In the light of so many cancellations of music events this summer, Scott Base Winery decided that a series of casual music evenings was the obvious way to go.
“We just wanted to celebrate summer,” says manager Carolyn Murray, adding, “It is easier to hold low-key events, particularly if they can be held outside.
We are also very keen to give artists the opportunity to perform, and locals a chance to listen to live music.”
Last Friday evening the live music was presented by Imaginary FreNZ musicians Susan Brady, of Tarras, and Simon Gomez, of Cromwell.
This talented duo played a wide selection of great music, and, with a platter to nibble and a wine to sip, the gathering did not take much persuasion to join in the occasional singalong.
Singer Susan Brady says, “We are loving it. It’s a big adventure for me to sing.
Simon is very clever at selecting different styles to suit the occasion.
He has a huge range, as he likes to say, ‘from Gershwin to Gaga and from Pink Floyd to Pink’!”
Susan was born in Dunedin, daughter of Denise and Alan Brady.
She is better known as an actor of television, stage and movies – you might recognise her from Zena Warrior Princes, Shortland Street, Hercules, Melody Rules – the list goes on.
Simon Gomez, too, has interesting stories to tell. He had a recording career in New Zealand with Sundays Problem in the 1970’s, before moving to South Africa and playing in The Derrik Warren Sound show band.
One night, playing with this band, he was approached by a woman wanting to book the band.
Turns out that this was film star Elizabeth Taylor, so the band played for her pre-wedding party for her second marriage to Richard Burton.
Simon has also played on stage with Ringo Starr.
Both entertainers are happy to be living here – just two of the interesting people who have made this region their home.
Next Friday they will be playing at Kinross, with friends Liz Braggins and Will Northcoat, 5pm-7pm.
