Lauren Kate Henderson album launch (Adel/Melb) + Stella Anning

Opening Support Set – Monash Emerging Artist: Bella Oates

Headline Artists

Set 1 – Lauren Kate Henderson Album Launch
“Curves of the Brave”

Lauren Kate Henderson – vocals
Ciara Ferguson – piano
Sam Anning – bass
Kyrie Anderson – drums

The album “Curves of the Brave” explores themes of resilience, introspection, gratitude, love, family, relationships, vulnerability, and motherhood. Its concept was inspired by a quote from Lauren’s therapist’s office:

“Curves of the Brave” is a metaphorical phrase referring to the graceful, confident lines or contours of someone who is not afraid to take risks or face challenges — suggesting a bold and resilient spirit that adapts to difficult situations while maintaining a strong presence.

Lauren Henderson is an award-winning vocalist, actor, composer, educator, and devoted mother of two. Renowned for her versatility and genre-defying artistry, Lauren moves seamlessly across musical styles. Her dynamic approach has led to collaborations with internationally acclaimed artists including Moonchild, Jazzmeia Horn, Linda May Han Oh, Joe Chindamo, Anna Butterss, Matthew Sheens, James Muller, Gian Slater, Michelle Nicolle, Anita Wardell, Anna Goldsworthy, Robyn Archer, and The Lost and Found Orchestra (creators of STOMP!).

A certified Estill Master Trainer and accomplished stage performer, Lauren holds an Honours Degree in Acting from the Flinders Drama Centre. Her passion for artistic expression and creative empowerment informs both her performance and teaching, as she helps others unlock their potential through the arts.

• Winner – National Jazz Awards (Voice, 2020)
• Nominee – Freedman Jazz Fellowship (2016)
• Semi-Finalist – Thelonious Monk International Jazz Competition (Top 20, 2015)

This album is released through ABC Jazz.

Set 2 – Stella Anning

Stella Anning – vocals/guitar
Selene Messinis – keys
Richard Rose – bass
Kyrie Anderson – drums

Building on her jazz roots, Stella Anning expands her musical horizons by weaving singer-songwriter sensibilities into a captivating blend of jazz, soul, and folk. Her music embodies the rich diversity of Naarm/Melbourne’s vibrant artistic community, combining heartfelt storytelling with immersive soundscapes.

Stella is a Naarm-based guitarist, singer/songwriter, and composer whose genre-crossing sound draws from jazz, neo-soul, and folk traditions. With roots in improvisation, her work explores deeply personal narratives through song, reflecting the evolving cultural landscape of her city. Her influences range from guitarists Bill Frisell and Marc Ribot to songwriter-vocalists Esperanza Spalding, Brittany Howard, and Adrianne Lenker — resulting in music that is both emotive and resonant.

In 2025, Stella completed two East Coast tours and performed at major festivals including the Clarence Jazz Festival and Fusion on Fitzroy St. She is a regular collaborator with John Flanagan, Sal Kimber, ISEULA, and Laura Ingram, and serves as resident guitarist and composer with the Jazzlab Orchestra.

Recent career highlights include a Banff Jazz and Sonic Arts residency under the mentorship of Shabaka Hutchings and Ganavya, a mentorship with Aaron Choulai through the Australian Art Orchestra, and performances at Bluesfest, the National Folk Festival, and the Melbourne International Jazz Festival.

As part of a new generation of jazz artists, Stella’s music continues to evolve alongside her life. Motherhood has opened new creative pathways, inspiring her to embrace songwriting and the expressive power of her own voice — expanding decades of musicianship into a sound that is both grounded and exploratory.

Connect with Stella Anning:
Instagram |
Facebook |
Bandcamp |
Website