Naarm / Melbourne
In the music
Hugh is an established voice in Naarm/Melbourne’s jazz and improvised music scene. His lyrical trumpet playing moves between chamber jazz, Brazilian song, afro-beat and large ensemble work—always grounded in the joy of making music together.
Selected listening
Current projects
Original music · chamber jazz
Intimate original compositions and improvisations shaped by the beauty of acoustic instruments and the lived experience of the musicians.
Brazilian songbook · live ensemble
A warm, rhythm-rich celebration of Antônio Carlos Jobim’s canon, bringing Hugh together with Brazilian and local musicians.
Bossa · samba · improvisation
Private events · tailored repertoire
Elegant, responsive live jazz for rooms where the music should feel considered—not incidental.
On stage & on record
About Hugh
Hugh grew up in Canberra, beginning on piano before taking up the trumpet at ten. After studying jazz trumpet performance with James Morrison, Mat Jodrell and Ross Irwin, he continued at Monash University under Paul Williamson, Gianni Marinucci and Jordan Murray.
Now a prolific sideman and bandleader in Naarm/Melbourne, Hugh has led performances at Uptown Jazz Café, Bar 303 and The Paris Cat. He draws on music’s vast history, Australia’s musical leaders and the natural world to make work that uplifts, surprises and invites audiences in.
Performances · sessions · collaboration