Swirly saxophones, bold brass and a driving rhythm section. The 13-piece Mace Francis jazz orchestra, from Perth, has gained a national reputation for presenting exciting and creative new music in fun and accessible ways. The versatile ensemble covers styles from modern swing through to raucous rock. Tonight the jazz orchestra will be swinging old school jazz classics to get your toes tappin’.
“Mace Francis and his orchestra are a treasure. Mace’s name can rightly be spoken in the same rarefied breath as giant jazz genius Paul Grabowsky, whether we’re talking composition, or orchestration. The MFO’s 13 ‘pieces’ are much more than the sum of its parts! You haven’t heard how brilliantly bent a big band can be, until you’ve heard the MFO.” Lloyd Bradford (Brad) Skye Australian Stage Online
“These layered compositions and scoring convey colour, atmosphere and movement far more effectively and with greater interest than the stock standard arrangements often heard from big bands. Francis, understandably, has attracted international interest with his outstanding orchestra and compelling compositions.” John McBeath Weekend Australian Newspaper
This year, MFO is joined by very talented vocalists Reece Clark and Annie Mitchell.
In support is Jamie Oehlers with his quartet. Jamie is one of Australia’s premier jazz saxophonists, and he will present the music of probably the best known saxophonist in jazz music history, John Coltrane – with Soul Trane – The Music of John Coltrane. Coltrane’s music ranges from beautiful, haunting ballads and tone poems, to highly energetic and powerful modal improvisations. Except tunes like Naima, Resolution (from A Love Supreme), Dear Lord and Central Park West. Performing with Ben Vanderwal on Drums, Karl Florrison on bass and Harry Mitchell on Piano, this is bound to be a concert to remember. Jamie Oehlers – Saxophones, Harry Mitchell – Piano, Karl Florisson – Bass, Ben Vanderwal – Drums.
Experience the magic: Picnic at sunset with an unforgettable night of world class jazz under the stars.
BYO picnic & alcohol, & have a dance on stage!