THABANI GAPARA
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A Celebration of Afro-Jazz.
Experience the vibrant rhythms, rich melodies and infectious energy of African jazz with Zimbabwean-born saxophonist and composer Thabani Gapara and his exceptional five-piece band.
Drawing inspiration from the musical traditions of Southern Africa, Gapara brings together the sounds of Zimbabwean mbira music, South African mbaqanga, kwela and marabi, blending them with contemporary jazz, funk and improvisation. The result is a dynamic musical journey that celebrates the depth and diversity of African music while exploring its connections with jazz traditions around the world.
With over two decades of performance experience, Gapara has developed a distinctive musical voice that bridges his African heritage with his life in Aotearoa New Zealand. His 2024 album Dzindza earned a finalist nomination for Best Jazz Album at the 2025 Aotearoa Music Awards. Expect an evening of soulful saxophone, spirited improvisation, irresistible grooves and musical storytelling, performed by a band of outstanding musicians. Whether you're a lifelong jazz enthusiast or discovering African jazz for the first time, this promises to be an engaging and uplifting musical experience.
Featuring: Thabani Gapara – Saxophones
Eli Wilson – Piano / Keyboards
Nathan James – Guitar
Elliot Park – Bass
Elijah Whyte – Drums.
AJBC Members - $15
Birkenhead RSA Members - $15
Non-members - $25
Tertiary Students - $10 (Student ID Card must be produced)
Children - Free
EFTPOS NOT available for entry charge. Cash Only.
EFTPOS is available at bar and restaurant.
Non-member contact registration required at time of entry.
Experience the vibrant rhythms, rich melodies and infectious energy of African jazz with Zimbabwean-born saxophonist and composer Thabani Gapara and his exceptional five-piece band.
Drawing inspiration from the musical traditions of Southern Africa, Gapara brings together the sounds of Zimbabwean mbira music, South African mbaqanga, kwela and marabi, blending them with contemporary jazz, funk and improvisation. The result is a dynamic musical journey that celebrates the depth and diversity of African music while exploring its connections with jazz traditions around the world.
With over two decades of performance experience, Gapara has developed a distinctive musical voice that bridges his African heritage with his life in Aotearoa New Zealand. His 2024 album Dzindza earned a finalist nomination for Best Jazz Album at the 2025 Aotearoa Music Awards. Expect an evening of soulful saxophone, spirited improvisation, irresistible grooves and musical storytelling, performed by a band of outstanding musicians. Whether you're a lifelong jazz enthusiast or discovering African jazz for the first time, this promises to be an engaging and uplifting musical experience.
Featuring: Thabani Gapara – Saxophones
Eli Wilson – Piano / Keyboards
Nathan James – Guitar
Elliot Park – Bass
Elijah Whyte – Drums.
AJBC Members - $15
Birkenhead RSA Members - $15
Non-members - $25
Tertiary Students - $10 (Student ID Card must be produced)
Children - Free
EFTPOS NOT available for entry charge. Cash Only.
EFTPOS is available at bar and restaurant.
Non-member contact registration required at time of entry.
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Where is it happening?
Birkenhead Returned Services Association. Recreation Drive, Birkenhead, 0626, Auckland, New Zealand 0626, New Zealand
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
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Host or PublisherThe Auckland Jazz and Blues Club
