PUTTING JAZZ BACK ON THE MAP

Torquay composer Callum Watson won a Youth Award last year for his efforts in bringing jazz back to the city's streets.

A young jazz enthusiast from Torquay is playing a significant role in re-establishing the music genre in Geelong, organising a monthly soiree for jazz performers in the region.

Acclaimed producer and musician Callum Watson said jazz has had a hard time in the city in recent years, with many well-known jazz groups “having tocall it a day”.

Recognising the gap in Geelong’s thriving music scene, Watson said he’s taking a stand and producing a new monthly headline music series titled Geelong Jazz Soirees, which will start on March 24 and continue every fourth Sunday of the month at the Black Hatt in Little Myers Street.

“Geelong Jazz Soirées will present the best jazz the Geelong region has to offer,” Watson said.

“I believe Geelong’s jazz talent is up there with Victoria’s best, it deserves to be heard.”

The first event this Sunday (at 1pm) will feature Shandelle McGennisken (Cooke), a Geelong based jazz singer and bandleader, with an afternoon of jazz standards.

She currently performs with the Shandeliers in addition to singing at Geelong’s Piano Bar.

Tickets to the event are $20 per person and can be purchased either at the door or by visiting callumwatson.com.au/geelongjazz. Spots are limited.