Special guests, past students and new bands of the Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music (CQCM) are gearing up for a 'Jazz Extravaganza' which guarantees to be a feast of variety and entertainment for Mackay music lovers.

Lecturer from the Jazz Department at CQCM, Derrin Kerr is helping students get their acts together, polishing already formed ensembles as well as fine-tuning new groups for their performance on Friday, May 11, at the CQCM theatre.

"The audience can expect to hear from some of Australia's leading musicians, as well as the best CQCM jazz students have to offer.

"Soul, a Jumpin' Jive band and a brand new electronic band will perform in their first concert this year," said Mr Kerr.

Some of the big names in Jazz due to perform include Peter Walters who is considered to be one of the top bass players in Brisbane today. His touring extends to backing many top jazz performers in the USA, Europe and Australia.

Graham Jesse returns to the CQCM after touring with the CQCM Jazz bands in Queensland last year.  Many will remember him from the Midday Show where he featured as a regular soloist for 18 years.  Graham's career as a major contributor to Australian music spans more than 30 years and he is an accomplished performer, composer, arranger and producer having worked with performers such as Peter Allen, Anthony Warlow, Grace Night, Silverchair and Ricky Martin.

Local song bird and soprano Vicki Jones will perform with the CQCM bands delivering a modern jazz version of Madam Butterfly.  She'll be joined by ex-student of the CQCM, Mitchell Watkins who was one of the main vocalist from last year's CQCM Jazz tour of Queensland.

Don't miss this musical spectacular, a treat for the senses and guaranteed to get you groovin'!

Tickets on sale now; phone the CQCM box office on 4940 7800 $15 adults, $10 concession and $5 for students, show starts at 8pm.