The Paradise City Jazz Band derives its name from Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast where the band was established in the mid 80’s. The band operated under the name of the "Swinging Viners" while engaged in Friday night performances at the Surfers Paradise Swinging Vine Jazz Club. After the closure of the club due to redevelopment of the site, the band changed its name to Paradise City Jazz Band circa 1990. The band has been active at Jazz Conventions, Carnivals and Festivals and has specialised in providing professional entertainment at weddings, corporate and other functions, at a host of venues requiring quality musical entertainment. In fact in 2002, the Wedding Combo reached the finalists, competing against only five others for the annual Australian Bridal Industry Awards for Excellence.

In 2007 our Quintet played a week's performance in Shantou, China. On completion we were offered a 12 month contract performing in a Macau, China Casino. However, due to local contracts in Australia, the Band was unable to accept.

A Profile on the Leader of the Band

The PCJB is led by David Rankin on clarinet, alto and tenor saxophone. He was born in Beaudesert, Qld. and reared on a sheep and cattle property at Dirranbandi, Qld. His musical activities began while he was a student in Toowoomba, Qld. playing bugle in the school cadet band. David has developed his own unique jazz style. Influences include the great Benny Goodman and others on clarinet; also some of the saxophone masters including Eddie Miller, Benny Carter, Bud Freeman, Scott Hamilton etc. and of course the legendary Trumpet artist Louis Armstrong.

David has performed with and led numerous bands throughout Queensland and New South Wales. He successfully tailors various ensembles to meet clients needs, with an extensive and varied repertoire and always creates a "feel good" atmosphere.

David has also had associations with classical music. He was Foundation President of The Philharmonic Orchestra, Gold Coast and played principal clarinet with that orchestra for a number of years.

Apart from his own band activities, David taught music in Queensland State Schools for 4 years, teaches privately at home, as well as playing in other bands.

David has been active and well known in jazz clubs and jazz venues in south-east Queensland and Northern New South Wales over many years. His band has also performed for the 49th., 50th., and 51st Australian Jazz Conventions. 

Music has been prominent in David’s life even during his career as a senior banking representative. David was a Committee Member of the Brisbane Jazz Club for 3 years where he was involved in newsletter and publicity activities.

In 2007 our Quintet played a week's performance in Shantou, China. On completion we were offered a 12 month contract performing in a Macau, China Casino. However, due to local contracts in Australia, the Band was unable to accept.