About Us

LA LUNA (CARO MANINS) –CHANTEUSE

Our joy, soul and wildness

Vocalist and mad French manoucher of global origins, Caro Manins is a talent of multilingual dimensions. Her jazz credentials are no less impressive either with a rack of styles and critical acclaim under her belt. Recently returned from a tour of French-speaking New Caledonia, this girl sings vintage Piaf and gypsy classics with verve, nerve and joie de vivre. Caro has been living and performing in NZ for 12 years. She has performed extensively throughout the UK, Australia, the greater Pacific, India and China.

PHILLIP BEATSON - LEAD GUITAR

Gypsy spirit and dark intensity

The exceptionally talented Phillip Beatson is fast becoming one of New Zealand’s most accomplished, authentic manouche guitarist. Phillip has also studied Flamenco and draws these strands together in his work.

roger manins - tenor saxophone

Crazy humour, beautiful spirit and masterful

Roger's accomplishments are so vast it's hard to know where to begin. An international player of standing, he is respected throughout Australasia not only for the total mastery of his instrument, but for his originality and sheer energetic commitment.

SAM SWINDELLS - LA POMPE

Our solidity and heart

Sam, who recently completed his jazz honours, plays a range of guitar styles including manouche and jazz. A brilliant accompanist and pompe (manouche rhythm guitar) he centres the energies and channels them into delicious groove.

CHRIS MARSHALL / eamon e. wells / djordje nikolik - CONTRABASS

Rhythmic feel and drive

Chris, Eamon and Djordje are all young, energetic jazz and manouche players with great feel and rhythmic energy. Having recently completed their BA's they play with several groups on the Auckland scene.

ZhAMES 'Le Prof' - VIOLIN

Crazy runs and fire

Zhames Sneyd of the burning violin is a manouche player par excellence, with a wit and sense of humour to match.