07/08/2024
We'd like to recognise Dave's contribution to Adelaide's live music scene.
It is with deep regret that the Adelaide Roots and Blues Association acknowledges the passing of Dave Pearse.
Dave was best known in local blues circles for being the long-time venue manager of the Semaphore Workers Club. Dave managed this venue for some 15 years, during which time it became known as the "home of blues" in Adelaide, a legacy that remains to this day. Dave booked all of the acts for the venue and worked the sound and lights for every gig. He was renowned for treating musicians fairly; he always paid each musician who played at the venue the award rate, regardless of the amount taken on the door. Where door takings allowed he would pay extra. Under his guidance the Semaphore Workers Club became the venue of choice, not just for local blues acts but also for acts Australia-wide. Most of the major Australian blues acts played the Semaphore Workers Club at least once, some played the venue many times. It is without doubt that local blues fans got to see and hear many of the best interstate blues acts; drawn to our city because of the reputation of the Semaphore Workers Club under Dave's tenure at the venue.
In 2015 Dave and the Semaphore Workers Club partnered with the Adelaide Roots and Blues Association to present the first Memphis Blues Challenge. Dave's knowledge, input and assistance were invaluable and contributed to the enormous success of this event, which continued at the venue until 2020. Dave often allowed ARBA to conduct fundraisers and other events at the venue and was always a pleasure to work with.
Dave was a long-term active member of the Musicians Union. He was a highly regarded guitarist himself and was part of a local band called "Blue Matter" in the 2000's.
In 2019 Dave’s enormous contribution was acknowledged when he won the ARBA Paul Hay Award for service to local roots and blues.
Dave passed away surrounded by family on the morning of Wednesday 7th of August, after battling illness for a short time. He was 64 years of age.
He will be forever remembered as a man of high integrity who always prioritised fairness and equity. He will be very sadly missed. We extend our sincere condolences to Dave's family and friends.
Vale Dave Pearse 6/2/1960 - 7/8/2024
