Jocelyn Buchanan, left, and June Evans were awarded life membership to Tauranga Jazz Society. Photo/supplied
Jocelyn Buchanan, left, and June Evans were awarded life membership to Tauranga Jazz Society. Photo/supplied
The Tauranga Jazz Society awarded life membership to two long-term committee members, June Evans and Jocelyn Buchanan, at the annual general meeting of the Tauranga Jazz Society held on July 20.
Both women have been involved in the society since 2002. Mrs Buchanan served as president for two years from2010 to 2011 and also organised the History of Jazz according to Tauranga Exhibition which showcased at Creative Tauranga for the 50th National Jazz Festival.
"I am thrilled to become a life member," says Mrs Buchanan. "It was a privilege to research the history of the festival and find out what had gone on for 50 years including the contribution of the many volunteers. I care about the jazz festival and love being involved as a volunteer each year."
Mrs Evans says she was honoured to receive a life membership. "It's a privilege to receive the award and I feel honoured to have been part of the Jazz Society for the last 13 years. Easter and the festival is always a highlight of my year."
At the annual general meeting, members celebrated the longevity of jazz and its contribution to the thriving music scene in the Bay of Plenty. There were a number of highlights for the Tauranga Jazz Society in 2015 including hosting the 53rd National Jazz Festival at Easter and the increased number of schools and students participating in the National Youth Jazz Competition. Retiring president Darryl Haigh paid tribute to the committee members for their contribution to the success of the 53rd National Jazz Festival held at Easter.
"When I came on as president in late 2011 my concern was the continuity of the festival and quality of the music offered. The festival needed to be sustainable and financially sound. We have delivered a very successful 2015 National Jazz Festival which saw more than 30,000 people attend the Downtown Carnival, 6000 people visit the Jazz Village and we had over 250 students involved in the National Youth Jazz Competitions. The festival is a real showcase for local and national talent and we are very grateful to our volunteers, sponsors, musicians, and the Tauranga community for helping us to make it happen."
Mr Haigh steps down as president and Wayne Melville was elected the new president.
