Brisbane jazz vocalist, bassist and arranger Kaitlyn Chester presents music from her debut album, Onto Something. Featuring original arrangements and contemporary interpretations of jazz standards, the performance highlights her love of storytelling and improvisation. Joined by her exceptional band, Kaitlyn reimagines classic Songbook repertoire through a contemporary lens.
Recorded in Brisbane in July 2026, Onto Something reflects a period of artistic growth and exploration. The project was shaped in part by Kaitlyn’s studies at the Tribeca Jazz Institute in New York City in 2025, where she immersed herself in one of the world’s most vibrant jazz communities. A return visit in 2026 further deepened her connection to the music and inspired many of the ideas explored throughout the recording.
Drawing on the Great American Songbook, the album balances a respect for jazz tradition with a contemporary approach to arranging and interpretation. This performance celebrates the release of Onto Something, presenting the music in the collaborative and spontaneous setting where it continues to evolve.
Personnel
Kaitlyn Chester – Voice
Steve Newcomb – Piano
Elliot Parker – Bass
Chris Evans – Drums
GIG DETAILS:
Friday 25th September 2026
$20 Entry (+GST & BF)
Doors open from 7:30pm
Music starts at 8pm
ALL AGES (people under 18 need to be accompanied by a guardian)
LICENSED BAR
Head to our Humanitix to purchase limited seated tickets
How do I purchase a ticket?
Tickets are being sold through Humanitix. Purchase limited seated tickets here. Due to JMI Live being an intimate space, we have a maximum number of guests allowed in the venue. We highly recommend it is best to get in early before tickets sell out.
What is JMI Live?
JMI Live presents live jazz in Brisbane every Thursday night from 8pm and a jam session after each gig. JMI Live is renowned for its intimate setting, providing the best opportunity to listen to live jazz in Brisbane. Just like a jazz club in New York, this venue is the ideal location for great jazz music, acoustics and atmosphere.
Location
JMI Live is located at 10 Exhibition Street, Bowen Hills.
Live streaming
All JMI Live concerts are live streamed to JMI’s YouTube account. Subscribe to our YouTube channel to access our free live streams.
Ticket Refund Policy
If you are experiencing flu-like symptoms and are unable to attend after having purchased a ticket, please contact the JMI office (07 3216 1110 or email play@jazz.qld.edu.au) as soon as possible during business hours (10AM-4PM) to let us know you won’t be able to attend. A full refund will be given if we are contacted prior to a performance. Refunds will not be processed if we are contacted after the gig.