Douce Ambiance

Next date: Monday, 05 October 2026 | 07:00 PM to 08:15 PM

Blending the passion of flamenco, the lilt of Irish music, the lively swing of jazz and the fiery energy of Gypsy music, Douce Ambiance creates a sound that is both exquisite and exhilarating.

Featuring four top Christchurch musicians - violinist Cathy Irons, pianist Dan Robertson, guitarist and double bassist Dougal Canard, and percussionist Douglas Brush - Douce Ambiance is renowned for its rich musicianship, inventive arrangements and sparkling interplay. Their performances weave together written repertoire with moments of inspired improvisation, making every concert unique.

The programme includes fresh interpretations of music by jazz legends Bill Evans and Chick Corea, alongside two of Astor Piazzolla's most compelling works. Experience the lyrical beauty of Tanti Anni Prima ("Ave Maria") before being swept away by the driving rhythms and electrifying energy of Escualo ("The Shark"), inspired by Piazzolla's passion for shark fishing. From the very opening, it will have you hooked!

Experience an evening of artistry, warmth, and infectious energy as these outstanding performers offer an exciting array of classical, jazz, folk, and world music. 

"Bringing remarkable soul dancing joy!"

$25 tickets, booking required. Door sales if not sold out prior.

The Musicians

Cathy Irons (violin, viola) is a versatile violinist, performing regularly in the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra (CSO) and touring ensemble concerts throughout NZ with programmes from baroque to jazz. Her playing as been described by reviewers as “sonic fireworks that dazzle with all their brilliance” and

“characterised by inspirational musicianship.” She has performed in the Cavell Leitch NZ Jazz and Blues Festival, the Dunedin Fringe Festival, Arrowtown Spring Arts Festival and has toured for both Arts on Tour NZ and Chamber Music New Zealand.

Dan Robertson (keyboard) has performed at the New Zealand Arts Festival, with his own trio at the Christchurch Big Band Jazz Festival and with the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra for the Last Night of the Proms series. While in Melbourne Dan teamed up with award winning song writer Cam Giles-Webb and appeared on several of Cam’s albums as well as regular gigs at Dizzy’s Jazz Bar, The Paris Cat, The Melbourne International Jazz Festival, The Eltham Jazz Festival, and the Castlemaine Jazz Festival. His work as a pianist in Trios and in Showbands on cruise ships has taken him to New York, Hawaii, and the Caribbean.

Dougal Canard (guitar, double bass) is a multi instrumental musician much in demand around Christchurch. He holds a B.Mus in jazz performance. He has extensive experience playing guitar in all styles including rock, funk, and jazz. He performs with many different bands and does show work, including NASDA and the CSO. He also leads his own Brazilian band Sambolero.

Douglas Brush (percussion, drums) is an extraordinarily versatile percussionist who has built a substantial international career. Locally he has performed with the CSO and New Zealand Opera, and musicians Serj Tankian (System of a Down), Broadway star Andrea Burns, Kiwi legends the Topp Twins and Paul Ubana Jones, Fiona Pears, and the 'world jazz' group Mundi, among many others. He currently teaches at Christchurch's Ara Jazz School.

 

 

When

Location

St Lukes Anglican Church, 2 Tees Street, Oamaru, 9400, View Map