Rosie Samra
September 23 @ 5:00pm

Rosie Samra - Vocals
Band TBA

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Rosie Samra is an up-and-coming pop and R&B artist with roots in Toronto and the GTA. Inspired by artists like Jhene Aiko, Daniel Caesar, and HER, she combines modern-day R&B influences with upbeat pop tracks to create a familiar yet unique overall sound.

Trombone Charlotte & Jared Higgins Present: Grapevine Quartet
september10, 17, 24 @ 5:00pm

Charlotte McAfee-Brunner - Trombone and Vocals 

Jared Higgins - Guitar 

Max Simpson - Bass 

Andrew McCarthy - Drums

No Reservations
PAY WHAT YOU CAN

Toronto's very own Charlotte McAfee-Brunner, AKA Trombone Charlotte, has  been working in the local Jazz scene since 2016 as a trombone sideman and has  been singing and leading bands since 2021. With her roots in 30s and 40s swing  and both classic and modern big band music, she has made a serious footprint in  the Traditional New Orleans Jazz scene in Toronto as well. Some career highlights  of the past few years include bandleading one or more times at Toronto Jazz  Festival, Kensington Market Jazz Festival, Port Hope Jazz Festival, Mont Tremblent  Blues Festival, and singing original songs in the 2023 Women's Blues Reveue at  Massey Hall. She also performed in a big band of Toronto's top musicians  accompanying the Yellow Jackets at Koerner Hall this past April! 

Trombone Charlotte has recently returned from New Orleans where she played  regularly at many iconic venues like the Spotted Cat or Fritzel's Jazz Pub; sat in at  Snug Harbor, Preservation Hall, and the Danny Barker Festival; and played  Trombone for Monty Banks at the French Quarter Festival and for Glen David  Andrews at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival. 

The Pat LaBarbera/Kirk MacDonald Trane of Thought quintet
September 24, 25, 26, 27 @ 8:00PM

Pat Labarbera - Saxophone

Kirk MacDonald - Saxophone

Brian Dickinson - Piano

Neil Swainson - Bass

Terry Clarke - Drums

The Pat LaBarbera/Kirk MacDonald Trane of Thought quintet
september 24, 25, 26, 27 @ 8:00PM

Pat Labarbera - Saxophone

Kirk MacDonald - Saxophone

Brian Dickinson - Piano

Neil Swainson - Bass

Terry Clarke - Drums

Shannon Butcher
September 5, 12, 19, 26 @ 5:00PM

Shannon Butcher - Vocals
Band - TBA

NO RESERVATIONS

PAY WHAT YOU CAN

Shannon Butcher is an acclaimed Canadian singer, songwriter, arranger and record producer. She charms audiences with her joyful wit and warm energy - her performances capturing the unique spirit of each song while also celebrating the playful nature of jazz.

She has toured across Canada, including performances at Victoria’s Hermann’s Jazz Club, Edmonton’s Yardbird Suite, Montreal’s Upstairs Jazz and the major jazz festivals in Ontario. She has performed across The United States and in England.  

Shannon’s original songs reveal the breadth of her influences, from the sounds of Big Band music halls to Yorkville folk coffee houses. As an arranger, she interprets chart topping pop songs with a fresh and exciting jazz perspective.

Shannon has released five albums under her own label Summer Bloom Records, her first album earning an iTunes’ Best New Jazz Artist of the Year award. In addition to her solo work, she has performed and recorded with Swing Rosie - an Andrews Sisters-inspired trio - as well as the folk quartet Samways, which released its self-titled debut album in 2021.

In 2022, Shannon released two singles: a bass/voice duet recording of “They Say It’s Spring” with her longtime collaborator, bassist Ross MacIntyre; as well as her original song “You’re Getting Nothing For Christmas (But My Love)”, recorded by the Shannon Butcher Quintet featuring John MacLeod on trumpet.

Her latest single "One Fine Day" with Ross MacIntyre comes out on November 14th, 2023!

The Pat LaBarbera/Kirk MacDonald Trane of Thought quintet

September 24, 25, 26, 27 @ 8:00PM

Pat Labarbera - Saxophone

Kirk MacDonald - Saxophone

Brian Dickinson - Piano

Neil Swainson - Bass

Terry Clarke - Drums

Mark Kelso Trio
September 26 @ 10:45pm

Mark Kelso - Drums
Band - TBA

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Originally hailing from Belfast, Northern Ireland, Canadian drummer Mark Kelso has made Toronto, Canada his home for quite some time.  Not only is he a skilled musician who plays drums and percussion, but he is also a singer, producer and composer as well. As a sideman Mark has earned 4 Juno awards and has been nominated three times as a leader with his own 2 groups, the Jazz Exiles (2016 & 2023) and the Chronicles of Fezziwig Project (2020). Mark has been Artistic Director for the Jazz Room in Waterloo since 2016 and was the head of percussion at Humber College from 2005-2021. His new recording “The Dragon’s Tail” was released in the fall of 2022.

Mark’s ability to play a wide variety of musical styles has helped him become one of Canada’s most sought after drummers. An all around player, he has worked/recorded with a wide array of artists such as Pat Metheny, Donny McCaslin, Laila Biali, Michael Brecker, Randy Brecker, Michael Bublé, Changuito, David Clayton-Thomas, Holly Cole, Larry Coryell, Eliana Cuevas, Paquito D’Riveria, Hilario Duran, David Foster, Dave Grusin, Herbie Hancock, Olivia Newton John, Molly Johnson, Chaka Khan, Pat LaBarbera, Donnell Leahy, Natalie MacMaster, Bob Mintzer, Peter Murphy (Bauhaus), Donny Osmond, Danilo Perez, Chris Potter, Jovino Santos Neto, NOJO, Richard Page (Mr. Mister), Bonnie Raitt, Maria Schneider, John Scofield,  Ron Sexsmith, Mike Stern, Soul Stew, James Taylor, Susan Tedeschi, Ian Tyson, Gino Vannelli, Carol Welsman and his own band, The Jazz Exiles. Mark runs “Groovy Drums Studio” where he records drum tracks for many artists around the world. To date he has played on over 450 recordings. Mark released his very first instructional DVD “Musician First, Drummer Second” in 2016 to great acclaim.

Aside from playing many sessions and  movie soundtracks, Mark has also been featured in articles for “DRUMHEAD” Drums, ETC “, “Canadian Musician ” and “Modern Drummer” magazines and has been a featured clinician/performer at the Montreal Drumfest, IAJE, Musicfest, KOSA, Percussive Arts Society, Regina Drum Festival, Whack Bam Thudd festival, Yamaha Canada, The Stickman Drum Experience, Victoria Drum Festival, the Ralph Angelillo Drum Festival and the Cape Breton Drum Festival. Mark proudly endorses Yamaha Drums, Paiste Cymbals, Evans Drum heads and Headhunters drumsticks

Swing Shift Big Band
September 27 @ 2:00pm

Led By : Jim John

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

On Sept. 27, 2025 this band will celebrate their 25th anniversary of performances at the Rex, and are venturing into their 30th year as a band. With 9 full length CD’s under their belt (all of the CD launches have been at the Rex) they continue to entertain audiences of all ages with their varied repertoire and fabulous singers, Dave Statham and Larisa Reneé.

Don’t miss this band, they are sure to please!

Jessica LaLonde
September 27 @ 5:00pm

Jessica LaLonde - Vocals

Band - TBA

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Recently listed by Toronto’s Jazz FM91 as one of "Eight Canadian Women in Jazz You Need to Know", Jessica Lalonde is making a name for herself in Canada as a compelling and eclectic contemporary Jazz artist.

Jessica has enjoyed a diverse array of performance opportunities including as a guest vocalist with LANG LANG at Meridian Hall in 2024, ongoing collaborations with Juno Award winning jazz pianist Adrean Farrugia, a collaboration with Juno award winner Chris Gestrin in a multimedia art piece at the Vancouver Art Gallery’s FUSE Festival, as well as a tribute to jazz orchestra composers Maria Schneider and Bob Brookmeyer with the Toronto Art Orchestra.

Jessica currently keeps an active performance schedule singing/recording alongside many of Canada’s top musicians including Terry Clarke, Reg Schwager, Adrean Farrugia, Drew Jurecka, Brad Goode, Michael Herring, George Koller, Pat Collins, Ross MacIntyre, Lauren Falls, Alison Young, Ethan Ardelli, and Nathan Hiltz to name a few. She has performed at the Beaches International Jazz Festival, The Uptown Waterloo Jazz Festival, The Kensington Market Jazz Festival, The World of Jazz Festival in Brampton, the Brantford International Jazz Festival, Markham Jazz Festival, the TD Toronto and TD Niagara Jazz Festivals, and the Antigonish Jazz Festival. Jessica is featured on Jaymz Bee’s collaborative projects, Muse and Go West, as well as John MacMurchy’s Art of Breath Vol. II, and she has recorded backing vocals on three Born Ruffians albums. She recently recorded a full album with her band Samways led by composer/guitarist Nathan Hiltz and alongside singers Shannon Butcher and Melissa Lauren, and in 2021 she joined renowned singer/songwriter Jessica Stuart in the studio to help bring to life the unrecorded and unheard works of Joan Beckow. This legacy project was released in November of 2022.

Jessica is also active as a vocal coach and music teacher, and recently had the pleasure of running the vocal studio at St. Francis Xavier University in Nova Scotia from 2023-2025. She loves working with students young and old, as well as performing at long term care residences, with the belief that music has the ability to both elevate and heal.

The Pat LaBarbera/Kirk MacDonald Trane of Thought quintet

September 24, 25, 26, 27 @ 8:00PM

Pat Labarbera - Saxophone

Kirk MacDonald - Saxophone

Brian Dickinson - Piano

Neil Swainson - Bass

Terry Clarke - Drums

TIFFANY DERIVEAU & ROBERT BALL
September 28th @ 2:00 pm

Primarily first-come, first-served, Limited VIP tickets are available for guaranteed premium seating and meet & greet.
Cover Charges
$15 Front Section
$10 Back Section

TIFFANY DERIVEAU is a seasoned performer whose passion for musical theatre has shone in over 25 professional productions including roles with Mirvish Productions, The Charlottetown Festival and Stratford festival. Her versatile talents have taken her around the world, performing both overseas and on cruises, showcasing her incredible range across film, television and stage. Throughout her illustrious career, Tiffany has worked alongside legendary figures such as Gladys Knight, Gregory Hines, Sean Cheesman and Benny & Bjork of ABBA. In 2024 she earned a prestigious Dora Award nomination.

ROBERT BALL is a well-seasoned vocalist and entertainer. He has traveled to and performed in over 60 countries while headlining with the Royal Caribbean International. Robert lives and breathes performance - as a solo artist, background vocalist, global Pride circuit tourist, musical theatre performer, vocal coach, and event producer. He has contributed to the work of many noteworthy singers and producers throughout his career simultaneously maintaining his solo music - a beautiful blend of soul and jazz.

Bernie Senensky

September 28ht @ 8:00PM

Bernie Senensky - Piano

Band TBA

Bernie Senensky is a highly acclaimed Canadian jazz pianist

with a career spanning over 50 years. With collaborations with

legends like Chet Baker, Moe Koffman, Elvin Jones, and

Pharoah Sanders, Bernie brings a wealth of experience and

musicality to the stage. His unique blend of melodic sensitivity

and improvisational skill has made him a beloved figure in the

Canadian jazz scene. Join us for an evening of sophisticated

jazz with one of Canada's most respected jazz masters.

