A musician described as the heart and soul of the Bay of Plenty jazz scene has been awarded a life membership to the Tauranga Jazz Society, after dedicating nearly two decades to the organisation.
Liam Ryan, who is well known for his leadership roles in the National Jazz Festival, was awarded the honorary position at the Tauranga Jazz Society's AGM this week. Other appointments were also announced.
"It is a privilege to be awarded such a position and I feel honoured to have been part of the Jazz Society for the past 18 years," said a surprised Mr Ryan.
"A big thank you must go to all of the wonderful members, past and present, who have contributed to the society. It is certainly a team effort in helping see jazz in Tauranga continue to flourish."
Mr Ryan served as president for three years from 2007, and his roles in the National Jazz Festival include serving as director in 2008 and festival music programme director for several years, as well as performing in the festival with many different groups.