Jazz from Down Under

which is why a number of musicians dislike being labelled. The musician can and must be able to perform a wide repertoire ranging from classical to rock and roll.

“Jazz is a musical genre of various components. Its key element is improvisation and is just a form of expression,” states Graeme Blevins, saxophonist. Another member clarifies that though the music emanating is impromptu, it does lead to a musical notation that is written down and keenly practiced.

Indeed the beginnings of jazz are a history of aural tradition passed on from a generation of black musicians in that characteristic soulful and rhythmic style. The members add that they have all grown up in the tradition set by the likes of Duke Ellington, Count Bassie, Ella Fitzgerald and others.

“The beauty of jazz is in its freedom. There has been a change since it first originated as a form of Black expressionism. Today it is a result of African rhythms and Latin American music. This music is constantly changing and absorbing influences,” opines Jamie Oehlers, saxophonist.“As musicians in Western Australia we are not only isolated from the rest of our country but there has been very little interaction with musicians from Europe or America. However some of us have had the opportunity to study or work on projects abroad,” he continues.

“This does not mean that we restrict our styles. We definitely aim to be on par with the musicians in the West. Currently the term Australian Jazz is a vague one, we are yet to develop our identifiable style. That day is not far off,” adds Ben Vanderwal, grinning. So much modesty for an orchestra which has its quota of brilliant musicians, who have played with bands the world over and are recipients of international scholarships. The Perth Jazz Orchestra has nearly 150 concerts to its credit and a number of their own popular compositions.

Speaking of their Indian experience, the music of Pt. Ravi Shankar and Zakir Hussein are appreciated by the group. It is very difficult to borrow influences as every musical tradition requires a long and involved study to do it any justice.

There is a degree of indignation to the step-motherly treatment that jazz incurs, more noticeable during music awards. “Jazz is nominated as a small category, when it is so vast and varied. But these days there is a tendency to make these nominations high profile as a sure sign that jazz audiences today are growing rapidly,” adds Lindsay Timms, who plays the trumpet. The group believes that a reverence for classical music or the popularity of pop, rock and roll do hinder the promotion of jazz. This brings out the issue of commercialisation and the need for marketing.

“Concerts are largely for entertainment,” says Oehlers. This leads to a discrepancy between a performance that satisfies audiences and the musician. Another interesting development is the limited use of vocals.“Jazz started as a vocal expression and soon the instruments began emulating the human voice. These days there is a tendency to cash in on the human voice in popular music,” says Mark Underwood vocalist and trumpeter with the group.

The members admit that it is difficult to make a living as a professional musician. “Music is a big thing in Australia these days. There are courses in schools and colleges, a fact unimaginable a few years back,” says Oehlers. The group insist that the orchestra was established to bring together like-minded musicians and without getting bogged down by categories and definitions they do what they like best `have fun playing together.’