Newly reinvigorated Newtown venue The Vanguard plays host to the second and third shows of SIMA’s Jazz:NOW series. On 23rd of April, WOOD&WIRE presents two ensembles at the forefront of contemporary Australian music. SIMA stalwarts Sandy Evans (OAM) and Steve Elphick - two fundamental luminaries of Australia’s artistic landscape and SIMAs history with a longstanding musical relationship - offer their collaboration with Satsuki Odamura, whose mastery of the Koto and Shamisen suggests a profound expression and a unique marriage of diverse cultural musics. Here soaring, folkloric melodies will meet in a cross-cultural exploration of improvisation and song. Freya and Matthias Schack-Arnott are two improvisor/performers who are consistently revolutionising the Australian new-music scene. Their broad-minded approach and technical virtuosity have led to countless performances and celebrated reputations across Australia and internationally, as well as the reception of numerous awards and fellowships including FutureMakers and residence at the Peggy Glanville-Hicks house. Here they are joined by frequent collaborator Ben Ward - a similarly celebrated and virtuosic double bassist - to present new work which investigates the intersection between electronic and acoustic sound sources. This is a rare opportunity to hear some of Australia’s most celebrated new-music performers in collaboration. Says Artistic Director Novak Manojlovic “These two ensembles represent a cross-section of different aesthetics - of musical generations, cultural influences, and artistic lineage. Between these 6 musicians you will hear traces of jazz, classical, folk, electronic and improvised musics. It is a credit to the virtuosity of these remarkable artists that they can marry this slew of influences in a manner that is organic, modernistic and unique. To hear Sandy Evans’ iconic tenor saxophone interact with both new and old collaborators in Steve Elphick and Satsuki Odamura or hear the deep sonic relationship shared by Freya Schack-Arnott, Matthias Schack-Arnott and Ben Ward will be a highlight of the 2025 Jazz:NOW program”. MAGIC MUSIC TRIO Sandy Evans; saxophones Satsuki Odamura; koto Steve Elphick; bass Freya Schack-Arnott; cello Matthias Schack-Arnott; percussion and electronics Ben Ward; double bass and electronics Community members matter. Sign up for discounted tickets for all future events here. If you’re a musician or an audience committed to the music: https://sima.org.au/membership/ TICKETING INFO This is an 18+ event. Do not attend if you are feeling unwell. PLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING: Once purchased tickets are non-refundable & non-transferable A booking fee applies to all advance tickets. (All quoted prices include tax). Over 18's only unless advertised otherwise. All children under 18 not permitted including small children and babies. Photo ID is essential, acceptable ID is a current and valid Australian Drivers Licence or Passport. Intoxicated persons will not be admitted. No thongs, steel cap boots, or spiked attire. Dangerous  behaviour including Crowd Surfing, Stage Diving, Moshing and Violent Dancing is not allowed and will result in your immediate removal from  this venue. Inappropriate behaviour at this venue will lead to your banning.