One of the most boundary-pushing improvising jazz ensembles to emerge from Sydney in the past decade, the group has built a devoted following since forming in 2015 through their original approach and compelling live performances.

Max Alduca – double bass
Nick Calligeros – trumpet
Holly Conner – drums & electronics
Hilary Geddes – guitar
Sam Gill – saxophones & percussion
Phillippa Murphy-Haste – clarinets & viola

Microfiche return for their first gig of the year, and the second to feature their new line-up unveiled late last year! Microfiche’s six individual members have become some of the most acclaimed and cutting-edge improvisers in Australia.

Described by Sydney Morning Herald as “highly original minds”, Microfiche combines thrilling improvisations with inventive compositions from each member of the band. Originally drawing inspiration from modernist and avant-garde art music composers (such as John Cage and Morton Feldman), the band absorbed these philosophies into an improvising context, combined with their own diverse musical influences. Their music has drawn comparisons to Scandinavian jazz Christian Wallumrød Ensemble and Anna Högberg Attack.

The group has released two full- length albums (the latest released on Portuguese label Creative Source Rec), two live EPs, toured throughout Australia (including at MONA and Strata Festival at Phoenix Central Park) and throughout Europe (including at Copenhagen Jazz Festival and Stockholm’s giant RN1 decommissioned Nuclear Reactor). They have also shared the stage with iconic Australian artists including Chris Abrahams (The Necks), Sia Ahmad, Phil Slater, and Bonniesongs as part of month-long performance residency.

Microfiche recorded their third studio album in April 2024 with Tim Witten, to be released in mid-2026.

Set times:
7:30 doors,
8:00 set 1,
9:00 set 2

As part of Birds of a Feather, March: A gathering of artists refusing to behave as expected, presenting bold, intimate, and curious work across theatre, dance, performance, musiking, and film. Come for a moment. Stay for a while. Or dive in headfirst—if it feels slightly outside your comfort zone, you’re exactly where you need to be.