Boogie Wonderland is an 11-piece powerhouse band. Its love of disco and soul has led to a mission to bring the legendary sounds of Earth, Wind & Fire to life. Created by saxophonist Bryn van Vliet and led by Lisa Tomlins and LJ Crichton, this group promises an unforgettable tribute performance. Their debut at the Wellington Jazz Festival in 2023 was a sell-out. Here is your chance to groove like it’s the 1970s.
Poems by an acclaimed American poet get a special te reo Māori treatment. ORO MĀIA references ‘Still I Rise’ a poem by poet, essayist, and civil rights activist Dr Maya Angelou. Performers will use spoken word, song, and live music to interpret Angelou’s poetry. You’ll experience the strength, humour, and wisdom resonating through the words. Expect powerful performances by artists Maisey Rika, Miriama McDowell, Erena Koopu, Tuakoi Ōhia, and Maarire Brunning-Kouka.
A vocalist explores the emotional ebbs and flows of life through song. Jess Deacon adds original lyrics and vocalese to traditionally instrumental jazz standards. Things Left Unsaid is a collection of works written by Jess. The interpretations of jazz standards are mixed in with her original music. On the night she will be accompanied by a stellar lineup of musicians including Duncan Haynes, Jon Pirini, Umar Zakaria, and Baileigh Sparkes.
This Grammy Award-winning bassist composer, and producer opens the festival. Marcus Miller stands as one of the most recorded artists in modern music. His technical genius on the bass has seen him play songs by Chaka Khan, Herbie Hancock, Eric Clapton, and Elton John. Marcus will fuse his cosmic mix of jazz, funk, groove, and soul in this much-anticipated concert. He’ll perform selections from his genre-bending album ‘Laid Black’ and from his funk and R&B album ‘Basement Party’.
It’s a union of big band attitude and chamber music intimacy. Traskforce! presents a fizzing set of big band swing numbers, Broadway hits, and beautiful ballads. The octet, led by Alex Trask includes three saxophones, a trumpet, and a trombone. This gives them the power of a big band and the subtlety of a quartet. For this gig, they’ll be joined by special guest Eugene Wolfin on vocals. You’ll hear songs from Count Basie, Bob Mintzer, Oliver Nelson, Quincey Jones, and plenty more.
Jazz vocalist Eden Brown and guitarist Jamin Forlong have joined forces to create a special set to entertain Wellington Jazz Festival patrons. With a grounding in jazz practice, the pair will branch off into other genres. You’ll hear original music, as well as some of Eden’s favourite rhythm and blues and soul tunes. It’s a homegrown mix of fresh and unique music. They will be joined by Jason Rapana, Ryder Smith, Sophia Stephens, and Alex Vujanic.