The Gold Coast City Jazz Club features many great talents. It’s easy to forget that these wonderful artists each have a story beyond the few hours they spend entertaining us. This month,

Jack McPherson is in the spotlight.

Jack McPherson’s introduction to Trumpet was through his school’s music program in grade 3. Today, the talented 24-year-old is known on the Gold Coast as one of the best, playing with Sweet Thunder Jazz Orchestra, The Project Swing Big Band, South East Region Jazz Orchestra and an Amy Winehouse Tribute show to name just a few.

Can you tell us a little about your history in music?

I started in grade 3 with my primary school’s music program. It grew quite big to the point where we were going around to other schools and doing concerts to showcase the talent the school had. Our jazz band even got to play in Warwick for Jumpers and Jazz. In high school I got the chance to play with the Gold Coast Big Band in 2014 and was in that band up until around 2019/2020 which really helped my jazz chops develop. During that time, I also played with the Gold Coast City Wind Orchestra, the Hint of Swing Big Band, Muso Mates Big Band and a few times with the Gold Coast City Brass Band.

What has been the highlight of your career as a musician? 

It would have to be a toss-up between doing an Amy Winehouse Tribute show gig at the Noosa Alive Festival right on the beach in front of the surf club or being a part of the 2024 Brisbane International Jazz Festival with SERJO performing the Cuban Fire Suite.

What’s coming up on the horizon for you?

If the stars align, I might be reviving an old project with the well-known Jake Muggleton and some other great muso’s I know. Other than that, some not to miss gigs with Project Swing and Sweet Thunder!

What is your favourite style of music to play?

At the moment it’s between Latin and Japanese Fusion. I’ve been looking deeply into both recently for past and current projects and some of the stuff you hear is just mesmerising! Have a listen to the new album from the Roy Hargrove Estate, amazing stuff!

What is your favourite song to perform?

Nicas Dream by Horace Silver – this is a staple for any of the small group gigs I’ve done in the past.

What advice do you have for a rookie player?

Never forget the importance of listening and consuming as much music as possible. There are many influences out there to be discovered and appreciated.

What do you like about performing at the GCCJC?

It’s a great club in a great location with a membership base that really responds well to some good quality musicians and bands!

Catch Jack with Sweet Thunder at the Gold Coast City Jazz Club on Tuesday 10 December 2024!