CALENDAR

Hailing from the lower west side of Montreal, Bharath Rajkumar delivers old school blues in an old school way, and never fails to entertain… Having shared stage and studio with some of the greatest blues musicians of our times, such as Junior watson, Fred Kaplan, Richard Innes, Larry Taylor, Johnny Dyer, Lazy Lester, Piano willie etc.

Youtube video: “Bharath & His Rhythm Four – Caraquet en Bleu”

Kevin Burt and Big Medicine will be at Upstairs in Montreal on Friday April 19th presenting his new album, “Thank You Mr. Bill” featuring the music of Bill Withers. Kevin powerful voice and soul-inspired presentation is unique, which consistently gets him compared to Bill Withers and Aaron Neville, with the ability to build an audience rapport that has been compared to B.B. King.

He has international recognition after he crushed the Blues Foundation’s 34th International Blues Challenge (IBC) in 2018, taking home top honors in three categories: first place in the Solo/Duo category; the acoustic Guitar Award and the Lee Oskar Award for Best Harmonica Player. He is currently up for a Blues Music Award for Acoustic Artist of the Year. Kevin Burt resonates his soul with the music of Bill Withers.

Kevin will have his band, Big Medicine, with Minneapolis guitar master Ken Valdez, renowned bassist Scot Sutherland, and drummer Eric Douglas injecting funk and grit into tunes.

Youtube video: “Aint No Sunshine”

A native of Montreal, alto/baritone saxophonist & composer Dave Turner has been a mainstay of the city’s jazz scene since the mid 1970’s.

Musicians
Dave Turner: baritone sax
Jean Frechette: baritone sax
Kate Wyatt: piano
Dave Watts: bass
Jim Hillman: drums

Video: “Dave Turner au festival de Tremblant”

Featuring original compositions and arrangements by Pierre François, the album “5 AM” showcases the deep chemistry of three musicians with a long history of collaboration. Through a diversity of tracks from straight-eighth ECM to Afro-Cuban to swing, the trio creates a spacious sound underlain by an infectious groove.

A regular on the Montreal jazz scene, Pierre François has played throughout North America and Europe with greats such as Jean-Pierre Zanella, Paul Brochu, Rémi Bolduc, André White, Fraser Hollins, Al McLean, Mike Moreno, Donny McAslin, André Leroux and many others.

Musicians:
Pierre François: piano
Rémi-Jean Leblanc: bass
Rich Irwin: drums

The Ben Boardman Quartet is a new and exciting group featuring Cedric de Saint-Rome, Louis Plouffe, and Paulo Riccardo. All four members met at McGill and have been playing together ever since. The band uses elements from historically Black American music such as jazz, R&B, and hip-hop, among others, creating new sounds and textures within the conventions of jazz music. While each band member has greatly differing experiences stylistically, their individual strengths are utilised to create a unique and cohesive band sound.

A core component of jazz music is taking improvisational risks, however, the Ben Boardman Quartet amplifies this concept, finding new musical horizons through genre-bending improvisation. Each performance is an electrifying experience that is not to be missed!

Youtube video: “After It All”

One of Canada’s most sought after musicians, Jim Doxas plays extensively both nationally and overseas. Distinguished for his improvisational approach to jazz, he makes the case that percussion can be as performative as a lyrical instrument.

Video: “Upstairs Jam Session hosted by Jim Doxas”

Dizzy & Fay is the newest project from songwriters Mark Lalama and Amanda Walther. Based in Southern Ontario the piano/vocal duo has released two full-length recordings of original music and is currently receiving extensive play on jazz radio stations throughout the United States and Canada.

With compositions that are heartfelt and familiar, Dizzy & Fay craft songs that sound like timeless classics you’ve loved your entire life. Wholenote Magazine gave their new album ‘Hooked’ a glowing review, calling them “Highly musical tunesmiths and storytellers”.

Musicians:
Mark Lalama, piano
Amanda Walther, vocals

Youtube video: “Everything Is Always You”

Maracujá, the passion fruit, fell from its tree for the first time on the stage of the Montreal Casino in 2003. Since then, the group has become the incontestable standard bearer for Brazilian music in Montreal, with fans of their unique and energetic style that go well beyond the city’s Brazilian community.

At its core, their modern sound is born out of the tangible synergy between four musicians of various rich cultural heritage: singer Elie Haroun, bassist André Faleiros, drummer Sacha Daoud, and keyboardist John Sadowy.

In April 2016, Maracujá launched its first album, full to the brim with its recognizable melodic style. Their musical identity is unmistakeable, and their verve irresistible. The fruit is ripe, and the table is set. It’s Maracujá in bloom!

