Jan Preston, ‘queen of boogie woogie piano’ and Kiwi expat, is recognised as one of Australia's leading female blues/jazz artists. Jan’s ability lies not only in her exceptional talent as a piano player, singer and songwriter, but also as an entertainer. Her mastery of boogie woogie piano leaves audiences in raptures.

Her show includes a superb rendition of Winifred Atwell's Black and White Rag, along with some quick finger playing covers of Professor Longhair, Fats Domino, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Albert Ammons.

Jan was born in the South Island of NZ, studied classical piano and singing from an early age, and always loved performing live. 

After completing a music degree, she joined the infamous Red Mole Theatre troupe in Wellington, toured NZ with Split Enz, and was musical director for the legendary and enormously popular Red Mole Cabaret shows in Wellington. At this time she was asked by Sam Neil (then a film director) to write music for a documentary he was making, and Jan has been composing for films ever since. 

In the late 1970's she moved briefly to New York where she heard many of the great rhythm & blues piano players. She returned to NZ and formed the rock/reggae band, Coup D'Etat, who's song Doctor I Like Your Medicine was a number one hit, and then moved on to Sydney where she has lived since 1980. 

Jan is a full time composer, songwriter, and piano player, she has won three awards for Best Film Score, and two for Best Australian Female Blues Artist.

To complete the Duo, she is accompanied by her husband Mike Pullman, whose drumming complements her superbly. This very popular Duo has performed on many occasions at Merimbula Jazz Festival, always to a packed house.

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 on 64959853 or bookings@downsouthjazzclub.org.au, or will be available on the night at the door. The Club Sapphire bistro opens at 6.00 pm if you would like a meal before the show.