Rick Freeman – Piano
Rick is at home swinging hard, playing Latin, the blues or in contemporary and cross over styles plus originals and has a range of influences both jazz and classical. Bach, Fauré, Marie Schneider, Horace Silver plus local inspirations abound in his style. He has had residencies over the years both in Melbourne and overseas. He led the very popular jazz and blues sextet called The ‘Game Of Tones’ and the ‘Casa Latina Quartet”. Rick was pianist in residence at the Eco Brick Yard Retreat in Mutianyu for 5 years and played sax in the End of The World Original Punk Ska band. He is a former Director of Music at Blackburn High School, having directed jazz ensembles there and at Balwyn High School. He is the accompanist at De La Salle College and teaches piano and clarinet, and is accompanist for the Athenaeum Choir, directed by Bill Simmonds.
Amethyst Page - Vocalist
She is a vocalist and songwriter with a soulful sound drawn from a variety of influences including jazz, RnB, folk and rock. Following her studies in Jazz and Improv at the VCA under the guidance of respected musicians such as Nina Ferro and Barney McAll, whose first album 'Emerald Hands' includes her first feature "Scatterbrain", Amethyst quietly continues her education, constantly exploring and experimenting with her voice. She is presently in the process of crafting her debut album, where an eclectic tapestry of pieces will come together. Amethsyt spends her time as vocal mentor and primary instrument teacher throughout Melbourne and the Macedon Ranges.
Tim Rex - Double Bass
Tim is one of Melbourne’s most popular bass players and has recorded in recent times with Tony Gould and many other jazz dignitaries. Corporate work including with the Baker Boys keeps him busy. Also,a very competent trombonist, which was his first instrument. He is Head of Music at Bentleigh Secondary College. Tim is a fearless player who combines exceptional talent and good humour.
Rob Mercer - Drums
Rob is a freelance drummer and high school music educator of the highest calibre, based in Melbourne. A graduate of Monash University who has studied under some of the best Australian International educators and performers.
Rob and Tim both graduated from the Generations In Jazz Academy Big Band and have a special connection evident in their wonderfully combined talents. Rob too gives any ensemble a huge lift. This bass drums “engine room” combo is a killer. Enjoy!
Exempt
Rick Freeman, Amethyst Page, Tim Rex, Rob Mercer