Rafael Karlen Quartet | Tuesday 1 November

The Rafael Karlen Quartet will be bringing together an all-star ensemble of highly acclaimed Australian improvising musicians.

Pianist Matt McMahon, bassist Brett Hirst, drummer James Waples and composer/saxophonist Rafael Karlen, the ensemble explore lyrical compositions with beautiful interplay.

Rafael Karlen – Saxophone

Matt McMahon – Piano

Brett Hirst – Double Bass

James Waples – Drums

Warwick Alder Trio | Tuesday 8 November

Special guest John Harkins

If you love modern jazz and great trumpet playing you need to not miss this one! Warwick Alder is one of the great trumpet players of modern jazz in Australia. His sound and style has contributed to many legendary concerts and albums.

This show highlights a mix of his new work recently recorded and familiar tunes previously released.

Warwick Alder – Trumpet

Brendan Clarke – Double Bass

James Schubert – Drums

with special guest John Harkins – Piano

The Dungeon Small Band | Tuesday 15 November

Having been an exciting part of the Newcastle Jazz scene for more than 20 years, The Dungeon Big Band now appears in a quartet format to bring you songs of the Big Band era on a smaller scale!

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Featuring the sweet sounds of clarinet and baritone sax (Rod Barnes) and accompanied by the Dungeon Big Band’s rhythm section (Heather Price, Jo Cadman and Ben Barnes). Lead vocals on the night will also be thanks to Heather Price, who regularly appears on the NIMA stage having performed recently in a number of different ensembles that showcase her versatility and all round awesomeness!! The great music of Gershwin, Ellington and Porter will be featured with some great Latin tunes mixed through too!

Heather Price – Vocals/Bass

Rod Barnes – Clarinet/ Saxophone

Jo Cadman – Piano

Ben Barnes – Drums

Hunter and Brown Quintet | Tuesday 22 November

The newly formed "Hunter & Brown Jazz Quintet” came together in early 2022 for a one-off gig that ended up being so fun, they decided to do it again. 

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Recreating the sounds, laughs and energy you’d find in any good jazz bar in New York City. If you’re serious about a great night out with friends, this is the gig for you!

Dave Thompson – Trumpet

Jeremy Borthwick – Trombone

Jacob Neale – Piano

James Burgess – Double Bass

Toby Hall – Drums

James Burgess Quartet | Tuesday 29 November

James originating from Newcastle has been in Sydney the past couple of years to study and pursue a career in Jazz and original music. Over the years James has had the opportunity to play with many of Sydney’s Jazz scene's great players to further develop his skills in Jazz and Composition.This evening James will be joined by his fellow peers, Daniel Baez on piano, Tessie Overmyer on Saxophone and Abby Constable on Drums.

Tessie Overmyer – Alto Saxophone

Daniel Baez – Piano

James Burgess – Bass

Abby Constable – Drums