Musicians
Elie Haroun, vocals
André Faleiros, bass
Sacha Daoud, drums
John Sadowy, keys

Youtube video: “Maracujá”

The album Piece of Mind is the fifth album by French pianist Simon Denizart in collaboration with one of the most prestigious jazz labels in North America, Justin Time Records.

Surrounded by musicians recognized both on the national and international scene with whom he has collaborated for many years, Simon offers us an orchestral work in eight scenes which offers a powerful and introspective journey into his musical universe.

Always sensitive to developing new sounds and sonorities with the piano, Simon offers solid melodic and rhythmic playing, supported by virtuosos Elli Miller Maboungou on percussion and Michel Medrano Brindis on drums. Jonathan Arseneau’s electric bass brings an unrivaled groove to the compositions and sometimes transforms into an electric guitar thanks to the bassist’s palette of effects.

Musicians:
Simon Denizart: piano
Jonathan Arseneau: bass
Michel Medrano: drums
Elli Miller Maboungou: percussions

Youtube video: “SIMON DENIZART – 9-4”

Caity Gyorgy (pronounced George) is a 2 time JUNO award winning Canadian vocalist known for singing bebop and swing music. She has performed at jazz clubs and festivals across Canada, Mexico, Japan and the USA and has worked and recorded with incredible musicians including Christine Jensen, Pat LaBarbera, Jocelyn Gould, Ira Coleman, Bryn Roberts and Joe LaBarbera, to name a few.

Musicians

Youtube video: “Love Story – Taylor Swift (1940 “Bebop La Boheme” Style Cover)”

The Florence Beauquier-Léger Quartet results from a dynamic collision between four unique creative minds.

Passionate about the sensitivity and electricity that comes with improvised music, Florence Beauquier-Léger brought together three of her musical comrades to bring the spark to life: pianist Emmanuelle Sloutsker, bassist Mason Jeffery-Off, and drummer Riley Dibble. The four of them write and arrange for the ensemble with very distinct voices that make for a diverse and exciting show.

One of Canada’s most sought after musicians, Jim Doxas plays extensively both nationally and overseas. Distinguished for his improvisational approach to jazz, he makes the case that percussion can be as performative as a lyrical instrument.

Video: “Upstairs Jam Session hosted by Jim Doxas”

Taurey Butler is a phenomenal jazz pianist of the highest calibre.

Hailing from East Orange, New Jersey, he has played in numerous cities across the world from Hong Kong to New York and now makes his home in Montréal. Taurey’s debut self-titled recording on the Justin Time label was released in November 2011 to resounding critical acclaim. He emerges as a fully-formed master of hard-driving swing with a deep feeling for the blues and ballads.

It’s easy to get lost in the fire and funk, the sweetness and swing, of Taurey Butler. But you can also follow the light that his music emanates.

Musicians:
Taurey Butler (piano)
Morgan Moore (bass)
Wali Muhammad (drums)

Justin Time Records

Taureybutler.com

Youtube video: “Taurey Butler Trio – The Preacher”

Andrea Superstein is one of the most versatile voices in Canadian music today. Dubbed as “redefining jazz” by the Vancouver Province, her debut performance at the Vancouver International Jazz Festival earned her a nomination for a Galaxie Rising Star award and launched her squarely into the limelight. She later shared a triple bill with Canadian female heavyweights Laila Biali and Brandi Disterheft.

Her performance stylings exemplify powerful vocals, evoking the gentle and the strong, deep blues to pop confection, often in the same song. She lithely navigates the colours of the emotional spectrum, luring us in deeper with killer improvisational instincts and exceptional storytelling.

Her latest oeuvre, Oh Mother (Cellar Live Music Group) is a multimedia musical experience rooted in the stories of motherhood. It’s an ambitious tour de force highlighting her ever growing creativity and sensitivity as a songwriter and arranger. It includes a who’s who of the musical world, with a killer female dominated creative team including Jane Bunnett and Elizabeth Shepherd. Although the stories are rooted in motherhood, the free-spirited music is for everyone.

The album has already been featured in Broadway World, AllAboutJazz, JazzIz, Billboard Magazine, The Vancouver Sun and CBC. The single Lay Your Head Down received the #1 spot on Apple Music Soul Jazz Cafe playlist and over 75K youtube views in the first 2 weeks. Mombo debuted at #5 on the official Spotify Vocal Jazz playlist and So In Love graced Amazon music’s prestigious playlists Ultimate Jazz and Coffee Shop Jazz.

Oh Mother won PICK OF THE FRINGE at the Nanaimo Fringe Festival and was a featured clubnight showcase at JazzAhead in Bremen, Germany, the foremost jazz trade show in the world.

Andrea will be joined by Elizabeth Shepherd (keys), Carlie Howell (bass) and Adam Warner (drums).

