As far as trios go, Birdmen is a pretty stellar line up. Award winning saxophonist Tim Hopkins is a veteran of the jazz scene, with 7 albums as a leader under his belt and a host of other credits to his name. Bruce Madden is a highly versatile and sought-after keyboard player, known for deep grooves, lighting fires and tearing the house down with his playing. Drummer Mike Beck is in just about every band in Auckland for a reason, he’s cheeky, solid and can throw down the way only an experienced drummer can. Together, they create saxy organic grooves with maximum head room.

Enquiries: timhopkinsmusic@gmail.com

SAXIT brings together sax maestro Tim Hopkins and songbird Sop Su’a on vocals/guitar, delivering a sound that’s anythin but ordinary. Their setlist rolls through crowd favourites from the 80’s and 90’s right up to LAB-inspired hits and beyond – all layered with slick, modern backing tracks that give their performance real punch. They’ve already locked in a loyal following at Buffalo Beach Club in Whitianga, and it’s easy to see why. Whether it’s a party, function, or regular gig night, SAXIT brings the energy, groove, good vibes and a great time. Lock them in as your go-to entertainment – this is one act that always delivers.

Conceived in the caverns of his mind over 30 years ago, “Cosmic Caving” began life with a road trip to record in the iconic Jenolan Caves 5 hours west of Sydney. What started out as a simple idea grew into a sonic universe of soundscapes full of ambience, emotion and textures. Featuring Hopkins on a variety of instruments including South American wooden flute, bass clarinet, tin whistle, tenor and soprano saxophones, and a special guest appearance by renowned percussionist Miguel Feuntes. The music ranges from completely improvised to carefully crafted compositions by Hopkins, drawing inspiration from ECM recordings, artists like Jan Gabarek and traditional Taonga Puoro ideas from NZ. From the depths of the largest system of caves in the southern hemisphere, to the car parks of NZ, and into the studio Cosmic Caving is an ambitious project that’s really blazing its own trail. 

Feuntes Baynes and Hopkins is a Latin jazz trio featuring Miguel Feuntes (percussion), Dr Mark Baynes (piano/keys) and Tim Hopkins (saxophone/flute). Recent performances include the Auckland Arts Festival, Ponsonby Social Club and Crown Range Lounge in Parnell. Blending Afro-Cuban jazz, mambo, cha-cha-cha, boogaloo and Latin soul, the trio performs music by artists including Cal Tjader, Tito Puente, Joe Cuba and many more, alongside Latin jazz classics such as Para Ti, Almendra and Alonzo.

After a successful residency at Melba Cafe, Hopkins brings the magic with his mellifluous tenor and soprano with backing tracks. Whether its cruisy laid back jazz and blues, or easy listening, he sets the mood with a mix of jazz standards and familiar classics. Perfect for Sunday afternoons or happy hour vibes.

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