Matt Dennett and Pam Withnall come together to play their own original compositions inspired from the jazz repertoire and sometimes (in Matt’s case) an inspiration from the romantic classical repertoire infused with jazz.
Pam and Matt met at Western Sydney University a short time ago and have a very natural musical connection that is both a joy for audience members as well as the musicians themselves. Pam Withnall’s lyrical solos stand beautifully next to Matt’s spacious jazz and post romantic piano accompaniment. A very unique blend of genres and musical connection that is rare to find.
About Pam Withnall
After completing the Diploma of Jazz at the Conservatorium of Music, Pam played extensively in Musicals such as Annie, Candide, Blood Brothers, 42nd St, Big River, Nine as well as in the clubs and pubs backing acts and playing in dance bands. She played at the Monterey Jazz Festival with the Young Northside Big Band, and “OZ for Africa at” the Entertainment centre during a 3 year stint with a rock band. Pam played with the Warren Daly Big Band at “Jazz in the Domain”, and with INXS at their first album launch at the Paris theatre.
More recently, Pam spent 6 months on a cruise ship backing international acts, plays with the “Squares” Jazz band at Moyas Juniper Bar, and plays regularly with a 1970’s music dance band. She is currently studying at Western Sydney University and won an award to write for the Penrith Symphony Orchestra.
About Matthew Dennett
Matthew Dennett is a Canberra based pianist, accordionist, educator, composer and improviser who draws inspiration from the jazz, gypsy jazz and classical repertoire. As an accordionist in the gypsy jazz world, Matt has performed with some of Sydney’s best gypsy artists such as Cameron Jones, The Spyglass Gypsies, Monsieur Camembert and Le Hot Club de Katoomba. As a pianist he has performed with some of Australia’s leading instrumentalists; Pam Withnall, Brett Hirst, Robbie Mann, Zackerbilks (Canberra), Rhythm Capital (Canberra) also with international artists Il Divo in 2018 on their “Timeless tour”.
Matt spends his time teaching at his Canberra studio Just Piano Lessons, performing in Canberra and Sydney, composing instrumental works and educational material while studying a Bachelor of Music full time at WSU (Western Sydney University) in pursuit to further his skills as a teacher and musician.
About the Piano Parlour
Every dream you’ve ever had of stepping back to the 1930’s dimly lit lobby lounge, listening to live jazz piano while you dine and sip a martini or glass of wine, come to life at the Piano Parlour.
Avalon presents a weekly intimate musical performance, featuring some of our best local talent, who play especially for you in the charming Savoy Theatre Foyer.
Join us for dinner DOWNSTAIRS at the Piano Parlour, Saturdays from 7pm-9pm. Dinner bookings from 6.30pm. Full dinner and drinks menu available. 2 course minimum applies to all seated diners please.
A cover charge of $15 per person supports the musicians and reserves your seat for the evening. Bookings essential as there’s only 18 seats per show.