He has been inspired to write a whole bunch of new compositions after his last holiday with his wife. The tunes will be based on the Indonesian way of life, traditional music, and family, where Wayne spent most of his holiday.

This show will feature the debut of Kelly’s new compositions which will be interpreted in The Wayne Kelly Trio way. Also expect some of the trio’s own favorite original tunes from the past. Wayne will be joined by his colleagues and good friends of the past 25 years, Ben O’Loghlin (double bass) and Mark Sutton (drums), world class musicians.

“I had this trio in mind when I penned these new compositions, I was imagining Ben and Mark’s musical contribution to help me navigate through these new creations. Once I arrive back in Canberra, we have been rehearsing to make these tunes come alive. We are excited and looking forward to performing at Smith’s as part of Geoff’s Jazz at Smith’s.“

Bio:

Wayne Kelly has received a Canberra Critics’ Circle Award in 2021 for leading his jazz trio with Brendan Clarke and Andrew Dickeson in a performance of Thelonious Monk’s music and his personal originals at The Street Theatre.

Wayne Kelly has been a professional musician for over 35 years. He has played/recorded with international jazz stars including Wynton Marsalis, Rodney Whitaker, Roy Hargrove, Walter Blanding, Marcus Printup, Eric Alexander, Andrew Gander, Dale Barlow, James Morrison and Don Burrows to name a few. Wayne is a well-respected and highly experienced performer. He for 9 years and still going strong has a residency at the iconic cafe, bar, and restaurant Tilley’s in Canberra. He also teaches at ANU jazz and contemporary piano.

The 12 original compositions written by Wayne for his trio titled ‘In my quiet hour” was released in 2005. Wayne also recorded his solo piano arrangements of the music of Duke Ellington titled “Wayne Plays the Duke” released in 2017. As a side man Wayne has played on numerous albums.

Mark Sutton has been on the Canberra jazz scene for over 35 years, and has played with hundreds of musicians locally, nationally, and internationally. He also has been on the staff at the ANU for over 20 years and has taught students of all instruments how to play music. Mark sees the Wayne Kelly Trio as his ultimate musical experience, friends who have been through more than just music, make the best music!

Ben O’Loghlin studied in New York with Rufus Reid, and has appeared with Wynton Marsalis, Randy Brecker, Dale Barlow and others. He plays bebop to modern jazz, Balkan & Bulgarian folk music.

Wayne Kelly Trio :

Wayne Kelly – Piano/leader
Mark Sutton – Drums
Ben O’Loghlin – Double Bass