ANNWEN ROBERTS QUINTET

Annwen Roberts is a young improvising violinist from Lutruwita/Tasmania whose musical roots are in jazz and folk, utilising the timbral and textural qualities of the instrument used in folk and gypsy jazz to create a new lead voice. Studying at the V.C.A. over the last four years, she has combined these influences to create a whirlwind of lyrical and intense improvised music. Her new quintet leans more into melodies and forms derived from Irish folk music, combined with interlocking improvisation and jazz harmony.

She will perform new music from her upcoming release with the band comprised of Alex Siderov (drums) Tristan Meffre (tenor sax), Nick Gregory (guitar). and Claire Aboguelis (bass). This will be the last performance of this music before recording her next release, which is an EP about Annwen’s cat Moocow, who went missing and was recovered. The quintet will also play newer music, and tunes from Roberts’ first release, Sky Omens.

“Roberts’ distinctive compositions create ample space for each contributor to shine through the intricately
layered clouds, both as accompanists and soloists.” – Helen Svoboda

Presented by The Melbourne Jazz Co-operative:

The Melbourne Jazz Co-operative is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to supporting and promoting original live jazz performance by established and emerging artists in Melbourne.

Since 1983 our objectives have been to increase the exposure of contemporary jazz performance by making it accessible to audiences, and to provide award waged performance opportunities for emerging and established artists.

In addition to support derived from member contributions, the MJC is assisted by  the Victorian Government, through Creative Victoria, via its Arts Development Programs. MJC was assisted by the Australian Government through the Australia Council, its arts funding and advisory body from 1983-2017 inclusive, and was delighted to receive Australia Council funding of $60,000 for our 2019 program.

The MJC received $40,000 from the Australia Council over the 2021/2022 Financial Year, and was pleased to received a grant of $75,341 from Creative Australia (with Music Australia contribution) for our 2025 Annual Program.

Our sold-out 40th Anniversary Concert at the Melbourne Recital Centre in May 2023 was supported by a $20,000 grant from Creative Victoria’s Creative Projects program.