Daisy Slater and Saskia McIntyre have participated in a workshop to support young women who would like to pursue a future in jazz music.
The 8 week workshop by SIMA (Sydney Improvised Music Association) was held at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music. It aims to develop a jazz musician’s playing skills and confidence, broaden knowledge of improvised music, and nurture and foster the student’s own network of female jazz musicians.
Developed in partnership with Dr. Sandy Evans OAM in 2002, the Young Women’s Jazz Workshops have played a transformative role for countless musicians, which is why Saskia and Daisy applied.
Daisy, an electric and double bass student, has been studying at WollCon for the last 5 years. She lists all the jazz performances she’s been involved in as her favourite moments during her time here, especially the opening set for Bassist Linda May Han Oh and singer Jo Lawry, during the Jazz Series concerts at WollCon in 2023.
“The Jazz workshop has been an excellent experience for connecting with other female musicians who share the same passion for music, as well as learning from great musicians who have helped me to develop my abilities and love for music.”
Joining Daisy was Saskia McIntyre, now a WollCon alumna and a regular tutor, supporting Band Camp days at WollCon. She has played sax with the Con Artists, Jazz Band, Jazz Orchestra and various combos in and around Wollongong and interstate.
“Some of my favourite performances have been the WollCon Jazz Festival (watching Freyja Garbett play her set “Music from the Waves”), playing at the IPAC for UOW International Women’s Day, and opening for Alec Watts and Sabine Tapia at the Wollongong Art Gallery for the Emerging Artists Series last year.”
WollCon Trumpet and trombone teacher Claire Hollander who specialises in jazz and improvisation, was excited to hear the girls were accepted into the workshop.
“This workshop will really help broaden the girl’s knowledge of jazz and improvised music, and increase their awareness of career options. It was originally developed in partnership with iconic saxophonist Sandy Evans who played here at WollCon at last year’s Jazz Festival. The program has fostered many lasting friendships amongst female jazz musicians, and I’ve heard it described as life-changing by former participants, so I’m thrilled for both Daisy and Saskia.”
