La Petite Manouche

La Petite Manouche – translated roughly as “the little gypsy” is collaboration of Burke Goffe and Robbie Averill, both graduates of the CPIT Jazz School in Christchurch, who have spent the course of their studies having the style of gypsy jazz drilled through their souls by the main guitar tutor Bob Heinz. Consequently, they have come out and formed La Petite Manouche - a guitar duo with influences of gypsy and modern jazz, creating a unique fusion of music. Influences are widespread, ranging from Django to classical and baroque music, free jazz to fusion, celtic and world music, even popular and dance music. Notable influences include Biréli Lagrène, Sylvain Luc, The Rosenberg Trio, Ulf Wakenius, Pat Metheny, and Jonathan Kreisberg.

Burke has an Honours degree in Music majoring in Jazz Performance Guitar from the University of Canterbury, and was winner of the 2007 First Year Guitarist's Award and the 2008 Jack Urlwin Scholarship at the CPIT Jazz School. He currently spends his time playing in various musical settings around Christchurch, and the South Island, studying French, Spanish and Maori language, and is always keen for a game of poker. Robbie has also completed an Honours degree in Music, majoring in Jazz Performance Guitar and Jazz Composition, at the University of Canterbury. He has spend the last few years playing with various musicians in a wide variety of musical contexts, including folk festivals, musical theatre orchestras, big bands and church choirs.

Aspirations for the future include touring their debut album Legacy further around New Zealand, as well as overseas whilst travelling the world, meeting, jamming and learning from musicians everywhere.