"Our is philosophy is to promote and serve jazz in Tauranga, and the love of jazz," Jocelyn says.
She says the society has paired up with the Mauao Performing Arts Centre in an effort to inject some younger blood into its membership.
"It's lovely because they have a variety of music, but they also have jazz and during the festival that's where the Hurricane parties are... There are all sorts of initiatives to encourage a younger crowd.
"We want more people being members so there's just a new energy to the group," Jocelyn says.
While the National Jazz Festival is the society's main focus, there are other opportunities to gather each year, such as the Soweto Gospel Choir's performance this week.
Membership gives you discounts on festival tickets, as well as other jazz gigs throughout the year.
The society sends out newsletters, special National Jazz Festival updates and promotions, and members are also invited to the festival launch and other exclusive events.
It costs $20 annually for a single membership, or $30 for a double. If you're a jazz regular, or even if you just want to attend several gigs throughout the Festival, your membership will be well worthwhile.
Memberships are valid from October 1 through to September 30, so there will be plenty to keep you all jazzed up outside of the Festival acts as well.
The Soweto Gospel Choir concert will be dedicated to Nelson Mandela and song selection will include some of Mandela's favourite hymns and a selection of freedom songs in honour of his memory.
Members of the Tauranga Jazz Society can purchase tickets to see the choir for a discounted price of $65 (normally $75).
- To become a Jazz Society member, check out www.jazz.org.nz.
To book tickets to Soweto Gospel Choir, ring Baycourt on 07 577 7188, or email baycourtboxoffice@tauranga.govt.nz
