Sydney Conservatorium Big Band

The Sydney Conservatorium Jazz Orchestra 1 (CJO1) is the flagship big band of the Sydney Conservatorium of Music’s Jazz Studies program. Directed by David Theak, it features leading emerging jazz musicians from one of Australia’s oldest and most respected tertiary jazz courses.

Image by Grant Leslie Photography

Soul Station special guest Blaine Whittaker (Hong Kong)

Soul Station is a soulful, grooving band led by Andrew Dickeson and Dan Barnett. For this special performance their regular line up of trombone, drums, guitar and organ will have the added excitement of Blaine Whittaker and Brad Child on saxophone and James Sarno on trumpet.

Celebrating Miles and Trane

2026 marks the 100th anniversary of the birth of 2 iconic jazz legends - Miles Davis and John Coltrane. Drummer/Bandleader Andrew Dickeson and his all-star group will celebrate the music of these musical giants. Featuring Simon Ferenci (trumpet), Justin Yeo (saxophone), Hugh Barrett (piano) and Jacob Graham (bass).

Monica and The Moochers

Monica and the Moochers brings together Monica Trapaga and some of Sydney's finest jazz musicians for a celebration of the swing era. With soaring brass, rich harmonies and Monica's signature warmth and wit, this big band delivers classic jazz that is full of energy, style and heart. 

From smoky ballads to toe-tapping swing classics, the repertoire pays tribute to the great big bands and legendary jazz vocalists that have shaped the genre. Having spent more than 3 decades entertaining Australian audiences, Monica brings an authenticity to every performance that can only come from a genuine love of jazz. Relaxed, charismatic and backed by an exceptional band, Monica and the Moochers is a joyful concert experience that leaves audiences smiling.

Back to Back The Band

Back to Back is one of the funkiest jazz-fusion outfits on the Australian music scene, returning to the stage under the direction of Sydney trumpeter Ralph Pyl, Musical Director of the acclaimed Sydney All Star Big Band. Originally formed in the mid-1990s, the band built a reputation performing at major live venues and on national television before taking an extended hiatus. Following a successful reunion performance at Manly Jazz 2018, Back to Back returns in 2026 with exciting new repertoire and a fresh contemporary sound.

Drawing inspiration from legendary artists including the Brecker Brothers, Dave Sanborn and Dave Weckl, the band's music delivers a high-energy blend of jazz, funk and fusion, combining world-class musicianship with infectious grooves.

Ralph Pyl (trumpet) is joined by an outstanding line-up featuring Craig Walters (saxophone), Joel Jenkins (keyboards), Rex Goh and David Holmes (guitars), Mark Costa (bass), Andrew Gander (drums), Fabian Hevia (percussion), Nic Jeffries (vocals) and very special guest Blaine Whittaker (saxophone).

Cameron Jones Trio

Cameron Jones is a Sydney-based guitarist, composer, educator and festival director specialising in authentic manouche jazz and French swing music. Having studied with leading European masters and members of Django Reinhardt’s family, he brings rare authenticity and spontaneity to every performance. Jones is Creative Director of the OzManouche Festival and has performed alongside renowned Australian and international artists.

Lachlan McKenzie Quintet

Lachlan McKenzie is an award-winning musician who has gained recognition both nationally and internationally for his formidable abilities as a jazz trumpeter and composer. Born and bred in Brisbane but Sydney-based since 2021, Lachlan has performed and record with various well-known artists over the years.

In 2023, Lachlan toured his quartet to Osaka, Japan to perform at the 25th annual Takatsuki Jazz Street Festival, and over the last 2 years has also performed at leading jazz clubs in Seoul, South Korea and Bangkok, Thailand.

In 2025 Lachlan released and toured his sophomore album Departures which received an ARIA nomination for the Best Jazz Album. The same year, Lachlan won first place in the prestigious National Jazz Award, held at the Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues.

Lachlan’s Quintet features some of Sydney’s finest musicians - Justin Yeo (tenor saxophone), Hugh Barrett (piano), Jacob Graham (double bass) and Alex Young (drums & cymbals).

more

Eamon Dilworth's Crawfish Po'Boys with Monica Trapaga  

It’s “social music” - Eamon Dilworth’s Crawfish Po’Boys brings people together. Inspired by the musical melting pot of the music of New Orleans, the shows are all about breaking down the fourth wall and inviting the audience to participate both in song and dance. 

