hang on to your hats” variety and the second clue was John getting out his Telecaster. Sure enough, songs such as Steely Dan’s ‘FM’ and Santana’s ‘Smooth’ followed, along with a soulful rendition of ‘Little Wing’. The dancers loved it and the set rounded out a great club evening.

Ga’bor Trio– Vic Mac’s Brew Bar – 17 February 2008 - Mike Murphy
The Jazz Club gig at The Vic Mac’s Brew Bar on 17 February featured the Ga’bor Trio plus Brett Holland on guitar, who reported finding it easier to fit in with Ga’bor’s and Chris’ antics than on previous occasions. As usual, Ga’bor on keyboard and Chris on bass played with the music as well as playing it, complete with beaming smiles and their routine of standing in unison from time to time – and of course, in time. Simon helped keep it all together on the drums and Brett provided solos that complemented Ga’bor’s full and fun approach to things.

When the band began, the seating in the bar was all fully occupied with customers getting meals and the music clearly pleased them because they stayed on, ordered more drinks and applauded enthusiastically after each number. The Jazz Club regulars eventually found seats and settled in to enjoy the show and a group of Ceroc dancers clearly found the rhythms ideal for strutting their stuff. The three sets were made up solidly of standards, ranging from ‘My Favourite Things’ and ‘Foggy Day’ to ‘Take The A-Train’ and ‘Del Sasser’, interspersed with vocals by Brett on songs such as ‘All Of Me’ and ‘East Of The Sun’.

GIG SCHEDULE

Don’t forget to keep an eye on the website www.nelsonjazzclub.co.nz to keep up to date with The Vic Mac’s Brew Bar.

Hi Everyone
Well here we are again with Xmas and 2009 Jazzfest almost upon us. 2008 has been the best year yet with memberships at an all-time high. This success is due in no small part to the profile your club is continually creating, the hard work of your committee, the work Rowena has to put in for the Jazzfest, and of course the Vic Macs Brewbar and the clubs increasing involvement. A thank you must go out to “The Vic Mac Brewbar” guys and staff for their cooperation and enthusiasm in allowing us to keep our weekly jazz ticking along. This joint effort is growing like topsie and we are all enjoying the benefits. As always we need the support of all our members and supporters, so any ideas or features you would like included in the E-News, then email in the details and we will do our best to accommodate your contributions.

Memberships Due
The 2008 subscriptions expire December 31st 2008. Your Subscription is due now so don’t delay in remaining financial and enjoying the benefits of membership.

Let’s remind ourselves again of the benefits of membership.

• Performing Members $30.00
• Non Performing Members $10
• Students (18 yrs and under) – FREE

Performing Members $30.00 annually. This gives you the ability to use the Club Rooms for rehearsal free. (Only for fully paid members - non members in a group must join the club before that group can use the venue) This is to ensure we know who is using the Club and its equipment, and it is the responsibility of the band leaders to ensure their members are current. We don’t want to be the police so we ask that we all consider each other. The Club rooms are provided very kindly by our major sponsor the Radio Network, or as we all know it Radio Nelson. Mike and his team are very supportive of our club and it’s fantastic to have access to the facility they provide. Also a fully paid active member has the opportunity to rehearse for their group to be included on our club performance roster at the New Vic Mac’s Brewbar. Remember too that we direct all band! enquiries to the Jazz Club website so of course bands will want to have their band profile on the club website – another perk for our members.

Non Performing Members $10.00 annually. If you don’t play an instrument or sing and like us just love Jazz, then you can become a support member for only $10.00 per annum. This will enable you to be kept right up to date with what is happening Jazz wise in Nelson including the Woollaston Nelson Jazzfest. It gets better if you are under 18 years old and a student as membership to the Nelson Jazz Club is FREE!

OUR NEW CLUB CARD
The club is excited about our new Club Card which will be issued with your renewed membership. Initially in association with Vic Macs Brewbar and Playhouse Café, upon presenting your card you will be entitled to a 10% discount off your drinks and meals. That is 10% per card holder and you won’t need a calculator to figure out what a saving this is for regular patrons of both those venues. Thank you to The Vic Mac’s Brewbar and The Playhouse for your generous offer and on-going support.

