A new winter experience

THE level of interest for the first presentation of the Inverloch Jazz Festival in winter has been amazing, according to organisers.

Forty bands with more than 170 musicians have registered, and enquiries for tickets are flowing in for the first weekend in August (5-7).

“What is jazz?”  is a commonly asked question and is not an easy one to answer.  

First, there are several genres of jazz, ranging from traditional or Dixieland jazz to be-bop, from so-called modern to mainstream jazz, Latin jazz, and blues, played by big bands, small bands and solo performers.  Second, there is a freedom to jazz not often available in other forms of music, freedom to explore themes (improvise) based on established tunes.

Jazz musicians often play standards, which are long-standing favourites, with some dating back 60 years or more.  

The Inverloch Jazz Festival, now in its 28th year, is a celebration of all these genres and styles and has maintained its place as an important event in the annual Australian jazz festival calendar. 

 It is pleasing to note that younger players are taking to jazz and bringing with them younger audiences, and many universities boast strong jazz schools within their music faculties.

The organising committee has selected a range of proven performers together with others making their debut at the festival.  

To open proceedings there will be a special jazz concert on Friday night – August 5 - featuring some of Victoria’s finest jazz singers and musicians.

There is a buzz about this first winter festival and patrons and performers alike will be assured of a very warm welcome in this popular seaside town. 

So, come and join the fun.
Tickets are available via the website: www.invyjazz.com