Organist Michel Benebig from New Caledonia will play at International Jazz Day, Prince Edward Auditorium on April 30.
Organist Michel Benebig from New Caledonia will play at International Jazz Day, Prince Edward Auditorium on April 30.
One of the world's great Hammond organists whose jazz and blues style can be heard around the world is coming to Whanganui.
Michel Benebig will perform his The Soul – Jazz Experience at International Jazz Day at Wanganui Collegiate's Prince Edward Auditorium next month.
Benebig was born in New Caledoniaand his musical journey started with electric bass, accordion and electronic organ at the age of 11.
But, in his early 20, he studied classical music in France and, after three years tuition, changed from piano to jazz organ, teaching himself blues and jazz techniques.
His career had begun and, following further study, he was awarded the DE (Diplome d'Etat) on the B3 Hammond Organ.
Since then he's been travelling the world playing solo, with groups, teaching and holding regular masterclasses. He's played gigs in Europe, France, Australia, the US, Fiji, Vanuatu and New Zealand.
One of his many highlights was being elected Organist Of The Month in May 2006 by the International Archives for the Jazz-Organ in Germany.
On April 30 he promises "one helluva good time" as he plays funk, blues and swing with the New Zealand School of Music Big Band and a smaller supremo group.
Benebig is being brought to Whanganui by jazz impresario Rodger Fox, who will support him on the trombone and with the big band and group. Fantastic blues stylist Erna Ferry will lend her vocals.
The Soul – Jazz Experience featuring Michel Benebig, Rodger Fox, Erna Ferry, Awa Taonga Puoro with Daniel Waho & Reset at The Prince Edward Auditorium, Wanganui Collegiate on Monday, April 30, at 7pm. Full price $25, Student $10, Jazz Club member $20 - only available at the Royal Wanganui Opera House
