Have you ever wondered what it must have been like watching a silent movie accompanied by a 'live' pianist?
This is your chance to find out as we will be screening the highly entertaining 1927 silent film KID STAKES accompanied by the acclaimed boogie-woogie pianist Jan Preston.
KID STAKES gives us a snapshot of the times; an era of kids playing outside all day with marbles, backyard cricket, billy carts and boxing matches. This was normal day to day life throughout NZ and Australia. The film’s plot, based on Fatty Finn cartoon characters, is funny, touching and engaging.
JAN PRESTON’S piano and percussion original score cleverly intertwines with the film, reinforcing the story, characters, action and humour. The climactic billycart race at the end leaves audiences (and Jan’s piano) gasping for breath!
This is a treat to be indulged with Jaffas and cheers!
From a background in classical music and song writing, Jan Preston has created her own style, not only through her piano playing, but also her singing and songwriting.
Winner of 5 music awards, Jan plays concerts and festivals throughout Australia, NZ, and Europe, writes music for film, and has composed music for many ABC TV programs including the theme to “Australian Story.”
Recently Jan’s piano instrumental “Trout Blues” has become the title music to BBC Radio London’s Evening Show.
Watch Jan performing on ABC TV's Spicks and Specks.
Visit her web site.
“an inspirational and gifted pianist, performer and entertainer” - Rhythms Magazine
"One of the best pianists of our time, Preston masters the piano like a maestro juggling the keys. Her voice is suave and sensual, with finesse and sensibility" - Crossroads France
"Jan Preston is surely Australia’s Queen of the Piano. She and the instrument come as a package and anyone who’s seen her perform live has witnessed a perfect partnership. Her playing is as flawless as it is loose and joyful" - Rhythms Magazine Australia
"One woman, a piano and a whole lot of talent" - 3 Weeks Edinburgh
"From boogie woogie to ragtime the air pulsates with the magical rhythms she produces….a forceful presence and a huge performance energy" - ChCh Star NZ
"Technically strong, full of character, dripping with life” - American Blues Review
