Zela Margossian Quintet blends jazz, Armenian musical traditions, and improvisation into a distinctive contemporary sound.

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Zela Margossian, piano/composer: Born and raised in Beirut of Armenian heritage, Zela grew up amid the conflict and political instability of the region, experiences that would later find their way into her music. She moved to Yerevan to study classical piano at the Komitas Conservatorium, where she discovered her love of jazz in the city’s clubs.

After moving to Australia, Zela transitioned from classical pianist to jazz composer and improviser, forming the Zela Margossian Quintet in 2017. The quintet has performed at the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Town Hall, Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues and Sydney Festival, as well as internationally at festivals in Beirut, Wellington, Perth and London.

Their debut album, Transition (2019), was ARIA-nominated for Best World Music Album. Their second album, released internationally through Ropeadope in 2022, further established ZMQ’s distinctive blend of jazz and Armenian musical influences.

Zela’s work also includes the ABC-commissioned Visions of Nar with saxophonist Jeremy Rose and a Creative Armenia Fellowship and mentorship with pianist and composer Tigran Hamasyan.

Stuart Vandegraaff, saxophones & woodwinds: Acclaimed saxophonist, woodwind specialist, bandleader and educator, Stuart works across jazz, Arabic and Brazilian music. Classically trained with a Master's in Arabic maqam, he is also a member of several leading Australian ensembles.

Jacques Emery, double bass: Double bassist, percussionist and composer, Jacques works across jazz, classical, experimental and contemporary music. He performs with ensembles including the Australian Art Orchestra, HEKKA and Zela Margossian Quintet, and has performed at major festivals in Australia and internationally.

Adem Yilmaz, percussion: A highly sought-after percussionist of Kurdish heritage, Adem specialises in Eastern percussion, particularly darbuka. He performs with Zela Margossian Quintet, Eishan Ensemble, The Catholics and a range of Australian and international artists.

Alexander Inman-Hislop, drums: Multi-ARIA-nominated drummer and composer, Alexander co-founded jetrio and BIKE THIEF and is a former Wangaratta National Jazz Awards shortlist recipient. He also lectures in jazz and drum set performance at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music.

Concerts Across the Lawn: Bring family and friends and enjoy music surrounded by nature. Watch the light fade and twilight settle in. Enjoy music over a drink and a delicious snack in one of the most unique concert spaces in the Illawarra. Feel free to bring your own supper. Chairs and rugs are available, but we encourage you to bring your own just in case. Numbers are limited to ensure that the event can go ahead regardless of weather.

The Stage Nature, Music, Art, Architecture

We respect and acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of Dharawal Country, Elders past and present, and extend that respect to other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Contact the host of Zela Margossian Quintet | Ethno Jazz