Bob Sedergreen: A National Treasure of Australian Jazz
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Bob Sedergreen, born in 1943 in Mandatory Palestine, is an acclaimed Australian jazz pianist. His father, Seamus “Jim” Sedergreen, was a British Warrant Officer First Class, and his mother, Leah Erlichman, was a milliner. In 1951, Bob moved to Australia, where he lived in Melbourne and attended Armadale State School before transferring to Haileybury College, a Presbyterian school for boys.
Journey in Jazz
Sedergreen’s journey in jazz began in 1962 when he played with the Fred Bradshaw Quartet. Over the years, he has worked with several renowned musicians, including John Sangster, Don Burrows, and Brian Brown. He has also supported international jazz legends like Nat Adderley, Dizzy Gillespie, and Milt Jackson.
Education and Influence
In addition to being a performer, Sedergreen has also made significant contributions as an educator. He has lectured at the Victorian College of the Arts and the University of Melbourne’s Faculty of Music. He has also been an artist-in-residence at many Victorian secondary schools. His sons, Steve Sedergreen and Mal Sedergreen, have followed in his footsteps and are also musicians.
Legacy and Influence
Bob Sedergreen’s legacy in the world of jazz is significant. His contributions as a performer, composer, and educator have left a lasting impact on the Australian jazz scene. His work has influenced many musicians, and his compositions continue to be played and appreciated by jazz enthusiasts. Sedergreen’s influence extends beyond Australia, as his music has reached audiences around the world.
Later Life and Achievements
Sedergreen continues to be active in the jazz scene. He has recorded over twenty albums and has toured extensively both in Australia and overseas, including Jazz Festivals in Montreal, Malaysia, and Scandinavia. He has won several awards, including the Inaugural Jazz Award for Australia’s Best Keyboardist in 1990 and the Kenneth Myers Medallion for contributions to the arts in 2006.
- “Alone Together” by Bob Sedergreen: This recording showcases Sedergreen’s ability to create a rich, full sound even when playing solo.
- “Sea Journey” by Bob Sedergreen: A composition that highlights Sedergreen’s ability to blend melody and rhythm in a unique way.
- “Bobbing and Weaving” by Bob Sedergreen: Released in 1992, this album showcases Sedergreen’s versatility and his ability to infuse jazz elements into different musical forms.
- “Bob Sedergreen’s Deepest Green” by Bob Sedergreen: Released in 2011, this album is a testament to Sedergreen’s technical prowess and innovative approach to jazz.
- “Hear Me Talking to Ya” by Bob Sedergreen: This recording is a testament to Sedergreen’s optimistic outlook and his belief in the power of perseverance.
- “Live at the Montsalvat International Jazz Festival” by Bob Sedergreen: This live recording showcases Sedergreen’s energetic performance style and his ability to connect with the audience.
- “Live at the Melbourne Jazz Festival” by Bob Sedergreen: Another live recording that captures the excitement and spontaneity of Sedergreen’s performances.
- “The Australian Jazz Ensemble” by Bob Sedergreen: This album features Sedergreen collaborating with other top Australian jazz musicians.
- “Onaje” by Bob Sedergreen: This recording showcases Sedergreen’s ability to incorporate diverse musical influences into his compositions.
- “Peter Gaudion’s Blues Express” by Bob Sedergreen: This album highlights Sedergreen’s playful side and his knack for catchy, memorable melodies.
