Bunjil Place has joined forces with the Melbourne International Jazz Festival to bring more live music and major international artists to Casey.
The program launches this October with three events scheduled this October as part of the 2026 Melbourne International Jazz Festival, and from 2027 a formal 3-year partnership will also support Australian artists through CrossCurrents: National Jazz Commission, a $40,000 annual fund dedicated to the creation of new jazz, improvised and contemporary music projects in collaboration with international artists. Each year one new project at Bunjil Place will be supported to premiere at the Melbourne International Jazz Festival.
City of Casey Mayor Cr Michelle Crowther said the partnership is a win for the local community.
"This partnership will bring exciting new music and major artists to Casey, while giving our community more opportunities to enjoy world-class performances close to home, without needing to travel into the city," she said.
"It also helps put Casey on the cultural map and shows the important role Bunjil Place plays in connecting our community with leading arts and entertainment experiences."
Performances this October include:
• Making its world premiere, Saltwater Sugar by the Australian Art Orchestra blends jazz and hip hop worlds in large ensemble format to explore the history of people and place. Featuring award-winning R&B vocalist Ngaiire and hip hop artist Joelistics, this compelling new work provides a rich, contemporary jazz experience. Audiences won't be disappointed.
• In collaboration with one of the world's leading jazz institutions, New York's Jazz at Lincoln Centre, Bunjil Place will present Young Monk, a celebration of the music and legacy of jazz icon Thelonious Monk. Featuring Grammy-nominated piano sensation Joey Alexander, the project will give emerging Melbourne jazz musicians the rare opportunity to perform alongside one of the genre's brightest stars, bringing Monk's groundbreaking compositions to life for a new generation.
• While one of South Africa's most respected and influential hip-hop artists, Stogie T will make a rare Australian appearance and lead a workshop for aspiring artists to connect and learn, only at Bunjil Place.
These shows will give local audiences the chance to experience an exciting mix of jazz infused with soul, hip-hop, R&B and contemporary influences from internationally recognised artists.
Melbourne International Jazz Festival CEO and Festival Director Hadley Agrez said the partnership would help artists create ambitious new work and build international connections.
"Together with Bunjil Place, we're creating a platform for artists to dream big, build meaningful international connections and develop bold new work that can reach audiences here in Casey and beyond," he said.
