Sweet Thunder Jazz Orchestra Christmas Show

Tuesday 09 December 2025 | 07:00 PM

Southport

A great night of swinging versions of some of the best loved Christmas songs with a 13-piece jazz orchestra.

Sweet Thunder is a 13 piece jazz orchestra based on the Gold Coast. The band plays a mix of big band jazz arranged specifically for the line-up of three trumpets, three trombones, four saxes plus piano, bass and drums, by the pianist/leader, Rick Best. The band draws heavily on the Duke Ellington/Billy Strayhorn legacy. They also play works by Benny Carter, Gerry Mulligan, Count Basie, Quincy Jones, Frank Mantooth, John Clayton and others.

The program for our December show for the Gold Coast City Jazz will include swinging versions of some of the best loved Christmas songs, including Sleigh Ride, Rudolph, Winter Wonderland and I’ll Be Home For Christmas, and the band will be joined by a couple of special guests.

Line-up of performers for this concert will be:

Trumpets: Josh Sinclair, Scott Mason, Jack Mcpherson
Trombones: Mikael Strand, Kent Lowrey, Andrew Heading-Knight
Reeds: Jake Muggleton, Adam Thomas, Ken Lincoln, Dave Cox
Piano: Rick Best
Bass: John Conley
Drums/vocals: Rodney Ford

Doors open at 6pm, concert commences at 7pm. Bar and Bistro available.

Book your seat by phoning Keryn on 0419 658 983 or Dianne on 0402 895 008

Presented by the Gold Coast City Jazz Club. Concerts are held on Tuesdays twice monthly with Twilight Sunday shows every few months. All confirmed events advertised on GCCJC web page.

Getting there

Consider using public transport or active travel. Plan your trip with Translink's journey planner.

Parking may be limited. For metered parking, use the EasyPark app to start, end, and extend your parking direct from your phone to avoid fines. For more information visit City of Gold Coast's Parking page.