Youtube video: “All I need”

Canadian jazz legend Terry Clarke has recorded on over 300 records and performed with the likes of Jim Hall, Ed Bickert, Oscar Peterson, John Handy, Jay McShann, Nancy Wilson, Toots Theilemans, Red Mitchell, Joe Lovano and Greg Osby, to name a few. In 2002, Clarke was invested as a member of the Order of Canada.

Terry Clarke joins Mike Bruzzese’s quartet for a special night of music at the Upstairs Jazz Bar and Grill.

Musicians:
Mike Bruzzese – Guitar
Min Rager – Piano
Dave Watts – Bass
Terry Clarke – Drums

Youtube video: “The Terry Clarke Quartet (Juno Jazz All Stars) Passion Dance-Lula lounge”

This tribute named *AVALANCHE *was put together 4 years ago by Leonard cohen aficionado Jerry Torres. Over 75 shows later it has gained recognition amongst Leonard Cohen die hard fans nationwide. Composed of professional musicians it is bound to wow you and ignite your musical palette. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear feel and see the magic of this local legend we are so proud to pay tribute to Mr Leonard cohen . This is not an imitation but a great interpretation.

Youtube video: “Avalanche”

Raised in Montreal with Colombian roots, Juliana Bautista, a 20-year-old jazz sensation, brings a fresh yet timeless energy to her performances. With influences such as Veronica Swift, Caity Gyorgy, Ella Fitzgerald, and Sarah Vaughan, Juliana mesmerizes audiences with soulful interpretations.

With a background in classical piano and a passion for jazz, Juliana has already graced the stage at the Montreal Jazz Festival. Now, she debuts at the Upstairs Jazz Bar—don’t miss the emergence of this new jazz voice.

Musicians:
Mike de Massi on bass
John Sadowy on Piano
Rich Irwin on drums

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A post shared by Juliana Bautista (@julianabautistamusic)

One of Canada’s most sought after musicians, Jim Doxas plays extensively both nationally and overseas. Distinguished for his improvisational approach to jazz, he makes the case that percussion can be as performative as a lyrical instrument.

Video: “Upstairs Jam Session hosted by Jim Doxas”

Born in Santiago de Cuba, young Andy Rubal Bello has had music running through his veins ever since he was a little boy.

Musicians
Andy Rubal: piano and vocals
Yojan Vargas: bass
Lazaro Martinez: percussions
Sax (tbc)

Youtube video: “Carola” live at Festival International Nuits d’Afrique 2023″

Join Toronto based pianist, Anthony D’Alessandro, in his album release of Searchin’, a swinging jazz album featuring New York City based vocal and trumpet star Benny Benack III, and two time JUNO-award winning vocalist Caity Gyorgy. Don’t miss this rare one time appearance of Benny and Caity singing and swinging together on the same stage. The show will be curated by pianist Anthony D’Alessandro, featuring his original compositions, arrangements, and vocal duets in support of his debut album Searchin’, which is out now.

Musicians:
Benny Benack III – trumpet, vocals
Caity Gyorgy – vocals
Anthony D’Alessandro – piano
Mike De Masi – upright bass
Jim Doxas – drums

Youtube video: “East of the Sun”

Juno Award-winning Singer-Songwriter Dawn Tyler Watson has earned her place among the International Blues elite. She adopted Montreal as her home after earning her BFA in Jazz Studies and Theatre from Concordia University.

Since then, her fiery stage presence and soul-stirring performances have garnered her national and world-wide recognition with multiple awards including Maple Blues Awards for Songwriter, Best Album, Female Vocalist of the Year, and a 2020 American Blues Music Nomination for Vocalist of the Year alongside greats like Curtis Salgado & Mavis Staples.

Her latest record “Mad Love,” was just awarded the 2020 JUNO award for Blues Album of the Year.

Musicians:
Dawn Tyler Watson: vocals
John Sadowy: piano
Clinton Ryder: bass
Al Bourgeois: drums

Youtube video: “It Don’t Mean A Thing”

Kevin brings to the stage an ensemble of talented young people who will be the next generation of Canada’s finest jazz musicians.

Musicians:

MAY 12th:
Lucas Dubovic: sax
Sam Fortin: piano
Juno Hamilton: bass
Zach Winter: guitar

JUNE 9th:
TBA

JULY 14th:
TBA

Youtube video: “Change of Heart” w/ Kevin Dean, Al McLean, Mike Rud

One of Canada’s most sought after musicians, Jim Doxas plays extensively both nationally and overseas. Distinguished for his improvisational approach to jazz, he makes the case that percussion can be as performative as a lyrical instrument.

Video: “Upstairs Jam Session hosted by Jim Doxas”

The Sugar Darlings are an up and coming band out of Montreal. Officially forming in 2020, the band brings a dynamic blend of Blues, Soul, Funk and Rock n’ Roll.

