Jazzmen In Gisborne

Kenny Ball and his Jazzmen paid a brief visit to Gisborne last month to set the Opera House a-swingin' with a feast of jazz the like of which had never been heard in the city before.

Tremendously popular with their audience, the jazzmen proved to be talented musicians both as individuals and as a group.

Prior to their performance, they were entertained at the request of their leader by the Waihirere Maori Concert Party.

On his arrival at the airport, Kenny Ball was presented with a cake for his 35th birthday by three young Gisborne girls.

Eyes sparkling, Kenny Ball listens to a different type of music, supplied by the Waihirere Maori Concert Party.

Kenny meets "warriors" George Nepe and leader of the group, Bub Wehi.

The jazzmen obviously enjoyed the Maori items

Kenny signed an autograph for a member of the party

The jazzmen arriving at Darton Field. From left: Ron Bowden (drummer), John Bennett (trombonist), Kenny Ball (trumpeter), Vic Pitt (base).

Jennifer Williams, eight-year-old daughter of Mr and Mrs A. N. Williams, Albert Street, presented Kenny with his birthday cake.

Mr Geoff Baker, local Kerridge Odeon manager, introduces Kenny to Kay Worsnop.

Kenny Ball and his Jazzmen on the Opera House stage

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The Gisborne Photo News

No 132 : June 16, 1965

Jazzmen In Gisborne