VOXNOVA

VoxNova Romani Inspire Jazz Band

Founded in 1987, by percussionist Alan MacDonald, inspired by the British band Penguin Café Orchestra then Nairobi Trio, Voxnova for many years specialised in Latin, Gitanos and Manouche Jazz. Recently more emphasis on original music composed by band members, inspired by Romani / Euro Ethnic music in general, brings the band closer to the original vision at the band’s inception. The band has enjoyed many lengthy residencies, the current being at Caretaker Bar (4.5 years, every Monday), located underground in Britomart. Self-run concerts are always sold out. The band has hosted musicians from all over the globe, each leaving a trace on the sound and repertoire.

Band Members
Alan MacDonald Founder / Percussionist. Born in Scotland, alongside a 30-year career as a creative director, Alan performed as a drummer for a rock band he created in his teens, folk percussionist till 1997 when he formed VoxNova in 1997 while also enjoying an 8-year stint in a Celtic band at Grand Central Bar. More recently Alan has created ad hoc bands such as, Zydecosis, Cajynx and Nouvelle Voix for residencies at pre-covid Deadshot Bar Ponsonby. Recent performances at Tauranga Jazz Festival with Blue Light, founded by accordionist Tracey Colins, supported by violinist Pascal Roggen, was well received. A parallel passion for fine arts has been rewarded by being published at international forums devoted to collaborations between arts and science.

Aaron Codell Double Bass. Wellington born, a former member now returned to VozNueva for 2 yeas, after gaining a great deal of experience performing for jazz greats Cleo Laine, Mark Murphy and saxophonist George Coleman, Annie Crummer, Hello Sailor, King Kapisi, as well as vocalists Caitlin Smith, Jan Hellriegel and Linn Lorkin. Aaron has also supported a long list of theatrical productions and occasionally moonlights with the Auckland Philharmonic Orchestra.

James Sneyd Violin / Composition. Originally from Dunedin, he has travelled the world in his capacity of Mathematics Professor performing wherever he is located. James is highly skilled at any genre he adopts from Celtic, Country Rock, Manouche and Latin jazz. James has just the right vintage sound the band requires as well as a talent for original material. Audiences enjoy the blitzing music duels.

Doug Robertson. Guitar / Composition
A lifelong interest in an eclectic mix of Heavy Metal, Jazz Manouche and World Music received a boost from a music degree in 2014. Doug has returned to VoxNova this year with more original material, whilst also performing Jazz Manouche with Madame Croque, heavy metal rock with Bloodnut band as well as recent collaborations with Nigel Gavin’s Gitbox Rebellion. Doug is currently enrolled in an information technology degree course.