WAYJO's 40th Anniversary Concert

You’re invited to the jazz party of the year as the WA Youth Jazz Orchestra (WAYJO) turns 40!

With thousands of events under its belt and a special place in many a WA musician’s hearts and memories, WAYJO is marking the occasion in style – bringing together Perth’s biggest jazz names alongside future stars of the Australian jazz scene for one special weekend at the State Theatre Centre’s Studio Underground and Foyer.

The celebrations begin with a Gala performance on Friday evening featuring WAYJO big bands alongside special guest alumni including Perth's premier jazz vocalist, Libby Hammer, the versatile trombonist Catherine Noblet, the accomplished saxophonist Gemma Farrell, and the elegant vocalist Lucy Iffla.

On the big night, all three bands - MinterEllison Monday Night Orchestra, St John of God Health Care Tuesday Night Orchestra, and Wednesday Night Orchestra - will take to the stage to perform commissioned works, band and fan favourites, and classic big band jazz repertoire.

But the celebrations don’t end there… on Saturday, WAYJO transforms the State Theatre Centre's Studio Underground and Foyer into a mini festival hub of in-conversations, small group jazz ensembles, historic photo displays, alumni appearances, and big band performances. 

Join us as we celebrate WAYJO's 40-year history and look towards the future of jazz!