Last jazz club night at RSA

Gold Nugget Pawn Shop Band (from left) Daniel Hayles, Lauren Ellis, Daniel Yeabsley, Ben Hunt and Chris Buckland. PICTURE / SUPPLIED

The Wanganui Jazz Club will hold its final club night at the RSA on Sunday, September 2 before moving to the St John's Club in October. The honours for the final meeting go to the sensational Daniel Hayles and his band of exciting young musicians from the vibrant Wellington jazz scene.
Alongside Daniel on electric piano and vocals are Ben Hunt — trumpet, Chris Buckland — saxophone, Daniel Yeabsley — bass, Lauren Ellis — drums.

The band played here a couple of years ago, and when asked what we can expect this time, Daniel said, "We will be playing a selection similar to our last visit, but we'll also add in some very old New Orleans jazz in the style of the Preservation Hall Jazz Band — will be a treat for your audience."

It should be another relaxed and entertaining evening with much spontaneous improvisation. "The band members have been busy taking on projects all over New Zealand and the world, and having babies ... so we haven't played much together. We still love to get together and swing whenever we can!"

The RSA on St Hill St has been home to the jazz club for many years, and we plan to have one last fabulous night there, as is fitting.

Doors open at 5.30 for meals and drinks, with the music from 6.30pm-8.30. Members pay $10. Non-members pay $20. Memberships are available at the door.

Dates for the diary: Our regular club night on Sunday, October 7 will be at the St John's Club where we will welcome back Erna Ferry & the Bongo Club. We are also presenting two performances at Lucky Bar & Kitchen. From New York City, Johnson, Dreyer & Lockett on October 4. From Toronto Canada, Shuffle Demons on October 18.

Jazz is alive and well in Whanganui. Come and hear the music!