About Richie's "Jazz Kats"
Based in South Australia, Richie Robinson's Duos & Ensembles play corporate events, weddings, special occasions, festivals, and fundraisers. Richie Robinson's Duos & Ensembles also support notable vocalists and celebrities.
Richie's "Jazz Kats" are not a band per se. They are a pool of professional musicians from around Australia, with a number of them based in Adelaide. Typically, these are performers of international status, or consistently high local & national status. Most have made names for themselves in their own various styles from blues to jazz to pop and RnB.
Richie has been working with and expanding this pool of high quality musicians for many years. The musicians are hand-picked for their musical maturity, their reliability, and their ability to provide only the very best in jazz/blues, and funky rock/pop entertainment. Each musician may work with Richie on a regular basis, or just on special occasions, depending on each players commitments at any given time.
The pool of players is fondly referred to as Richie Robinson’s “Jazz Kats”.
In 2004, Richie began the ongoing project of developing unique duos with players from the pool. So far the duos have been a mainstay for a number of notable venues, restaurants, cocktail functions, corporate events, weddings and special occasions. The most known of these was a two year weekly and twice-weekly residency in the popular Sarah's Restaurant. The event was known as "Live At Sarah's", and included many notable players from around Australia.
With a fresh and spontaneous approach, every gig with Richie Robinson brings with it inspired, spontaneous, and unforgettably magic performances! Each musician and instrument brings a unique 'flavour' to the recipe, ranging from Acoustic Solo and Duos, right up to large Jazz Ensemble and Funky Groove styles for dancing.
If you would like to include one of Richie Robinson's Duos or Ensembles in your up-coming celebration or event, you can discuss the 'flavour' you have in mind when you request a booking. It may well be possible, depending on which musicians are available on the day.
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Meet the Musicians
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Vocalists / Instrumentalists
Our Preferred Multi-Instrumentalist/Vocalists.....
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Les Millar |
Les is a well traveled master of double bass. Having played with a number of known acts here and overseas, Les now also teaches bass at Adelaide’s Elder Conservatorium.
Doubling as a vocalist, Les’ style not only carries smooth jazz and rock with ease, but punches out the power of Buble in full swing. Les is a very welcome and valuable addition to Richie’s “Jazz Kats” team. |
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Gavin Clarke |
Gavin is a vocalist / trombonist with a fresh, new approach to jazz performance. He is part of a new wave of musicians bringing the sound of today to jazz.
Richie loves to have Gavin on the gig whenever the multi-talented performer is not touring nationally or internationally as he does with a variety of stage shows. |
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David Burvill-Holmes |
David is a vocalist / multi-instrumentalist that can add a variety of flavours to an evening’s entertainment. Lead flautist with the South Australian Police Band since the 1980’s, this light–hearted player is easily one of the finest in the country.
A full-time performer for well over 20 years, David takes on tenor saxophone, soprano saxophone, percussion, and vocals, all with ease and professionalism. David is must inclusion for a great many events. |
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Quinton Dunne |
A full-time performer for over 20 years, Quinton is a master of both Double and Electric Bass. With a remarkable sense of pitch, time, and melody, Quinton's experience and professionalism bring a constant shine to his performance, and to those on stage with him.
To top it off, Quinton is a soulful, and powerful vocalist with a repertoire covering a vast amount of top hits from the last 100 years.
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Robyn Habel |
Robyn Habel is an award winning singer/bassist, and fits into the role of master with ease. This seasoned singer/songwriter has been capturing the hearts and imaginations of the Adelaidians for a number of years with her earthy vocal style, and strong double bass form.
Robyn is now fronting a new jazz line up singing standards, blues and highly acclaimed original songs in her sweet smoky tones. Expect the unexpected as Robyn performs classic tunes with a twist.
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Wind Instruments
Our Preferred Wind Instrumentalists.....
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Antero Ceschin |
For almost two decades Antero's drumming has served many local and international artists. His touring and recording credits include The Mighty Reapers, USA blues diva Margie Evans and pop group Leonardo's Bride.
Inspired by the great harmonica masters Larry Adler and Stevie Wonder; Antero has now developed his own unique chromatic harmonica style, making this fabulous and rare sound available to live audiences in Australia. |
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The Adelaide Saxophone Ensemble |
The Adelaide Saxophone Ensemble is a refreshing and new alternative to string ensembles, giving the audience a combination of classical and jazz favourites in a fully acoustic setting.
The quartet is the brainchild of Alto Saxophonist Liz Charlton, and also has the ability to work as part of a Jazz & Swing ensemble making them a versatile choice for many occasions.
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Sharon Vicars |
A dedicated flutist, Sharon takes on the jazz repertoire with passion and verve. Her forte is Latin rhythms, and her sound works equally well as a duo with Richie, or letting loose in Richie’s Groove based Nitro Jazz Ensemble.
Sharon has done numerous shows with Richie including the inaugural International Rugby Sevens event in Adelaide as a member of his quartet.
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Gabriel Chammah |
Gabriel is one of the most sought after Saxophonists in South Australia. He is recognised for his mesmerizing feel on saxophone. Gabriel & Richie have done a great many shows together over a number of years, from duo to 16 piece band.
Known fondly as “Gabs”, his cool but nice-guy vibe befits his playing style, and endears his audience wherever he performs.
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Piano/Keys
Our Preferred Pianists.....
