Sydney Conservatorium Big Band

Since the early 70s, the Sydney Conservatorium Jazz Orchestra has produced a who’s who of Australian jazz talent. Made up of saxophones, trombones, trumpets and rhythm section, the CJO features top young improvisers. Led by David Theak, the group performs works by global jazz composers like Maria Schneider and Jim McNeely, showcasing a high standard of artistry that continues to impress audiences nationwide. 

Ten Part Invention

Ten Part Invention, the brainchild of the late John Pochée OAM, is a stunning 10-piece band featuring brilliant soloists, a powerful, dynamic rhythm section and stunning original compositions. From the Chicago Jazz Festival to Jakarta to Manly, the band have been internationally acclaimed for the last 40 years. Don’t miss this colourful, thrilling performance by Australia’s leading jazz musicians. “The premier large ensemble in Australian Jazz – and one of the finest anywhere!” – The Australian.  

The Great Ladies of Jazz ft. Nicki Parrott

Nicki was bassist and vocalist for the legendary Les Paul for over 10 years. As part of the Les Paul Trio, Nicki worked side-by-side with guitar greats from Paul McCartney and Steve Miller to fellow Aussie Tommy Emmanuel.  

In addition, she performed in several Broadway shows and at most of the world's top jazz venues and festivals including The Jazz Cruise and sold-out performances at Birdland and Dizzy’s in NYC.

She has recorded over two dozen vocal records for Venus Records, Arbors Records and Ooroo Records. 

Blue Rhythm Band ft. Brad Child

Drummer Andrew Dickeson's Blue Rhythm Band is beyond a doubt Australia’s most popular swing band.

Featuring Brad Child on sax, Peter Locke on piano and Jacob Graham on bass - this is as good as it gets!  

Drawing upon the  wonderful tradition of Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Benny Goodman, Lionel Hampton, Jimmy Lunceford and others, this band is the “real deal” for swing music.

Craig Calhoun and the Brothers of Oz

From San Francisco to Berlin to Sydney, legendary funk bassist Craig "CC" Calhoun has been "Slappin de Bass" in the face of audiences across the USA, Europe, Australia and Asia expressing himself as lead vocal and bassist of Craig Calhoun and the Brothers of Oz. 

Todd Hardy Swingtet 

The Todd Hardy Swingtet is a 5-piece powerhouse led by Sydney trumpet ace Todd Hardy. With wailing horns and a smoking rhythm section, they deliver swing and hard bop classics from Basie to Lee Morgan, all in bespoke arrangements that balance tight grooves with wild improvisation. 

The Future Today

Drummer/bandleader/educator Andrew Dickeson presents his latest edition of The Future Today - his project showcasing emerging jazz talent.  

He will be joined by vocalist Leah Reinhardt, guitarist Dom Roche and bassist Jacob Graham.  

They guarantee some wonderful swingin’ music to warm your hearts and please your ears.

Friends and Strangers ft. Galileo Risby

Friends and Strangers is a Sydney-based group led by 16-year-old bassist Galileo Risby, featuring top jazz/session musicians Gordon Rytmeister, Ben Hauptmann and Bill Risby. With credits alongside legends like Maria Schneider, Wynton Marsalis and Paul Kelly, they play original Brazilian/funk tunes and jazz fusion classics by artists like Pat Metheny and Dave Grusin. Their groove-heavy sound guarantees you'll be moving in your seat! 

Nic Jeffries Quartet sp. guest Tyler Venter

Vocalist and saxophonist Nic Jeffries brings warmth, soul and connection to the stage. Joined by DownBeat Award-winning guitarist Tyler Venter and a stellar rhythm section, the Nic Jeffries Quintet delivers heartfelt jazz with groove and style. As James Morrison says: “To hear Nic... is to feel good!” Don’t miss this special Manly Jazz set. 

Stratofibre

Master guitarist Guy Strazz brings Stratofibre to Manly Jazz 2025 with inventive takes on Davis, Parker, Desmond, Mingus and Jobim, plus originals from this jazz APRA Award-winner. Joined by Brendan Berlach (sax), Fiona Lugg (bass) and Toby Hall (drums), the band grooves effortlessly through swing, Latin and melodic interplay. A must-see band at this year’s Manly Jazz! 

Boogaloo Biscuit

Boogaloo Biscuit dishes up soulful, funky jazz inspired by the groovy 1960s Blue Note era. With horns blazing (Todd Hardy and Nic Jeffries), slick guitar (Steve Brien), deep bass (Nicki Parrott) and funky drums (Nic Cecire), this quintet delivers toe-tapping, hip-shaking soul-jazz. Whether you're a jazz fan or just ready to move, make sure you bring your dancing shoes! 

Kid Hank and his Ockerstra

Kid Hank and his Ockerstra bring the vibrancy of New Orleans to life. With a repertoire covering traditional jazz, blues, creole and Dixieland, Hank and the crew create toe-tapping beats and lively melodies transporting listeners to the familiar sounds of the early 20th-century New Orleans French Quarter. The modern twist of classic old-timey jazz and dancing rhythms is guaranteed to have you dancing in your seat! 

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 and Nic Jeffries have come through the ranks of our Senior Jazz Band. 

