From teaching the Cat Empire how to jazz, to putting together some of the most eclectic ensembles around, Steve Sedergreen is someone to pay attention to.
If you mutter the name Steve Sedergreen in Melbourne jazz circles, you’ll get a respectful, eyes-closed nod that silently says, “yep, that’s the guy.” Among many other things, Steve is known for putting together eclectic jazz line-ups with handpicked vocalists and exceptional playlists. This month, Sedergreen has brought together Jacki Gaudion, a well-respected jazz vocalist in her own right, and Axle Whitehead – yes, the one from TV – for some soulful classics and funky grooves, backed by Ben Robertson on acoustic bass and Gerry Pantazis on drums (with Steve on piano, of course).
With its stunning interior (there’s not a bad seat in the house) and upscale Italian-inspired eatery and bar, The Count’s always impresses. We spoke with Steve, Jacki and Axle about this ensemble and the upcoming performance, which will feature songs from artists like Vince Jones and Kurt Elling.
Steve Sedergreen Trio with Axle Whitehead and Jacki Gaudion
- Wednesday 20 August 2025, 7:30pm
- The Count’s, Monash University Performing Arts Centres
- Tickets on sale now
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“I met Axle way back in 1997 when he was a student at the VCA, and starting to do gigs with both my father, Bob Sedergreen, who was teaching at the VCA at the time, and me. There was an immediate connection, as Axle was in tune with the jazz concept of improvising with a sense of freedom (it’s about being ‘you’ and trusting yourself),” explains Steve. “Over the years, we have done many, many gigs together. The years I was a partner in Dizzy’s Jazz Club in Richmond were very special, with some great shows with Axle. For Jackie, I recently popped into a gig she was doing with her cousin, Ashey Gaudion, at The Paris Cat, and I was floored by her timing, delivery and storytelling, all drenched in the Blues. I thought she would be perfect for this show. Axle the free spirit, Jacki the storyteller. Great combination!”
For those wondering why someone from Home & Away is featured on a jazz line-up, you’d be surprised to learn that music is Axle Whitehead’s main focus, and he’s excited to show this to a Melbourne audience. “I’m based in Sydney, so I haven’t been playing in Melbourne much. But from what I hear, it’s a very healthy scene and a lot of great young players coming up. Secretly, I think Sydney is a bit jealous of the Melbourne scene.” We’ll likely see and hear much more from Axle in the near future as he is currently working on a record with Carl Dimataga. “It will be out later this year. I’m about to go travelling for a few months in South East Asia, so I’m looking forward to the adventure. I’m also part of an exciting TV show that will air in February next year.”
For Steve, every show he puts together has to be different. “I do not like to serve up the same show twice. I like to have vocalists who are comfortable with being themselves, rather than mimicking someone else. I love nothing more than selecting the right musicians for the right show (if I can get them!). I do a significant amount of preparation for all my shows, so it is crucial that I choose the right musicians to capture the magic, the lightning in the bottle, creating a great vibe on stage and for the audience. This ensures I stay fresh as a performer, and it’s so much more exciting for the audience.”
Jacki further explains how Steve has achieved this with the upcoming performance through song selections as well. “There’s going to be well-known blues, and a more obscure blues, something from Annie Ross, a few jazz standards, as well as a new one for me, made famous by Judy Garland. All my choices are love songs or loss songs. I’m trying not to give too much away. I can’t wait to work with this line-up!”
See the Steve Sedergreen Trio with Axle Whitehead and Jacki Gaudion live at The Count’s, Wednesday, August 20th. Tickets available now.
This article was made in partnership with The Count’s.
