Jazz delights in Inverloch

AROUND 700 people enjoyed a weekend of jazz.

The 29th Inverloch Jazz Festival proved to be a success, with a fifth venue included to accommodate more bands and talent.

The festival opened on Friday night with a gala concert at the Inverloch Hub.

This concert featured the Streeton Big Court Band and Shirazz, which were both well received.

“It was a fabulous concert. We had around 310 chairs and they were all full,” Inverloch Jazz Festival secretary Gaye Hamilton said.

“We had the local big band, followed by a fairly young band called Shirazz, which was amazing.”

Throughout the weekend, music could be enjoyed at The Hub, the Warrawee Club, the Inverloch RSL, the Inverloch Bowling Club and the Catholic Church Hall.

“We added the church hall this year, where we had more intimate performances and small vocal groups,” Ms Hamilton said.

“All venues were set up well and we had a good range of jazz styles, which was great.”

With a boom of interest from musicians this year, the festival featured 45 bands with a nice mix of locals, new talent and old favourites.

“It was good to see a lot of young musicians wanting to be part of the festival, particularly in the big bands. We encourage youth to get involved,” Ms Hamilton said. 

Saturday’s festivities kicked off with street band Invy Horn Jam busking down the main street to warm up festival goers.

Sunday included a church service with the Salvation Army.

“We had some really lovely feedback from the festival. It was a wonderful weekend,” Ms Hamilton said.

“We are very pleased with the turnout and now we are looking forward to our 30th anniversary next year.

“Thank you to everyone who participated, including musicians, volunteers and audience members.”