John Macleod’s Rex Hotel Orchestra
september 29 @ 8:00 PM

John MacLeod - Trumpet / Flugelhorn
20-piece Juno Award-winning Jazz Big Band

Canada’s Finest Big Band Jazz Ensemble

The life and career of John MacLeod is intricately bound to the history of jazz and big band music in Toronto. A native of this city, he took a very early interest in jazz and by the time he began studying the trumpet at age 12 was already an aficionado of New Orleans, Chicago and swing styles of the music. His earliest local hero was trumpeter "Trump" Davidson and by his early teens he was attending t.v. recording sessions where he would be amazed by studio greats such as Guido Basso, Moe Koffman and Teddy Roderman. A decade later, John would be playing with many of these early heros. In fact he would have professional involvement with every name listed in this release from Benny Louis to Ron Collier to Guido Basso. He even took his boyhood hero "Trump" Davidson's place in Trump's band. Few other musicians of his generation can claim as much direct connection to the entire history of jazz and big band music in Toronto. His long association with Rob McConnell and the Boss Brass would also have a profound effect on his approach to arranging and composing. While his writing may be uniquely his own, the sound of his band is unmistakably "Toronto".

FLINTLOCK
September 16 & 30 @ 5:00PM

Jordana Talsky - Vocals

Scott Metcalfe - Piano (Sept 30th)

Mark Hundevad - Vibes (Sept 16th), Drums (Sept 30th)

Shawn Nykwist - Sax

James Thompson - Bass

Morgan Childs - Drums (Sept 16th)

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Jordana Talsky is a  singer, songwriter, and vocal looper known for her unique blend of jazz, soul, and indie-pop. As a versatile performer, she offers a range of live experiences, from solo shows where she builds intricate loop choirs on the spot, to performances with her jazz band that range in flavour and repertoire, and more intimate acoustic sets. Each performance is a fresh experience, blending her interpretations of covers with her original songs.

Her vocal loop track, “RUN,” was selected as a finalist in Canada’s CBC Searchlight Contest. Jordana has also been recognized in notable music competitions including the John Lennon Songwriting Competition, the Sarah Vaughan International Vocal Competition, the Julian Award for Emerging Canadian Artists, and the Toronto Independent Music Awards. She has toured extensively across Canada, Europe, and the U.S., including a notable appearance at Summerfest, the world’s largest music festival, during her U.S. debut tour.

Jordana's releases, "Neither of Either," "Standard Deviation," and "Zahava," an EP of original vocal looping music, have received critical praise and airplay internationally.

Lorne Nehring
October 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 @ 5:00pm

Lorne Nehring - Drums
Band - TBA

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Joe Policastro Trio
October 1, 2, 3, 4 @ 8:00 PM

Joe Policastro - Bass

Dave Miller - Guitar

Mikel Avery - Drums

Hailed by Downbeat for its “deft analysis of choice repertoire,” and by the Chicago Reader for its “diversity of approaches to all kinds of source material,” the JOE POLICASTRO TRIO is a forward-thinking, Chicago-based jazz trio led by bassist Joe Policastro featuring guitarist Dave Miller and drummer Mikel Avery. While firmly rooted in jazz, the band’s open-minded, inclusive nature draws upon a wide array of musical styles and sources while still keeping the aesthetic of an acoustic trio intact.  

The band is releasing its seventh album, Mending Wall, this fall. Through highly personal readings of music from Italy and Hong Kong, movie scores and symphonic themes, pop tunes, and even a cowboy song written by a Russian classical composer, the trio explores the nature of identity, boundaries, and borders. Their diverse catalog - Ceremony (2023), Sounds Unheard (2022), Nothing Here Belongs (2019), Screen Sounds (2017), POPS! (2016), and West Side Story Suite (2013) - captures the band’s progressive, forward-thinking, non-hierarchical approach whether showcasing their original music or their ability to remake unlikely songs in a characteristically raw, idiosyncratic fashion. 

True bands are a rarity in jazz these days, especially ones hone their craft as consistently as this one does. The band held court thrice-weekly at Pops for Champagne in downtown Chicago for over a decade. Beyond Chicago, the trio has been extensively playing together at clubs and festivals throughout the US and Canada having even performed for President Barack Obama.

Avataar
October 2, 9, 16, 30 @ 5:00pm

Sundar Viswanathan - Saxophones, bansuri, vocals
Laura Swankey - Vocals
Michael Occhipinti - Guitar
Tyler Emond - Bass
Ravi Naimpally - Tablas
Max Senitt - Drums and percussion

Special guests include Aaron Lightstone (oud) and Todd Pentney (piano, Fender Rhodes, synth). 

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Avataar is a JUNO award winning Toronto-based world-jazz group featuring some of the Canada’s finest jazz, world, funk, and pop musicians. The personnel includes bandleader Sundar Viswanathan (saxophones, bansuri, vocals), Laura Swankey (vocals), Michael Occhipinti (guitar), Tyler Emond (bass), Ravi Naimpally (tablas) and Max Senitt (drums and percussion). Special guests on the most recent, sophomore album, Worldview, include Aaron Lightstone (oud) and Todd Pentney (piano, Fender Rhodes, synth). 

Earmarked by JAZZFM91 as one of the ‘Best 25 Albums of 2021’, Worldview won the 2022 JUNO award for Best Jazz Album (Group). The music is inspired by the deep musical traditions of India, Africa and Brazil, rooted within the framework of modern jazz. In an innovative marriage of ancient and modern, driving grooves intersect with cinematic atmospheres and soaring melodies, creating a fresh, emotive sonic experience. Bandmembers share an eclectic range of musical expertise - hardbop, pop, rock, electronica, free improvisation, world and R&B/Soul filter into the interpretations of the tunes. Both Worldview and Petal (Avataar’s debut CD (2016)) received critical acclaim internationally from publications including DOWNBEAT, JAZZIZ, allaboutjazz, Jazz Weekly, and worldmusiccentral.com. Production of both albums and an upcoming live video was generously supported with grants from Ontario and Canada Arts Councils.

The band’s original compositions are informed by artists including Shakti, Jarrett, Oregon, Jan Garbarek, Jobim, Robert Glasper, Snarky Puppy, Kenny Garrett and Ornette Coleman, and at their core are imbued with an intent toward political and social change and a spiritual focus that transcends the sound. While Avataar’s debut album, Petal, explored the evanescence of human life and was a call for a return to spiritual connectedness, Worldview attempts to also present a musical commentary on the state of our world, on the pandemic and on the inability of our leaders to lead with integrity, honesty and compassion. While the actions of our leaders affected so many, some of the songs started as gut responses to the treatment of children, our most valuable and vulnerable citizens, and act as vehicles of catharsis for the composer.

Avataar has been making original music together for over 12 years, and continues to develop a national and international reputation. The band's performance record includes the Toronto, Guelph, Antigonish, Sudbury, Markham and Brampton Jazz Festivals, JUNOFEST (Toronto), Lula Lounge, Trane Studio, The Rose Theater (Brampton), Hugh's Room, the Small World Centre, NUMUS concert series, the Emmett Ray, the Jazz Room (Waterloo) several universities and colleges in Ontario, and other venues. In 2018 Avataar successfully toured South Africa, playing in venues ranging from intimate jazz clubs to universities and concert halls. This tour took the band through Cape Town, Kalk Bay, Durban, Johannesburg and Pretoria. And in 2019, a tour of Western Canada helped develop a national profile through performances to enthusiastic audiences in BC, AB and SK (Penticton, Revelstoke, Canmore, Saskatoon, Regina, Calgary, Nelson and Cranbrook). Both tours were supported by grants from Ontario Arts Council and the Canada Council for the Arts.

Avataar’s work has received critical acclaim from a wide range of online and print publications and from presenters internationally. Some quotes:

Don Griffiths (The Bassment) offers praise “Sundar Viswanathan and Avataar wowed our patrons with a first-rate performance…. Drawing on the jazz traditions of composition and improvisation, the group added a varied pallet of world music influences resulting in an exciting performance for our patrons. People will be talking about this show for a long time.”

Dutch Journalist Ivan Rod says “..technically and artistically impressive, outrageous, thought-provoking.. the music is magnetic, many faceted, and brave”

Tom Haugen of ‘Take Effect’ writes “a very eclectic and original listen that’s capable of being cinematic, is always unpredictable and deserves to be listened to many, many times”

James A. Cox of ‘Midwest Book Review’ says “Worldview is emotional, profound, utterly unforgettable, and highly recommended”

John Frederick Moore of ‘Jazziz’ writes “This is fusion in the very best sense of the word. Whether the group is expressing ecstasy, transcendence or tranquility, there’s never a dull moment”

Joe Policastro Trio
October 1, 2, 3, 4 @ 8:00 PM

Joe Policastro - Bass

Dave Miller - Guitar

Mikel Avery - Drums

Hailed by Downbeat for its “deft analysis of choice repertoire,” and by the Chicago Reader for its “diversity of approaches to all kinds of source material,” the JOE POLICASTRO TRIO is a forward-thinking, Chicago-based jazz trio led by bassist Joe Policastro featuring guitarist Dave Miller and drummer Mikel Avery. While firmly rooted in jazz, the band’s open-minded, inclusive nature draws upon a wide array of musical styles and sources while still keeping the aesthetic of an acoustic trio intact.  

The band is releasing its seventh album, Mending Wall, this fall. Through highly personal readings of music from Italy and Hong Kong, movie scores and symphonic themes, pop tunes, and even a cowboy song written by a Russian classical composer, the trio explores the nature of identity, boundaries, and borders. Their diverse catalog - Ceremony (2023), Sounds Unheard (2022), Nothing Here Belongs (2019), Screen Sounds (2017), POPS! (2016), and West Side Story Suite (2013) - captures the band’s progressive, forward-thinking, non-hierarchical approach whether showcasing their original music or their ability to remake unlikely songs in a characteristically raw, idiosyncratic fashion. 

True bands are a rarity in jazz these days, especially ones hone their craft as consistently as this one does. The band held court thrice-weekly at Pops for Champagne in downtown Chicago for over a decade. Beyond Chicago, the trio has been extensively playing together at clubs and festivals throughout the US and Canada having even performed for President Barack Obama.

Andy Scott Trio
October 3 @ 5:00pm

Andy Scott - Guitar
Band - TBA

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

 As a musician, writer, journalist, and arts educator, Andrew Scott’s work has impacted many aspects of the educational, and creative arts and culture space in Canada and beyond for nearly three decades. 

A jazz guitarist, Andrew has worked as an in-demand side person, led his own bands with a focus on classic jazz repertoire, and performed and recorded with such musicians as Bernie Senensky, Dan Block, Harry Allen, Grant Stewart, Jim Clayton (The Clayton/Scott Group), Ben Paterson, Randy Sandke, and Jon-Erik Kellso for such labels as Cellar Live, Marshmallow, Boomtang, and Sackville Records. 

Andrew has performed for members of the House of Lords, international dignitaries, and two former Canadian Prime Ministers. 

