Minstrels offer diverse mix of music

An eclectic Kiwi quartet whose music ranges through jazz, Latin, Celtic and gypsy rhythms will play a Masterton concert during a nationwide tour next month.

Beyondsemble spokeswoman Diana Moir said the tour would feature a new band line-up comprising Jon Sanders on guitar, ukulele, bouzouki and vocals; John Ellis on saxophone and clarinet; band founder Craig Denham on accordion, piano, whistles and vocals; and Chris Koole on cajon (box drum), percussion and lead vocals.

"These four talented musicians have the skill to make music of the highest quality look easy. They play together with complete trust," she said.

The band last year released a debut eponymous album to critical acclaim.

It will perform at the Harlequin Theatre in Masterton on November 5 during a run of 26 dates in a national tour that kicks off in Thames at the end of this month.

Since the band's launch in 2009, Ms Moir said, Beyondsemble had shot into the limelight on the Kiwi festival scene and was today winning attention offshore.

"The band are not long back from a successful European trip and this nationwide tour will once again feature an eclectic mix of original and improvised music merging Celtic, Latin, jazz and gypsy rhythms, all executed with consummate skill and infectious enthusiasm."

Only door sales are available at the Harlequin Theatre performance in Masterton on November 5.

Tickets cost $25 a head and the concert will start at 7.30pm.