Toby Barrett is a saxophonist and composer who is highly regarded in both the New Zealand and Melbourne jazz scenes. After receiving several national awards at a young age, Toby completed a Bachelor of Music at the University of Auckland, followed by a Bachelor of Music (Honours) at the University of Melbourne. Toby has been fortunate enough to perform with acclaimed international and national artists such as Melissa Aldana, Danilo Perez, Julien Wilson, Roger Manins, Jonathan Crayford and more. Toby performs regularly throughout Melbourne and has recently recorded his debut album, Catharsis, under the mentorship of Julien Wilson, Andrea Keller and Brett Williams.
Toby is returning to New Zealand for a short time to launch his debut album, Catharsis, through a North Island tour. The album is a collection of original compositions inspired by the paradoxical pleasures of sad music, drawing from the music of Ben Wendel, Joe Lovano, Remy Le Bouef and other ECM recording artists. The band features a mix of incredible Australian and Kiwi musicians. Melbourne-based Toby Barrett (tenor saxophone, FX), Will Ellerton (piano) and Matthew Morgan (drums) are joined by stellar locals Chelsea Prastiti (vocals), Iggy Nama Ruci (alto saxophone), and Tyler Diprose (upright bass).
The album is set to release on February 5th 2026, with a very special gig at Ponsonby Social Club to celebrate.
