Summer Series of Jazz kicks off this weekend

MULTI-GENERATIONAL nine-piece band The Suspects will launch Geelong Jazz Soirees Summer Series at the Geelong Botanic Gardens this Saturday.

Experience some of Victoria’s finest musicians and ensembles in an incredible outdoor setting for the first of three Saturday live music events on February 5, running from 2pm to 4pm.

The Suspects have a wealth of experience and an extensive repertoire of jazz, soul, gospel, country, Americana, and R&B.
Vocals are a strength of the band with rich harmonies and a variety of strong singers.

The vast experience of this band runs from some great Melbourne R&B/Swing/Soul bands of the 70s and 80s including The Honeydrippers, The Flying Duck Brothers, Jump and Jive and The Swingin’ Sidewalks, to the ’80s synth-dub sounds of Love Dub, the psychedelic, reggae groove of The Beachniks & The Feelin’ Groovies and the big band swing of The Pearly Shells.

Saturday, February 12 will feature some of Geelong’s finest soloist performing an entertaining selection of Celtic inspired jazz arrangements as well as jazz standards.

The performers will include Phillipa McQuinn, a young vocalist who has performed around Australia and overseas. She has studied classical voice at the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music and specialises in classical, jazz and music theatre.

Phillipa will be joined by Geelong accordionist Lucy Riddett who has been performing locally and internationally for 10 years – in addition to Rob Gador (bass) and Sean Loughran (drums) who are mainstays of the Geelong jazz scene.

The final show on Saturday, February 19 will feature Geelong jazz vocalist Lucy Lorenne performing alongside a stellar jazz band. The band will include saxophonist Keith Wilson who was a highlight of the 2021 season.

Patrons are encouraged to support Geelong CBD food traders who have struggled during the pandemic by dining before the performances. With shows starting at 2pm, there is ample time to have lunch at any one of the terrific bars and restaurants located in the CBD. A takeaway picnic and wine can also be brought into the show.

To view the February 2022 program and to purchase tickets go to www.geelongjazz.com.

Patrons will need to be fully vaccinated to attend.