His latest album, Horizon Song with Kelsley Grant, Amanda Tosoff, Neil Swainson, and Order of Canada winner Terry Clarke was released on Cellar Live records in 2024. 

Andrew’s guitar playing and compositions are featured on saxophonist’s Alex Dean’s 2025 album Put it There by Bari-ed Alive (Sony/Cornerstone Records). 

Andrew has committed himself to learning from the elders of this music and has enjoyed meaningful musical relationships with the late drummer Archie Alleyne—for whom he worked as side musician, music director of Alleyne’s Evolution of Jazz Ensemble, and co-composer of “Syncopation: Life in the Key of Black”—and the nonagenarian pianist Gene DiNovi, with whom Andrew has recorded three albums. 

Andrew’s music has been heard internationally in film and television (“Pretend We’re Kissing,” “Once a Thief,” CBC’s “The Border” and “Kim’s Convenience”), and his writing about music has appeared in Downbeat Magazine, Wax Poetics, CODA (where he was the final Managing Editor), Jazz Research Journal, the Havurah Journal, We Jazz, the Humber Literary Review, the Journal of Popular Music Studies, and in more than one hundred sets of jazz liner notes. 

In 2024, Andrew was the principal researcher, essayist, and Associate Producer of an archival release of a 1972 recording from the famed American jazz organist Jack McDuff.

Andrew has also worked as an independent juror and consultant for the Toronto Arts Foundation and as a public educator was an invited lecturer for the Hot Docs “Curious Minds” speaker series, where he presented a six-part series entitled “Nights to Remember: The Great Concerts,” and Anthems: Six Songs That Shaped the World We Live In) for The Speakers Annex in 2025.

Andrew is frequently called upon to speak to such media outlets as the Globe & Mail, Now Toronto, CTV, the Canadian Press and others on topical issues and various events in the world of music, arts, and culture. 

His comedic writing regularly appears on such humour platforms as The Haven, The Daily Drunk, MuddyUm, and The Toronto Harold where it garners between multiple hundreds and more than 11K online views, and his poetry has been anthologized by Alien Buddha Press (Alien Buddha Zine #58, Alien Buddha Zine #66, the chapbook Resist the Zeitgeist and in the compilation publication Best of 2024).  

Having earned his PhD from York University, Andrew has lectured at universities and conferences across North America (NYU, Kent State, McGill, York University, Western University, the University of Guelph) and has enjoyed a long professional relationship with Humber College, where he is a Professor and the Program Co-ordinator of the Bachelor of Music Program. In this capacity Andrew has taught, administered, advised, and mentored thousands of students.  

Andrew was the former Associate Dean and Acting Dean of Humber’s School of Creative and Performing Arts, where he oversaw and administratively stewarded multiple music programs, as well as creative writing, arts administration, theatre, and comedy faculties. 

At Humber, Andrew has been recognized for his professional efforts, earning the “Administrative Distinguished Service” Award for valued administrative leadership in 2021, and being named a “Champion of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion” for contributing to an environmental scan with the Humber EDI Taskforce in 2022. 

As of 2025, Andrew has been involved with numerous research projects that have received nearly $1,000,000 of federal funding through SSHRC and other research granting bodies. Currently, Andrew is a part of a SSHRC Partnership Development project with the DeGroote School of Business at McMaster University entitled: “The show must go on: Supporting Canadian professional musicians” that examines employment issues surrounding professional musicians in Canada.

Andrew is the recipient of The Toronto Musician’s Association (Local 149) “Music Educator of the Year” (2024).

Joe Policastro Trio
October 1, 2, 3, 4 @ 8:00 PM

Joe Policastro - Bass

Dave Miller - Guitar

Mikel Avery - Drums

Hailed by Downbeat for its “deft analysis of choice repertoire,” and by the Chicago Reader for its “diversity of approaches to all kinds of source material,” the JOE POLICASTRO TRIO is a forward-thinking, Chicago-based jazz trio led by bassist Joe Policastro featuring guitarist Dave Miller and drummer Mikel Avery. While firmly rooted in jazz, the band’s open-minded, inclusive nature draws upon a wide array of musical styles and sources while still keeping the aesthetic of an acoustic trio intact.  

The band is releasing its seventh album, Mending Wall, this fall. Through highly personal readings of music from Italy and Hong Kong, movie scores and symphonic themes, pop tunes, and even a cowboy song written by a Russian classical composer, the trio explores the nature of identity, boundaries, and borders. Their diverse catalog - Ceremony (2023), Sounds Unheard (2022), Nothing Here Belongs (2019), Screen Sounds (2017), POPS! (2016), and West Side Story Suite (2013) - captures the band’s progressive, forward-thinking, non-hierarchical approach whether showcasing their original music or their ability to remake unlikely songs in a characteristically raw, idiosyncratic fashion. 

True bands are a rarity in jazz these days, especially ones hone their craft as consistently as this one does. The band held court thrice-weekly at Pops for Champagne in downtown Chicago for over a decade. Beyond Chicago, the trio has been extensively playing together at clubs and festivals throughout the US and Canada having even performed for President Barack Obama.

Chris Hunt Tentet
October 4 @ 2:00pm

Led by:
Chris Hunt - Trombone

No reservations
Pay What You Can

Composer, arranger, trombonist Chris Hunt is a graduate of the University of Toronto’s Jazz Performance program. Chris works as a freelance musician in his native Toronto, in a variety of settings. Years of experience with brass quintets and musicals, big bands and smaller jazz ensembles have solidified Chris’ reputation as a truly versatile performer and composer. As well as teaching private students, Chris is also on faculty at Seneca College. In 2003, Chris attended the Banff International Jazz Workshop. In May of 2004, he released The Chris Hunt Tentet’s first full-length album, First X’s Free. His quintet, Big Lots, released a limited edition EP in 2005. In spring of 2006 The Tentet recorded the Dirrty Dog live at the Rex Hotel.

Lesley Mitchell-Clarke
October 4th @ 5:00pm

Lesley Mitchell-Clarke - Vocals
Tom Szczesniak - Piano/Accordion,
Jordan O’Connor - Bass,
Frank Botos - Drums
Tim Hamel - Trumpet.

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Jazz vocalist, entertainer and native New Yorker, Lesley Mitchell-Clarke was born into a show business family.  Her father is the late veteran jazz bassist and Emmy Award winning comedy writer and producer, Gordon “Whitey” Mitchell and her late Uncle was the jazz bass legend, Red Mitchell.  Since the age of sixteen, Lesley has worked as a busy singer/dancer/actor, and traveled internationally with musical theatre productions, as well as with a number of name acts. She also toured the Orient extensively with her own L.A.-based musical group, “Main Squeeze”, often appearing at famed venue “The Latin Quarter”.  Since Lesley has returned to the boards, has been bringing her entertaining mix of humour, show-biz tales and tasty vocal jazz to the city’s finest jazz venues, including “The 120 Diner”, “The Rex Hotel Jazz & Blues Bar”, “Jazz Bistro”, “Hirut”, “The Homesmith Bar”, Kensington Sound’s “Jazz Salon” Series and noted College St. eatery and jazz boite, “The Emmet Ray”!  Lesley is a graduate of the famed “Second City’s” Improv Programme, and with her love of spontaneity, she often serves as Mistress of Ceremonies at prominent jazz events and festivals, including jazz concerts at OThe TD Niagara Jazz Festival and The Kensington Market Jazz Festival.

Lesley will be joined at “The REX” on October 4th by “The Fabulous Mello-Tonins”:  Musical Director, Tom Szczesniak on piano and accordion, Jordan O’Connor on bass, Frank Botos on drums and Tim Hamel on trumpet.

Joe Policastro Trio
October 1, 2, 3, 4 @ 8:00 PM

Joe Policastro - Bass

Dave Miller - Guitar

Mikel Avery - Drums

Hailed by Downbeat for its “deft analysis of choice repertoire,” and by the Chicago Reader for its “diversity of approaches to all kinds of source material,” the JOE POLICASTRO TRIO is a forward-thinking, Chicago-based jazz trio led by bassist Joe Policastro featuring guitarist Dave Miller and drummer Mikel Avery. While firmly rooted in jazz, the band’s open-minded, inclusive nature draws upon a wide array of musical styles and sources while still keeping the aesthetic of an acoustic trio intact.  

The band is releasing its seventh album, Mending Wall, this fall. Through highly personal readings of music from Italy and Hong Kong, movie scores and symphonic themes, pop tunes, and even a cowboy song written by a Russian classical composer, the trio explores the nature of identity, boundaries, and borders. Their diverse catalog - Ceremony (2023), Sounds Unheard (2022), Nothing Here Belongs (2019), Screen Sounds (2017), POPS! (2016), and West Side Story Suite (2013) - captures the band’s progressive, forward-thinking, non-hierarchical approach whether showcasing their original music or their ability to remake unlikely songs in a characteristically raw, idiosyncratic fashion. 

True bands are a rarity in jazz these days, especially ones hone their craft as consistently as this one does. The band held court thrice-weekly at Pops for Champagne in downtown Chicago for over a decade. Beyond Chicago, the trio has been extensively playing together at clubs and festivals throughout the US and Canada having even performed for President Barack Obama.

SUBHIRA Quintet
October 4 @ 10:45pm

Subhira Rodrigo Cepeda - Analog keyboards, piano, ethnic instruments
Petra Onderuf - Violin
Beth Silver - Cello
Paula Ordoñez - Flute
Max Senitt - Drums

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Music of the Chilean Subhira Quintet (led by the composer, musician and environmental activist Rodrigo Cepeda, Subhira) combines musical ethnic roots of Chile and other countries with classical music, jazz and South American rich dancing traditional music. The visual component plays an important role in the work of this band. It is a band that will surely warm hearts of club-goers as well as fans of folk, ethnic, world music and jazz festivals.

The soul of the band is Rodrigo Cepeda, alias Subhira. He graduated  as Composer from the ”Modern School of Music” getting a post graduate specialization and later the Master of the Arts on Composition at the Conservatory of music University of Chile in Santiago. After more than thirty years on stage, he has released 21 albums, played hundreds of concerts and international tours.

In 1993, Subhira also founded the independent world music label and production company "Mundovivo”, where he has produced and released albums of more than 50 other Chilean artists. 

In addition to composing his own music, which he plays with various music groups, Subhira have composed music for documentaries, films, ballet and theater. 

Apart from busy schedule, he still finds time to produce and host the ”Mundovivo ADN” radio program (more than 40.000 listeners a week) and organize the the World Music festival of Las Condes which is held annually in Santiago. The festival has been a thing for nearly 20 years, and is regularly attended by musicians not only from Chile, but also from other Latin American countries, Africa, Asia and Europe.

Bellbird
October 5 & 6 @ 8:00 PM

Claire Devlin - Tenor saxophonist
Allison Burik - Alto saxophonist and Bass Clarinet
Eli Davidovici - Bass
Mili Hong - Drums

Bellbird is a collective of Montreal-based musicians comprising tenor saxophonist Claire Devlin, alto saxophonist and bass clarinetist Allison Burik, bassist Eli Davidovici, and drummer Mili Hong. Their debut album Root In Tandem was released worldwide in August 2023. While rooted in modern jazz, Bellbird’s music bares influences from myriad musical styles, from folk melodies, to atonal counterpoint, to rock grooves that stretch the boundaries of the jazz genre. Capturing the ethos of the band, the music on their debut album grows out of a mutual curiosity and creativity, with feelings of space and calm pierced by exhilarating solos and free improvisation.

