Douce Ambiance Jazz Quartet

Does the violin only mean classical music?

But whatever it plays, it always touches the heart.

In this extraordinary concert, gifted violinist Cathy Irons teams up with top Christchurch jazz musicians, Dan Robertson (piano) and Dougal Canard (double bass, guitar), to explore the vibrancy and versatility of the violin, traveling through different styles and eras.

Join them on a journey from haunting ancient melodies to pulsating Gypsy tunes, through lively folk numbers across to the syncopated rhythms of Brazil and the passion of Argentinian tango, interspersed with popular swing, Latin and jazz numbers by Miles Davis, Chick Corea and others.

Never a moment to stand still. Prepare to be enthralled with new sonic experiences by this multi-talented ensemble, where you can also savour the deep richness of the viola and the clear brilliance of acoustic guitar.

Douce Ambiance literally means Sweet Sounds. Described as “a magic whole” and bringing “remarkable soul dancing joy,” Douce Ambiance promises an unforgettable concert that will uplift your spirits.

Book your tickets now to reserve your place to enjoy this exciting musical montage.

Child friendly - we will bring along a little violin for our younger audience members to try post concert!

Supported by Creative Communities Timaru & the Geraldine Community Arts Council.

About us:
Cathy Irons (violin, viola) is a versatile violinist, performing regularly in the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra and touring ensemble concerts throughout NZ with programmes from baroque to jazz. Her playing as been described by reviewers as “sonic fireworks that dazzle with all their brilliance” and “characterized by inspirational musicianship.” She has performed in the Cavell Leitch NZ Jazz and Blues Festival, the Dunedin Fringe Festival, Arrowtown Spring Arts Festival and toured for Chamber Music New Zealand and Arts on Tour NZ.

Dan Robertson (piano) has performed at the New Zealand Arts Festival, with his own trio at the Christchurch jazz festival and with the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra for the Last Night of the Proms series. While in Melbourne Dan teamed up with award winning song writer Cam Giles-Webb and appeared on several of Cam’s albums as well as regular gigs at Dizzy’s Jazz Bar, The Paris Cat, The Melbourne International Jazz Festival, The Eltham Jazz Festival, and the Castlemain Jazz Festival. His work as pianist in Trios and in Showbands on cruise ships has taken him to New York, Hawaii, and the Caribbean.

Dougal Canard (bass, guitar) is a multi instrumental musician much in demand around Christchurch. He holds a B.Mus in jazz performance, doubling in bass and piano. He has extensive experience playing bass in all styles including rock, funk, jazz and show work, including NASDA and the CSO.

Doug Brush (drums) is an extraordinarily versatile percussionist who has built a substantial international career. Locally he has performed with the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra and New Zealand Opera, and musicians Serj Tankian (System of a Down), Broadway star Andrea Burns, Kiwi legends the Topp Twins and Paul Ubana Jones, Fiona Pears, and the 'world jazz' group Mundi, among many others. He currently teaches at teaches at Christchurch's Ara Jazz School.