Rotorua Jazz Club: The Mike Walker Trio

The Rotorua Jazz Club guarantees people will be more than tapping their toes on Sunday.

Publicity officer John Pinfold said both guest artists, The Mike Walker Trio and the 18-piece Rotorua Symphonic Band, would get the punters up and dancing. He said over the past two or three years dancing was becoming more popular.

"We're of the age where dancing was compulsory at school, so everybody knew how to do dances like the Gay Gordon."

This month the jazz event will have local talent the Rotorua Symphonic Band, who usually play big band music, opening the evening.

"They play the smooth big sound of jazz groups like The Glenn Miller Band from World War II. They are keen to showcase their talents and are looking for an appreciative audience. "

Mr Pinfold is excited the club has the Mike Walker Trio, who are first timers to the club. Walker is a New Zealand jazz icon and has spent years as a session musician and played with well-known New Zealand bands including Tommy Adderley's Head Band and Herbs.

He has had extensive overseas experience at places such as London and worked on cruise ships for many years. Walker on keyboards combines with Pete McGregor on acoustic bass and Bruce King on drums.

They will be joined during their performance by Roger Mannins on sax and vocalist Jane Horder, who Mr Pinfold said were both experienced musicians.

"This will be a great night with an excellent pianist."

The Rotorua Jazz Club event will be in the Arawa Lounge at the Rotorua Racecourse on Fenton St from 4pm to 8pm. Entry is $15, $8 for members and $5 for students.For more information, call John Pinfold on (07) 347 4151.