CQUniversity's Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music are jazzing up the neighbourhood

13 May 2021

Mackay's concert calendar will reach a peak this month (14– 21 May) with a series of jazz performances scheduled by CQUniversity's Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music (CQCM) staff and students.

Friday Jazz @ the Con is set to launch the week with a high energy evening of jazz' showcasing the work of the music staff Peter McKenize (saxophone)' David Reaston (guitar) and Jason Smyth-Tomkins (drums) with guests Kerry Armstrong (vocals) and Luke McIntosh (bass).

Music Head of Course' Dr Peter McKenzie explained how the fan favourite has made a comeback due to popular demand.

"Friday Jazz @ the Con is guaranteed to be a fun night out'" he said.

"We love to give back to the community by performing to supportive and appreciative audiences."

For a more relaxing atmosphere' audiences can enjoy also Jazz in the Park at Queens Park on Sunday afternoon from 2pm.

"Jazz in the Park is a return to some of our big community events'" Dr McKenzie said.

"Audiences can enjoy some of the finest up-and-coming musicians studying at the CQCM. Joining in on the fun will also be Mackay's very own Blue Water Big Band."

Rounding out the set of performances is CQCM's annual Big Night In presented by the Bachelor of Music featuring jazz and contemporary ensembles the CQUniversity Little Big Band and guest the swinging sensation' Dan Barnett on trombone and voice!

"Big Night In is an opportunity to showcase the skills and talents of our music students and staff as well as visiting performing artists'" Dr McKenzie explained.

"This concert has something for everyone - from Duke Ellington to the Doobie Brothers."

CQCM Director Professor Judith Brown AM was very proud of this year's concert calendar after COVID-19 dramatically impacted the arts industry in 2020.

"The Conservatorium attempts to host approximately 100 performances each year across the CQUniversity footprint'" she said.

"Supported by the Conservatorium Friends' our events program makes an important contribution to the local community and provides a professional platform for students to perform in public while they are preparing for a career in the performing arts.

May schedule of events:

  • Friday Night Jazz – 14 May' 6pm
  • Jazz in the Park – Sunday 16 May' 2pm
  • Big Night In – Friday 21 May' 7.30pm