Jazz In the Neighbourhood

By pianist Kelvin Haisman

In the Neighbourhood is a quarterly series of local Jazz, Soul and Latin concerts being presented at Thirroul library’s Excelsior Hall by myself and my partner, artist Naomi Ullmann.

Each concert features a different guest vocalist backed by the Accidental Quartet comprising Jeremy Sawkins on guitar, Hugh Fraser on bass, Troy Lever on drums, myself on piano.

The motivation for presenting acoustic music at Excelsior Hall was triggered both by my discovery (shortly after moving to the area) that the Thirroul library possessed a 1902 Steinway baby grand piano in great condition and by the realisation that the Illawarra region is home to an increasing number of professional musicians whose performing lives remain centred in Sydney and beyond.

The inaugural In the Neighbourhood was held in June 2021 and featured well-known vocalist Trish Delaney-Brown. It was a resounding success and sold out. Then Covid lockdown hit.

In the Neighbourhood #2, held in February 2022 featured the same line-up and was very successful.

The Accidental Quartet’s members all live locally and bring a wealth of performing experience with them. The concert format and intimate staging within the space allows the group to present new repertoire and to “stretch” musically.

Our aim with In the Neighbourhood is to present improvised music of a high standard to the local community. The audience response has been fantastic. This support enables the musicians to be paid properly for their work, which is wonderful.

In the Neighbourhood #3 is on Sunday, 1 May, 5-7.30pm and will feature renowned jazz and soul vocalist, Pat Powell. Tickets through Humanitix.