There’s hints of blues, jazz and soul with the odd tip of the hat to Dr John and Preservation Hall. It’s an all-inclusive affair bound to leave you smiling a little bigger than when you walked in. 

Dilworth is well-known as a formidable trumpeter and built his career as a performer, recording artist and arranger of music in a multitude of other genres. He has extensively toured with Ed Kuepper/The Aints, Tijuana Cartel, Caravana Sun and Hot Potato Band as well as performed with Ásgeir, Guy Sebastian, Jessica Mauboy and Nigel Kennedy among others. 

more

Ruby Jackson 

Sydney born vocalist and composer Ruby Jackson is a master musical storyteller. Drawing from the likes of Billie Holiday and Nat King Cole, Ruby forms a timeless bond with her audiences, taking the listener on a love affair journey through the revered jazz song world. Jackson has quickly earned a reputation for writing beyond her years and creating moments of magic on stage. 

Joining Ruby is Jonathan Zwartz (bass), Andrew Scott (keys), Abby Constable (drums) and Yannick Koffi (guitar).

more

343 Brass Band 

Music that makes you smile! Whether on stage or roving, 343 Brass Band plays energetic jazz and girl-power pop in a New Orleans-inspired style that is guaranteed to get you grooving! In addition to their exhilarating stage shows, 343 Brass Band are known for joyful performances in their signature purple t-shirts at street parties and festivals all across NSW. 343 has appeared on ABC TV and Channel Nine, and at the following festivals: Marrickville Music, Secret Garden, Manly Jazz, GABS and Sydney International Women’s Jazz Festival. Bring your dancing shoes and rowdiest singing voices and get ready to party, 343-style! 

Image by April Josie

Geoff Power Jazz Band

Geoff Power is one of Australia’s finest traditional jazz musicians, having played with musicians of the calibre of Bob Barnard, Tom Baker, James Morrison, Don Burrows, Paul Furniss, The New Wolverine Jazz Orchestra, The Café Society Orchestra and many others. He has appeared as a featured soloist at festivals and jazz clubs throughout Australia, Europe and the USA. His debut CD Aspects Of Power was nominated for an ARIA in 2000 under the Best Jazz Album category. His band, Geoff Power’s Classic Jazz, appeared at the Bix Beiderbecke Memorial Jazz Festival in Davenport, Iowa, Bix’s birthplace, in July 2005.

Geoff is also greatly interested in jazz education and has many years’ experience working with school jazz bands and musicians.

The Geoff Power Jazz Band is one of Sydney’s busiest jazz bands, playing regularly at the Freeway Hotel in Artarmon and for jazz festivals and clubs around Australia. The band plays traditional and swing era jazz, and is a great favorite in the swing dance community.

The All-Star Swing Quintet

What a band! The stars of swinging mainstream jazz unite for this one-off Manly Jazz performance. Brad Child, Andrew Dickeson and Dan Barnett will be putting their magic touch to some classic jazz standards, blues and soulful ballads. They will be joined by Hugh Barret (piano) and Jacob Graham (bass).

St Pius X College Senior Jazz Band

St Pius X College has a long and proud history of excellence in instrumental music, with a band program at least 60 years old.

The Senior Jazz Band is one of Sydney’s finest school jazz ensembles, with great contest success and appearances at Manly Jazz over the years. Many professional jazz musicians, such as Kevin Hunt, Steve Fitzmaurice, Michael Harrison, Graham Hunt, Thomas Hamilton and Nic Jeffries have come through the ranks of the Senior Jazz Band. In June 2023 Senior Jazz gained 1st place in the Sydney Eisteddfod Premium Stage Bands event.

NSW Public Schools Stage Band

Hosted in Lewisham by The Arts Unit, the NSW Public Schools Stage Band brings together auditioned students from Years 5–12. Guided by professional tutors and conductors, these talented young musicians are nurtured and challenged, learning an exciting repertoire of swing standards and contemporary favourites.

NSW Public Schools Jazz Orchestra

Hosted in Lewisham by The Arts Unit, the NSW Public Schools Jazz Orchestra brings together auditioned students from Years 7–12. Guided by professional tutors and conductors, this premier ensemble performs high-energy swing, bebop and Latin jazz, showcasing the state's finest young musicians.

