Patron

Dungeonjazz appoints Patron

After twelve years, Rod Barnes (pic, right) has retired from the hands on running of dungeonjazz. He has however graciously accepted the position of Patron.

As co-founder of dungeonjazz - and the individual who has done more than any other to build the venue's place and reputation - this continuing connection as Patron is both fitting and appreciated.

As well as the driving force behind the creation of dungeonjazz, Rod is a respected musician in his own right.  Rod has established a career as a performer, teacher, arranger and entrepreneur with a special interest in jazz.  Trained as a clarinet player, Rod adapted quickly to saxophone and drew on the influence of Benny Goodman, Stan Getz and Don Burrows.

Early experience in bands developed his skills of transcribing and arranging.  He put these to good use first in leading bands for New Life Singers and then in his own big band Sophisticated Swing.  These experiences led him to coordinate other outfits such as the sax quartet, Sax Blue, student big bands such as Sophisticats and the acclaimed Dungeon Big Band.

As a teacher, Rod has developed his own teaching methods for both classical and jazz examinations.  Rod also conducts workshops for schools and tertiary institutions.

It would be difficult to imagine any one better qualified to be our inaugural Patron.