Internationally known jazz pianist David Paquette is returning to Waiheke to tickle the ivories with special guest and longtime friend Lindsay Meech on trumpet. This Live@Five concert at Whittaker’s Musical Museum on 24 September, called The Homecoming, marks 15 years since David last played on the island.
Whittaker’s manager Jane Cooper says the event is “quite a biggie.” Fans will be the among the first to enjoy the museum’s newly installed air-conditioning and dehumidifier systems.
The music will showcase David’s signature New Orleans style with a selection of jazz, blues and old standards. He will play the museum’s beautifully restored Bechstein grand piano, which once belonged to Polish concert pianist and composer Ignacy Jan Paderewski, who visited New Zealand in 1904.
“I’m really excited to come back and see friends. I’ve been on the island for brief visits, but it’ll be nice to play again. The museum has a special place in my heart.”
Meech, a seasoned jazz trumpeter, will give the concert “a little extra,” says David. “We seem to think together the same way musically. It’s always a pleasure to play with him because we don’t have to plan too much.”
Now based in Wairoa, David has just returned from Switzerland and Italy, where he played festivals in Ascona and Bernalda. A recent recording with Australian musicians in Singapore is due for release. Those who can’t wait can access some 55 existing recordings on iTunes, Spotify and YouTube.
Tickets are $25 for adults, $10 for students and children. To book, phone 372 9627. • Anna Ngo
