__"These young performers from New Zealand play with a passion and flair that international audiences adore." __This was Stephane Grappelli's reaction when he heard the Nairobi Trio play at the Wellington International Festival of the Arts.
The Nairobi Trio – New Zealand's top jazz ensemble, have appeared at the prestigious Fay Richwhite Jazz series, are always a highlight of the New Zealand International Jazz and Blues Festival and were chosen to tour with the Qantas Airway Promotion of 1990.
As finalists in the New Zealand music awards, they were invited to open Australia's Manly International Jazz Festival with James Morrison, where they "stole the show".
Following the New Zealand arts council tour of New Zealand, an invitation to the 1993 Edinburgh Jazz Festival gave the Nairobi Trio the opportunity to demonstrate their international talent.
In the tradition of the Grappelli-Reinhardt "Hit Club" sound, the Nairobi Trio have their own electric blend of European-style jazz.
Nairobi Trio is made up of four very talented musicians – John Quigley (guitar/vocals), Peter Koopman (bass/vocals), Richard Adams (violin/vocals) and Nigel Gavin (guitar vocals).
As a Trio – Featuring violin, guitar and double bass and 3 part vocal harmonies. This is ideal for cocktail hour, dinner music and corporate functions. The repertoire is traditional, featuring jazz standards and ballads as well as some European "Hot Jazz" favourites.
As a Quartet – This is the nationally and internationally acclaimed concert version of the Nairobi Trio, featuring the above line-up and vocalists and adding either a virtuoso guitarist or a sax/flute/keyboard. The repertoire is progressive and features a strong component of original music. The group is ideal as a floorshow, featured act in concert, or for product launches, corporate events and trade shows.
As a Quintet – A great after dinner dance band featuring all your favourite tunes and then some! Featuring electric violin, electric guitar and bass, a drummer and a sax/flute/keyboardist. The versatility of this ensemble lends itself to a wide variety of applications, and the repertoire focuses on getting people onto the dance floor – featuring classics from the 30s to the 90s – something there for everyone. This group is ideally suited to balls, weddings, gala dinners, birthday bashes, from black tie to more casual affairs and can add guest performers (e.g. Ted Clarke, Suzi Lynch...)
