Enjoying our music student performances will be easier for everyone this year after securing a regular slot at one of Wollongong’s exciting live music venues.
Port Kembla’s ‘The Servo’ is hosting regular Thursday afternoon/evening sessions throughout the year (excluding holidays) and featuring a variety of jazz and contemporary music groups and ages, ranging from smaller combos and bands (of 3-8 people), and larger ensembles such as Jazz Big Band and the Latin Orchestra.
Program Lead, David Rodriguez-Lovibond hopes to achieve a sense of a ‘community’ at the servo, where musicians know they can perform music at a safe space, and where he will showcase his vision for how the Jazz Program is diversifying from jazz to include contemporary and rock and everything in between.
“Performance is a two-way street. An energy exchange between the musicians and the audience. Most music is a social experience whether it be with the other musicians or the audience. Music is so often a vessel for social harmony and bonding that very few other activities can provide. It needs to exist in the real world of our community where it becomes alive.”
The Servo in Port Kembla is a key community centre of the Illawarra. Great for kids with its art deco roof providing plenty of open space outdoors allowing for a safe play area for kids to run around and socialise, whilst providing a really good performance venue with a great stage and sound system.
The concerts will be free entry so all friends and family will be able to come and support each other.
David says that music schools are the incubators and performing outside in the community allows our music students to grow and for family and friends to come along to see them perform, something which is important to young musicians.
But one thing that remains a focus is performance practice and all the skills that brings.
“They say one hour on the band stand is worth ten in the practice shed. The practical and social skills this will provide are immeasurable. Being organised in regard to times, repertoire and instrument maintenance, and importantly the confidence of people knowing they can stand on a stage in front of people week in week out and perform music to anyone anywhere. One of my favourite things of seeing students perform is when a student who might typically be shy or reserved turns into a whole other person on stage!”
HIGHLIGHTS
Opening night (20th Feb) highlights included a young 10 year old conga drummer who jammed on stage for the first time, with music teacher Chris Fields and some of the older drum students. The WollCon Afro-Cuban Jazz ensemble who learnt a Chris Field composition without his knowledge, played it on the night inviting him to join in as a guest artist. Magic music moments for everyone!
Thursday events begin 20th Feb – through to 4th December 2025 (excluding holidays).
5:30pm – Bands | 6:30pm – Open Jam Sessions
Food Trucks on site to purchase meals.
Header Image: ServoFoodTruck Facebook page