Pennant Hills High School Big Band

The Pennant Hills High School Big Band is the premier jazz ensemble of the school’s Music Ensembles Program, which involves over 200 students across 6 groups, including 2 concert bands, 2 jazz bands, a string ensemble and a choir. Since 2001, the Big Band has regularly received a gold or diamond award at the Yamaha Music Festival and the Australian School Band and Orchestra Festival. The ensemble has represented the school at notable events including performances at the Sydney Opera House and Town Hall as part of the Department of Education Instrumental Festivals. A highlight came in 2022, when the band collaborated with renowned saxophonist and composer Dr Sandy Evans on an original commissioned piece, Driving with Sisu, made possible through a Department of Education Arts Recovery Grant. Beyond competition and formal events, the Big Band is an active performer in the wider community, with appearances at Manly Jazz and performances with local primary schools.

Pittwater House Big Band

The Pittwater House School has a tradition of excellence in instrumental music, nurturing talented young musicians through a vibrant and inspiring music program. The Pittwater House Big Band brings together students from Years 7–12 who explore the rich traditions of jazz, performing a repertoire that ranges from timeless jazz standards to contemporary works.

Under the direction of acclaimed jazz musician and educator Todd Hardy, the ensemble has earned a reputation for musical excellence, proudly representing the school at concerts, community events, festivals and ceremonial occasions. Performing at Manly Jazz is a highlight of the band's performance calendar and the students are thrilled to share their passion, energy, and musicianship with audiences.

Mosman High Jazz Ensemble

The Mosman High Jazz Ensemble is a talented group of student musicians who showcase their passion for jazz through performances. The ensemble performs a diverse repertoire that includes classic jazz standards, contemporary pieces and improvisation. The ensemble is a valued part of the Mosman High music program, entertaining audiences and representing the school with pride, professionalism and enthusiasm.

Led by educator and professional jazz musician, Mitch Williamson, the group is excited to be performing at Manly Jazz 2026.

Newtown High School of Performing Arts Jazz Orchestra 

The Newtown High School of the Performing Arts Jazz Orchestra has performed to acclaim throughout the Sydney region over recent years. They have been featured in concerts at the Sydney Opera House, Seymour Centre, Sydney Town Hall, and have earned accolades in the highest divisions of the City of Sydney Eisteddfod, the Sydney Schools’ Jazz Festvial and the Australian School Band & Orchestra Festival.  

The Ensemble performs regularly at Sydney’s Lazybones Lounge, Camelot Lounge, The Sydney Conservatorium of Music The International Essentially Ellington Festival (run by Jazz at the Lincoln Centre), Manly Jazz and have performed with the likes of international jazz artists Bert Joris and James Morrison. 

Directed since 2012 by Jason Isaac, the Jazz Orchestra comprises students from year 8 through 12 who are selected on merit after auditioning each February and have gained a reputation as one of the hottest school aged jazz ensembles in the country. 

St Augustine's College Big Band 1

St Augustine’s College Big Band 1 is the College’s premier jazz ensemble, bringing together its most accomplished and passionate musicians under the dynamic direction of Jack Stoneham. Renowned for their energy and precision, the band delivers a compelling mix of classic jazz standards and modern hits. Regular performers at major school and community events, including Saints Swing, the Sydney Eisteddfod, Lazy Bones Jazz Club, and the Australian School Band and Orchestra Festival, Big Band 1 proudly represents the spirit, talent and musical excellence of St Augustine’s College.

Horns Plus Big Band

Horns Plus is a classic 19-piece big band showcasing a range of styles. With 14 appearances at Manly Jazz, the band is currently directed by US-born trumpeter Bob Coassin, but for this year’s Manly Jazz will be led by big band legend Ed Wilson. Featuring will be vocalist Libby Hayes who has enjoyed a 40-year performance career.

more

Dr. V's Swing Thing

Formed in 2001 by enigmatic trumpeter Vlad Khusid, Dr V's Swing Thing is a 20-piece jazz big band comprising jazz alumni from Sydney Grammar School. The group has performed concerts at festivals all over Australia performing the entire breadth of the jazz canon including sophisticated new music to classics from the swing era and beyond.

Blue Riff Big Band

Blue Riff Big Band has spent the last few decades playing quality jazz around Sydney. The band plays everything from classic swing charts to new arrangements from some of its talented members. While band members come from all walks of life, they share a passion for making music and a talent for having fun.