The band is fronted by the charismatic Miche Love, who has been a staple in the Montreal blues scene for several years. Her powerful and sonorous voice balances the nostalgia of classic Soul and Gospel singers like Aretha Franklin and Etta James, with all the charms of contemporary pop, rock and funk music.

Video: “Webcast From the Wheel Club”

https://www.youtube.com/live/OUcw8eFtseU?feature=share&t=881

Vocalist Sienna Dahlen is a Juno award-winning artist who brings an absolutely sublime voice and a remarkably sophisticated sensibility to her interpretation of standard jazz repertoire. Not only that, but she is a gifted composer and lyricist as well! Dahlen has recorded over a dozen albums as leader or guest artist, and has toured her music around the world.

Recently returned from a tour in support of her critically acclaimed album “Balladextrous” (featuring celebrated guitarist Bill Coon), she has been invited to Upstairs for a very special night of collaboration with Montreal pianist/composer Kate Wyatt. They will perform a selection of original compositions and music from the Great American Songbook that promises to leave the listener spellbound.

“Dahlen has an extremely alluring voice, one that could sell rainwater in a snowstorm.” Pascal-Denis Lussier (All About Jazz)

Musicians:
Sienna Dahlen: voice
Kate Wyatt: piano
Adrian Vedady: bass
Louis-Vincent Hamel: drums

Youtube video: “Round Midnight”

The Trio is formed of Jean Derome on saxophones and flutes, Normand Guilbeault on doublebass and Pierre Tanguay on drums. These three musicians enjoy a strong reputation on the Montréal music scene and even though they are mostly known as new music and jazz musicians, they are often spotted accompanying our best singers-songwriters, poets, filmmakers, choreographers, etc.

Already active for almost a decade, the Derome Guilbeault Tanguay Trio has presented many repertoires in the past: tributes to Billy Strayhorn and Charles Mingus; an excursion into the Swing repertoire of the ‘30s and ‘40s, with renditions of tunes by Johnny Hodges, Ben Webster, Coleman Hawkins, etc.; and more recently serious forays into the music of Eric Dolphy, Sonny Clark, Misha Mengelberg, Roland Kirk, Lee Konitz and Lennie Tristano.

The Trio has also played concerts entirely devoted to Jean Derome’s music (particularly as part of his April 2000 Exposition de musique at the Théâtre La Chapelle).

A growing, faithful audience follows the Trio everywhere it performs and the concerts attract an impressive number of young jazz musicians.

Youtube video: “Rip, Rig & Panic”

Heralded as the Révélation Radio-Canada Jazz for 2011-12, as well as a recipient of two Opus Awards for Best Jazz Album in 2011 (New Angle) and 2018 (Equilibrium), Samuel Blais has become a pillar of the jazz scene in Montreal. Composer, multi-instrumentalist and saxophone professor at Joliette CEGEP since 2013, he has had the opportunity to perform all around the world.

Musicians:
Samuel Blais – sax alto & baryton
Theo Abellard – piano
Olivier Babaz – bass
Alain Bourgeois – drums

Youtube video: “Hangzhou”

Hermeto Pascoal’s music reflects the natural beauty of Brazil. Explore themes of nature through the vibrant compositions of this monumental composer. Songs reminiscent of the calming flow of rivers, the freshness of wind, and the comfort of sunshine will transport listeners to lush landscapes.

The brainchild of Brazilian bassist João Menegale Barbi, Zabumbe is made up of five young adults from Montréal. Thomas Vigneras, originally from France, can be seen gigging often on the Montréal salsa and latin music scene. Jazz, pop, and rock venues are home to the in-demand guitarist and composer Alex Muscalu. His beautiful lines and tasteful musical choices make any performance a fascinating journey. João Menegale Barbi arrived in Canada in 2021 from Belo Horizonte, Brazil, to study with Adrian Vedady. He has made a name for himself as both a bassist and “everyone’s best friend”. As both a jazz and classical trumpetist, Johan Lee Meyer is often praised for his warm tone and cascading melodies. The final member of Zabumbe, flutist Adelina Steinmetz, adds a vibrant musical layer to the quintet. Her first gig in Montréal entailed improvising to bird sounds while wearing a bird hat on the banks of the Lachine Canal.

All five members currently study in the jazz program at McGill University. Under the guidance of the great percussionist João Catalão, Zabumbe has refined a repertoire of traditional Brazilian pieces ranging from baiãos to sambas.

Youtube video: “ZABUMBE (Suite norte, sul, leste, oueste)”

One of Canada’s most sought after musicians, Jim Doxas plays extensively both nationally and overseas. Distinguished for his improvisational approach to jazz, he makes the case that percussion can be as performative as a lyrical instrument.