REVIEWS – by Nev. Claughton

MONTHLY SOCIAL SUNDAYS - At the Vic Mac’s Brewbar
Indeed these Social Sundays are not only providing a platform for players outside of our Tuesday rostered bands to perform, but is an opportunity to showcase the depth of talent we have both in the seasoned players and the up and coming student musicians. Each Social Sunday is bigger than the one previous and it is a case of arrive early or miss out on a seat. Special mention to the Behrens Brothers for their input and to regular appearances by “The Daves”. Let’s see more of you sticking your hand up.

Contact Ken at Good Vibrations P:545 8381 or E:kenr@goodvibrations.co.nz
Pop down for dinner and a sing-along. See you Sunday 7th December, 7pm.

Those Responsible – Vic Mac’s Brewbar Tuesday October 28th
Always a pleasure to catch Andrew Leachman and his team in action. The horn lines and inter-play between Andrew and George Jury is a shining example of what a lifetime in this business is all about. Notable for me is lack of need for “miking” the Saxes and the control these guys show is quite something. The rhythm section of Andreas Vitz (drums) Trev Hunter (Bass) and the lovely guitar work from John Bogusz, all adds up to a great band.

Nelson Now Festival - Founders Park November 16th
A wonderful family orientated event put on by Rotary, Ian Catto and his team. A chance for many of our members to play outside to a warm and appreciative audience. With two stages operating, the continuity was particularly noticeable, and the diverse range of styles went down very well. Thanks to Rotary for the opportunity to take part. It is likely to be on the cards for next years as well so we will keep you in touch.

Mr Nobody – Vic Mac’s Brewbar Nov 25 .Reviewed by Mike Murphy
The regular Jazz Club night at the Mac’s Vic bar on 25th November was one out of the bag. There was not a spare seat to be had and the Mr. Nobody Quartet, featuring Brett Holland, Fraser Campbell and Tony Bowater, with guest Gabor Tolnay, was in fine form as they launched the evening’s entertainment with a great first set.

For the second set, Brett introduced three groups of music students whose performances, supported by mix-and-match combinations from the Quartet, were truly impressive. The Nelson Jazz Club has grown steadily in numbers, talent and depth over the years and the young people who stood up and entertained the packed venue signalled that we can confidently look forward to that trend continuing.

Sian Woodley, who is currently attending the Christchurch Music School, led lovely piano trio renditions of Beautiful Love and Night & Day. Hilary Palmer (Year 12 at Nelson College for Girls) played trumpet on Cantaloupe Island and then moved to guitar and vocal on Moondance, backed on both by her brother, Edward (Year 9 at Nelson College), on bass. The Sunny Trio then stepped up with Alice Williams (Year 12, NCFG and song-writing award winner, Smokefree Rockquest National Final) on guitar and vocals, Ally Holland (Year 11, NCFG) on soprano sax and Meg Howie (Year 13, NGFG) on bass. With sophisticated support from guest pianist Liam Ryan from Tauranga, they gave us Leonard Cohen’s Dance Me To The End Of Love. Ally then shifted to guitar and vocals for her own song, Let It All Go, and then back to saxophone for Chameleon.

Mr. Nobody then followed the richness of the guest performances by returning to the high standard they had set from the start of the evening, staying firmly within the jazz genre while packing the floor with dancers and compelling those of us not bold enough to dance to tapping our feet and hands, and moving to the music in our seats.

Congratulations to Brett, Mr. Nobody and guests for organising and presenting one of the best Vic gigs ever.

Woollaston Nelson Jazzfest November 6th - Nev Claughton
For those who accepted the invite and attended the launch of the Jazzfest then no explanation is needed. A very grand affair with food and drinks on the house. What a wonderful occasion to mix socially, enjoy each others company, listen to some very tasty music compliments of Breezn’ (always up to speed) with Simon Terrill in the drummers seat. Rowena introduced the mayors of both Nelson and Tasman and explained the details of the up-coming festival, with 2009 set to be the biggest yet. Programmes were distributed displaying a line-up of talent that takes some beating. And with the supa dupa online “FLIPBOOK”, you can check out the band you want to see. www.nelsonjazzfest.co.nz/flipbook/

Concert tickets are selling fast. As club members you can still get Friends tickets, however there are only a few left so get in quick! Email ro@nelsonjazzfest.co.nz.

GIG GUIDE
Don’t forget to keep an eye on the website www.nelsonjazzclub.co.nz to keep up to date with The Vic Mac’s Brewbar Roster. Also please note there will be no Social Sunday in January due to commitments with the Woollaston Nelson Jazzfest. February 1st will be the first 2009 Social Sunday.