Bellbird
October 5 & 6 @ 8:00 PM

Claire Devlin - Tenor saxophonist
Allison Burik - Alto saxophonist and Bass Clarinet
Eli Davidovici - Bass
Mili Hong - Drums

Bellbird is a collective of Montreal-based musicians comprising tenor saxophonist Claire Devlin, alto saxophonist and bass clarinetist Allison Burik, bassist Eli Davidovici, and drummer Mili Hong. Their debut album Root In Tandem was released worldwide in August 2023. While rooted in modern jazz, Bellbird’s music bares influences from myriad musical styles, from folk melodies, to atonal counterpoint, to rock grooves that stretch the boundaries of the jazz genre. Capturing the ethos of the band, the music on their debut album grows out of a mutual curiosity and creativity, with feelings of space and calm pierced by exhilarating solos and free improvisation.

Classic REx jam
hosted by chris banks
OCTOBER 7, 14, 21, 28 @8:00pm

NO RESERVATIONS

$10 Cover Charge

Jam with us! Enjoy our house band (a collection of beloved all-stars) spontaneously creating musical goodness just for you!

Hosted by the legendary Chris Banks.

Lorne Nehring
October 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 @ 5:00pm

Lorne Nehring - Drums
Band - TBA

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Karl Silveira
October 8, 9, 10, 11 @ 8:00pm

Shirantha Beddage - Baritone Saxophone (Oct 8th-9th)

David French - Baritone Saxophone (Oct 10th-11th)

Karl Silveira - Trombone

Mark Eisenman - Piano

Pat Collins - Bass

Terry Clarke - Drums

Karl Silveira is a trombonist, composer and music educator from Toronto. He completed a Master of Music in Jazz Performance and Composition from the University of Toronto in 2019. Karl was also selected to attend the International Banff Jazz and Creative Music workshop in 2009 run by Dave Douglas. Through the years, he has studied with influential Jazz musicians in both Canada and the United States including Geoff Young, Terry Promane, Will Carn, Kelsley Grant, Andre Hayward, Andrew Downing, Jim Lewis, David Braid, and Lorne Lofsky.

Since receiving his Bachelor, he has worked as a musician in Canada and abroad; playing on cruise ships for 2 years before returning to Toronto to play with The Boxcar Boys from 2011-2017 and the Juno award winning Lemon Bucket Orkestra from 2011-2013. Since then Karl has worked as a freelance musician playing in a variety of projects including the David Braid Sextet, The Christine Jensen Jazz Orchestra, Rex Hotel Orchestra, Harley Card Sunset Ensemble, The Mike Herriott OTR Band, Harley Card Quintet, and Rebecca Hennessy’s Fog Quintet. He performed with Mike Murley, Clark Terry, Buddy DeFranco, Dave Young, Pat Labarbara, Brian Barlow, Jason Logue, Ingrid Jensen, Al Kay, William Sperendei, and Allison Au. Karl has also been active in the musical theatre community playing in world touring shows such as Chicago (2018) and Charlie and Chocolate Factory (2018-2019) at The Mirvish Theatre and The King and I (2018) at The Princess of Wales Theatre.

 Karl also runs several of his own groups such as the composing collective, The Rickshaw Quintet and Bossa nova band, Bossa of the Birds. The Karl Silveira Quintet is his latest project featuring Allison Au, Matt Newton, Dan Fortin and Nico Dann. He regularly performs at the Tranzac, Rex and Emmett Ray.

Karl is a Yamaha Artist and as of Sept 2019, was hired as a Sessional Instructor for applied trombone at the University of Toronto Jazz program where he currently still teaches.

Avataar
October 2, 9, 16, 30 @ 5:00pm

Sundar Viswanathan - Saxophones, bansuri, vocals
Laura Swankey - Vocals
Michael Occhipinti - Guitar
Tyler Emond - Bass
Ravi Naimpally - Tablas
Max Senitt - Drums and percussion

Special guests include Aaron Lightstone (oud) and Todd Pentney (piano, Fender Rhodes, synth). 

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Avataar is a JUNO award winning Toronto-based world-jazz group featuring some of the Canada’s finest jazz, world, funk, and pop musicians. The personnel includes bandleader Sundar Viswanathan (saxophones, bansuri, vocals), Laura Swankey (vocals), Michael Occhipinti (guitar), Tyler Emond (bass), Ravi Naimpally (tablas) and Max Senitt (drums and percussion). Special guests on the most recent, sophomore album, Worldview, include Aaron Lightstone (oud) and Todd Pentney (piano, Fender Rhodes, synth). 

Earmarked by JAZZFM91 as one of the ‘Best 25 Albums of 2021’, Worldview won the 2022 JUNO award for Best Jazz Album (Group). The music is inspired by the deep musical traditions of India, Africa and Brazil, rooted within the framework of modern jazz. In an innovative marriage of ancient and modern, driving grooves intersect with cinematic atmospheres and soaring melodies, creating a fresh, emotive sonic experience. Bandmembers share an eclectic range of musical expertise - hardbop, pop, rock, electronica, free improvisation, world and R&B/Soul filter into the interpretations of the tunes. Both Worldview and Petal (Avataar’s debut CD (2016)) received critical acclaim internationally from publications including DOWNBEAT, JAZZIZ, allaboutjazz, Jazz Weekly, and worldmusiccentral.com. Production of both albums and an upcoming live video was generously supported with grants from Ontario and Canada Arts Councils.

The band’s original compositions are informed by artists including Shakti, Jarrett, Oregon, Jan Garbarek, Jobim, Robert Glasper, Snarky Puppy, Kenny Garrett and Ornette Coleman, and at their core are imbued with an intent toward political and social change and a spiritual focus that transcends the sound. While Avataar’s debut album, Petal, explored the evanescence of human life and was a call for a return to spiritual connectedness, Worldview attempts to also present a musical commentary on the state of our world, on the pandemic and on the inability of our leaders to lead with integrity, honesty and compassion. While the actions of our leaders affected so many, some of the songs started as gut responses to the treatment of children, our most valuable and vulnerable citizens, and act as vehicles of catharsis for the composer.

Avataar has been making original music together for over 12 years, and continues to develop a national and international reputation. The band's performance record includes the Toronto, Guelph, Antigonish, Sudbury, Markham and Brampton Jazz Festivals, JUNOFEST (Toronto), Lula Lounge, Trane Studio, The Rose Theater (Brampton), Hugh's Room, the Small World Centre, NUMUS concert series, the Emmett Ray, the Jazz Room (Waterloo) several universities and colleges in Ontario, and other venues. In 2018 Avataar successfully toured South Africa, playing in venues ranging from intimate jazz clubs to universities and concert halls. This tour took the band through Cape Town, Kalk Bay, Durban, Johannesburg and Pretoria. And in 2019, a tour of Western Canada helped develop a national profile through performances to enthusiastic audiences in BC, AB and SK (Penticton, Revelstoke, Canmore, Saskatoon, Regina, Calgary, Nelson and Cranbrook). Both tours were supported by grants from Ontario Arts Council and the Canada Council for the Arts.

Avataar’s work has received critical acclaim from a wide range of online and print publications and from presenters internationally. Some quotes:

Don Griffiths (The Bassment) offers praise “Sundar Viswanathan and Avataar wowed our patrons with a first-rate performance…. Drawing on the jazz traditions of composition and improvisation, the group added a varied pallet of world music influences resulting in an exciting performance for our patrons. People will be talking about this show for a long time.”

Dutch Journalist Ivan Rod says “..technically and artistically impressive, outrageous, thought-provoking.. the music is magnetic, many faceted, and brave”

Tom Haugen of ‘Take Effect’ writes “a very eclectic and original listen that’s capable of being cinematic, is always unpredictable and deserves to be listened to many, many times”

James A. Cox of ‘Midwest Book Review’ says “Worldview is emotional, profound, utterly unforgettable, and highly recommended”

John Frederick Moore of ‘Jazziz’ writes “This is fusion in the very best sense of the word. Whether the group is expressing ecstasy, transcendence or tranquility, there’s never a dull moment”

Karl Silveira
October 8, 9, 10, 11 @ 8:00pm

Karl Silveira - Trombone
Band - TBA

Karl Silveira is a trombonist, composer and music educator from Toronto. He completed a Master of Music in Jazz Performance and Composition from the University of Toronto in 2019. Karl was also selected to attend the International Banff Jazz and Creative Music workshop in 2009 run by Dave Douglas. Through the years, he has studied with influential Jazz musicians in both Canada and the United States including Geoff Young, Terry Promane, Will Carn, Kelsley Grant, Andre Hayward, Andrew Downing, Jim Lewis, David Braid, and Lorne Lofsky.

Since receiving his Bachelor, he has worked as a musician in Canada and abroad; playing on cruise ships for 2 years before returning to Toronto to play with The Boxcar Boys from 2011-2017 and the Juno award winning Lemon Bucket Orkestra from 2011-2013. Since then Karl has worked as a freelance musician playing in a variety of projects including the David Braid Sextet, The Christine Jensen Jazz Orchestra, Rex Hotel Orchestra, Harley Card Sunset Ensemble, The Mike Herriott OTR Band, Harley Card Quintet, and Rebecca Hennessy’s Fog Quintet. He performed with Mike Murley, Clark Terry, Buddy DeFranco, Dave Young, Pat Labarbara, Brian Barlow, Jason Logue, Ingrid Jensen, Al Kay, William Sperendei, and Allison Au. Karl has also been active in the musical theatre community playing in world touring shows such as Chicago (2018) and Charlie and Chocolate Factory (2018-2019) at The Mirvish Theatre and The King and I (2018) at The Princess of Wales Theatre.

 Karl also runs several of his own groups such as the composing collective, The Rickshaw Quintet and Bossa nova band, Bossa of the Birds. The Karl Silveira Quintet is his latest project featuring Allison Au, Matt Newton, Dan Fortin and Nico Dann. He regularly performs at the Tranzac, Rex and Emmett Ray.

Karl is a Yamaha Artist and as of Sept 2019, was hired as a Sessional Instructor for applied trombone at the University of Toronto Jazz program where he currently still teaches.

Karl Silveira
October 8, 9, 10, 11 @ 8:00pm

Shirantha Beddage - Baritone Saxophone (Oct 8th-9th)

David French - Baritone Saxophone (Oct 10th-11th)

Karl Silveira - Trombone

Mark Eisenman - Piano

Pat Collins - Bass

Terry Clarke - Drums

Karl Silveira is a trombonist, composer and music educator from Toronto. He completed a Master of Music in Jazz Performance and Composition from the University of Toronto in 2019. Karl was also selected to attend the International Banff Jazz and Creative Music workshop in 2009 run by Dave Douglas. Through the years, he has studied with influential Jazz musicians in both Canada and the United States including Geoff Young, Terry Promane, Will Carn, Kelsley Grant, Andre Hayward, Andrew Downing, Jim Lewis, David Braid, and Lorne Lofsky.

