Woolhouse - Michailidis - Robertson

The distinctive music of Jeremy Woolhouse, Ben Robertson and Lucas Michailidis draws audiences into a world of rich harmony and soaring melody.  The uncommon instrumental line up of piano, double bass and guitar, creates unique textures and ambience.  The trio set a refined and relaxed mood, alive with nuance.

“Intricate lines weaved into a contrapuntal net which is cast over the audience.  One can’t help but be drawn in by such a performance.”

“Soaring melodies which lingered in my head for weeks!”

Formed in 2006, the trio perform imaginative original compositions grounded in the harmonic sophistication of contemporary jazz.  Grooves inspired by tango and other South American music mix with themes of classical influence.  Improvisations evolve seamlessly from composed and arranged sections in the style of the European jazz sound epitomised by the ECM recording label.  The artists’ backgrounds in world music and jazz crossovers make this a truly international sound, reflective of Melbourne’s multicultural ethos.

The trio aim to keep melody paramount in rendering composition or improvisation. Focusing on creating evocative mood and textures, the ensemble features vibrant interplay amongst the three stringed instruments.  Each member brings a background of diverse experience and together they create a unique and captivating sonic experience. 

Ben Robertson: Double Bass

Ben Robertson is a brilliant and dedicated acoustic bass player, much sought after for his melodic solos and driving rhythm. The high standards he sets and achieves have earned him a reputation in the jazz world.  With studio credits on over 60 jazz and commercial CD releases, many television appearances and national and international tours, Ben performs in diverse situations with artists such as James Morrison, Jo Chindamo, Lee Konitz, the West Australian Symphony Orchestra and American Broadway diva Barbara Cook. Ben was composer, arranger and performer for Lisa Young’s Bell awarded “Grace” project, and his work has been nominated for ARIA and APRA awards.

Lucas Michailidis: Electric and Acoustic Guitars

Lucas Michailidis is internationally acclaimed for his musical lyricism and outstanding fingerstyle guitar work.  His solo albums have gained attention worldwide along with glowing reviews throughout Australia. His extensive and unconventional use of guitar tunings provides his music with a fresh, melodically driven approach that is free of cliché.  Lucas has performed extensively as a soloist and as a member of “Zulya and the Children of the Underground”, including several tours of Europe and performances at all major Australian festivals.  Lucas features on Zulya’s album “Waltz of Emptiness”, winner of a National Archive Award and a top-ten ranking in the European World Music charts.