Chuck is a legend of the Sydney jazz scene.

It's his 80th birthday.  His last concert was at Colbourne Ave one year ago, the week of his 79th.  Unfortunately since then his shoulder has become so painful that he can't play any more.  So, to celebrate Chuck's birthday, and his contribution to the Sydney scene, we've invited some of Sydney's great pianists to perform in his honour, along with his long-time collaborator James Ryan:

Jex Saarelaht (flying up from Melbourne for the occasion)
Kevin Hunt
Adrian Keevil
Matt McMahon

Hopefully the man himself will show up.  

With her roots firmly planted in the fertile ground that lies between soul and jazz, Virna Sanzone has long been regarded as one of this country’s finest singers. Renowned for her heart on sleeve lyrics and her remarkable improvisational approach, Virna has worked with a broad spectrum of Australian greats, from Paul Kelly to Paul Capsis.  Tonight we will hear her in duet with the great Kevin Hunt on piano.

The Daryl Pratt Sextet is looking forward to a return visit to Colbourne Ave. Influenced by recent developments in improvised music blending acoustic and electronic sounds, the band's repertoire features new pieces by Daryl designed especially for this outstanding line-up.

Richard Maegraith - saxes

Matt Mcmahon - keyboards

Emile Nelson - bass

Philip South - electronics & percussion

Jared Underwood - drums

Daryl Pratt - vibes

Almost twenty years as chair of the percussion unit at the Sydney Con, Daryl will be playing vibraphone with his brand new sextet.  New work designed especially for this ensemble, their first concert...

John Harkins, Kevin Hunt, Barney Wakeford, Gavin Ahearn

16 solo pianists over four weeks.  This series was largely responsible for our decision to host concerts more often.

Four Thursdays in November, 2006 : Barney Wakeford curated this incredible series of solo pianists.

2 Nov:
Bill Risby | Barney Wakeford

9 Nov:
Matt McMahon | Peter Locke

16 Nov:
Free For All : Piano Orchestra

23 Nov:
Judy Bailey | Kevin Hunt

30 Nov:
Mike Nock | Kenny Powell