Video: “Upstairs Jam Session hosted by Jim Doxas”

Diavi is an experienced trumpetist, composer, arranger and band leader coming from Cuba who has the intention of bringing his Afro-Cuban Contemporary Jazz to Montreal’s scene, having a warm mix between contemporary Jazz and his cuban influences coming from La Rumba, Latin Jazz and the Cuban music of this days, introducing his own project “Diavinci’s Code”

Musicians

Willy Barreto on Piano
Clarence Corbeil on Drums
Arturo Zegarra on Congas
Eric Dubè on Trombone
Juan Quintero on Bass
Diavi on Trumpet

Youtube video

With his show “It’s Nice To Go Trav’ling”, David Marino, finalist from Canada’s “The Voice”, will take you on a musical trip around the world with international classics from New York to Paris to London to Rome, and more! Marino is a crooner making headway internationally, performing regularly at prestigious venues and jazz clubs across North America.

Marino recently performed his show at the iconic Birdland Jazz Club in New York with legendary pianist Billy Stritch, accompanist to the late Tony Bennett and Liza Minnelli’s long time musical director. He also just completed his West Coast US debut tour starting in San Francisco, and is excited to be working on his first album, soon to be announced. Aside from performing, Marino is a proud advocate for mental health causes, and through concerts, has helped raise $50,000 for the Jewish General Hospital in Montreal.

Musicians
David Marino: vocals
tbc

Youtube video: “I’ll Never Smile Again”

Jazz guitarist and composer, Carlos Jiménez is a very active musician on the Montreal jazz scene. In the past few years, he has shared the stage with some of the most expressive names of Canadian jazz such as Josh Rager, Jean-Nicolas Trottier, Dave Watts, Jessica Vigneault, Vanessa Rodrigues, Fraser Hollins, Joel Miller, Frank Lozano, Daniel Lessard, Kevin Dean, Andre White, Joe Sullivan, Rémi Bolduc, Brian Hurley, Eric Harding and Steve Amirault.

His versatility and ability to play various styles on both electric and classical instruments has made him a first choice guitarist for various projects.

Musicians:
Carlos Jimenez (guitar)
Alex Côté (Sax)
Pierre François (piano)
Dave Watts (bass)
Alain Bourgeois (drums)

Youtube video: “No You Didn’t”

With 8 musicians on stage, this mini big band knows its standards and includes the compositions of the great names in jazz: Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Fletcher Henderson, Mary Lou Williams, Quincy Jones, Oscar Peterson …

Its band leader Michaël Srey carefully selects, arranges and transcribes each piece mainly from the Swing Era but also from the Early Jazz, Blues, Be Bop or Hard Bop style.

The band enjoys a good reputation among the local dance scene thanks to its great sense of swing and the quality of its arrangements. A swing evening not to be missed.

Youtube video: “Christopher Columbus”

One of Canada’s most sought after musicians, Jim Doxas plays extensively both nationally and overseas. Distinguished for his improvisational approach to jazz, he makes the case that percussion can be as performative as a lyrical instrument.

Video: “Upstairs Jam Session hosted by Jim Doxas”

Hailing from the lower west side of Montreal, Bharath Rajkumar delivers old school blues in an old school way, and never fails to entertain… Having shared stage and studio with some of the greatest blues musicians of our times, such as Junior watson, Fred Kaplan, Richard Innes, Larry Taylor, Johnny Dyer, Lazy Lester, Piano willie etc.

Youtube video: “Bharath & His Rhythm Four – Caraquet en Bleu”

Pierre François (piano), Fred Alarie (double bass) and Robin Lalonde (drums) come together to perform the classics of the jazz repertoire.

One of Canada’s most sought after musicians, Jim Doxas plays extensively both nationally and overseas. Distinguished for his improvisational approach to jazz, he makes the case that percussion can be as performative as a lyrical instrument.

Video: “Upstairs Jam Session hosted by Jim Doxas”

Led by actor/singer Michel Perron and his harmonica, this 5-piece band will take you on a musical journey that covers more than a hundred years of blues and rock and roll music.
A one of a kind energy and a contagious joie de vivre.

You will be conquered by the Blues Bastards!

Musicians
Michel Perron: vocals, harmonica
Jean-Marc Séguin: guitar, vocals
Maxime Rose: bass
Jo RoRo: drums
Sébastien « Slim » Dubois: piano

Video: “Can’t quit you baby”

Kevin brings to the stage an ensemble of talented young people who will be the next generation of Canada’s finest jazz musicians.

Musicians:

MAY 12th:
Lucas Dubovic: sax
Sam Fortin: piano
Juno Hamilton: bass
Zach Winter: guitar

JUNE 9th:
TBA

JULY 14th:
TBA

Youtube video: “Change of Heart” w/ Kevin Dean, Al McLean, Mike Rud

Currently studying at McGill’s Schulich School of Music, Ryan Bennett is a drummer who serves to create an exciting and engaging atmosphere with a straight-ahead jazz focused repertoire. Featuring is Ottawa-born Teighan Couch, a vocalist who has spent her adult career in British Columbia. She is a recent graduate of the Vancouver Island University jazz program and performs a collection of swinging singer standard repertoire as well as original works.