NSW Public Schools Jazz Orchestra

The NSW Department of Education Arts Unit offers creative opportunities for students and teachers across NSW. In 2025 Jazz Orchestra has played on the Sydney Opera House as part of the music series In Concert. They have also performed on the Opera House stage as part of the Festival of Choral Music and Festival of Instrumental Music.

NSW Public Schools Stage Band 

The NSW Department of Education Arts Unit supports creative arts learning statewide. Our Stage Band engages students in jazz performance and improvisation. In 2025 Stage Band are a much-loved accompaniment to a huge 700 students at the Opera House in the Festival of Choral Music series, as well as performing solo to sold out crowds.

Pennant Hills High School Big Band

The Pennant Hills High School Big Band is the school’s premier jazz ensemble, part of a program with over 200 students across 6 groups. Since 2001 they’ve earned top awards at Yamaha and Australian School Band festivals. Highlights include Sydney Opera House performances and a 2022 collaboration with saxophonist Dr Sandy Evans. The band also actively performs in the community and supports key school events.

Mosman High Jazz Ensemble

Mosman High School has a proud tradition of exceptional music education and a renowned ensembles program. Its vibrant jazz stream offers students the chance to audition and perform a diverse repertoire, building jazz fundamentals and improvisation skills. Last year, the ensemble toured Japan and performed at the Havana Jazz Festival in Cuba, recording a CD and taking part in workshops with top Cuban performing arts schools. 

Pittwater House Big Band 

Pittwater House has a proud history of music excellence in instrumental music. The Big Band comprises talented students from years 7 – 12 who are learning about the traditions of jazz music playing a repertoire of jazz standards through to contemporary music. Directed by leading jazz musician and music teacher Todd Hardy, this band proudly represents the school in external performances, school events and ceremonial occasions. The students are delighted to be performing at Manly Jazz, which is always a highlight of their annual performance calendar. 

Balgowlah Boys Campus Jazz Orchestra

Jazz Orchestra is Balgowlah Boys' most advanced and impressive ensemble. Including auditioned students from Year 8 - 12, Jazz Orchestra focuses on a range of funk, swing and contemporary repertoire. Jazz Orchestra have had the pleasure of playing at Manly Jazz since 2019, with many of the school’s current Year 12s being a consistent part of the lineup. The ensemble is led by ex-Balgowlah Boys student and conservatorium graduate, Julian McKay.

St Augustine's College Big Band 1 

St Augustine’s College Big Band 1 showcases the most accomplished and passionate musicians at the college. Under the dynamic direction of Jack Stoneham, this elite ensemble brings energy, precision and flair to every performance. Throughout the year, Big Band 1 lights up stages at major school and community events, including the College Open Day, Saints Swing, the Sydney Eisteddfod, Music Festival Week Showcase Concert, and the prestigious Australian School Band and Orchestra Festival. With a repertoire that blends classic jazz with contemporary grooves, Big Band 1 is proud to represent the spirit and musical excellence of St Augustine’s College. 

Horns Plus Big Band

Horns Plus is a Lane Cove-based community big band with over 20 years of jazz performances, including 13 Manly Jazz appearances. Their classic 19-piece lineup covers styles from swing to contemporary, featuring arrangements from legends like Count Basie and Buddy Rich. Directed by acclaimed trumpet player Bob Coassin, the band also features vocalist Libby Hayes, a seasoned performer with a 40-year entertainment career.

Blue Riff Big Band

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

Beachside Big Band

The Beachside Big Band unites accomplished jazz musicians from Sydney’s Northern Beaches including members from Young Northside Big Band, Brass Machine and Enormous Horns. Featuring players from high school students to professionals, they share a passion for keeping big band music vibrant. Their diverse repertoire spans classic and contemporary jazz, charming audiences at venues like Manly Jazz with timeless and modern favourites.

Sussudio Big Band

Sussudio Big Band is a community band that has been running for over 20 years and covers an enormous array of jazz styles, playing from the big band libraries of Bob Florence, Count Basie, Buddy Rich, Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, Peter Herbolzheimer, Bob Mintzer, Gordon Goodwin and many more. With outstanding soloists and both male and female vocalists on board, the band entertains from the word go, with everything from lush ballads to screaming burners.

JVP (Jazz Vault Project) Big Band

JVP (Jazz Vault Project) Big Band is a dynamic young adult band from the Northern Beaches of Sydney that brings a fresh, energetic sound to big band jazz. With a passion for both contemporary and big band swing, the band delivers powerful arrangements and captivating performances, appealing to audiences of all ages. Their youthful energy and tight musicianship make them a standout on the local scene and beyond.

Northside Big Band

The Young Northside Big Band, founded by the late John Speight to support young jazz musicians, became a key force in Sydney jazz education, producing stars like James Morrison. Re-formed in 2008 by Geoff Power, the band features professionals and amateurs from the Northern Beaches. They perform widely across NSW, led by Geoff, an acclaimed jazz musician and educator with international experience and an ARIA-nominated album.

Sydney Youth Jazz Orchestra 

Sydney Youth Jazz Orchestra (SYJO), founded in 2012, offers high-level training for young jazz musicians. Led by renowned educator Saul Richardson, SYJO performs at festivals like Manly, Merimbula and Cronulla, plus local jazz clubs and community events. Their dynamic big band repertoire showcases talented students. SYJO’s big band repertoire of serious, dynamic jazz is always popular and showcases the talents of these wonderful young musicians.