Things to remember
• Jazz Club subscriptions are due no later than 31st December.
• Discounts for The Vic Mac’s Brewbar and Playhouse Café require your new Club Card, so pay your subscription to get those savings.
• Friends concert tickets close to sellout.
• Email ro@nelsonjazzfest.co.nz to check out what is available.
• Woollaston Nelson Jazzfest 2 - 6 Jan - over 70 events in 5 days!

HAVE A SAFE AND RELAXING CHRISTMAS
from your JAZZ CLUB COMMITTEE

HI everyone
Another month on and I hope you have been able enjoy some of the fantastic Jazz that we have been hosting weekly at the new Vic Mac’s Brewbar and it has certainly been great meeting a lot of our members out and about again. With inclusion of new and emerging jazz musicians along with the club bands on Tuesday evenings there have been some great evenings to enjoy, and you can read more about that in Neville’s report further on in this Ezine Club News.

If you have any ideas for the Ezine Newsletter you can contact Neville or me by the 26th of each month and we will endeavour to include your ideas in the next issue. A club is only as good as its members so it is important to mention how much we appreciate your opinions and support.

SPECIAL OFFER – Jazz Membership
The 2008 subscriptions expire December 31st 2008. As it is a busy time of the year, we will be mailing out an invoice shortly with a special offer for all current members. Pay your membership by 31st October and go in the draw to win two concert tickets of your choice for the “Woollaston Nelson Jazzfest”.

So now is a good time to remind you what the annual sub fees are and what this provides you with:

►Performing Members $30.00

►Students (18yrs and under) – FREE

Performing Members $30.00 annually. This gives you the ability to use the Club Rooms for rehearsal free. (Only for fully paid members non members in a group must join the club before that group can use the venue) This is to ensure we know who is using the Club and its equipment. It is the responsibility of the band leaders to ensure their members are current. We don’t want to be the police so we ask that we all consider each other. The Club rooms are provided very kindly by our major sponsor the Radio Network or as we all know it Radio Nelson. Mike and his team are very supportive of our club and it’s fantastic to have the facility they provide. Also a fully paid active member has the opportunity to rehearse for their group to be included on our Club Performance Roster at the New Vic Mac’s Brewbar. Remember too, that we direct all band enquiries to the Jazz Club website, so of course bands will want to have their band profile on the club website – another perk for our members.

Non Performing Members $10.00 annually. If you don’t play an instrument or sing and like us just love Jazz then you can become a support member for only $10.00 per annum. This will enable you to be kept right up to date with what is happening Jazz wise in Nelson including the Woollaston Nelson Jazzfest. It gets better if you are under 18 years old and a student then membership to the Nelson Jazz Club is FREE!

So it’s easy to be a member and support Jazz in Nelson. Apologies I did go on a bit, but communication is key and there are some things that need to be said. So with that lot out of the way now and with daylight savings kicking in we can look forward to a long and jazz filled summer. Don’t miss your opportunity to see some of the best Jazz played in New Zealand.
I will see you there. Tony Bowater (Chairman)

REVIEWS
Monthly Social Sundays - The Vic Mac’s Brewbar
by Neville Claughton
September 7th saw the club’s first Social Sunday at the new Vic Mac’s Brewbar. Denny Behrens and friends entertained a good sized audience including a number of our members eager to participate. Ably assisted by Alex Behrens (drums), Ken Richards (guitar) and Nev Claughton (bass and vocals), the format was nice and easy with Denny filling in the gaps with composer info etc. The guys did an hour between them, then after a short break David Jack (clarinet) and Dave Atkinson (trombone) did a turn, later assisted by Andrew Leachman on Tenor Sax. Andrew happened to have his trusty horn in the car and Nev was quoted as saying “No good leaving it outside in the cold Andrew, let’s be having you”). All in all a very jolly night had by all. Lovely to see George and Maureen Jury, Johnny and Pat Morris, Patricia Behrens and friends and a few familiar faces. Particularly a big welcome to James Ensor who came on his own bat to be part of the experience. At 17 James is likely to be part of our next Social Sunday so lets be there in support of the club – “Your Club”!

Contact Ken at Good Vibrations on 545 8381 or kenr@godvibrations.co.nz
Pop down for dinner and a singalong. First Sunday of each month.

