The jazz tones of international performer Gregg Arthur will be music to the ears of Highlanders.
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The Sydney-based jazz singer and songwriter will perform at the Empire Cinema on August 19.
The show ‘In A Sentimental Mood’ ties in with the release of Arthur’s new album of the same name. It will feature tunes by Duke Ellington, Cole Porter and Michel Legrand.
But the Highlands performance means much more to the talented artist than simply sharing the release of a new album.
“I love the Highlands, from Bundanoon to Moss Vale, Bowral to Berrima. I’ve spent many weekends away from Sydney in the vineyards, the Briars for a Guinness, and have dear friends that live up there,” he said.
Arthur said that while it is not the first time he has performed in the Highlands it has been a long time between local sets. “I have just returned from 10 days in Japan, and this will be my first Australian show since getting back,” he said.
He is confident the show will have broad appeal.
“The biggest compliment I get from people around the world is ‘I don’t like jazz, but I love your show’ ha ha! It happens all the time,” he said
“It’s that thing where almost everyone loves Nat King Cole and Tony Bennett, but what they like is the voice, and the wonderful story telling you get from the songs.”
Arthur adds that these are the artists who have most influenced his style.
“Definitely Tony Bennett, who has been kind enough to say he likes what I do as well. I have a lovely hand written letter from him. I also listen to a lot of instrumentalists like Stan Getz and Miles Davis,” he said.
And as far as he is concerned the Empire Cinemas is a great venue to share his jazz passion.
“Tony Trapnel and all the team at Empire have always supported live music, it’s a great place to do a show, and now that they have started Sunday afternoon concerts I wanted to be the first to help them kick it off,” he said
The entertainment value of the concert will be ensured with Arthur supported by a talented mix of carefully selected musicians. “I am performing with the great pianist Peter Locke, legendary bass player Craig Scott, Saxophone master Michael Avgenicos and Tim Geldens is brilliant on drums,” he said.
When the show is over Arthur hopes the people in the audience will come and say hello to himself and the band. “We really enjoy meeting everyone that comes to our performances,” he said.
Arthur will perform at the Empire Cinemas from 4pm on August 19. Tickets are now available at the cinema box office and cost $25. Details: 4861 4676 or boxoffice@empirecinema.com.au