Since receiving his Bachelor, he has worked as a musician in Canada and abroad; playing on cruise ships for 2 years before returning to Toronto to play with The Boxcar Boys from 2011-2017 and the Juno award winning Lemon Bucket Orkestra from 2011-2013. Since then Karl has worked as a freelance musician playing in a variety of projects including the David Braid Sextet, The Christine Jensen Jazz Orchestra, Rex Hotel Orchestra, Harley Card Sunset Ensemble, The Mike Herriott OTR Band, Harley Card Quintet, and Rebecca Hennessy’s Fog Quintet. He performed with Mike Murley, Clark Terry, Buddy DeFranco, Dave Young, Pat Labarbara, Brian Barlow, Jason Logue, Ingrid Jensen, Al Kay, William Sperendei, and Allison Au. Karl has also been active in the musical theatre community playing in world touring shows such as Chicago (2018) and Charlie and Chocolate Factory (2018-2019) at The Mirvish Theatre and The King and I (2018) at The Princess of Wales Theatre.

 Karl also runs several of his own groups such as the composing collective, The Rickshaw Quintet and Bossa nova band, Bossa of the Birds. The Karl Silveira Quintet is his latest project featuring Allison Au, Matt Newton, Dan Fortin and Nico Dann. He regularly performs at the Tranzac, Rex and Emmett Ray.

Karl is a Yamaha Artist and as of Sept 2019, was hired as a Sessional Instructor for applied trombone at the University of Toronto Jazz program where he currently still teaches.

Advocats Big Band
October 11 @ 2:00pm

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

From its fledgling days in 1991 as an enthusiastic group of lawyer/musicians, the Advocats Big Band has become one of the most popular big bands performing in Toronto. The band's current personnel features 17 top flight musicians whose individual professional experience ranges from studio, film, theatre and television work to major symphony orchestra, chamber music and night clubs. Whether performing on the Big Band Stage of the Beaches International Jazz Festival, Old Mill Toronto or at its monthly home, The Duke Toronto, the Advocats Big Band never fails to please its audience with a widely appealing repertoire of Jazz, Swing and Latin music.

Karl Silveira
October 8, 9, 10, 11 @ 8:00pm

Shirantha Beddage - Baritone Saxophone (Oct 8th-9th)

David French - Baritone Saxophone (Oct 10th-11th)

Karl Silveira - Trombone

Mark Eisenman - Piano

Pat Collins - Bass

Terry Clarke - Drums

Karl Silveira is a trombonist, composer and music educator from Toronto. He completed a Master of Music in Jazz Performance and Composition from the University of Toronto in 2019. Karl was also selected to attend the International Banff Jazz and Creative Music workshop in 2009 run by Dave Douglas. Through the years, he has studied with influential Jazz musicians in both Canada and the United States including Geoff Young, Terry Promane, Will Carn, Kelsley Grant, Andre Hayward, Andrew Downing, Jim Lewis, David Braid, and Lorne Lofsky.

Since receiving his Bachelor, he has worked as a musician in Canada and abroad; playing on cruise ships for 2 years before returning to Toronto to play with The Boxcar Boys from 2011-2017 and the Juno award winning Lemon Bucket Orkestra from 2011-2013. Since then Karl has worked as a freelance musician playing in a variety of projects including the David Braid Sextet, The Christine Jensen Jazz Orchestra, Rex Hotel Orchestra, Harley Card Sunset Ensemble, The Mike Herriott OTR Band, Harley Card Quintet, and Rebecca Hennessy’s Fog Quintet. He performed with Mike Murley, Clark Terry, Buddy DeFranco, Dave Young, Pat Labarbara, Brian Barlow, Jason Logue, Ingrid Jensen, Al Kay, William Sperendei, and Allison Au. Karl has also been active in the musical theatre community playing in world touring shows such as Chicago (2018) and Charlie and Chocolate Factory (2018-2019) at The Mirvish Theatre and The King and I (2018) at The Princess of Wales Theatre.

 Karl also runs several of his own groups such as the composing collective, The Rickshaw Quintet and Bossa nova band, Bossa of the Birds. The Karl Silveira Quintet is his latest project featuring Allison Au, Matt Newton, Dan Fortin and Nico Dann. He regularly performs at the Tranzac, Rex and Emmett Ray.

Karl is a Yamaha Artist and as of Sept 2019, was hired as a Sessional Instructor for applied trombone at the University of Toronto Jazz program where he currently still teaches.

David Hodgson
october 12 & 13 @ 8:00pm

David Hodgson - Saxophone
Aline Homzy - Violin
Steven Noronha - Piano
Evan Gratham - Bass
Mateos Labbe Phelan - Drums

New York-based saxophonist David Hodgson returns to Toronto for two nights of exciting musical reunions with mentors and friends. Prior to moving to New York City - where he is currently pursuing a masters of music from the Manhattan School of Music - David had established himself as one of the most ambitious and in-demand young musicians in Toronto. He approaches music with a commitment to community, energy, lyricism, and Black American musical traditions.

David Hodgson
october 12 & 13 @ 8:00pm

David Hodgson - Saxophone
Aline Homzy - Violin
Steven Noronha - Piano
Evan Gratham - Bass
Mateos Labbe Phelan - Drums

New York-based saxophonist David Hodgson returns to Toronto for two nights of exciting musical reunions with mentors and friends. Prior to moving to New York City - where he is currently pursuing a masters of music from the Manhattan School of Music - David had established himself as one of the most ambitious and in-demand young musicians in Toronto. He approaches music with a commitment to community, energy, lyricism, and Black American musical traditions.

the Angela Pincente nonet
October 14 @ 5:00pm

Led by: Angela Pincente - Trombone

Band -TBA

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Toronto-based trombonist, composer, and arranger  Angela Pincente is a dynamic force in the city's vibrant  jazz scene. A graduate of Humber College with a  Bachelor of Music, Pincente honed her craft under the  mentorship of renowned musicians such as Kelsley  Grant, William Carn, Mike Downes, and Shelly Berger.  Her sound blends intricate improvisation with a unique  compositional voice, reflecting a deep understanding  of jazz tradition while pushing the boundaries of the  genre. 

Pincente leads several of her own ensembles,  including the Angela Pincente Quintet, Angela  Pincente Tentet, and Angela Pincente Big Band,  showcasing her distinctive style as both a performer  and a bandleader. Her compositions are marked by  rich harmonic structures, complex rhythms, and a  deep connection to the art of storytelling through  music.

Classic REx jam
hosted by chris banks
OCTOBER 7, 14, 21, 28 @8:00pm

NO RESERVATIONS

$10 Cover Charge

Jam with us! Enjoy our house band (a collection of beloved all-stars) spontaneously creating musical goodness just for you!

Hosted by the legendary Chris Banks.

Lorne Nehring
October 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 @ 5:00pm

Lorne Nehring - Drums
Band - TBA

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Rebecca Hennessey's Makeshift Island
October 15, 16, 17, 18 @ 8:00pm

Rebecca Hennessy - Trumpet / Vocals
Band - TBA

Rebecca Hennessy is an award-winning trumpeter, vocalist, composer, and bandleader whose  music bridges jazz, roots, and singer-songwriter. Her upcoming studio vocal album, All Is  Falling Rain, is a lush and heartfelt journey inspired by the poetry of acclaimed author Thomas  King. The project began in 2017 when Rebecca was commissioned by Silence in Guelph to  compose a night of music using King’s poetry. The experience proved so inspiring that, with  King’s blessing, she returned to his book 77 Fragments of a Familiar Ruin to set seven of its  poems to music. To complete the collection, she added two of her own original lyric-based  songs. 

All Is Falling Rain brings together world-renowned collaborators Kevin Breit (guitar and  vocals), Tania Gill (piano), Michael Herring (bass), and Dave Clark (drums), weaving a  soundscape where King’s evocative words and Hennessy’s distinctive composing, voice and  trumpet meet in organic harmony. 

This new release follows her acclaimed albums Joy Will Find Us (2023), All the Little Things  You Do (2020), and Makeshift Island Live at the Jazz Room (2025). Each recording highlights  her long-standing musical partnership with guitarist Kevin Breit and showcases her ability to  fuse heartfelt songwriting with adventurous musicianship. 

Rebecca’s artistry is often shaped by literature and deep collaboration. Her arrangement of  King’s Dig Up the Stories for big band was premiered by Christine Jensen’s Orchestra at the  National Arts Centre in 2019. Beyond her vocal projects, she has released nine other albums as a  bandleader or co-leader and has toured extensively throughout Canada, the U.S., Europe,  Mexico, Panama, and Sri Lanka. She has performed and recorded with artists such as Adele, Ron  Sexsmith, Andy Kim, Owen Pallett, Feist, Broken Social Scene, and Yellowjackets. 

A longtime fixture at Toronto’s Massey Hall, Rebecca led the Women’s Blues Revue band from  2013 to 2022 and returned as a featured vocalist in 2024. She received the Toronto Arts  Foundation Emerging Jazz Artist Award in 2018 and has been a proud Yamaha Artist since 2021,  performing on the YTR-8310Z trumpet.

Short blurb version:  

Rebecca Hennessy is an award-winning trumpeter, vocalist, composer, and bandleader whose  music blends jazz, roots, and singer-songwriter. Her upcoming studio vocal album, All Is Falling  Rain, is a lush and heartfelt collection inspired by the poetry of acclaimed author Thomas King.  The project began when Rebecca was commissioned in 2017 by Silence in Guelph to set King’s  poetry to music. With King’s blessing, she later returned to his book 77 Fragments of a Familiar  Ruin, writing seven new songs, and added two of her own lyric-based pieces to complete the  album. 

Featuring world-renowned collaborators Kevin Breit (guitar and vocals), Tania Gill (piano),  Michael Herring (bass), and Dave Clark (drums), the album weaves King’s evocative words  with Rebecca’s warm vocals and expressive trumpet. 

Rebecca has released nine other albums as a leader or co-leader, including Joy Will Find Us (2023) and All the Little Things You Do (2020), and has performed with artists such as Adele,  Ron Sexsmith, Feist, and Broken Social Scene. A 2018 recipient of the Toronto Arts Foundation  Emerging Jazz Artist Award, she has toured internationally and proudly performs as a Yamaha  Artist.

Avataar
October 2, 9, 16, 30 @ 5:00pm

Sundar Viswanathan - Saxophones, bansuri, vocals
Laura Swankey - Vocals
Michael Occhipinti - Guitar
Tyler Emond - Bass
Ravi Naimpally - Tablas
Max Senitt - Drums and percussion

Special guests include Aaron Lightstone (oud) and Todd Pentney (piano, Fender Rhodes, synth). 

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Avataar is a JUNO award winning Toronto-based world-jazz group featuring some of the Canada’s finest jazz, world, funk, and pop musicians. The personnel includes bandleader Sundar Viswanathan (saxophones, bansuri, vocals), Laura Swankey (vocals), Michael Occhipinti (guitar), Tyler Emond (bass), Ravi Naimpally (tablas) and Max Senitt (drums and percussion). Special guests on the most recent, sophomore album, Worldview, include Aaron Lightstone (oud) and Todd Pentney (piano, Fender Rhodes, synth). 