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Phil Smith |
Phil’s command of the standard jazz and pop repertoire is as broad as one can ask for from a seasoned performer. His skills are always in demand on the local circuit, and his quietly spoken nature is a stark contrast to his expressive ability on the keyboards. |
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Dave McEvoy |
David McEvoy is described by many of SA's finest musicians as their preferred pianist. This is because Dave is such a tasteful player that he makes the music really come to life while leaving enough room for every player in the band to shine. This is an extremely rare talent for a pianist, and David delivers it with a depth of feeling that is all one can ask for.
He has accompanied many notable touring and local musicians, and currently teaches in the jazz department at Adelaide University. |
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Other Pianists that have worked as Jazz Kats...
Peter Zanka, David Fitzgerald... Back to Top
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Acoustic & Electric Guitar
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Richie Robinson |
25 years as a full-time performer has honed Richie's ability to cover romantic moods, thumping acoustic-electric styles, fat chordal harmony, and adventurous outside solos.
He sits easily in a small ensemble, a big band, or as a solo entertainer as his guitar speaks from the heart. His outright musical honesty wins over audiences from every style including Jazz, Pop, Blues, Country, and Classical.
Richie's passion and feeling for the instrument constantly shines as he captures the essence of each song and delivers it with the same magic he has had since he was a young boy. |
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Electric Bass & Double Bass
Our Preferred Bassists......
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Les Millar |
Les is a well traveled master of double bass. Having played with a number of known acts here and overseas, Les now also teaches bass at Adelaide’s Elder Conservatorium.
Doubling as a vocalist, Les’ style not only carries smooth jazz and rock with ease, but punches out the power of Buble in full swing. Les is a very welcome and valuable addition to Richie’s “Jazz Kats” team. |
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Quinton Dunne |
A full-time performer for over 20 years, Quinton is a master of both Double and Electric Bass. With a remarkable sense of pitch, time, and melody, Quinton's experience and professionalism bring a constant shine to his performance, and to those on stage with him.
To top it off, Quinton is a soulful, and powerful vocalist with a repertoire covering a vast amount of top hits from the last 100 years. |
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Shireen Khemlani |
Shereen's style and feel on electric bass always shines through. You can hear it from the very first note. A rare player that features and supports every other player in the band, Shereen sounds so sweet you’ll want to listen just to her.
Shireen has performed with Richie many times, as well as with international touring artists, and all the best from the local scene. |
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Mike Haynes |
Mike is an international quality player with a solid knowledge of the jazz repertoire. He drives performances along with an obvious enjoyment that is entertaining in itself. He has done many shows with Richie since the year 2000.
Mike has performed in the US, the UK, and on a growing number of jazz albums. |
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Other Bassists that have worked as "Jazz Kats"...
Paul Jankovic, Simon Boomer, Lyndon Gray, Gary Isaacs...
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Drums & Percussion
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Damien Eldridge |
Due to many years of dedicated study, practice and performance, Damien has the musical maturity of a drummer ten or even twenty years his senior. He has a growing number of albums and international performances behind him (including a recent support for George Benson).
Damien has been performing regularly with Richie since 1995. |
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JJ Hackett |
JJ is widely known for his solid feel. He can take any song to a new dynamic level, whether it’s a smooth dinner vibe, or groovy dance jazz, or blues. He has the knack of complimenting the other players with his playing, while keeping the audience tapping their toes.
JJ's most known ex-outfit is the hugely popular Oz band Mondo Rock. |
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Other Drummers that have worked as Jazz Kats...
Mark Chewy, Craig Lauritson, Liv Bafile...
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Vocals
Our Preferred Vocalists.....
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Gerry Masi |
Gerry Masi has made a reputation in Australia and beyond. Recently returning from performances in the US, this fabulous vocalist owns every song he sings. That ownership comes from his delivery and showmanship that keeps audiences returning time and time again to see the many acts he fronts. Gerry Masi is a consummate performer and professional.
His most known acts include Lucifer’s Lounge, and Devils Cabaret. |
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Nina V |
Nina's warm and rich vocal sound will mesmerise you while her feeling for every song will make you believe every word she sings!!
Nina and her vocal partner Kathy T as The Adelaide Wedding Singers have had numerous audience members in tears with their renditions of popular songs at events.
Nina is the proud winner of "My Mum Rocks" of Australian Idol fame, and is currently planning to record with Richie Robinson. |
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Dominic Guida |
Dominic has been performing professionally for over 20 years both nationally and internationally. He has recently returned from a 10 week stint (27 shows) in Italy. This soulful singer has one of the richest, smoothest voices you will ever hear, and his ability to make you believe every song he sings is a pleasure worth waiting for. Dominic has supported many artists including; Suzi Quatro, Wendy Mathews, Neil Sedaka, Swanee, Ian Moss, and Daryl Braithwaite - just to name a few. |
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Catherine Lambert |
Catherine is one of the finest singers of her genre in the world. Suited to floorshows, she commands attention, and is a consummate entertainer and performer. |
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Cindy Dennis |
Cindy is a professional vocalist with a wonderful sound and a fresh on-stage personality. She has done many shows with Richie including support for renown singer/actor Sophie Monk. |
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Nicola Harris |
Nicola has one of those tremendously strong voices that takes you completely by surprise. To look at her she makes it all seem so easy, but when you listen, she's doing some amazing things.
Nic's a "One Take Wonder" in the studio too. She brings with her a whole lot of fire, and a whole lot of soul - and she's a fabulous fun character to work with. |
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Other Vocalists that have worked as Jazz Kats...
Greg Meyer, Luke Thompson, Brendan Mooney, ...
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