Vitamin S and Stamp present

Marilyn Crispell, Richard Nunns & Jeff Henderson
Supported by the New Pacific Music Ensemble
Friday the 19th of September will be an unforgettable evening of unique and creative music. Performing at the Edges Lime-Light bar in the Aotea Centre the explosive creativity, and dynamic personality that is New York pianist Mariln Crispell will perform solo. Crispell will then team up with our own national treasure Richard Nunns on taonga puoro (Mäori musical instruments), and the creative force of Jeff Henderson.

Marilyn is world renown as one of the finest exponents of the piano both as a performer and as an improviser. Her live performances have been described as ‘like monitoring an active volcano’ and _Larry Kelp from the San Francisco Express says "Her improvisational approach is so personal, so explosive and so devastating that it makes jazz (and most other music) sound like the archaic language of an ancient people. There's also a gentle side that makes even simple melodies seem radiantly beautiful.”

Equal to the task of performing with such an international heavyweight of contemporary music are Richard Nunns and Jeff Henderson. This is not the first time the trio have performed together in Auckland. In 2000 Henderson bought Crispell, Nunns, and himself together for the tour of Urban Taniwha. A large ensemble work written and produced by Henderson with Nunns and Crispell as pivotal figures. Since that performance in 2002 audiences have been waiting patiently and expectantly for another opportunity to see and hear this dynamic combination.

What makes this performance so unique is the collaboration of musical forces and sound worlds. With each performer recognised internationally in their own right. this is an opportunity that will leave worldwide audiences salivating and glaring with jealousy at gig guide postings, previews and reviews. With the deeply traditional and unique sound of Richard Nunns Taonga Puoro integrated with Marilyn Crispell’s diverse piano style, and Jeff Henderson’s personality on reeds it is a concert that truly could only happen in this time, and be of this place.

Rarely do we get an opportunity to see one performer of this caliber in Auckland, let alone 3 together in one night!

Marilyn, Jeff and Richard will be joined for a late set by the New Pacific Music Ensemble. This highly original Auckland group is a collaboration of Rarotongan drumming and string band instruments with contemporary music, jazz, and improvisation. Featuring John Bell, Tua Mete, Chris O’Conner, Jacob Unuia, Kingsley Melhuish, Mare Thom, LJ Unuia, and joined for this special performance by Jeff Henderson and Richard Nunns.