The Dunedin Jazz Club Spring Concert Series begins at Hanover Hall on Saturday, 30 August, with a swoon-worthy evening of music that celebrates the timeless allure of love. Join the Dunedin City Jazz Orchestra, under the direction of Nick Cornish, for The Romance of Cole Porter, a passionate tribute to one of America’s most iconic and sophisticated songwriters. The program will feature a variety of vocal and instrumental standards, with a debut for guest singer Lucy Appleton.
From glittering ballrooms to smoky jazz clubs, Cole Porter’s music has always pulsed with glamour, wit, and above all - romance. With clever lyrics and lush melodies, his songs capture every shade of love: its intoxication, heartbreak, longing, and delight. This special programme will feature a collection of his most beloved and enduring works, including ‘Love for sale’,’Night and Day’,’ Begin the Beguine’,’I Get A Kick Out Of You’, and ‘In the Still of the Night.’ Expect smooth ballads in the style of Artie Shaw, high energy swing, and heartfelt performances.
Porter was a master of melody and a genius of lyrical nuance. Known for his urbane charm and sophisticated wit, Porter penned hundreds of songs that defined the golden age of American popular music. Despite personal hardships including a debilitating riding accident Porter’s output remained prolific and powerful, with compositions that continue to be reimagined by jazz artists and vocalists worldwide. His work for Broadway and film, including ‘Anything goes’ and ‘Kiss me, Kate’, showcases his unmatched ability to combine narrative, emotion, and rhythm into every phrase.
Director Nick Cornish is an esteemed classical oboist and jazz saxophonist. He has been Principal Oboe with the Dunedin Symphony Orchestra since 2004 and frequently performs with the NZSO and Orchestra Wellington. In the jazz world, he’s known for his leadership and collaboration, having played in and directed numerous ensembles over the past two decades. He has led the Dunedin City Jazz Orchestra’s saxophone section for ten years and now continues the legacy of founder Calder Prescott in directing the band.
The Dunedin City Jazz Orchestra is a vibrant 18-piece big band featuring saxophones, trumpets, trombones, and a full rhythm section. Founded by Calder Prescott in 1989, the DCJO provides a platform for both seasoned musicians and emerging talent. The band will feature stunning solos from some of Dunedin’s finest jazz musicians: Mike Gaches and Ralph Miller on trumpet, Peter Claman on trombone, Eliot Tay on tenor saxophone, and director Nick Cornish himself on alto saxophone, each bringing their unique flair to Porter’s unforgettable melodies.
Event Details:
Saturday, 30th of August, 7:30pm Dunedin Jazz Club @ Hanover Hall
Doors open 7:00pm | Set One 7:30pm | Intermission 8:15pm | Set Two 8:30pm | Finish 9:30pm
Tickets:
Adult: $28.75 (incl. GST) | Cash $30
Senior / Unwaged: $23 (incl. GST) | Cash $25 Student: $17.25 (incl. GST) | Cash $20
The Dunedin Jazz Club is supported by the Dunedin City Council and the Otago Community Trust.
Also check out other Music events in Dunedin, Entertainment events in Dunedin.
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