Jazz fever hits Moonee Valley for Melbourne International Jazz Festival
MEDIA RELEASE
Jazz fever hits Moonee Valley for Melbourne International Jazz Festival
Jazz Westside: Moonee Valley Sunday Sessions will have music lovers up on their feet on Sunday ,19 October, with the likes of Maisie Niven, Dean Kalait Trio, Emnio Styeles, YARA, and many more, taking to stages across various Moonee Valley venues as part of Melbourne International Jazz Festival (MIJF).
Audiences can expect soulful performances as well as a free rooftop film screening as beloved venues across Ascot Vale, Moonee Ponds and Essendon will play host to a diverse line-up of artists.
Audiences can choose their own rhythm, settle into a favourite local venue or make the most of the day by hopping between performances. From contemporary voices and heartfelt originals to timeless jazz classics, the program showcases the breadth and richness of Melbourne’s jazz culture.
Highlights include:
Milne & Attiche
Award-winning vocalist Clancye Milne joins forces with German-born guitarist Benjamin Attiche to deliver a soulful set of heartfelt originals and feel-good jazz standards in an intimate setting. Location: Lulu’s Social, Ascot Vale, 2pm – 4pm.
Maisie Niven
Saxophonist Maisie Niven and double bassist Harry Birch create an intimate duo performance inspired by the beauty of Melbourne’s natural landscapes. Niven’s music reflects her explorations of waterways and parklands. Location: HOLD Bar & Eatery, Essendon, 2pm – 4pm.
Dean Kalait Trio
Tenor saxophonist Dean Kalait leads his trio in a genre-crossing set, blending jazz with experimental and world influences. Expect a mix of old favourites and new explorations that push the boundaries of sound. Location: The Essendon Hotel, Essendon, 3pm – 5pm.
Ennio Styles
DJ, tastemaker and radio host Ennio Styles brings a set that mixes archival knowledge of soul, jazz and global grooves with a passion for discovering fresh new sounds. With a career that has seen him share the stage with Erykah Badu, Pharoah Sanders, Fat Freddy’s Drop and more, this will be a set to remember. Location: Penny Young, Moonee Ponds, 3pm – 5pm.
Callum Mintzis Trio
Trombonist and vocalist Callum Mintzis pays tribute to Melbourne’s rich trad-jazz legacy with a trio that explores the swing and bounce of the ’30s and ’40s. A nostalgic yet fresh celebration of classic jazz styles. Location: Ascot Vale Hotel, Ascot Vale, 4pm – 6pm.
YARA (pictured)
Captivating singer-songwriter and producer YARA closes the live program with her soulful blend of pop, indie RnB, neo-soul and jazz. With smouldering vocals influenced by Amy Winehouse, Lianne La Havas and H.E.R., YARA is one of Melbourne’s rising stars. Location: Penny Young, Moonee Ponds, 5pm – 6pm.
Jazz on Film: Mo’ Better Blues
Celebrating its 35th anniversary, Spike Lee’s Mo’ Better Blues will screen under the stars in Moonee Ponds. Starring Denzel Washington, with a powerhouse jazz score by the Branford Marsalis Quartet and Terence Blanchard, this vibrant film explores the passion, sacrifice and beauty of jazz. Part of MIJF’s Jazz on Film series, the rooftop screening is free to attend (RSVP encouraged, walk-ups welcome subject to capacity). Location: Palace Cinemas Penny Lane – Rooftop Cinema, Moonee Ponds, 7:30pm.
Moonee Valley City Council Mayor, Cr Ava Adams said: “We encourage the community to come out and enjoy this fantastic festival taking place in some of our favourite local venues. It’s going to be a great day, full of events featuring lots of talented jazz acts.”
Now in its 27th year, the Melbourne International Jazz Festival is Australia’s largest celebration of jazz, presenting more than 130 performances by over 550 artists to audiences exceeding 60,000 people annually. Recognised globally as one of the world’s leading jazz festivals, MIJF continues to bring the joy of live music to Melbourne’s iconic spaces, and this October, into the heart of Moonee Valley.
Jazz Westside: Moonee Valley Sunday Sessions:
Sunday 19 October, 2:00pm – 9:30pm
Multiple venues across Moonee Valley
Free and ticketed events
Free rooftop film screening – Mo’ Better Blues at Palace Cinemas Penny Lane, 7:30pm
For program details and RSVPs, visit: Jazz Westside: Moonee Valley Sunday Sessions – Melbourne International Jazz Festival
Interview and photo opportunities are available on request.
Media Enquiries
Deveta Patel Everett (she/her)
Communications Coordinator
Email DPatel@mvcc.vic.gov.au
Phone 0416 487 886
