ABI LEE’S Beyond, Below, and Above

Beyond, Below, and Above is an improvising trio of Abi Lee (piano), Julien Wilson (saxophone), and Dylan van der Schyff (drums/percussion). Curated by Lee, their self-titled album is part of Lee’s ongoing research in structured improvisation. This unique collaboration between internationally established improvisers across Canada, Korea/NZ, and Australia is one of the most exciting collaborations in Naarm. Van der Schyff’s delicate conversational approach, Wilson’s uplifting sound, and Lee’s bold and narrative way of improvising bring surprises in the trio’s performances as they effortlessly weave in and out of free improvisation. Lee’s cultivating way of storytelling shows her influences from Ornette Coleman, Kris Davis, and Tim Berne. 

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.