JOIN US FOR A PROGRAMME OF ACAPELLA JAZZ!
Much of the repertoire in this programme was written in a period of history that saw recovery from a war and a devastating pandemic followed by the rule of several dictators across the world, mass unemployment, discrimination against and persecution of various groups, and unrest in international relations. Nearly a century later, the world has a disturbingly similar set of circumstances.

The lighthearted, slightly naughty, uplifting songs of this period were an escapist remedy for the times. Sumptuous harmonies, witty lyrics and cheerful melodies are an excellent distraction for the times we are now in.

The programme:

Let’s Misbehave
Dayton, Ohio
It Don’t Mean a Thing if it Ain’t got that Swing
Blue Moon
Dream a little Dream of Me
Night and Day
The Girl from Ipanema
The Teddy Bears’ Picnic
Tea for two
Begin the Beguine
The Way You Look Tonight
Beyond the Sea
Soul Bossa Nova
The Melbourne Octet

The Melbourne Octet was formed with the aim of presenting contemporary works to audiences both in Australia and internationally, as well as familiar, well-loved repertoire. We bring a combined experience in ensemble singing that allows us to explore rarely heard works, and we aim to provide a platform for Australian composers and arrangers.

The Octet is made up of professional voices; regular soloists or chorus in opera, oratorio or jazz, all with a love for eight-part harmony.