Big band jazz has always been shaped by extraordinary women as composers, arrangers, instrumentalists, and bandleaders, even when their contributions haven’t always been given the spotlight.

Women & Big Band celebrates the powerful legacy and ongoing influence of women in large-ensemble jazz. Featuring music by trailblazers such as Melba Liston, Mary Lou Williams, and Toshiko Akiyoshi, alongside contemporary voices including Kristin Berardi, this program showcases the depth, innovation, and impact of women’s writing and artistry in big band music.

The West Australian Youth Jazz Orchestra is joined by special guest artist Sue Bluck, one of Australia’s most respected jazz pianists and vocalists, educators, and bandleaders. Sue’s involvement offers a rare opportunity for emerging musicians to work closely with a leading artist while bringing this dynamic repertoire to life on stage.

Bold, swinging, and deeply expressive, Women & Big Band is both a celebration and a reframing, honouring the women who have shaped big band jazz and amplifying the voices that continue to drive it forward.

About WAYJO

Since 1983, WAYJO has been giving young jazz musicians outstanding artistic and professional opportunities to work with top band leaders, local and touring guest artists, and to participate in regional, national, and international tours and exchange programs. 

A unique hothouse for Australia’s young jazz musicians, WAYJO provides the bridge from aspiring musician to industry professional.

Our three big band ensembles rehears weekly and perform a diverse range of jazz styles at Perth’s premier venues, as well as providing entertainment for corporate and private events.

Perth’s vibrant live jazz scene is a testament to the power of the WAYJO experience. Almost every jazz, swing, lounge and big band now performing in Perth has current or past members of WAYJO. Local jazz giants – Jamie Oehlers, Libby Hammer, the late Graham Wood and Carl Mackey – all played their way through WAYJO. Some past WAYJO members making their way overseas include Linda Oh, Troy Roberts, Daniel Susnjar, Graeme Blevins, Becc Sanderson and Mat Jodrell.

WAYJO Alumni have taken the music world by storm and pop up in touring rock, pop, jazz and musical stage show bands across the globe.

Tickets & Venue Info

  The BREC Box Office is open on Mon, Tue, Thu, and Fri from 10am to 4pm.

  If you experience any difficulties booking tickets, please contact our Box Office Team on 1300 661 272.

  ACCESSIBILITY For accessible bookings please contact our Box Office Team on 1300 661 272.

  Are you colour blind? Experience more colour during your visit to BREC with the EnChroma Colour Accessibility Program!

  Tickets sold through the BREC Box Office are subject to our Terms Of Sale.

  For more information about visiting BREC please visit our FAQ’s page.

 BREC ACCESS

A doorway to the arts that’s always open!

We want everyone to have the opportunity to see this show at BREC.

So here’s our offer. Through BREC Access we are making some seats available for those who need a good night out but who can’t manage full price at the moment and we invite those who can to ‘pay it forward’ and choose a higher price.

$15.00  OPEN – I need a good night out but the cost of living is starting to bite!
$25.00  ENTER – I need a good night out but can pay a bit more
$70.00  FLING – I want to pay it forward and fling open the doors for someone else

* Limited BREC Access Tickets available