Steve Flemming Band – Vic Mac’s Brewbar Tuesday September 9th
A better than decent sized audience turned out for the SFB first outing in a while. Steve’s guys are probably the only ones that don’t ever actually play elsewhere, and rather is a band who prefer to just get together exclusively for Jazz Tuesdays. Formed in the late nineties and later Nev came along and somehow conned Steve into taking him on. The band became Steve, Martin Hucklesby (guitar) and the effervescent Gabor caressing those plastic black and white thingies and the afore-said Nev warbling a few ditties (rude words exempt). Chris Pierson was on percussion back then with Paul Morris coming on-board in late 2006. Paul’s work commitments saw him take a break and Tony Bowater stuck his hand up for the drum seat, and doing a jolly fine job too. Along with the guys (and Gal) from Breez’n, the SFB have been together almost undisturbed for more years than most groups on the roster. As always, never a dull moment and a few surprises from a band that never actually ever rehearses, well not since 2003 anyway, it has its fans and always pulls a good audience.

Free Wheelin’ – Vic Mac’s Brewbar Tuesday September 16th
What better way to wrap up a Tuesday. We ventured into “The Vic” (can’t stop myself calling it that) and had a listen to Johnny Morris and his crew. The lovely Katie Needham stopped me in my tracks with some very clever alto stuff, playing some great lines getting better and better all the time.
The “Two Pauls” of the bass and drums varieties, laying down the solid stuff and not loud neither, and of course the ever-clever and true-blue Johnnie Morris on the keys. A real trooper our Johnny, some lovely stuff going on with this group. I listened to Johnny back when I lived in Auckland without realising who he was, and then he shifted to Nelson around the same time as Joni and I. It was revealed to me some years later than both Johnny and Pat (his lovely lady), worked harder than most, establishing a very vibrant jazz scene in that big city. On a few recent trips back to the grid-locked “Big Smoke”, Johnny’s name seems to regularly crop up in conversation, (The Shakespeare Tavern and The Gables I believe owe a debt of gratitude to JM and for his efforts). So Free Wheelin’ - a very tidy act doing a mix of great standards and with Johnny’s smooth vocals together with Katie’s sax, and backed up by the very experienced Paul/Paul rhythm section, makes for a great night out.

The Last of the Summer Wine (oops should be “Sunday Wine”)!
The Vic Mac’s Brewbar Sunday September 21st
Sunday 21st featured Gabor and Nev doing their thing. What a wonderful way to spend a Sunday arvo. Set-up under the knitted Deer Head just inside the front door, off they went with Gabor’s blazing wizardry and Nev doing his best to keep up. A nice turnout of diners and bless them, a compliment of club members and supporters. I spotted Mike Murphy who had just crawled off a flight from the UK, Tim Parker with an old neighbour from Birmingham, Graeme Sands and his lovely lady, and Yvonne who danced of course. Paul Johnston and his crew came by also, added to a number of casual diners and friends and families who all seemed to enjoy what was on offer and the compliments were flying around. I have to say the friendly team has the menu and customer service well and truly nailed. Sometimes taken for granted, the effort and professionalism shown by The Vic Mac’s Brewbar has set a new bench-mark in a venue that just stuns.

A really well supported afternoon, laid back music, good company, great food (mustn’t forget the wine) and fantastic support from the staff and audience. Good on yer’ Nelson.

The Jazz Club Band & Emerging Talent – The Vic Mac’s Brewbar - Tuesday September 23rd
WOW !! What a night with the venue and audience right up to speed and some cameo performances from some of our young and talented college musicians courtesy of Tim Parker, Katie Needham and other tutors. Let me tell you folks, you missed an absolute treat. The Jazz Club Band made up of the committee team members, Tim Parker (horns), Ken Richards (guitar), Tony Bowater (drums) and Nev Claughton (bass). The saxophone quintet featuring all ladies was simply stunning, with very clever arrangements, some really good solos and the intonation bang on. Absolutely nailed it these ladies and knocked us all for a six. Followed by two guys on electric guitars that did some very clever and inter-twined solo work, solid rhythm and some clever chordal things going on as well.

Next up was Hillary who proved that girls can handle a trumpet better than most guys I know. She picked a really difficult piece “Night in Tunisia” and anyone with jazz chops knows how tough that is. The backing band, had their work cut out with this act - such a lovely player indeed. Absolutely staggering to see all the mums, dads, friends and neighbours etc all in support of these young folk. I am going to list some names hastily gathered, so apologies for spelling etc.. To you who never made it there, shame, though write these names down and watch the sparks fly next time we get to do this “Emerging Talent” gig again. So to William, Paul, Lucy, Maddy, Eilish, Olivia, Ella, Hillary and anyone I missed, take a bow and thanks a million you guys, you did yourselves proud, and we must do it again real soon! Special thanks to the supporters and members who made it along.

