Saxophone legend Bill Evans returns to Australia in October 2026 and spoke with Noise11’s Paul Cashmere about the tour, his career and the musical journey that began when he joined Miles Davis at just 22 years old.
In this interview Evans explains why Australia remains one of his favourite places to perform. Having toured the country for more than 25 years, he says Australian audiences are among the most musically engaged in the world. He also talks about exploring cities like Melbourne on foot and discovering just how vast Australia really is when travelling between the east and west coasts.
Evans also reveals that the October tour may become the foundation for his next live album. He has been writing brand new music specifically for the Australian shows and plans to record performances in multiple cities before compiling them into a future release.
The conversation also explores Evans’ acclaimed album Who I Am, which features collaborations with legendary bassist Victor Wooten and drummer Keith Carlock. Evans explains that he gives musicians creative freedom rather than dictating parts, allowing each performer to bring their own musical identity to the recording.
Along the way Evans shares stories from across his remarkable career, including recording with Mick Jagger, playing alongside Willie Nelson, and even turning down the chance to tour with The Rolling Stones in order to remain committed to his own band.
Bill Evans & The Vansband Allstars tour Australia in October 2026.
Tour Dates:
Thursday 1 October – Sydney, The Concourse, Chatswood
Friday 2 October – Sydney, Factory Theatre, Marrickville
Saturday 3 October – Adelaide, The Gov
Sunday 4 October – Melbourne, Memo Music Hall, St Kilda
Wednesday 7 October – Perth, Astor Theatre
Friday 9 October – Brisbane, Tivoli
Sunday 11 October – Melbourne, Northcote Theatre
Tickets: gaevents.au
Stay updated with your free Noise11.com daily music news email alert. Subscribe to Noise11 Music News here
Be the first to see NOISE11.com’s newest interviews and special features on YouTube. See things first—Subscribe to Noise11 on YouTube
Follow Noise11.com on social media:
Bluesky
Facebook – Comment on the news of the day
