Free

Gender Defying Jazz (GDJ)

Gender Defying Jazz (GDJ) is a program run by Andrea Keller, Head of Jazz & Improvisation at the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music, University of Melbourne.

The program is dedicated to creating a safe learning environment and supportive community for female-identifying and gender-diverse musicians interested in exploring jazz and improvisation.

Based in Melbourne, Australia, the annual workshops are delivered over six Sundays during Term 4. Participants perform in ensembles alongside alumni and undergraduate students from the Jazz & Improvisation degree program.

Throughout the workshops, participants engage in a rich variety of jazz and improvisation studies — ranging from free improvisation to tunes from the American songbook and compositions by contemporary Australian jazz musicians.

The workshop series culminates in a live performance at The Jazzlab, presented as part of the Melbourne Women’s International Jazz Festival in December.

Presented by MWIJF in conjunction with major partner the University of Melbourne.

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$25.00 – $30.00

New Horizons

Ashling O’Farrell Quartet

Ashling O’Farrell – trombone/vocals
Saffi Campbell Walker – piano
Clio Grieg – bass
Harry Lentell – drums

The Ashling O’Farrell Quartet is an ensemble led by trombonist and vocalist Ashling O’Farrell. At just 21 years old, Ashling shares light and joy through her music, aiming to radiate hope with her jazz-influenced compositions.

Inspired by artists such as Rita Payés, Kristin Berardi, Andrea Keller, and Stevie Wonder, the Ashling O’Farrell Quartet will bring a smile to your face – and they can’t wait to share their music with you.

Virago with Flora Carbo (USA / AUS)

Flora Carbo (AUS) – saxophones & composition
Sofia Carbonara (AUS/USA) – vibraphone
Wesley Hornpetrie (USA) – cello
BethAnne Kunert (USA) – saxophones
Magnolia Rohrer (USA) – violin

Melbourne’s own saxophonist, improviser, composer, and music leader Flora Carbo teams up with Michigan-based ensemble Virago (Sofia Carbonara – vibraphone, BethAnne Kunert – saxophones, Magnolia Rohrer – violin, Wesley Hornpetrie – cello) for a night of original creative music, featuring a premiere by Carbo developed for and with the ensemble.

This long-awaited collaboration celebrates the international creative music community — built on friendship, deep listening, and a passion for experimental forms. Flora and Virago’s project is supported by Bundanon Arts Centre, Made Now Music, the Melbourne Women’s International Jazz Festival, Creative Victoria, and Creative Australia.

Flora Carbo is a saxophonist, composer, and music leader from Naarm (Melbourne, Australia). Her unique practice creates novel musical environments that connect people through improvisation, composition, and conceptual works, led by her distinct creative vision.

Set 1: Ashling O’Farrell Quartet

Set 2: Virago + Flora Carbo

Co-presented with the Melbourne Jazz Co-op and the University of Melbourne MCM