That was Zen, this is now

ACCOMPLISHED Tasmanian jazz pianist Tom Vincent has returned from Japan with a Zen-like focus and is getting his trio back together for two rare performances this weekend.

Vincent, a newly ordained Zen monk, says his passion for music has intensified and he is playing better than ever.

He will be performing at the North Hobart Italian Club tomorrow and Saturday with drummer Alf Jackson and Sam Anning — who Vincent says is the best double-bassist in Australia.

“I’m feeling now, with Sam and Alf, this is the best I’ve ever played in my life,” Vincent said.

The trio play mostly jazz standards with an improvisational twist.

“Most of the audience will know half of the songs I play, but every time we play it’s different because we are truly improvising,’’ he said. “It’s like a party every time.” The three musicians perform entirely acoustically and unplugged.

“The double-bass has no amplification — that’s a really rare thing,’’ Vincent said.

“So when it gets quiet, it’s actually really quiet and because of that there’s a huge dynamic range.”

Although Vincent thinks he may be nearing his musical peak, his Buddhist training in Japan means his performances are about to become a lot rarer.

“I’m not going to record any more and I’m not going to tour any more,’’ he said.

“It’s looking more like I’m playing every six months, so it’s a rare thing.”

Vincent said sharing the stage with Anning was one of the most special things about this weekend’s gigs.

“He’s the best musician I’ve ever played with,” he said.

The Tom Vincent Trio’s performances start at 7.30pm tomorrow and Saturday. Entry is $35, or $60 with a two-course meal.

Bookings are available at