Sussudio Big Band

Sussudio Big Band began in 2003 and in performance combines outstanding soloists, incredible vocalists and an energetic, exciting band playing a wide variety of jazz styles from the libraries of Bob Florence, Bob Mintzer, Buddy Rich, Count Basie, Peter Herbolzheimer and more. 

Beachside Big Band

Beachside Big Band is a dynamic group of accomplished jazz musicians from Sydney's Northern Beaches. Core members hail from such iconic ensembles as the original Young Northside Big Band, Brass Machine and Enormous Horns. The band brings together players ranging from high school students through to experienced professional musicians, all united by a passion for big band music and ensuring it remains relevant for the next generations. Their diverse repertoire spans classic and contemporary genres, delighting audiences with top quality performances. Don't miss their performances at venues across the peninsula, including the prestigious Manly Jazz, where they promise an unforgettable experience with both present-day tunes and timeless favourites.

Northside Big Band

The Young Northside Big Band was founded by the late John Speight (founder of Manly Jazz) to give young musicians a chance to experience quality big band jazz at a time when such bands were virtually non-existent in schools or the wider community. This band became a major force in jazz education in Sydney, numbering James Morrison, Dale Barlow, Steve Williams, Trevor Griffin amongst its alumni.

Geoff Power re-formed the band in 2008 as a tribute to John’s pioneering work in jazz education. The members are professional musicians, school band directors, university students and enthusiastic amateurs who live on the Northern Beaches. In recent years, the band has played jazz festivals in Dubbo, Newcastle, Mittagong and the iconic Manly Jazz, and jazz clubs and concerts throughout New South Wales. The band runs a regular concert series at the Forestville RSL, featuring local school jazz ensembles. 

Sydney Youth Jazz Orchestra

Sydney Youth Jazz Orchestra (SYJO), was established in 2012 to provide high-level music training and performing experience for aspiring young jazz musicians. SYJO gives school-aged students the opportunity to play with a group of highly motivated and talented young musicians led by the accomplished Saul Richardson, one of Australia's best jazz educators.

SYJO has a busy performing calendar including regular appearances at jazz festivals such as Manly Jazz and Merimbula Jazz Festival, as well as playing at well-known venues like The Concourse in Chatswood and Lazybones Lounge, and a wide range of Sydney community events.

SYJO’s big band repertoire of serious, dynamic jazz ranging from big-band classics to more contemporary composers is always popular and showcases the talents of these wonderful young musicians.

Sentosa Trio

The Sentosa Trio is a Sydney-based acoustic roving trio who entertains audiences with an eclectic blend of happy music ranging from 1920s jazz classics through to Frank Sinatra classics, Glen Miller, Latin American dance numbers and even some modern tunes played in a postmodern juke box style. The band sings a lot of songs and can walk as they play. The instrumentation is Nigel on accordion and trumpet, Shane on vocals and guitar and Joern on clarinet or saxophone. Come and say “hi” and enjoy some great music.

Kid Hank and his Ockerstra 

Kid Hank and his Ockerstra bring the vibrancy of New Orleans to life. With toe-tapping beats and lively melodies, the Ockerstra transports listeners to the early 20th-century French Quarter.

Image by Patrick OShea

Sax Summit

It’s SAX TO THE MAX! Sax Summit is one of Australia’s most original and dynamic acts. With 4 saxes and percussion, this high-energy, interactive show features bold, virtuosic takes on pop, rock, jazz and classical hits. Since 2010, they’ve wowed crowds at major festivals and events nationwide. Daring, sharp and unforgettable, Sax Summit brings serious spark to every stage.

 The Jitterbug Club (Swing Dancers) 

Get your dance shoes ready to swing with The Jitterbug Club! Known for their fun and high-energy performances, they will bring the excitement of swing dance to Manly Jazz. The Jitterbug Club run weekly classes, social dances with live music and are part of a vibrant Sydney swing dance community who you’ll see around the event. Join the fun, jump up and dance with us!

Learn to swing dance with The Jitterbug Club! Join us on Saturday for a free dance class at the John Speight Stage on The Corso. 
Known for their fun and high-energy performances, The Jitterbug Club run weekly classes, social dances with live music and are part of a vibrant Sydney swing dance community who you’ll see around the event. Join the fun and learn some new moves!