Earmarked by JAZZFM91 as one of the ‘Best 25 Albums of 2021’, Worldview won the 2022 JUNO award for Best Jazz Album (Group). The music is inspired by the deep musical traditions of India, Africa and Brazil, rooted within the framework of modern jazz. In an innovative marriage of ancient and modern, driving grooves intersect with cinematic atmospheres and soaring melodies, creating a fresh, emotive sonic experience. Bandmembers share an eclectic range of musical expertise - hardbop, pop, rock, electronica, free improvisation, world and R&B/Soul filter into the interpretations of the tunes. Both Worldview and Petal (Avataar’s debut CD (2016)) received critical acclaim internationally from publications including DOWNBEAT, JAZZIZ, allaboutjazz, Jazz Weekly, and worldmusiccentral.com. Production of both albums and an upcoming live video was generously supported with grants from Ontario and Canada Arts Councils.

The band’s original compositions are informed by artists including Shakti, Jarrett, Oregon, Jan Garbarek, Jobim, Robert Glasper, Snarky Puppy, Kenny Garrett and Ornette Coleman, and at their core are imbued with an intent toward political and social change and a spiritual focus that transcends the sound. While Avataar’s debut album, Petal, explored the evanescence of human life and was a call for a return to spiritual connectedness, Worldview attempts to also present a musical commentary on the state of our world, on the pandemic and on the inability of our leaders to lead with integrity, honesty and compassion. While the actions of our leaders affected so many, some of the songs started as gut responses to the treatment of children, our most valuable and vulnerable citizens, and act as vehicles of catharsis for the composer.

Avataar has been making original music together for over 12 years, and continues to develop a national and international reputation. The band's performance record includes the Toronto, Guelph, Antigonish, Sudbury, Markham and Brampton Jazz Festivals, JUNOFEST (Toronto), Lula Lounge, Trane Studio, The Rose Theater (Brampton), Hugh's Room, the Small World Centre, NUMUS concert series, the Emmett Ray, the Jazz Room (Waterloo) several universities and colleges in Ontario, and other venues. In 2018 Avataar successfully toured South Africa, playing in venues ranging from intimate jazz clubs to universities and concert halls. This tour took the band through Cape Town, Kalk Bay, Durban, Johannesburg and Pretoria. And in 2019, a tour of Western Canada helped develop a national profile through performances to enthusiastic audiences in BC, AB and SK (Penticton, Revelstoke, Canmore, Saskatoon, Regina, Calgary, Nelson and Cranbrook). Both tours were supported by grants from Ontario Arts Council and the Canada Council for the Arts.

Avataar’s work has received critical acclaim from a wide range of online and print publications and from presenters internationally. Some quotes:

Don Griffiths (The Bassment) offers praise “Sundar Viswanathan and Avataar wowed our patrons with a first-rate performance…. Drawing on the jazz traditions of composition and improvisation, the group added a varied pallet of world music influences resulting in an exciting performance for our patrons. People will be talking about this show for a long time.”

Dutch Journalist Ivan Rod says “..technically and artistically impressive, outrageous, thought-provoking.. the music is magnetic, many faceted, and brave”

Tom Haugen of ‘Take Effect’ writes “a very eclectic and original listen that’s capable of being cinematic, is always unpredictable and deserves to be listened to many, many times”

James A. Cox of ‘Midwest Book Review’ says “Worldview is emotional, profound, utterly unforgettable, and highly recommended”

John Frederick Moore of ‘Jazziz’ writes “This is fusion in the very best sense of the word. Whether the group is expressing ecstasy, transcendence or tranquility, there’s never a dull moment”

Rebecca Hennessey's Makeshift Island
October 15, 16, 17, 18 @ 8:00pm

Rebecca Hennessy - Trumpet / Vocals
Band - TBA

Rebecca Hennessy is an award-winning trumpeter, vocalist, composer, and bandleader whose  music bridges jazz, roots, and singer-songwriter. Her upcoming studio vocal album, All Is  Falling Rain, is a lush and heartfelt journey inspired by the poetry of acclaimed author Thomas  King. The project began in 2017 when Rebecca was commissioned by Silence in Guelph to  compose a night of music using King’s poetry. The experience proved so inspiring that, with  King’s blessing, she returned to his book 77 Fragments of a Familiar Ruin to set seven of its  poems to music. To complete the collection, she added two of her own original lyric-based  songs. 

All Is Falling Rain brings together world-renowned collaborators Kevin Breit (guitar and  vocals), Tania Gill (piano), Michael Herring (bass), and Dave Clark (drums), weaving a  soundscape where King’s evocative words and Hennessy’s distinctive composing, voice and  trumpet meet in organic harmony. 

This new release follows her acclaimed albums Joy Will Find Us (2023), All the Little Things  You Do (2020), and Makeshift Island Live at the Jazz Room (2025). Each recording highlights  her long-standing musical partnership with guitarist Kevin Breit and showcases her ability to  fuse heartfelt songwriting with adventurous musicianship. 

Rebecca’s artistry is often shaped by literature and deep collaboration. Her arrangement of  King’s Dig Up the Stories for big band was premiered by Christine Jensen’s Orchestra at the  National Arts Centre in 2019. Beyond her vocal projects, she has released nine other albums as a  bandleader or co-leader and has toured extensively throughout Canada, the U.S., Europe,  Mexico, Panama, and Sri Lanka. She has performed and recorded with artists such as Adele, Ron  Sexsmith, Andy Kim, Owen Pallett, Feist, Broken Social Scene, and Yellowjackets. 

A longtime fixture at Toronto’s Massey Hall, Rebecca led the Women’s Blues Revue band from  2013 to 2022 and returned as a featured vocalist in 2024. She received the Toronto Arts  Foundation Emerging Jazz Artist Award in 2018 and has been a proud Yamaha Artist since 2021,  performing on the YTR-8310Z trumpet.

Short blurb version:  

Rebecca Hennessy is an award-winning trumpeter, vocalist, composer, and bandleader whose  music blends jazz, roots, and singer-songwriter. Her upcoming studio vocal album, All Is Falling  Rain, is a lush and heartfelt collection inspired by the poetry of acclaimed author Thomas King.  The project began when Rebecca was commissioned in 2017 by Silence in Guelph to set King’s  poetry to music. With King’s blessing, she later returned to his book 77 Fragments of a Familiar  Ruin, writing seven new songs, and added two of her own lyric-based pieces to complete the  album. 

Featuring world-renowned collaborators Kevin Breit (guitar and vocals), Tania Gill (piano),  Michael Herring (bass), and Dave Clark (drums), the album weaves King’s evocative words  with Rebecca’s warm vocals and expressive trumpet. 

Rebecca has released nine other albums as a leader or co-leader, including Joy Will Find Us (2023) and All the Little Things You Do (2020), and has performed with artists such as Adele,  Ron Sexsmith, Feist, and Broken Social Scene. A 2018 recipient of the Toronto Arts Foundation  Emerging Jazz Artist Award, she has toured internationally and proudly performs as a Yamaha  Artist.

Rebecca Hennessey's Makeshift Island
October 15, 16, 17, 18 @ 8:00pm

Rebecca Hennessy - Trumpet / Vocals
Band - TBA

Rebecca Hennessy is an award-winning trumpeter, vocalist, composer, and bandleader whose  music bridges jazz, roots, and singer-songwriter. Her upcoming studio vocal album, All Is  Falling Rain, is a lush and heartfelt journey inspired by the poetry of acclaimed author Thomas  King. The project began in 2017 when Rebecca was commissioned by Silence in Guelph to  compose a night of music using King’s poetry. The experience proved so inspiring that, with  King’s blessing, she returned to his book 77 Fragments of a Familiar Ruin to set seven of its  poems to music. To complete the collection, she added two of her own original lyric-based  songs. 

All Is Falling Rain brings together world-renowned collaborators Kevin Breit (guitar and  vocals), Tania Gill (piano), Michael Herring (bass), and Dave Clark (drums), weaving a  soundscape where King’s evocative words and Hennessy’s distinctive composing, voice and  trumpet meet in organic harmony. 

This new release follows her acclaimed albums Joy Will Find Us (2023), All the Little Things  You Do (2020), and Makeshift Island Live at the Jazz Room (2025). Each recording highlights  her long-standing musical partnership with guitarist Kevin Breit and showcases her ability to  fuse heartfelt songwriting with adventurous musicianship. 

Rebecca’s artistry is often shaped by literature and deep collaboration. Her arrangement of  King’s Dig Up the Stories for big band was premiered by Christine Jensen’s Orchestra at the  National Arts Centre in 2019. Beyond her vocal projects, she has released nine other albums as a  bandleader or co-leader and has toured extensively throughout Canada, the U.S., Europe,  Mexico, Panama, and Sri Lanka. She has performed and recorded with artists such as Adele, Ron  Sexsmith, Andy Kim, Owen Pallett, Feist, Broken Social Scene, and Yellowjackets. 

A longtime fixture at Toronto’s Massey Hall, Rebecca led the Women’s Blues Revue band from  2013 to 2022 and returned as a featured vocalist in 2024. She received the Toronto Arts  Foundation Emerging Jazz Artist Award in 2018 and has been a proud Yamaha Artist since 2021,  performing on the YTR-8310Z trumpet.

Short blurb version:  

Rebecca Hennessy is an award-winning trumpeter, vocalist, composer, and bandleader whose  music blends jazz, roots, and singer-songwriter. Her upcoming studio vocal album, All Is Falling  Rain, is a lush and heartfelt collection inspired by the poetry of acclaimed author Thomas King.  The project began when Rebecca was commissioned in 2017 by Silence in Guelph to set King’s  poetry to music. With King’s blessing, she later returned to his book 77 Fragments of a Familiar  Ruin, writing seven new songs, and added two of her own lyric-based pieces to complete the  album. 

Featuring world-renowned collaborators Kevin Breit (guitar and vocals), Tania Gill (piano),  Michael Herring (bass), and Dave Clark (drums), the album weaves King’s evocative words  with Rebecca’s warm vocals and expressive trumpet. 

Rebecca has released nine other albums as a leader or co-leader, including Joy Will Find Us (2023) and All the Little Things You Do (2020), and has performed with artists such as Adele,  Ron Sexsmith, Feist, and Broken Social Scene. A 2018 recipient of the Toronto Arts Foundation  Emerging Jazz Artist Award, she has toured internationally and proudly performs as a Yamaha  Artist.

Sean Bray October 18 @ 5:00 PM

Sean Bray - Guitar
Band - TBA

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Sean Bray Sean Bray is considered to be one of  Canada’s top guitarists. After studying at the prestigious  Manhattan School of Music in New York City, Sean moved  to Toronto in 1990. Sean has the ability to fit into many  musical genres while still retaining an unmistakably original  voice on his instrument. This quickly helped him become a  sought after sideman, studio guitarist and leader of his own  projects. Sean has played and/or recorded with Pat  LaBarbera, Mike Murley, Kirk MacDonald, Bob Mintzer,  George Garzone, Campbell Ryga, Brian Dickinson, Alex  Dean, Roy Styffe, Big Miller and many more. Sean Bray is  endorsed D’Addario Strings. 

