Thredbo is best known for its skiing in winter and walking and hiking in summer (along with the wildflowers) but for the past 30 years in the ‘in between’ autumn period it has hosted a wonderful jazz festival which draws aficionados from around the country.
Actually Thredbo Jazz is turning 30 this year and from 28-30 April the festival is set to be one to remember with a big celebration of the best in Australian Jazz and Roots Music on the rooftop of Australia. This year’s line-up of 17 different groups is outstanding and is sure to delight lovers of all jazz genres, with everyone swinging to the jazz beat.
Old favourites like the legendary Bob Barnard are back with the Barnard Family Jazz Band while the youthful energy and prodigious talent of the Kirrawee High School Band is also returning.
Lisa Hunt and Forever Soul will make a debut appearance with Lisa’s extraordinary voice setting the soul free for some late night partying. Chukale, a Latin big band will also set the toes tapping. For lovers of modern improvisation, the Matt McMahon Trio will weave their spontaneous spell.
A number of new groups will strut the stage for the first time. Traditional jazz fans will love the Thredbo debut of the Unity Hall Jazz Band along with Mikelangelo and the Black Sea Gentleman who will bring their Baltic bravado and good times to town. A must see is Gregg Arthur who is reviving Nat King Cole and the dinner suit.
Thredbo regulars George Washingmachine Trio, Liza Ohlback, and Lionel Robinson are sure to wow the crowds. Other performers listed to appear are Todd Hardy with Anita Spring, Di Bird & Steve Bryan, Cassy Greaves, Hieronymous Trio, The Pocket Trio, Anna-Lise, and George’s Jam Session.
One of the joys of Thredbo Jazz is that all bands playing in a variety of venues from the village to the top of the mountain, so festival goers can catch performers in different settings across the weekend. Once you arrive, forget about your car and enjoy the fresh mountain air and jazz tunes on foot. The combination of concert, intimate and poolside venues showcasing artists at their best will create a party not to be missed.
There is an accommodation option to suit everyone in Thredbo with all-inclusive festival and accommodation packages starting from $160 per person per night and Early Bird weekend festival passes are only $129 and full priced weekend festival passes are $159.
For the full festival line-up of artists, program, accommodation and ticket prices visit thredbojazz.com.au or call Thredbo Resort Centre on 1300 020 589.