WOOLLASTON NELSON JAZZFEST
By now you would have received the invitation to the VIP launch of the 2009 Woollaston Nelson Jazzfest, scheduled for Thursday 6th November. Please RSVP to ro@nelsonjazzfest.co.nz before Nov 1st please for catering purposes. You will be the first to see who’s who in another exciting line-up.

As club members you also get the opportunity to become a friend! When you become a Friend you will be helping the Festival present a dynamic and exciting programme, support the arts and have an incredible time in the process. See the website for details http://www.nelsonjazzfest.co.nz/tickets.html

Hey cats! Dust off your Miles Davis records and adorn your black threads this December for Norfolk Island’s seventh Jazz in the Pines Festival. The crème de la crème of Australasia’s jazz artists will descend upon this Sub-tropical paradise for the seventh year running. Twenty-two performers feature in the five-day ‘sax fest,’ in concerts at a variety of beauty spots between 7 and 14 December. Continue Reading »

Hello Everyone

It’s all worth it! Yes that’s right! There has never been as much happening as there is at the moment. Since the last newsletter we have had the opening of the new look The Vic Mac’s Brewbar (and personally I love it!) It is fresh, comfortable and with excellent service, I am very safe in recommending to all of you to go and have a look and a sample for yourself. I was lucky enough to be able to attend the official launch at which the Gabor Trio provided exquisite Jazz. The evening went off without a hitch. It was great to see Chris fit and healthy and back behind his Bass - obviously enjoying the occasion. The trio of Chris Cowles, Simon Terrill, and Gabor Tolnay certainly did our club proud.

WHAT’S HAPPENING AT THE VIC MAC’S BREWBAR

Since the opening we have enjoyed Denny Behrens entertaining us with his Cocktail Piano style on Sunday afternoon 2 - 5pm. Sunday afternoons will be a regular event hosting a number of solo and duo performances from club members. This is a beautifully relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy a catch up with friends. More recently we featured Johnny Morris and Katie Needham, so check out details in the gig guide (www.nelsonjazzclub.co.nz) and make sure you don’t miss enjoying your favourite artist.

TUESDAY JAZZ NIGHT
Jazz on Tuesday nights is all go again. Breezn’ had a great leading night with special guest Simon Williams on sax (sitting in while Ivan tours Europe). The sound was very smooth with Aroha performing to her usual high standard leading Ken, Jak and Warren with some tasteful improvisation. This band has it all! We sat back with a nice red wine and tasting some of the delicious desserts from the menu topped off a great night. These nights are a ‘must mark’ in your diary as we are going to be featuring some young Jazz musos in the hope of encouraging them and broadening the appeal of Jazz in Nelson.

Some of these young stars recently competed at the Southern Jam in Blenheim a few weekends ago as reported below by Tim Parker. Don’t forget any student under 18 that is keen on Jazz they can join the Club for free!!

SOUTHERN JAM YOUTH JAZZ FESTIVAL
The Southern Jam Youth Jazz Festival is held each year in Blenheim, organised by Marlborough 4 Fun. This year proved to be very popular with 17 schools attending. It is an event which brings together young musicians from all over the South Island to take part in a series of musical activities. It gives students an opportunity to take part in public performances with each band performing a 30 minute set in venues which range from local schools to restaurants, bars and the Woodbourn Airforce base. A masterclass run by the Royal NZ Air Force band is a firm favorite with the students, similarly are the jazz workshops. Continue Reading »

Nelson | Tuesday, 19 August 2008
by MARTIN DE RUYTER/Nelson Mail

Old lady scrubs up for new life

One of the grandest ladies of Nelson’s pub scene re-opens tomorrow as the South Island’s first Macs Brew Bar. Sally Kidson talks to the new owners at the Victorian Rose.

Sophistication and style are not words that are usually chosen to describe many of Nelson’s pubs, but that’s what the new owners of the Victoria Rose are promising to serve up.

Mike Thomas and Paul Davenhill, who co-own Smugglers Pub in Tahunanui, and hospitality business newcomer Roger Colville have spent the past six weeks gutting the historic building and giving the old lady a face lift for her next incarnation as a Macs Brew Bar.

