Jazz in the Arboretum

The Pearl Beach Progress  Association and the Pearl Beach Arboretum are delighted to once again host “Jazz in the Arboretum” this year featuring award-winning vocalist Emma Pask and Ian Cooper one of  Australia’s most exciting violinists.

Australia’s first lady of Jazz, Emma Pask will be joined by virtuoso violinist Ian Cooper – a much-loved regular to our concert series. Together they will pay homage to the music made famous by Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Carmen McRae as well as Stephane Grappelli & Django Reinhardt.

Emma has established herself as one of the country’s favourite voices in jazz.  Her talent was first spotted by multi-instrumentalist, James Morrison during one of his visits to high schools when she was sixteen years old.  Emma has performed internationally to audiences up to 80,000 people.  She makes regular appearances on national television screens and radio.

Despite her achievements and international recognition, Emma retains her natural, refreshing and positive approach to life.   “Whilst it’s fashionable to be a jazz singer these days, Emma Pask is the real thing!” – James Morrison

Ian Cooper is Australia’s most exciting virtuoso violinist.  Ian was awarded a scholarship to the New South Wales Conservatorium of Music at age eight and continued his training for the next ten years.  During this time he also studied the drums and played in numerous high-school bands.

He is a regular attraction at concert venues and festivals throughout Australia, Europe, Japan and New Zealand, and his dynamic and humorous performance draws on many musical styles.  Ian is well known for his high-energy Gypsy, Jazz, Irish and tango performances.

With Emma & Ian are the ‘Swingin’ Jazz Combo’ featuring leading jazz guitarist Jum Pennell, specialising in traditional and swinging jazz,  Matt McMahon awarded winning jazz pianist and composer, Phil Stack a jazz and rock Double Bassist musician and Tim Firth one of Australia’s most in-demand drummers. 

Come early, bring a rug, chairs and picnic, and enjoy this unique experience in beautiful native bushland surroundings.  Proceeds from the concert are used for the maintenance and upkeep of the Pearl Beach Arboretum and the Pearl Beach Memorial Hall.