Inaugural Sunday Jazz

The Warragul Country Club recently staged its inaugural Sunday afternoon of “Dixieland Jazz” in the members’ lounge.

The afternoon attracted an audience in excess of 100 people who enjoyed three entertaining hours of jazz music.

The function was initiated by the Victorian Jazz Club of Melbourne and the band was led by popular Warragul musician Ian Christensen. The “Gippsland Dixielanders” presented a wide range of popular standards with musicians including trumpeter Barry Hanley from Stratford, drummer Bill Horley from Moe, pianist Col Wilson from Sale, Alex Wilson from Traralgon, and trombonist Don Stanton from Korumburra.

The Victorian Jazz Club began in Melbourne in 1968 and now boasts over 400 members. It is embarking on its 50th birthday celebration year by promoting live jazz music in regional Victoria for both musicians and lovers of the jazz genre.

Representatives of the VJC who initiated the Warragul event said they were delighted with much foot tapping and a sea of happy smiling faces thoroughly enjoying the marvellous ambience of both the venue and the rhythm.

The enthusiasm shown by those in attendance suggests that a monthly event could be anticipated in the future. Dates and times will be listed on the Victorian Jazz Club website.