Rebecca Hennessey's Makeshift Island
October 15, 16, 17, 18 @ 8:00pm

Rebecca Hennessy - Trumpet / Vocals
Band - TBA

Rebecca Hennessy is an award-winning trumpeter, vocalist, composer, and bandleader whose  music bridges jazz, roots, and singer-songwriter. Her upcoming studio vocal album, All Is  Falling Rain, is a lush and heartfelt journey inspired by the poetry of acclaimed author Thomas  King. The project began in 2017 when Rebecca was commissioned by Silence in Guelph to  compose a night of music using King’s poetry. The experience proved so inspiring that, with  King’s blessing, she returned to his book 77 Fragments of a Familiar Ruin to set seven of its  poems to music. To complete the collection, she added two of her own original lyric-based  songs. 

All Is Falling Rain brings together world-renowned collaborators Kevin Breit (guitar and  vocals), Tania Gill (piano), Michael Herring (bass), and Dave Clark (drums), weaving a  soundscape where King’s evocative words and Hennessy’s distinctive composing, voice and  trumpet meet in organic harmony. 

This new release follows her acclaimed albums Joy Will Find Us (2023), All the Little Things  You Do (2020), and Makeshift Island Live at the Jazz Room (2025). Each recording highlights  her long-standing musical partnership with guitarist Kevin Breit and showcases her ability to  fuse heartfelt songwriting with adventurous musicianship. 

Rebecca’s artistry is often shaped by literature and deep collaboration. Her arrangement of  King’s Dig Up the Stories for big band was premiered by Christine Jensen’s Orchestra at the  National Arts Centre in 2019. Beyond her vocal projects, she has released nine other albums as a  bandleader or co-leader and has toured extensively throughout Canada, the U.S., Europe,  Mexico, Panama, and Sri Lanka. She has performed and recorded with artists such as Adele, Ron  Sexsmith, Andy Kim, Owen Pallett, Feist, Broken Social Scene, and Yellowjackets. 

A longtime fixture at Toronto’s Massey Hall, Rebecca led the Women’s Blues Revue band from  2013 to 2022 and returned as a featured vocalist in 2024. She received the Toronto Arts  Foundation Emerging Jazz Artist Award in 2018 and has been a proud Yamaha Artist since 2021,  performing on the YTR-8310Z trumpet.

Short blurb version:  

Rebecca Hennessy is an award-winning trumpeter, vocalist, composer, and bandleader whose  music blends jazz, roots, and singer-songwriter. Her upcoming studio vocal album, All Is Falling  Rain, is a lush and heartfelt collection inspired by the poetry of acclaimed author Thomas King.  The project began when Rebecca was commissioned in 2017 by Silence in Guelph to set King’s  poetry to music. With King’s blessing, she later returned to his book 77 Fragments of a Familiar  Ruin, writing seven new songs, and added two of her own lyric-based pieces to complete the  album. 

Featuring world-renowned collaborators Kevin Breit (guitar and vocals), Tania Gill (piano),  Michael Herring (bass), and Dave Clark (drums), the album weaves King’s evocative words  with Rebecca’s warm vocals and expressive trumpet. 

Rebecca has released nine other albums as a leader or co-leader, including Joy Will Find Us (2023) and All the Little Things You Do (2020), and has performed with artists such as Adele,  Ron Sexsmith, Feist, and Broken Social Scene. A 2018 recipient of the Toronto Arts Foundation  Emerging Jazz Artist Award, she has toured internationally and proudly performs as a Yamaha  Artist.

Nick Fraser’s Special Topics
October 19 & 20 @ 8:00pm

Nick Fraser - Drums
Josh Cole - Bass
Kae Murphy - Trumpet
Maxwell Stover - Saxophone

Nick Fraser’s Special Topics is a new group of established and younger musicians based in  Toronto. The band is Fraser’s attempt to become “Toronto’s 21st-century Art Blakey” by  fostering a spirit of mutual mentorship and multi-generational collaboration.  

Nick Fraser (drums) has been an active and engaging presence in the Toronto new jazz and  improvised music community since he moved there from Ottawa in 1995. A Juno Award winner  (and nine-time nominee), his recorded works include Owls in Daylight (1997), Nick Fraser and  Justin Haynes are faking it (2004), Towns and Villages (2013), Too Many Continents (2015)  Starer (2016) and Is Life Long? (2018), If There Were No Opposites (2021), and Farahser  (2024). Nick has performed with a veritable "who's who" of Canadian jazz and improvised music  in addition to such international artists as Anthony Braxton, Marilyn Crispell, William Parker,  and Ethan Iverson. "Fraser not so much plays the drums as hurls himself whole body and soul  against skin and metal... truly talented." -Bill Stunt, CBC Radio. 

Originally from Langley, BC, bassist, composer, and producer Josh Cole co-founded the  critically acclaimed October Trio with Dan Gaucher and Evan Arntzen in 2004. Since moving to  Toronto in 2010 Josh has worked with Colin Fisher, Brodie West, Nick Fraser, Ryan Driver,  Robin Dann (Bernice), Thom Gill and Prince Nifty amongst others. “Cole can be coolly lyrical,  he can write a controlled “classical” counterpoint, he can drop in some funk, and he can also let  the improvisers loose in the stratosphere.” -Popmatters.com 

Kae Murphy (they/him) is a Grammy-nominated trumpet player and multi-instrumentalist  originally from Owen Sound, ON. Now based in Toronto, they have been touring worldwide  with groups such as BADBADNOTGOOD, Whitney, and the Generations Unit, playing venues  such as the Blue Note NY, Newport Jazz Festival, and Coachella Valley Music Festival. 

Maxwell Stover is a saxophonist. He also plays flute. He is living in Toronto. And he usually is  making music about things he thinks are beautiful or terrible. For example, plastic. Or else  maybe fruit. Oh! —usually Maxwell speaks out of the traditions of jazz. Or outsider music.  Usually with others he is grateful to be sharing space with.

Nick Fraser’s Special Topics
October 19 & 20 @ 8:00pm

Nick Fraser - Drums
Josh Cole - Bass
Kae Murphy - Trumpet
Maxwell Stover - Saxophone

Nick Fraser’s Special Topics is a new group of established and younger musicians based in  Toronto. The band is Fraser’s attempt to become “Toronto’s 21st-century Art Blakey” by  fostering a spirit of mutual mentorship and multi-generational collaboration.  

Nick Fraser (drums) has been an active and engaging presence in the Toronto new jazz and  improvised music community since he moved there from Ottawa in 1995. A Juno Award winner  (and nine-time nominee), his recorded works include Owls in Daylight (1997), Nick Fraser and  Justin Haynes are faking it (2004), Towns and Villages (2013), Too Many Continents (2015)  Starer (2016) and Is Life Long? (2018), If There Were No Opposites (2021), and Farahser  (2024). Nick has performed with a veritable "who's who" of Canadian jazz and improvised music  in addition to such international artists as Anthony Braxton, Marilyn Crispell, William Parker,  and Ethan Iverson. "Fraser not so much plays the drums as hurls himself whole body and soul  against skin and metal... truly talented." -Bill Stunt, CBC Radio. 

Originally from Langley, BC, bassist, composer, and producer Josh Cole co-founded the  critically acclaimed October Trio with Dan Gaucher and Evan Arntzen in 2004. Since moving to  Toronto in 2010 Josh has worked with Colin Fisher, Brodie West, Nick Fraser, Ryan Driver,  Robin Dann (Bernice), Thom Gill and Prince Nifty amongst others. “Cole can be coolly lyrical,  he can write a controlled “classical” counterpoint, he can drop in some funk, and he can also let  the improvisers loose in the stratosphere.” -Popmatters.com 

Kae Murphy (they/him) is a Grammy-nominated trumpet player and multi-instrumentalist  originally from Owen Sound, ON. Now based in Toronto, they have been touring worldwide  with groups such as BADBADNOTGOOD, Whitney, and the Generations Unit, playing venues  such as the Blue Note NY, Newport Jazz Festival, and Coachella Valley Music Festival. 

Maxwell Stover is a saxophonist. He also plays flute. He is living in Toronto. And he usually is  making music about things he thinks are beautiful or terrible. For example, plastic. Or else  maybe fruit. Oh! —usually Maxwell speaks out of the traditions of jazz. Or outsider music.  Usually with others he is grateful to be sharing space with.

Classic REx jam
hosted by chris banks
OCTOBER 7, 14, 21, 28 @8:00pm

NO RESERVATIONS

$10 Cover Charge

Jam with us! Enjoy our house band (a collection of beloved all-stars) spontaneously creating musical goodness just for you!

Hosted by the legendary Chris Banks.

Lorne Nehring
October 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 @ 5:00pm

Lorne Nehring - Drums
Band - TBA

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Harley Card Quintet
October 22, 23, 24, 25 @ 8:00pm

Harley Card- Guitar and Compositions David French- Saxophone
Matt Newton- Piano
Dan Fortin- Bass
Ethan Ardelli- Drums

harley card is a Toronto based guitarist, composer, singer-songwriter and educator originally from Winnipeg Manitoba, via Ottawa Ontario. In addition to leading his own groups, Harley is a member of  and co-composer for the Canadian bands; Hobson's Choice, Stoptime, God's Gift To Yoda, and Dream Logic.

As a contributor to the creative music scene in Toronto since 2003, Harley has played with many artists including; Richard Underhill, Alex Dean, Alex Samaras, Mike Malone, Kelly Jefferson, Colin Fisher, William Carn, Alexander Brown, Michael Herring and Harrington, Chris Gale, Ethan Ardelli, Bernie Senensky, Michael Davidson, Don Scott, Matt Newton, Daniel Jamieson, Felicity Williams, Dave Clark, Carlie Howell, Jon Challoner, Sarah Jerrom, RJ Sachnanathan, Rebecca Hennessy, Dan Fortin, Ted Crosby, Dan Gaucher, and Ernesto Cervini, among others.

"Card’s musical sensibility is fully formed and urbane. His writing reflects a sense of history and is therefore worldly wise." 

                  -Raul d’Gama Rose- All About Jazz

Dhaivat Jhani
October 23 @ 5:00pm

Dhaivat Jhani - Drums /Tabla
Band - TBA

Dhaivat Jani PLUS is a contemporary jazz  ensemble led by award-winning drummer/tabla  player and composer Dhaivat Jani. The band’s  music that unfolds like stories blends modern jazz  with Dhaivat’s influences ranging from Indian  classical and folk rhythms to rock and free  improvisation. Their debut album Sum // Parts has  received international acclaim, highlighting the  band’s unique voice in Toronto’s jazz landscape.

Harley Card Quintet
October 22, 23, 24, 25 @ 8:00pm

Harley Card- Guitar and Compositions David French- Saxophone
Matt Newton- Piano
Dan Fortin- Bass
Ethan Ardelli- Drums

harley card is a Toronto based guitarist, composer, singer-songwriter and educator originally from Winnipeg Manitoba, via Ottawa Ontario. In addition to leading his own groups, Harley is a member of  and co-composer for the Canadian bands; Hobson's Choice, Stoptime, God's Gift To Yoda, and Dream Logic.

