The Band
Matt Cross
Originally from Albury NSW, Matt Cross is a multi-instrumentalist with a strong passion for live performance, and countless shows of experience. He started piano lessons at the age of 5, which would eventually become his primary instrument. Matt achieved his Bachelor of Music in 2017, majoring in Jazz Piano at the University of Newcastle.
Still living in Newcastle he is now a full time musician. Aside from “The Hummingbirds Collective” he is also a proud member of original bands “Glovers Lane” and “My Friend Rupert”.
His stylistic influences have been inspired by musicians such as Billy Joel, Elton John, Vulfpeck, Stevie Wonder, John Mayer, and Ben Folds.
Matt Thomas
Matt Thomas is a professional and passionate drummer with over 13 years of teaching, recording and touring experience.
Throughout this time, Matt has played in various bands of varying styles such as; Rock/Pop, Folk, Hardcore/Metal, Dance/Electronic, Country, Jazz and Funk. He has also toured nationally with multi-golden guitar winner Drew McAlister and country duo, McAlister Kemp.
Most recent academic credentials include graduating from the Newcastle Conservatorium with a Bachelor of Music with Distinctions.
Matt owns and operates a teaching studio called 'Upbeat Drums and Percussion' which he runs with his wife.
Naomi Blanch
Naomi Blanch is a saxophonist from Newcastle, Australia.
She started playing informally at the age of 12. Since then she has completed her Bachelor of Music at the University of Newcastle, during which she traveled to Sweden on music exchange. Naomi lived and studied in Sweden for a year, playing with the Arctic Youth Jazz Orchestra and several other ensembles in this time.
Upon returning to Newcastle Naomi now performs with local bands The Dew Cats and Pocket Jazz and is a member of the Newcastle Jazz Ochestra.
Aaron White
Aaron White hails from the small town of Coolah in rural New South Wales.
He moved to Newcastle in 2016 to study a Bachelor of Music at the University of Newcastle, which he completed in mid-2019.
Aaron is an energetic and fun individual who immensely enjoys being on stage and always strives to give the most entertaining performance.
His main instrument is Bass Guitar however he often sings, plays guitar and writes his own original material.
Aaron currently works as a tutor with National Music Academy and really enjoys working in educating young people in music and performance with a focus on Bass Guitar.
Aaron is a proud member of two Newcastle based bands, “The Hummingbirds Collective” and his own originals band “Aaron White & The Passengers”.
Matt Woodcock
Mathew has been playing trumpet for over 14 years.
After completing his Bachelor of Music at the University of Newcastle in 2018 he is now currently studying his honours in music.
He now gigs regularly with small and large ensembles, with styles ranging from orchestral to jazz to funk fusion, specialising in improvisation.