The Vic Brew Bar is scheduled to open Wednesday at 4pm and the men are promising big changes from the Vic Rose of old. It is the first Macs Brew Bar in the South Island.

Thomas says the men bought the pub from Queenstown-based Frenzi Group Ltd, which owns a chain of pubs around the country.

Thomas - who owned the pub until five years ago - is too diplomatic to say why they think the drinking establishment lost a lot of its shine with Nelson locals, but says it is good the pub is back in the hands of “locals”. He also won’t say how much he spent buying the pub back, only that the “price was right”. Continue Reading »

Hi Everyone
Welcome to the very first Nelson Jazz Club electronic newsletter. This has taken a bit longer to develop than we would have liked, so thank you all for your patience. This will be the first of a regular newsletter update that will keep you informed of what the club and club members are doing.

This year saw two new committee members elected onto the committee with a vision to continue the growth of the Nelson Jazz Club. They are Mike Taylor and David Powdrell. Mike has been a member for quite some years and has been acting as the caretaker of our clubrooms in a small way for the past three years. He joins the committee with a vision to get more interaction between you our members, supporters and the events we help facilitate.

David is also keen in sharing his passion for jazz and has been very active as a front line member of Jada Jazz and one of the most consistent members at our monthly Sunday Social events. We are looking forward to some fresh ideas and energy assisting us. Continue Reading »

Most members will be aware that the Victorian Rose hotel has changed ownership and is currently cosed for extensive renovations in July and August. The new owners are very keen to keep Tuesday nights operating as Nelson Jazz Club night once the renovations are completed. In fact, they would be even happier if Tuesday nights became even more ‘clubby’ than before. In other words, a better attendance by club members and more focus on having a fun night rather than a music concert. We have the opportunity to start a new look Tuesday night format to coincide with the refurbished Vic, but it will need your input and your support. Continue Reading »

Tomorrow night (Tuesday 11th) at the Vic Rose features a line-up of the Committee Guys who have taken time out from promoting Nelson Jazz to get together for a “Live” gig.  Popular vote well may mean this will be a first and last outing for this bunch of people, but hey, lets give them a fair hearing eh??

Seriously guys, we would love to see you all along at The Vic tomorrow night. We have managed to con the lovely and talented Zoe Jackson into doing a few with us (she is so…….. lovely) So here is a night not to be missed.

Don’t forget the AGM this Thursday –yes but of course you knew that from reading your newsletter.

So…. For the very first time together in public the Nelson Jazz Club proudly presents “The Committee Band ” alive and kicking. Tomorrow night at The Vic.

Ken Richards:         Guitar / Vocals
Paul Johnson:        Keys / Vocals
Tony Bowater:        Drums.
Tim Parker:                Horns
Nev Claughton:        Guitar / Vocals
Special Guest:        Zoe Jackson.

So we will see you all there then??  Right that’s settled !!

Sunday February 3rd  Kick-off  7.00 pm

After a stunning and highly successful 2008 Jazzfest, most of us are almost back to normal. It goes without saying that if you managed to sneak a look at some of the amazing talent on offer at this years Jazzfest, then we’re sure you will be planning your next years break so you can be around for Jan 2 thru 6 2009.

Meantime here go again this coming Sunday at Prince Albert / Fern Lodge. We checked the weather man (oops sorry “Weather-Person” and he/she reckons it will be a stunning night so take advantage of the wonderful outdoor setting at The PA, along with a couple of”cold-ones” and the great menu too.  It is always a smart idea to book as these Sundays go from strength to strength. Along with our hard-working backing guys, there is always a surprise or two (or more) and this Sunday will be no exception. Rumour has it a few surprises up the old sleeve as the saying goes.

Remember if you want to be part of these Social Sundays, go see Ken at Good Vibrations 120 Bridge Street or phone him on 545 8381, and have a natter about how to join in the fun.. We are hoping the flow-on effects from the now highly successful workshops Ken is running, will see a few more faces on these Sunday nights. Think about it folks, don’t be shy. Remember though, please don’t just turn up to have a play without letting Ken know well prior as its important we are well prepared to give you the best possible backing where required

All you have to do is tell us you want to perform, make sure you have a couple of Concert C Charts (if you don’t have charts then talk to Ken / Nev Claughton/ Martin Hucklesby  or any club members that you know and we will do our best to help you through this if we can. If you think you can “wing-it” without charts and want to have a go, then we will do our best to slot you in. Just make sure you are there by 645 at the latest ready to kick off. See you all there then !!!!!!!

