Victoria Square was thronging for the last day of the Christchurch Big Band Festival, held over Labour Weekend. This was the festival’s 12th year, with 25 different bands at eight different venues. There was plenty of seating available, but little with back support, so I was glad I’d taken my folding chair. When I arrived at 1.30pm the Garden City Big Band was playing. Apparently the Music Director for this is Lana Law, who also leads the All Girl Big Band who played at 2pm. She must be a busy woman!
All Girl Big Band
The weather was perfect – 23 degrees – and there’s plenty of shade in Victoria Square where the trees were a beautiful spring green. Stalls were selling pizza, chips, ice cream, wine, and beer so it was a great opportunity to picnic (I’d already had a good lunch).
The music was just superb. It’s always special to hear jazz in the open air. I ignored a few spots of passing rain and stayed on for the Mike Bickers Boptet, a smaller band, but also excellent.
We are lucky to have such entertainment in our central city. I look forward to next year’s Festival!
So good to have al fresco jazz
all played with fervour and pizzazz
Ruth's Reflections 
Very interesting to read about the AllGirl Big Band.
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They’re well worth listening to if you get the chance.
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