Band:
Teighan Couch – voice
Griffin Linklator – piano
Colin Zacharias – bass
Ryan Bennett – drums

One of Canada’s most sought after musicians, Jim Doxas plays extensively both nationally and overseas. Distinguished for his improvisational approach to jazz, he makes the case that percussion can be as performative as a lyrical instrument.

Video: “Upstairs Jam Session hosted by Jim Doxas”

Born in Santiago de Cuba, young Andy Rubal Bello has had music running through his veins ever since he was a little boy.

Musicians
Andy Rubal: piano and vocals
Yojan Vargas: bass
Lazaro Martinez: percussions
Sax (tbc)

Youtube video: “Carola” live at Festival International Nuits d’Afrique 2023″

Josh is a JUNO nominated (Nikky Yanofsky 2008) pianist/organist, arranger, composer, and teacher based in Montreal, Canada. Throughout his 20-year career he has performed extensively in Japan, Europe, and North America. In 2005 he was nominated for the Prix du Festival at the Montreal International Jazz festival. In 2007 he played Carnegie Hall with Nikky Yanofsky appearing also on her JUNO nominated debut DVD/CD “Ella…I swing of thee”. In 2009 he received a commission from The European Broadcasting Union to compose a jazz suite for two pianos which was recorded by CBC at its premiere and broadcast internationally. His 2018 album “Dreams and Other Stories” was nominated for Jazz Album of the Year by ADISQ. In addition to his own projects, Josh is an in-demand sideman performing with visiting national and international artists. Josh is also a dedicated educator at Concordia University where he is associate professor. Some of the names that Josh has performed and/or recorded with include: Ingrid Jensen, Walt Weiskopf, Lage Lund, Donny McCaslin, Ed Cherry, Steve Davis, Ira Coleman, Joe Morrello, Pat Labarbera, Kevin Dean, Kirk MacDonald, and Laura Anglade.

Jazz guitarist Peter Bernstein has been a part of the jazz scene in New York and abroad since 1989. During that time he has participated in numerous recordings and performances with musicians from all generations. As a leader, Peter has released nine albums and a DVD. As a sideman Peter has appeared in groups led by Sonny Rollins, Bobby Hutcherson, George Coleman, Lou Donaldson, Dr. Lonnie Smith, Fathead Newman, Joshua Redman, Brad Mehldau, Diana Krall, Lee Konitz, Jimmy Cobb and many more. Current projects include his album, Monk, with Doug Weiss and Bill Stewart, a recently released solo record, Solo Guitar – Live at Smalls, and the highly acclaimed organ trio with organist Larry Goldings and drummer Bill Stewart.

Musicians:
Peter Bernstein – guitar
Josh Rager – Piano
Alec Walkington – bass
Andre White – Drums

Youtube video: “Peter Bernstein Quartet – Live at Smalls Jazz Club – 12/28/2022”

Youtube video: “Josh Rager – Green jeans”

One of Canada’s most sought after musicians, Jim Doxas plays extensively both nationally and overseas. Distinguished for his improvisational approach to jazz, he makes the case that percussion can be as performative as a lyrical instrument.

Video: “Upstairs Jam Session hosted by Jim Doxas”

Durham County Poets are a “band” in the truest sense of the word!

It all started in a small café in Ormstown, Quebec. The band continued to percolate and spread onto the Canadian music scene, allowing them to tour across Canada and on into the United States. Each member writes and arranges, and brings something unique to the table. You’ll hear a variety of genres and a broad range of styles. Be it Blues, Soul, Folk, R&B or Gospel, it all weaves seamlessly together to create a truly authentic contemporary Canadiana sound.

Musicians:
Matthew Souaid- sax
Kevin Harvey- vocals
Carl Rufh – bass
Rob Couture – drums
David Whyte – guitar
Rob McDonald – guitar

Youtube video: “Out of The Woods”

Alex is an up and coming working musician on the local scene. He can be found playing many styles of music across many genres all over town but always with an improvisatory focus. He has played alongside many Montreal and international luminaries such as Kevin Dean, Sam Kirmayer, Mike Bruzzese, Frank Lozano, Levi Dover, Yur Yesli, Jihye Im, Baron Tymas, Fraser Hollins, Greg Amirault, Mathieu Soucy and Alex LeBlanc among others.

Musicians:
Alex Johnson – Drums
Jennifer Bell – Saxophone
Bill Mahar – Trumpet
Fraser Hollins – Bass
Jeff Johnston – Piano

One of Canada’s most sought after musicians, Jim Doxas plays extensively both nationally and overseas. Distinguished for his improvisational approach to jazz, he makes the case that percussion can be as performative as a lyrical instrument.

