The Generations in Jazz board is celebrating the resounding success of its first GIJ Improvised event, which attracted a digital audience of almost 18,000 people in June, as planning begins for the return of a traditional format in 2023.

The global audience included 6700 viewers via Facebook which attracted a reach of more than 90,000 further assisting to build the profile of this iconic Mount Gambier event.

New board chair Tony Wright said organisers were now busily preparing for next year’s return event which plans to have greater connection with international partners and attacting schools from interstate.

Mr Wright was recently appointed chair following the retirement of incumbent Peter Roberts and event coordinator Karyn Roberts, after more than three decades of service to the event.

GIJ artistic director James Morrison also announced his retirement after 34 years years of continuous service to the event, declaring it was time to hand over the baton to the next generation.

Mr Wright said together the event stalwarts recognised it was time for the next generation to take on the responsibility for the delivery of the iconic and significant event.

“The board, both past and present, wish to acknowledge the outstanding service of James, Peter and Karyn who have been instrumental in making Generations in Jazz a nationally recognised event, which has now engaged an international audience base with this year’s concert,” Mr Wright said.

“It has been through their dedicated leadership that tens of thousands of school students have had the opportunity to experience this unique and significant jazz educational experience, forming the foundations for many to build careers in the music sector.

“It is these foundations that give the new board confidence to thrive and grow as we look to future-proof Generations in Jazz to ensure it remains a staple on our events calendar for years to come.”

Mr Wright applauded the volunteer service of Ms Roberts, noting she was highly respected by many of the participating schools who recognised her passion for the educational program.

He said she was instrumental in GIJ receiving a number of national awards, including personal accolades such as the 2015 City of Mount Gambier Australia Day Award and 2008 Limestone Coast Tourism Individual Award.

“We are extremely proud to have been able to adapt to the pandemic by hosting the new look GIJ Improvised 2022 event and are excited to build our event plan for 2023 to make this event even better for our visitors and great region,” Mr Wright said.

The James Morrison Jazz Scholarship will continue to be offered in 2023 and the board is excited that Mr Morrison has agreed to continue the scholarship in his name, recognising the contributions he has made to Mount Gambier, Generations in Jazz and music education in Australia.

The GIJ Vocal Scholarship will also be on offer at the event, scheduled for May 5-7.