Featuring guitarist and musette-style accordionist Aaron Watson, virtuoso gypsy jazz guitarist Chris Sartisohn, and special guest bassist Joey Smith, Cold Cut Combo is a powerhouse of Django Reinhardt-inspired jazz and traditional swing.

1:30 pm — Everyone is welcome to our swing dance lesson!
2:00 pm — Show

The Cold Cut Combo is a Victoria-based gypsy jazz duo that has been enchanting audiences for over two decades with their virtuosic Jazz Manouche guitars, soulful accordion, and sweet vocals. Formed in 2001, the duo consists of Christopher Sartisohn on lead guitar and Aaron Watson on rhythm guitar, accordion, and vocals.

With a repertoire featuring jazz standards from some of the greatest composers of the 20th century, including Duke Ellington, Fats Waller, Cole Porter, Carlos Jobim, George & Ira Gershwin, Django Reinhardt, and Stéphane Grappelli, the Cold Cut Combo has become a go-to band for community festivals, citywide events, celebrations, and fundraisers in Victoria and across the South Island.

Admission by donation ($20 suggested donation), but ALL are welcome, regardless of funds.

The Hoppin’ Mad Orchestra is a wild assortment of musical mavericks celebrating the timeless music of the swing era, under the leadership of Australian multi-instrumentalist Simon Stribling.

Simon came by his musical talents honestly, growing up in a musical household and beginning trumpet at the age of five! A renowned musician on trumpet, trombone, and saxophone, as well as a much-loved vocalist, Simon brings a rare joyfulness, freedom, and vitality that are the hallmarks of this style.

From his early days playing with some of the legendary greats of Australian jazz, Simon has toured the world before settling in Canada, becoming one of the West Coast’s most beloved and respected bandleaders — and eventually making his home right here in Victoria.

Simon is joined in the front line by fellow saxophonist Doug Rhodes, while the tight rhythm section is comprised of Karel Roessingh on piano, Solomon Siegel on guitar, Ryan Tandy on bass, and Lauri Lyster on drums.