Video: “Upstairs Jam Session hosted by Jim Doxas”

Taurey Butler is a phenomenal jazz pianist of the highest calibre. Hailing from East Orange, New Jersey, he has played in numerous cities across the world from Hong Kong to New York and now makes his home in Montréal. Taurey’s debut self-titled recording on the Justin Time label was released in November 2011 to resounding critical acclaim. He emerges as a fully-formed master of hard-driving swing with a deep feeling for the blues and ballads.

Rémi Bolduc is a highly accomplished and respected jazz saxophonist and educator, with over 40 years’ experience in the music industry. He serves as an associate professor in the jazz department at McGill University in Montreal, where he has remained a highly active figure on the music scene since his arrival in 1982. Bolduc has produced 11 jazz albums, featuring collaborations with esteemed musicians such as Kenny Werner, Marc Johnson, Ben Monder, and Jerry Bergonzi.

Musicians:

Youtube video: “Taurey Butler Trio – The Preacher”

Juno Award-winning Singer-Songwriter Dawn Tyler Watson has earned her place among the International Blues elite. She adopted Montreal as her home after earning her BFA in Jazz Studies and Theatre from Concordia University.

Since then, her fiery stage presence and soul-stirring performances have garnered her national and world-wide recognition with multiple awards including Maple Blues Awards for Songwriter, Best Album, Female Vocalist of the Year, and a 2020 American Blues Music Nomination for Vocalist of the Year alongside greats like Curtis Salgado & Mavis Staples.

Her latest record “Mad Love,” was just awarded the 2020 JUNO award for Blues Album of the Year.

Musicians

Youtube video: “It Don’t Mean A Thing”

Andrés Vial (pronounced Vee-al) is a pianist, multi-instrumentalist, composer, improviser and educator from Montréal.
He has collaborated with Joe Chambers, Peter Bernstein, Ingrid Jensen, Malika Tirolien (Bokanté), Ivan Neville, Michael Blake, Ethnic Heritage Ensemble, Bassekou Kouyate and Ngoni Ba, André White, Kevin Dean, Greg Cohen, Al McLean, Kalmunity, Gamelan Giri Kedaton and many others.

An esteemed drummer and educator, Billy Hart is one the foremost jazz performers of his generation, capable of balancing propulsive swing with a nuanced sense of group dynamics and improvisational flow. Following his early years backing Shirley Horn and Jimmy Smith in the 1960s, Hart emerged at the forefront of the ’70s fusion movement, playing with Herbie Hancock’s Mwandishi band, as well as Miles Davis, McCoy Tyner, and others. Though Hart led few of his own sessions during the first two decades of his career, albums like 1977’s Enchance and 1985’s Oshumare found him balancing experimental elements with acoustic post-bop traditions.

Youtube video: “Gang of Three”

Huntertones brings people together around the globe with fun, imaginative and fearless music. Their high energy, horn-driven sound features genre bending composition and unconventional covers. Every show is a social experience celebrating the joy of music.
They’ve performed in over 25 countries world wide and continue to tour the US and abroad. Huntertones claims more authority than ever as they drive into their 10th year. Their upcoming release Motionation (4.12.24) is a manifestation of a band with unlimited imagination and an ever-growing desire to find new ways to express themselves.

Musicians:
Dan White: Saxophones, Jon Lampley: Trumpet/Sousaphone, Chris Ott: Trombone/Beatbox, Adam DeAscentis: Bass, John Hubbell: Drums, Josh Hill: Guitar

Youtube video: “Biff” Engine Co.

Recognized by Radio Canada’s Ici Musique as one of the top five female Jazz musicians to watch out for, French-American singer Laura Anglade is making a name for herself in the Jazz world. Laura’s singing is reminiscent of many of the great traditional vocal stylists of the 20th century including Anita O’Day, Shirley Horn, and Blossom Dearie, but her voice is uniquely her own. As she digs emotionally and eloquently into a lyric, her story-telling abilities portray a soul beyond her years.

Laura leads an active international touring schedule and has performed at venues including Olympia (Paris), Royal Festival Hall (London), Town Hall (New York City), the Ace Theatre Hotel (Los Angeles), and the main stage at the Festival International de Jazz de Montreal. She opened for Gregory Porter at the Victoria Jazz Festival (summer 2022), and Melody Gardot (fall 2022), joining her across the east and west coasts of the US and Europe. She is currently based in Toronto.

