Phil Hayter’s Illuminators

Get ready for an electrifying night of acid-jazz funk peppered with energetic Latin plus a swinging standard and vulnerable ballad or two as Phil Hayter’s Illuminators take the stage at The Jazz Sessions on Thursday 16th July.

A dynamic woodwind artist and composer, Phil Hayter has spent over two decades carving out a vibrant career across Australia and beyond. First mentored at just 10 years old by jazz legend Bob Sedergreen, Phil went on to become a familiar name on Melbourne’s jazz circuit, performing at iconic venues and major festivals before relocating to the Sunshine Coast in 2023 bringing a wealth of experience with him. Phil has performed at Melbourne International Jazz Festival, Mont Kiara International Jazz Festival (Malaysia), Kuching Jazz Festival (Malaysia) and Stonnington Jazz Festival. As well as regularly performing at Melbourne’s jazz venues such as Dizzy’s, Paris Cat, Bennett’s Lane, Bird’s Basement and the Jazzlab he has toured Australia and Asia with jazz, funk and other acts over his 25 years as a professional musician. He has recorded two albums as a leader and appeared on many as a sideman. He performed on ABC TV’s Spicks and Specks with R’n’B sensation THNDO.

Phil Hayter’s Illuminators is a bold and genre-blending ensemble, fusing original jazz-hop funk with swinging hard-bop standards, Latin flavours, and deeply expressive ballads. Armed with an array of woodwinds—including multiple saxophones and flute—Phil leads a band driven by deep grooves, adventurous improvisation, and tight-knit interplay. The result is a sound that is as playful as it is sophisticated, combining the richness of jazz harmony with the pulse and energy of hip hop.

Expect a night of risk-taking, rich textures, and infectious energy—a sonic journey that pushes boundaries while staying rooted in the joy of jazz.

The Presynct, upstairs – 15 Ann St,
Doors open 6:00pm
Show starts 6:30pm to 9:00pm

Meat and cheese platters available to pre-order.
Parking available behind the venue.
Tickets: $18 – $45

Click here to purchase tickets

If you’re looking for a unique concert experience, look no further than The Jazz Sessions at The Presynct.
This hidden gem offers intimate shows for listeners in a beautifully curated venue.
These are listening concerts where people can come together to enjoy live music in a true jazz club experience.

We ask that talking is kept to a quiet whisper as audience members are actively listening to the music.