Rangi Jazz Combo to Play With International Man of Boogie at Court Theatre Fundraiser

He played with Jeff Beck, Johnny Depp, and Ronnie Wood as recently as last November at Ronnie Scott’s in London. It was a tribute to the great Chuck Berry and man, it rocked.

Now internationally acclaimed boogie woogie pianist, Ben Waters, can add Rangi Ruru’s Jazz Combo to his list of co-performers. He is breaking into his Australasian tour to perform in Christchurch at the annual fundraiser for the Court Theatre, and the Rangi musicians are joining him.

Golden Heath Care Group founder and Court supporter, John Tooby, is not only funding the March 25 concert but also providing his perfectly manicured lawn as the venue to experience the Waters performance. He knows someone who knows someone, contact was made with Ben Waters and deal was sealed.

The 400-ticket concert at Mr Tooby’s Stanleys Road home in Christchurch will start at 6 and go “until late”.

Henare Kaa, Rangi Ruru’s Contemporary Music Teacher, says there is nothing better than throwing a group of young talented musicians into a “fantastic” real-life experience.

“Playing to a 400-strong audience with an internationally renowned jazz pianist - opportunities don’t get much better than this,” said Kaa, who is known as “H’ at school.

The Jazz Combo has been performing together as an ensemble all over Christchurch these past two years. They are a cohesive and unique group of girls who love to perform, and they love gaining experience from tutors, mentors and professionally developed performers.

“They are so excited to be sharing the stage with Ben Waters,” says H. “It is inspiring for them to hear he has performed and recorded with the Rolling Stones and many other massive Rock and Blues artist from all over the world. They are pretty chill about it, I’m a bit nervous…..,” he says.

The Rangi Ruru Jazz Combo is Kaia Johnstone (Trumpet), Amelie Spinks (Bass and Vocals), Georgina Scott (Drums and Vocals) and Pippa Lange (Keys and vocals). The dynamic and enthusiastic group are looking forward to performing for everyone attending this special event on the 25th of March.

ABOUT THE EVENT - Support the Court!
Bring your picnic blanket and/or chairs, a heavy wallet for the auction and your dancing shoes. There'll be music, drinks and nibbles, Jesters, and an auction.

Where: The Front Lawn, 82 Stanleys Rd, Christchurch           

When: Monday 25th March, 6pm till late.     

Get your tickets here