Youtube video: If Ever I Would Leave You

One of the most highly regarded jazz drummers on the scene today, Joe is known for his blazing speed, precision, musical, and melodic playing. Joe’s career includes recording over 100 CD’s as leader and side-man, jazz festivals and world tours with Pharaoh Sanders, Horace Silver, Harold Mabern, McCoy Tyner, Cedar Walton, Diana Krall, Benny Golson, George Coleman, Johnny Griffin, Lou Donaldson, Benny Green, Barry Harris, Curtis Fuller to name a few. He was the drummer for the late McCoy Tyner and a member of the late Pharaoh Sanders Quartet, late Harold Mabern Trio, and is a founding member of the renowned One for All Quintet.

Sarah Hanahan is an up-and-coming jazz saxophonist in New York City. Sarah is a graduate of the Jackie McLean Institute of Jazz at the Hartt School of Music where she received her Bachelors degree in 2019, as well as The Juilliard School where she received her Masters degree in 2022. She has had the privilege of studying with some of the greats of our time including Abraham Burton, Nat Reeves, Steve Davis, Billy Drummond, and Marc Cary.

Youtube video: Body & Soul

34-year-old Japanese-born pianist Miki Yamanaka has called New York City home since 2012 and in the past decade has wasted no time establishing herself as one of the leading personalities of her generation on the piano and beyond. Critics laud her “light, expressive touch and solidly crafted, mainstream approach” – Mike Jurkovic (All About Jazz), while audiences delight in not only her playing, but her vibrant personality as well. Yamanaka has gained international recognition from her albums as a leader; her most recent and most celebrated release, “Shades Of Rainbow” (Cellar Music), features Jazz masters Mark Turner and her NYC rhythm section, Tyrone Allen and Jimmy Macbride.

Mike Bruzzese is active on the Montreal music scene, as a leader and a sideman. He has played alongside André White, Kevin Dean, Dave Laing, Mike Rud, Michel Lambert, Donny Kennedy, Alec Walkington, Fraser Hollins, Adrian Vedady, Christine Jensen, Joel Miller, Dave Watts, Pierre Francois, Ira Coleman, and many more.

Youtube video: Shades of Rainbow

Benny Green possesses the history of jazz at his fingertips. Combine mastery of keyboard technique with decades of real-world experience playing with no one less than the most celebrated artists of the last half century, and it’s no wonder Green has been hailed as perhaps the most exciting hard-swinging, hard-bop pianist to ever emerge from Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers.

Youtube video: Monk’s Dream

Coleman is a product of the Memphis jazz scene producing such famed contemporaries as Charles Lloyd, Booker Little and bandmate Harold Mabern. From the early ‘60s, he was a sideman best known for his stint with Miles Davis’ quintet with Herbie Hancock, Ron Carter and Tony Williams. He’s recorded with Hancock (on Maiden Voyage), Lee Morgan, Chet Baker, Charles Mingus, and Max Roach, among others.

Musicians:
George Coleman: sax
Jean-Michel Pilc: piano
Ira Coleman: bass
Darrell Green: drums

Youtube video: “When Lights are Low”

Youtube video: “My Foolish Heart”

Coleman is a product of the Memphis jazz scene producing such famed contemporaries as Charles Lloyd, Booker Little and bandmate Harold Mabern. From the early ‘60s, he was a sideman best known for his stint with Miles Davis’ quintet with Herbie Hancock, Ron Carter and Tony Williams. He’s recorded with Hancock (on Maiden Voyage), Lee Morgan, Chet Baker, Charles Mingus, and Max Roach, among others.

Musicians:
George Coleman: sax
Jean-Michel Pilc: piano
Ira Coleman: bass
Darrell Green: drums

Youtube video: “When Lights are Low”

Youtube video: “My Foolish Heart”

Hailing from the lower west side of Montreal, Bharath Rajkumar delivers old school blues in an old school way, and never fails to entertain… Having shared stage and studio with some of the greatest blues musicians of our times, such as Junior watson, Fred Kaplan, Richard Innes, Larry Taylor, Johnny Dyer, Lazy Lester, Piano willie etc.

Youtube video: “Bharath & His Rhythm Four – Caraquet en Bleu”

The celebrated Cuban-Canadian Piano Master Hilario Duran, in a Trio formation, one of his most expressive musical expressions, will honour the music of Oscar Peterson, one of the greatest jazz pianists of all time and one of Canada’s most honoured musicians.

Musicians:
Hilario Durán: piano
Roberto Occhipinti: bass
Mark Kelso: drums

Youtube video: “Live to Air: Oscar Peterson Day with the Hilario Durán Trio”

Kevin brings to the stage an ensemble of talented young people who will be the next generation of Canada’s finest jazz musicians.

Musicians:

MAY 12th:
Lucas Dubovic: sax
Sam Fortin: piano
Juno Hamilton: bass
Zach Winter: guitar

JUNE 9th:
TBA

JULY 14th:
TBA

Youtube video: “Change of Heart” w/ Kevin Dean, Al McLean, Mike Rud