Aotearoa Jazz Orchestra

The Aotearoa Jazz Orchestra (AoJO) returns to Wellington with a contemporary re-imagining of one of the most influential works of the 20th century: George Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue. The performance takes place at Meow Nui on Thursday 6 March at 7.00pm, featuring acclaimed pianist Ben Wilcock.

First heard in 1924, Rhapsody in Blue broke new ground by fusing jazz language with symphonic form. In this performance, AoJO honours the essence of Gershwin’s original while re-examining the work through a modern big band lens — expanding its orchestral colours, rhythmic drive, and improvisational possibilities for today’s audiences.

AoJO Musical Director John Rae says the orchestra approached the piece with both respect and curiosity:

“Gershwin was writing music that looked forward, not backward. Our aim with this version of Rhapsody in Blue is to treat it the same way, to honour the original while allowing it to speak in a contemporary jazz language that feels alive right now.”

The performance features pianist Ben Wilcock, widely regarded as one of Aotearoa’s leading jazz artists, whose international career spans Europe, the UK, and New Zealand.

“Ben brings an incredible combination of authority, imagination, and openness to this music,” says Rae. “He understands Gershwin from the inside out, and he’s not afraid to take risks, which is exactly what this piece demands.”

Wilcock has been praised internationally for his distinctive musical voice: “Wilcock combines dazzling technical command with a rare sense of musical narrative — his playing is both fearless and deeply expressive.” — All About Jazz

Another review described him as “A pianist of remarkable clarity and imagination, equally at home in classical repertoire and cutting-edge jazz.”

Alongside this project, AoJO continues its broader mission of developing large-ensemble jazz in Aotearoa and creating meaningful performance opportunities for local musicians.

“The Aotearoa Jazz Orchestra exists to celebrate, develop, and present contemporary large-ensemble jazz in Aotearoa — supporting our musicians, engaging new audiences, and placing this music in a living cultural context rather than a museum one.”

Event details

• What: Aotearoa Jazz Orchestra: Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue
• Featuring: Ben Wilcock (piano)
• Where: Meow Nui, Wellington
• When: Friday 6 March 2026, 7.00pm