IASA 2017 Annual Conference

This paper presents a discussion and reflection of the development of the Australian Jazz Real Book from a doctoral project through to a publication and innovative digital resource. The paper considers the issues around the production of this extensive collection of Australian music, and the challenges and issues involved with the digital curation of an evolving and ever changing art form.
The Australian Jazz Real Book is dedicated to the preservation, distribution and promotion of Australian Jazz in both digital and print form. The aim with the book and website is to digitally curate the definitive collection of Australian jazz tunes from Australian composers. That is, to make Australian jazz available to the next generation of jazz musicians so that (as the late and great Graeme Bell puts it) "prevents it from sinking into the waters of invisibility". It is also designed for practising and performing musicians, educators and curriculum designers with the opportunity to integrate Australian jazz into music curricula. The idea is to create a resource that students can turn to for repertoire that is uniquely Australian; containing tunes that are 'gig-ready' and also representative of the Australian Jazz Sound. The AJRB’s digital curation mechanisms provide an innovative approach to managing a substantial audiovisual archive and making it relevant and useful to a community.
In the time that the AJRB has been in existence it has made considerable efforts towards celebrating new releases from established artists, showcasing emerging artists, and rediscovering long lost gems through collaborating with the Australian Jazz Museum. With ongoing commitment and support, it is working towards being a culturally significant resource that is unique globally.