OEHLERS/GRABOWSKY/WILLIAMSON/SVOBODA/BECK (Perth) – Premiere

This new ensemble brings together Jamie Oehlers, widely regarded as one of Australias finest tenor saxophonists, and three of his long-time collaborators in pianist Paul Grabowsky, trumpeter Paul Williamson, and drummer Dave Beck, with one long-anticipated addition, bassist Helen Svoboda. Ever since she arrived on the Melbourne scene, Jamie has long considered her one of the most compelling voices in contemporary improvisation, and this project is their first opportunity to perform together. Jamie, Dave and the two Pauls have been performing and recording together for over 25 years, winning multiple Bell Awards, Limelight Awards and ARIAs along the way. What unites them is a common philosophy—that music is most powerful when it comes from a genuine and individual place. Together, their distinct perspectives combine into something unpredictable and vital, sometimes subtle, other times ferocious. This performance will feature original compositions by Jamie that move from hypnotic modal grooves and free improvisations, to intimate ballads and intense swingers. Presented by the Melbourne Jazz Co-operative: The Melbourne Jazz Co-operative is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to supporting and promoting original live jazz performance by established and emerging artists in Melbourne. Since 1983 our objectives have been to increase the exposure of contemporary jazz performance by making it accessible to audiences, and to provide award waged performance opportunities for emerging and established artists. In addition to support derived from member contributions, the MJC is assisted by the Victorian Government, through Creative Victoria, via its Arts Development Programs. MJC was assisted by the Australian Government through the Australia Council, its arts funding and advisory body from 1983-2017 inclusive, and was delighted to receive Australia Council funding of $60,000 for our 2019 program. The MJC received $40,000 from the Australia Council over the 2021/2022 Financial Year, and was pleased to received a grant of $75,341 from Creative Australia (with Music Australia contribution) for our 2025 Annual Program. Our sold-out 40th Anniversary Concert at the Melbourne Recital Centre in May 2023 was supported by a $20,000 grant from Creative Victoria’s Creative Projects program.