The Jazzlab Dec 12 Triple bill

opening support set Monash emerging student

Lauren Kate Henderson (Adelaide) Album launch +

Stella Anning

evening show 7.30PM

The Jazzlab Friday Dec 12 doors 7.00pm Show 7.30PM

Tickets HERE $45/35 Bookings essential

opening support

Headliner set 1 Lauren Kate Henderson set 2 Stella Anning

Lauren Kate Henderson album launch “Curves of the Brave"

Lauren Kate Henderson (vocals)

Ciara Ferguson (piano)

Sam Anning (bass)

Kyrie Anderson (drums)

The album concept is that of resilience, introspection, gratitude, love, family, relationships, vulnerability and motherhood. The inspiration behind it came from a quote I read in my therapists office: "Curves of the Brave” which is a metaphorical phrase that refers to the graceful, confident lines or contours of someone who is not afraid to take risks or face challenges, suggesting a bold and resilient spirit that is not afraid to "bend" or adapt to difficult situations while still maintaining a strong presence.

Lauren Henderson is an award-winning vocalist, actor, composer, educator, and devoted mother of two. Renowned for her versatility and artistic range, Lauren moves seamlessly across genres and dynamic and genre-defying approach has led to collaborations with internationally acclaimed artists such as Moonchild, Jazzmeia Horn, Linda May Han Oh, Joe Chindamo, Anna Butterss, Matthew Sheens, James Muller, Gian Slater, Michelle Nicolle, Anita Wardell, Anna Goldsworthy, Robyn Archer, and The Lost and Found Orchestra (creators of STOMP!). A certified Estill Master Trainer and accomplished stage performer, Lauren holds an Honours degree in Acting from the prestigious Flinders Drama Centre. Her passion for artistic expression and creative empowerment informs both her performance and teaching practice, where she is committed to helping others unlock their full potential through the arts. Winner, National Jazz Awards – Voice (2020), Nominee, Freedman Jazz Fellowship (2016), Semi-Finalist, Thelonious Monk International Jazz Competition (Top 20, 2015)

This album is released through ABC Jazz

Stella Anning 

Stella Anning: vocals/guitar

Selene Messinis: keys

Richard Rose: bass

Kyrie Anderson: drums

Building on her jazz roots, Stella Anning expands her musical horizons by weaving in singer/songwriter sensibilities. A captivating blend of jazz, soul, and folk influences, embodying the rich diversity of Naarm/Melbourne's vibrant artistic community. With heartfelt, emotive storytelling and engaging soundscapes.

Stella Anning is a Naarm-based guitarist, singer/songwriter and composer whose genre-crossing sound draws from jazz, neo-soul, and folk traditions. With roots in jazz and a foundation in improvisation, her work explores deeply personal storytelling through song, reflecting Naarm/Melbourne’s rich and diverse artistic community. Her influences span from guitarists Bill Frisell and Marc Ribot, to her favourite vocalist/songwriter influences, from Esperanza Spalding and Brittany Howard to Adrianne Lenker, resulting in music that is emotive, raw, and resonant.

In 2025, Stella completed two East Coast tours and performed at major festivals including the Clarence Jazz Festival and Fusion on Fitzroy St. She is a regular collaborator with artists such as John Flanagan, Sal Kimber, ISEULA, and Laura Ingram, and is also the resident guitarist and a composer with the Jazzlab Orchestra.

Recent career highlights include a Banff Jazz and Sonic Arts residency under the mentorship of Shabaka Hutchings and Ganavya, a mentorship with Aaron Choulai through the Australian Art Orchestra, and performances at Bluesfest, the National Folk Festival, and the Melbourne International Jazz Festival.

Part of a new generation of jazz artists, Stella’s work is evolving in tandem with her life. Motherhood has opened new creative pathways, leading her to embrace songwriting and the expressive power of her own voice—expanding on decades of musicianship to forge a sound that is both grounded and exploratory.

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/stellaanningguitar

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/StellaAnningMusic

Bandcamp  https://stellaanning.bandcamp.com

Website https://www.stellaanning.com