Ian Smith - Drums and Vocals
Ian Smith is a one of the most popular and versatile musicians on the Melbourne scene. As well as being a wonderful drummer and vocalist, Ian is well known for his musical talents on trumpet, the double bass and occasionally saxophone.
photo by Ron Jobe Ian has played with almost every significant Australian traditional jazz musician including Graeme and Roger Bell, Neville Stribling, Tom Baker, Bob Barnard and many, many others. Amongst Ian's band experience he has been well known as the leader of the old New Harlem Jazz Band, second trumpeter in Tom Baker’s San Francisco Jazz Band and drummer in Hotter Than Six/Fireworks Jazz Band. He has been a significant influence on younger musicians in the scene and has long-standing associations with Jo Stevenson, Steven Grant, Simon Stribling, Mark Elton and a host of other talented musicians. Ian is also a significant contributor to the VJC workshops. Ian's is an exciting drummer with the ability to work delicately across his instrument on trio numbers and ballads through to charging and driving drumming as part of larger rhythm sections. Ian's enthusiasm and love of the music is backed up by his natural ability and exciting approach. Whether singing, drumming or blowing a tune Ian always produces wonderful Australian jazz. |