Ali Harper and Harry Harrison: Ella & Joe

Waimakariri Community Arts Council is proud to present Ella & Joe in partnership with Chamber Music New Zealand, a captivating concert experience honouring one of the most iconic partnerships in jazz history — Ella Fitzgerald and Joe Pass.

On Monday 9 June at Chamber Gallery Rangiora, two of Aotearoa’s most versatile artists, Ali Harper (vocals) and Harry Harrison (guitar), bring their masterful musicality and deep affection for this repertoire to the stage.

Together, they interpret timeless classics such as Cheek to Cheek, Dream a Little Dream of Me, The Lady is a Tramp, and It’s Only a Paper Moon, as well as cherished gems like Ain’t Misbehavin’ and Almost Like Being in Love. The programme celebrates Fitzgerald and Pass’s remarkable chemistry — intimate, elegant, and deeply expressive.
Ali Harper is a multi-award-winning entertainer whose career spans more than 30 years. A graduate of Toi Whakaari: The New Zealand Drama School, she is well-known for her solo stage performances including Songs for Nobodies and Bombshells, which earned her Best Actress awards in both Wellington and New York. Ali tours widely through her company, Ali-Cat Productions, and has released seven albums that showcase her vocal versatility and love of classic repertoire.

Joining her is acclaimed Christchurch-based guitarist Harry Harrison. Originally from Glasgow, Harry has been composing and performing across jazz and roots genres in Aotearoa since 1985. He teaches at Ara Institute of Canterbury and has recorded and performed with some of the country’s most recognised musicians including Bic Runga, Dave Dobbyn and Hayley Westenra.

With voice and guitar alone, Ella & Joe offers a beautifully intimate window into the artistry and soul of these jazz legends — brought to life with charm, warmth, and reverence.