Sydney Jazz bands at Newcastle Jazz Festival

Viva the band will be appearing for their third year along with a superb line up of bands and artists such as: Balled Eagle JB, Black Mountain JB, Bruce Mathiske, Bob Henderson, Carol Ralph, David Ridyard Bands, Diannia Heather, Grandiva, Hot Licks, Dungeon 17 Piece Big Band, George Washingmachine, Janet Seidel Trio and Quintet, John Wilson's Dixieland Band, Le Toot Jazz Ensemble, Licorice Allsorts, Paul Furniss' San Francisco JB, Peoria JB, Swingout, Wobbly Boot and that wonderful Scottish entertainer, James Flynn.

Viva the band has worked Internationally and extensively through Australia. The members have performed throughout Sth Vietnam, Thailand, The Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Guam. and Japan. The band represented Australia at the Tainan International Chihsi Arts Festival in Taiwan in 2004. Viva have become very popular at Jazz festivals at: Gold Coast, Morpeth, Newcastle, Manly, Kiama, Illawarra Central Coast and Thredbo. The band is unique at Jazz festivals as it contains a line up of Musette accordion/ Bass , Jazz Violin, Spanish Guitar, Congas, percussion, Drums. The feature vocalist is Gerri Santos who is ably supported by her partner Jose Santos who harmonizes some Spanish and salsa songs. The band produces a distinct continental or “hot club” sound and they delight their audiences wherever they perform with their selection of Gypsy jazz, Swing, Salsa, French, Spanish and Cabaret style songs. They are a band not to be missed. Their web site is www.musicians.net.au (dial up and www.aband.info (broadband) Another event for the weekend is the BLACK & WHITE BALL Dress up in your 20's, 30's, 40's gear or show off your best ball gown.

Dance the night away to non-stop alternating Dungeon Big Band 17 Piece Orchestra and the Black Mountain Jazz Band.

No Bookings...All included in the full weekend ticket.

SUNDAY - GOSPEL AT 9.30 AM WITH CAROL RALPH. backed by Geoff Bull, Paul Furniss, John Bates, Chris Taperell, Don Heap