KG project + Sophie Min

Saxophonist and composer, Kali Gillen premieres adventurous new work with an outstanding ensemble, while APRA award winner, Sophie Min performs a rare and intimate solo set for this SIWJF umbrella event.

Kali Gillen is an active multi-instrumentalist in the music scene in Sydney and beyond. After graduating from the Sydney Conservatorium of Music with a Bachelor in Music (Jazz Performance), Kali has been regularly performing in Sydney, highlights including performing with Pharos for the Sydney Women’s Jazz Festival (2018-2024) recently touring to Indonesia to represent Australia with Harbourside Jazz at the Java International Jazz festival, as well as around Australia with the Hilltop Hoods for their ‘Never Coming Home’ Tour.

After the release of her EP ‘Armoura’ in July, Kali attended the Jazz and Sonic Arts Program in Banff, Canada, and this performance at Monday Night Confessions marks the start of new music and sonic exploration, The KG Project. Joining her is Roshan Kumarage (Piano), Michael Brady (Guitar), Sabine Tapia (Double Bass) & Jack Rosenzweig (Drums).

Kali Gillen | saxophones
Roshan Kumarage | piano
Michael Brady | guitar
Sabine Tapia | double bass
Jack Rosenzweig | drums

Pianist and composer Sophie Min is the 2024 ABC Jazz Artist in Residence and recipient of the 2023 APRA Professional Development Award (Jazz). She returns to the festival stage with a rare solo performance after several years focused on collaborative projects, artistic research and large ensemble work.

Presenting an intimate solo set of original music, improvisation, prepared piano and reimagined standards, Min explores the space between composition and spontaneity, allowing familiar material to evolve in unexpected ways. The concert also offers a preview of Pulse², Min’s forthcoming solo recording project. Rather than a fixed recital, each performance unfolds differently, leaving room for compositions, standards and improvisations to develop naturally in the moment.

Sophine Min | piano