The Sunday night Grand Finale concert at the school of music was an appropriate way to wind up the highly successful 2008 Woollaston Nelson Jazzfest. “Nobody wanted to leave”, said the Jazzfest organiser , Rowena Richards-Orange. “The last 5 days have been truly special and Sunday night’s concert delivered another dose of fine music and stunning entertainment”.

Richards-Orange went onto explain “Our festival is truly unique as we provide the majority of our performances free of charge. One fan said they would be paying over 60 pounds (NZ$180) to enjoy this quality of music back in London, but we are able to provide the majority for free thanks to the generous support of funding agencies, commercial sponsors and venues”.

“This year has been the biggest and best yet, just like we promised at our launch in November. The turnout of both locals and visitors has been unbelievable. There were people at Fairfield Park and Washbourn Gardens  who could not even see the stage, however could still enjoy the excellent music and the pleasure of being there” with the support of great sound technicians.
“We owe special thanks to both councils for providing such beautiful settings for our park events and of course, the performers who created such a memorable festival.  Every concert has received glowing reviews and we are gaining a good understanding of the musical tastes of our audiences” said Richards-Orange. Continue Reading »

WOOLLASTON NELSON JAZZFEST 08

Concert Tickets

Countdown with less than two weeks left before the Jazzfest commences, with concert tickets flying out the door. And if you are looking for that Christmas stocking filler, a concert ticket or two should do the trick, available from Everyman Records, On Cue (Nelson Tourism) or checkout www.nelsonjazzfest.co.nz.

Unforgettable – Celebration of Nat King Cole. Now this is a show you will not want to miss. The very first time to be performed at a National Jazz Festival, this unique group of musicians is one you just have to see. All the way from Queensland, Australia, the golden-voiced Dan Teka has returned to his homeland for this one night concert. His easy going and self-effacing personality, coupled with his natural talent as a singer and all-round entertainer have made Dan a popular attraction on both sides of the Tasman. One night only Sat 5 Jan – Nelson School of Music. Tickets $40

Julie Mason & The Jazz Divas. One classy act you will certainly want to see. Only 200 tickets on sale with platters available (order by 28 Dec). Join us at Woollaston Estates for an evening of glamour and glitz of yesteryear in a vocal tribute to the Great American Songbook.. This show sold out at the Christchurch Jazzfest.. Bus service available $8 pp return.

One night only Thurs 3 Jan – Woollaston Estates. Tickets $45

Other concerts:

• Tomato Kiss, Thurs 3 Jan, The Boathouse $30
• Fiona Pears,  Fri 4 Jan, Nelson School of Music $40
• Rainbow Bridge, Fri 4 Jan, The Boathouse $30
• Whirimako Black, Sat 5 Jan, Woollaston Estates  $45 (close to sell out)
• The Grand Finale, Sun 6 Jan, Nelson School of Music $40 
• Masterclasses ..stocking fillers for just $10 per Master class

Don’t miss your chance to learn some of the secrets of successful jazz from some of the finest musicians and teachers to visit Nelson.

To coincide with the 2008 Woollaston Jazzfest, we have invited selected jazz musicians to conduct Masterclasses on their favoured instrument. In the case of Julie Mason, this is a vocal session.  For Jamie it is Sax, Phil is doing Piano and Frank on drums. Regardless of which instrument you play, there will be lots to learn from each of these experts. And the best part is the cost – just $10 per session but numbers are limited, as you would expect, so do not delay. Pop into Good Vibrations at 120 Bridge Street to collect your master class tickets.

• Julie Mason (jazz vocals): Fri 4 JAN 11 – 12.30pm
• Phil Broadhurst (jazz piano): Fri 4 JAN 1.30pm – 3.00pm
• Frank Gibson (drums): Sat 5 JAN 11am – 12.30pm
• Jamie Oehlers (saxophone): Sat 5 JAN 1.30pm – 3.00pm

Nelson Mail 8 page Jazzfest supplement .. pickup your copy Thurs 20th December

We said at the launch we were wanting to print a 4 page supplement .. well we decided 8 pages was better. A BIG thank you to our supporters taking an advertisement and sponsorship from Nelson Mail. So pickup your copy of the Nelson Mail Thursday 20th December.

For further details on the 2008 Woollaston Nelson Jazzfest, checkout our website …
 www.nelsonjazzfest.co.nz