Traditionally, jazz has been an important part of Montsalvat, with its International Jazz Festival running annually from 1988 until 1999. Musicians local and international came, most with their bands, to perform and hold masterclasses at Montsalvat.
In revitalising that tradition, Montsalvat is hosting a monthly series of jazz concerts featuring world-class musicians across a range of styles.
Next in the series is the Eugene Ball Trio Jazz Concert on Sunday 26 February. Multi-award-winning Australian trumpeter and composer Eugene has received widespread national and international recognition throughout a professional career that has featured performances with some of the biggest names in music.
A lover of diversity, Eugene is as comfortable in the New Orleans jazz tradition (the Hoodangers), contemporary improvisation (Andrea Keller, the Australian Art Orchestra), popular music (Paul Kelly, Dan Sultan, You Am I) and composition. He has composed for the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, ACO2 and a variety of contemporary chamber ensembles.
He is accompanied by Ben Hanlon on double bass and Anthony Schulz on accordion. This unconventional trio takes nothing at face value. They reinvent with each piece the sounds of their own instruments and the possibilities of their combined talent.
As a former director of jazz ensembles at Eltham High from 1998-2007 and artistic director of the Eltham Jazz Festival, Eugene has strong connections to Eltham. We are delighted to welcome him back to perform at Montsalvat.
Enjoy stellar performances 5 to 7pm, the last Sunday of every month at the Barn Gallery, Montsalvat, featuring:
Joe Chindamo Trio, 26 March
Jackie Bornstein Quartet, 30 April
Rebecca Barnard Quartet, 28 May
All proceeds will go towards restoration of Montsalvat’s first building, Lily’s Cottage.
For further information contact Barb Van Ernst, philanthropy coordinator, at 0416 174 925
