Jazz Alley is an amalgamation of some of the best traditional jazz players on the South Coast bringing together a toe tapping and driving sound. The music is from the early years of jazz when the streets of New Orleans were jumping with the sounds of hot jazz . This was a new sound in the early 1900’s which was greatly influenced by names such as Bix Beiderbecke, Louis Armstrong, Kid Ory to name a few . You are guaranteed a great evening's entertainment with this band as they keep the jazz tradition alive and well for 2018.

We have had the pleasure of hearing Bev Long on banjo and vocals several times and look forward to doing so again this evening. Bev started her passion with the banjo as a child  after a brief introduction , but it wasn’t until her early 30’s that she officially took it up.   Bev kept up her playing while running a very busy dance and performing arts studio as well as raising her family. She dabbled in bluegrass for a while, but after moving to the South Coast around ten years ago and meeting many jazz muso's in the area, got back to playing trad. Bev is ever enthusiastic about playing trad-style, and also plays ukulele. A highlight of course of any evening with Bev is when she puts on a display of tap dancing.

Bob Porter on reeds is, of course, well known to the area and it is good to see him back in fine form after his recent bout of ill health. He was a founder member of the Down South Jazz Band and the Down South Jazz Club, is an expert clarinet and saxophone player and has been a leading light in keeping jazz music alive on the south coast. Bob leads several bands with different jazz styles and has played in bands such as the Down South Jazz Band, with Madam Pat Thompson and many visiting musicians.

John Cursley from Dignams Creek was a member of the original Down South Jazz Band in 1978.  When the Down South Jazz Club was formed in 1984 John was the inaugural President, a position he held for one year, and for a further four years was Musical Co-ordinator for the Club. He is a very accomplished drummer and complements the band extremely well.

It will be the first time Andrew Ford has played for the Down South Jazz club and we look forward to hearing him.  Another first for the club will be to hear Stew Long on tea chest bass, so it will be a very interesting and entertaining evening with much to look forward to.

Cost is $15 for jazz club members and $20 for visitors with music commencing at 7.30 pm.  Bookings can be made with Aileen/Kevin Walsh (64959853), at  bookings@downsouthjazzclub.org.au , or will be available on the night at the door. The Club Sapphire bistro opens at 6.00 pm with its extensive menu if you would like a meal before the show.