Will Martin, 30 July 2026
Jazz, Rock and Community Spirit
Students from the Jazz Band and Rock Bands from Otago Girls' and Boys' participated in a successful concert on Sunday night at Te Whare O Rukutia to raise funds for the Jazz Band's upcoming trip to Blenheim for the Southern Jam.
The band raised $1800 thanks to the generous support of patrons.
The night opened with Perfect Fifth (Phoebe Martin, Neve Cutfield, Georgia McEwan, Alice Ussher and Nicole) performing their original song and a cover of Elton John's "Don't Go Breaking My Heart". This band features a high level of musicianship, highly melodic vocals and strong interplay between drums, keyboards and guitars. This was followed by an "unplugged" set by Red Shift (Sam Holboro, Will Cone, Jack Yeoman, Lachie Thompson), who performed an original song and a cover by Alice in Chains.
Minor Blues, our small combo (Oban Voice, Callan Power, Emily Lokman, Fleur de Clifford and James Phipps-Green) got things swinging with Lee Morgan's "Totem Pole" and Miles Davis "Boplicity" before grooving out to their energetic version of Roy Hargrove's "I'm Not Sure". All the solos on this piece were of a high quality and showcased the technique of all the players. The players showed their deep knowledge of jazz as a genre through their authentic melodic choices, phrasing and rhythmic interplay.
Studio 2 (Jet Hood, Macy Crossan, Sapphire Graves, Emily Brookes and Jasmine Potter) performed their set from the Rockquest Regional Finals, showcasing captivating vocal harmonies and interesting dynamic variety.
Finally, All Blues presented a technically demanding and exciting set of jazz standards, including "Flight of the Foo Birds", "Nostalgia in Times Square", "Vierd Blues" and "Josie". Anson Fung featured as a solo trombone throughout. Audrey Tran performed the soul classics "At Last" and "Natural Woman" and is to be congratulated for a fine debut. The whole band showed that they are experienced and capable performers, handling complex rhythmic changes and showcasing the different sections of the band with ease. Psalm Gomez is to be congratulated for soloing with panache on the flute. Members of All Blues include: Callum Thompson, Carlotta Schwefel, Anson Fung, Jayden Lu, Jasmine Potter, Jack Orlovich, Phoenix Haddow, Neve Cutfield and Eve Fraser.
Thanks to Konrad Hanson, Raoul Hobbs and the Lokman family for supporting the fundraiser.
Photos by Mandy Phipps-Green, Lorenzo and Dominic.
