Ta and Kao have met at competitions and jam sessions across New Zealand and have developed a friendship that has spurred both performers to become better improvisers.
Ta has been quickly building a reputation as one of the most energetic, ambitious and capable young musicians on the Dunedin scene. He recently placed third in a national improvisation competition on the piano and also performs lead alto in the Dunedin Youth Jazz Orchestra.
After a strong performance at the first pop-up event, Ta was offered his own slot by Dunedin Jazz Club director Bill Martin, despite still being at high school.
For Friday’s gig, at The Dish, 8 Stafford St, Ta has hand-picked the players to make up his quartet, including trombone virtuoso Kao.
On the drums will be Abe Baillie, a former Logan Park High School pupil who has recently completed a degree in jazz performance at the New Zealand School of Music, and the rhythm section will be completed by double bassist John Dodd, who mentored Ta as music teacher at Logan Park High School.
Doors open at 6pm and the music starts at 7pm. Tickets available via Eventfinda, or at the door.
