Central Coast Jazzleague – Super Sunday Success!

Sunday, July 6th was a record-breaking day for Central Coast Jazzleague at the Central Coast Leagues Club, with over 170 jazz fans turning out to enjoy a vibrant afternoon of live music and celebration.

The feature performance came from the New Empire Ballroom Ragtime Orchestra, who were joined by three exceptional young talents—each of whom received a $2,000 Jazzleague Scholarship in recognition of their emerging artistry.

Scholarship Awardees:

Elise Leonard – A gifted vocalist with a smooth, classic jazz style reminiscent of Ella Fitzgerald. Elise delivered a stunning rendition of her signature tune, “Teach Me Tonight.”

Sophie Hawthorne – A powerhouse drummer from Newcastle and a member of the band Half Nelson, Sophie wowed the crowd with her energetic take on Gene Krupa’s “Sing, Sing, Sing.”

Dominic Chahade – At just twelve years old, Dominic amazed the audience with his skillful trumpet performance of “What a Wonderful World.”

All three recipients were formally presented with commemorative certificates by Greg Englert, the newly appointed Patron of Jazzleague. Jazzleague has proudly supported emerging jazz musicians through its scholarship program for over 30 years.

**Jazzleague Scholarship Awardees**
*(L to R)*
Elsie Leonard | Singer
Sophie Hawthorn | Drummer
Dominic Shahade | Trumpeter
Greg Englert | Patron
Bob Brooks | President

**Jazzleague** scholarship presentation to Elsie Leonard by patron Greg Englert and President Bob Brooks.

Welcome to Greg Englert – New Patron of Jazzleague
Greg Englert, a multi-instrumentalist, bandleader, and jazz historian, was officially introduced by Jazzleague President Bob Brooks, who presented him with a beautifully framed certificate commemorating his honorary appointment. Greg expressed his pride and enthusiasm in taking on this new role.

Presentation to Greg Englert as Patron of the **Jazzleague** by President Bob Brooks

Supporting the Broader Jazz Community
Jazzleague was also proud to announce a $2,000 sponsorship for the 36th Annual Newcastle & Hunter Jazz Club Festival, to be held this August at Newcastle City Hall. NHJC President Sheridan Nelson attended the event to formally accept the sponsorship, which will help support performances from jazz bands across Australia and New Zealand.

Sheridan Nelson accepting $2000 sponsorship from **Jazzlague** President Bob Brooks for the Newcastle Jazz Festival

Next Event – Louis Armstrong Birthday Tribute
Join us again on Sunday, August 3rd, when Greg Englert returns with the Louis Armstrong Birthday Band for a heartfelt tribute to the life and legacy of Satchmo himself.
All details here.

President’s update AUGUST 2025