Jazz Talk

Brandee Younger (USA) Proudly supported by PBS 106.7FM. Hear from pioneering jazz harpist, Brandee Younger in this artist talk, facilitated by Mike Gurrieri. Sonically innovative harpist, Brandee Younger, is revolutionising the instrument for the modern era—working relentlessly to stretch boundaries and limitations for harpists.From collaborating with cultural icons including Pharaoh Sanders, Ms. Lauryn Hill, Drake, Robert Glasper, Charlie Haden, Makaya McCraven and The Roots, to making history as the first Black woman to be nominated for a GRAMMY Award for Best Instrumental Composition, Younger is consistently recognised as the premier harpist of her generation.Join this pioneering jazz harpist as she reflects on her career, creative process and the future of her instrument.Facilitator: Mike Gurrieri

In the latest episode of our Jazz Talk podcast, celebrated UK trio GoGo Penguin sits down with facilitator Owen McKern in an intimate conversation about band dynamics, creative processes, the Manchester music scene, and inspirations for their exhilarating latest album, Everything Is Going to Be OK.This episode was recorded live at the 2023 Melbourne International Jazz Festival as part of our Close Encounters series of free events, following GoGo Penguin's debut Australian show.

The latest episode of our Jazz Talks podcast features artist and curator Zii Nzira with multi-award-winning guitarist, composer, singer, songwriter and bandleader Sylent Nqo. The two discuss the historical and cultural influences that have shaped jazz and contemporary music, finishing with a beautiful demonstration of Sylent's practice—and the healing power of music. This episode continues our Beyond Words series in collaboration with Multicultural Arts Victoria, recorded at The Channel and supported by Arts Centre Melbourne as part of the 2023 Melbourne International Jazz Festival.

Immerse yourself in an enriching artist talk featuring two distinguished musicians and collaborators at the vanguard of modern jazz: Makaya McCraven and Marquis Hill. Makaya McCraven is renowned for his groundbreaking fusion of jazz, hip-hop, and electronic elements, pushing the boundaries of post-genre, jazz-rooted 21st century music. According to the New York Times, “McCraven has quietly become one of the best arguments for jazz’s vitality”. With numerous critically acclaimed albums and collaborations with the likes of Jeff Parker, Willie Pickens, Nubya Garcia, Shabaka Hutchings and Brandee Younger, McCraven is an artist at the top of his game. Internationally renowned musician, composer and bandleader, Marquis Hill has worked tirelessly to break down the barriers that divide musical genres. Contemporary and classic jazz, hip-hop, R&B, Chicago house, neo-soul—to Hill, they’re all essential elements of the profound African-American creative heritage he’s a part of. Hill’s mission to bring styles together, complemented by his absolute mastery of his instrument, is a through line connecting his many achievements, including winning the prestigious Thelonious Monk International Trumpet Competition in 2014. Hear these two fascinating musicians share their perspectives on pushing artistic boundaries, their creative journeys, and shaping the future of contemporary jazz. Facilitator: Samira Farah

People who work in music experience much higher rates of depression, anxiety and addiction than the general Australian population. But why is this the case and how can the jazz community work together to change the narrative? Presented in partnership with Support Act, hear from mental health experts and artists as they unpack the state of jazz musicians mental health in 2022. Facilitated by Sosefina Fuamoli. Featuring Carly Dober, Kush Abadey, and Holly Norman.

Hear from acclaimed Melbourne bassist Christopher Hale and Korean percussionist Minyoung Woo as they discuss their myriad influences and approach to cross-cultural collaboration. Facilitated by Owen McKern. Translated/interpreted by Chloe Kim.

Following a vital discussion as part of Melbourne International Jazz Festival 2021, examining the historical and cultural influences that have shaped modern jazz, blues, Latin jazz and more, Beyond Words is back this MIJF for round 2. Facilitated by artist, curator and Multicultural Arts Victoria Co-CEO Zii Nzira, hear from panellists NIASHA, Craig Calhoun and Danny Atlaw as they dive into a lively discussion exploring the connection between Eastern, Southern and American Jazz.

Al Di Meola sits firmly among the greatest guitarists of our time, with a celebrated international career spanning almost five decades and numerous prestigious accolades under his belt. In conversation with Saul Zavarce, Di Meola talks music, his extensive career, and legendary jazz figures from his life.