Abi Lee is a Naarm/Melbourne-based pianist, composer, and improviser whose work encompasses contemporary jazz and improvised music. Lee’s artistry is driven by her adventurous spirit, fertile musical mind, and a deep commitment to improvisation. Lee relocated to Naarm from Tāmaki Makaurau/Auckland, NZ, quickly establishing her distinctive voice in the improvised music scene.

Lee’s compositions aim to blur the roles of improvisers and composers. Taking on the influences from contemporary improvisers such as Kris Davis, Ornette Coleman, Tony Malaby, and Tim Berne.

Lee has been awarded several prizes and scholarships such as the Will Poskitt Piano Scholarship (2023), the Graham Coyle Prize (2022), the Ronald William Capron Prize (2022), the Lady Turner Prize (2022), Most Oustanding Soloist at the Auckland Jazz and Blues Competition (2021) and Most Oustanding Pianist at the New Zealand School of Music Jazz Project (2019).

Abi is also an educator around Naarm, sharing her knowledge and love for music and improvisation.

Abi

Abi