As a contributor to the creative music scene in Toronto since 2003, Harley has played with many artists including; Richard Underhill, Alex Dean, Alex Samaras, Mike Malone, Kelly Jefferson, Colin Fisher, William Carn, Alexander Brown, Michael Herring and Harrington, Chris Gale, Ethan Ardelli, Bernie Senensky, Michael Davidson, Don Scott, Matt Newton, Daniel Jamieson, Felicity Williams, Dave Clark, Carlie Howell, Jon Challoner, Sarah Jerrom, RJ Sachnanathan, Rebecca Hennessy, Dan Fortin, Ted Crosby, Dan Gaucher, and Ernesto Cervini, among others.

"Card’s musical sensibility is fully formed and urbane. His writing reflects a sense of history and is therefore worldly wise." 

                  -Raul d’Gama Rose- All About Jazz

Sandra Bouza
october 24 @ 5:0pm

Sandra Bouza - Vocals / Guitar

No reservations
Pay What You Can

Sandra Bouza, a powerhouse artist with Canadian and Spanish roots, has had a year of career milestones. The soulful singer has played Massey Hall, was nominated for Maple Blues Award, and her last album; A Sound in the Dark, was nominated for best contemporary folk album of the year with the Canadian Folk Music Awards. 

Harley Card Quintet
October 22, 23, 24, 25 @ 8:00pm

Harley Card- Guitar and Compositions David French- Saxophone
Matt Newton- Piano
Dan Fortin- Bass
Ethan Ardelli- Drums

harley card is a Toronto based guitarist, composer, singer-songwriter and educator originally from Winnipeg Manitoba, via Ottawa Ontario. In addition to leading his own groups, Harley is a member of  and co-composer for the Canadian bands; Hobson's Choice, Stoptime, God's Gift To Yoda, and Dream Logic.

As a contributor to the creative music scene in Toronto since 2003, Harley has played with many artists including; Richard Underhill, Alex Dean, Alex Samaras, Mike Malone, Kelly Jefferson, Colin Fisher, William Carn, Alexander Brown, Michael Herring and Harrington, Chris Gale, Ethan Ardelli, Bernie Senensky, Michael Davidson, Don Scott, Matt Newton, Daniel Jamieson, Felicity Williams, Dave Clark, Carlie Howell, Jon Challoner, Sarah Jerrom, RJ Sachnanathan, Rebecca Hennessy, Dan Fortin, Ted Crosby, Dan Gaucher, and Ernesto Cervini, among others.

"Card’s musical sensibility is fully formed and urbane. His writing reflects a sense of history and is therefore worldly wise." 

                  -Raul d’Gama Rose- All About Jazz

Harley Card Quintet
October 22, 23, 24, 25 @ 8:00pm

Harley Card- Guitar and Compositions David French- Saxophone
Matt Newton- Piano
Dan Fortin- Bass
Ethan Ardelli- Drums

harley card is a Toronto based guitarist, composer, singer-songwriter and educator originally from Winnipeg Manitoba, via Ottawa Ontario. In addition to leading his own groups, Harley is a member of  and co-composer for the Canadian bands; Hobson's Choice, Stoptime, God's Gift To Yoda, and Dream Logic.

As a contributor to the creative music scene in Toronto since 2003, Harley has played with many artists including; Richard Underhill, Alex Dean, Alex Samaras, Mike Malone, Kelly Jefferson, Colin Fisher, William Carn, Alexander Brown, Michael Herring and Harrington, Chris Gale, Ethan Ardelli, Bernie Senensky, Michael Davidson, Don Scott, Matt Newton, Daniel Jamieson, Felicity Williams, Dave Clark, Carlie Howell, Jon Challoner, Sarah Jerrom, RJ Sachnanathan, Rebecca Hennessy, Dan Fortin, Ted Crosby, Dan Gaucher, and Ernesto Cervini, among others.

"Card’s musical sensibility is fully formed and urbane. His writing reflects a sense of history and is therefore worldly wise." 

                  -Raul d’Gama Rose- All About Jazz

Hans Luchs
October 26 & 27 @ 8:00 PM

Hans Luchs- Guitar
Felipe Arce- Bass
Agustín Grasso- Drums

 Hans Luchs is a guitarist, composer, recording artist, and bandleader  living in New York City. Hans has performed in a wide array of  settings, from small jazz clubs to large outdoor festivals. He originally  got his start playing around his native Chicago, performing at The  Auditorium Theatre, The Chicago Jazz Festival, The Green Mill,  Buddy Guy’s Legends, and The Jazz Showcase to name a few. Since  moving to New York, Hans has played at Smalls, The Django,  Midnight Blue, Ornithology, Cafe Ornithology, Minton’s Playhouse,  The Bitter End, The Bowery Electric, and many other venues around  New York City. He has also played internationally at jazz clubs and  festivals in Sweden, England, Scotland, Ireland, Northern Ireland,  Mexico, Canada, and Turkey.  

 Hans has performed and toured with an array of artists in several  musical traditions, including 8-time Grammy winner Pepe Aguilar,  Motown legend Martha Reeves, “daughter of the blues” Shirley King,  and many jazz musicians in New York, Chicago, and beyond.  

 As a recording artist, Hans has recorded in various formats as a leader  and sideman, including projects produced by NPR and Apple Music.  His 2015 debut recording “Time Never Pauses” (OA2 records) was met  with critical acclaim, including Downbeat Magazine, Jazz Weekly, and  All About Jazz. His most recent endeavor is 2025’s “The Spell is  Broken” (Fresh Sound New Talent), which features eight original  compositions of various moods and grooves, and has also been praised  by listeners and critics alike. 

Hans Luchs
October 26 & 27 @ 8:00 PM

Hans Luchs- Guitar
Felipe Arce- Bass
Agustín Grasso- Drums

 Hans Luchs is a guitarist, composer, recording artist, and bandleader  living in New York City. Hans has performed in a wide array of  settings, from small jazz clubs to large outdoor festivals. He originally  got his start playing around his native Chicago, performing at The  Auditorium Theatre, The Chicago Jazz Festival, The Green Mill,  Buddy Guy’s Legends, and The Jazz Showcase to name a few. Since  moving to New York, Hans has played at Smalls, The Django,  Midnight Blue, Ornithology, Cafe Ornithology, Minton’s Playhouse,  The Bitter End, The Bowery Electric, and many other venues around  New York City. He has also played internationally at jazz clubs and  festivals in Sweden, England, Scotland, Ireland, Northern Ireland,  Mexico, Canada, and Turkey.  

 Hans has performed and toured with an array of artists in several  musical traditions, including 8-time Grammy winner Pepe Aguilar,  Motown legend Martha Reeves, “daughter of the blues” Shirley King,  and many jazz musicians in New York, Chicago, and beyond.  

 As a recording artist, Hans has recorded in various formats as a leader  and sideman, including projects produced by NPR and Apple Music.  His 2015 debut recording “Time Never Pauses” (OA2 records) was met  with critical acclaim, including Downbeat Magazine, Jazz Weekly, and  All About Jazz. His most recent endeavor is 2025’s “The Spell is  Broken” (Fresh Sound New Talent), which features eight original  compositions of various moods and grooves, and has also been praised  by listeners and critics alike. 

Classic REx jam
hosted by chris banks
OCTOBER 7, 14, 21, 28 @8:00pm

NO RESERVATIONS

$10 Cover Charge

Jam with us! Enjoy our house band (a collection of beloved all-stars) spontaneously creating musical goodness just for you!

Hosted by the legendary Chris Banks.

Lorne Nehring
October 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 @ 5:00pm

Lorne Nehring - Drums
Band - TBA

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Nancy Walker Quartet
October 29, 30, 31 & November 1

Nancy Walker - Piano / Compositions
Tara Davidson - Saxophones
Lauren Falls - Bass
Ethan Ardelli - Drums

Pianist and composer Nancy Walker has been recognized with honours Canada-wide, including the Montréal Jazz Festival’s Grand Prix de Jazz, the National Jazz Awards Keyboardist Of The Year Award, a JUNO nomination for Instrumental Album Of The Year, and an induction into the Mississauga Music Walk Of Fame. A dynamic improviser, an artful composer and a responsive accompanist, Nancy has been praised both for her work as a solo artist and as a musical collaborator. As a side player she can be heard on a wide range of recordings, by artists from saxophonist Kirk MacDonald to vocalist Emilie-Claire Barlow to children’s entertainer Raffi. More recently she can be heard on the 2024 recording Here’s To Life by John Neudorf (on which she was both pianist and co-producer), and Sarah Jerrom’s 2025 JUNO-nominated Magpie.

Nancy has several discs to her credit as leader. This engagement at The Rex celebrates the release of her most recent recording Deeper Down, featuring Nancy as pianist and composer, with Tara Davidson (saxophones), Lauren Falls (bass) and Ethan Ardelli (drums). Her compositions reflect her view of the age we live in - at times intense, at times poignant, at times cerebral. Her inspirations include architecture, cinema, literature, visual art and nature.

Nancy has taught on the music faculties of Humber College and York University, and she herself holds a Master of Arts in Music (Composition) from York University.

“Walker’s music vocabulary is strong and varied enough to provide an emotional experience that never wallows. It’s music that celebrates itself while including the audience in that celebration. In other words it’s accessible without any commercial compromises.” John Corcelli, criticsatlarge.ca

“Nancy Walker has played enough piano to know how to keep listeners interested however hard she pushes the boundaries of familiarity.” Geoff Chapman, Toronto Star

“Harmonically she's influenced by the usual suspects—Evans, Hancock, Jarrett, etc.—but her delicate touch and denser harmonic constructs brings to mind British pianist John Taylor as well…Walker's music is easy on the ears, but don't mistake that for lacking in interest or challenge, because she masks an advanced harmonic concept within an accessible veneer.” John Kelman, All About Jazz

“A fine example of the modern jazz musician’s art.” Mark Miller, The Globe and Mail

“A gifted pianist and composer, Nancy Walker is possessed of a lyricism that can suggest lapping water and bright skies, and a contrasting rhythmic drive. A former student of Fred Hersch, she builds on a tradition of romantic jazz piano that has deep roots in the harmonic innovations of Bill Evans.” Stuart Broomer, Toronto Life Magazine

“Toronto pianist Nancy Walker continues to write some of the most interesting and sophisticated contemporary jazz in the country. Contemporary, yet firmly connected to the history of jazz and therefore accessible.” Lyle Rebbeck, Medicine Hat Jazz Festival

Avataar
October 2, 9, 16, 30 @ 5:00pm

Sundar Viswanathan - Saxophones, bansuri, vocals
Laura Swankey - Vocals
Michael Occhipinti - Guitar
Tyler Emond - Bass
Ravi Naimpally - Tablas
Max Senitt - Drums and percussion

Special guests include Aaron Lightstone (oud) and Todd Pentney (piano, Fender Rhodes, synth). 

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Avataar is a JUNO award winning Toronto-based world-jazz group featuring some of the Canada’s finest jazz, world, funk, and pop musicians. The personnel includes bandleader Sundar Viswanathan (saxophones, bansuri, vocals), Laura Swankey (vocals), Michael Occhipinti (guitar), Tyler Emond (bass), Ravi Naimpally (tablas) and Max Senitt (drums and percussion). Special guests on the most recent, sophomore album, Worldview, include Aaron Lightstone (oud) and Todd Pentney (piano, Fender Rhodes, synth). 

Earmarked by JAZZFM91 as one of the ‘Best 25 Albums of 2021’, Worldview won the 2022 JUNO award for Best Jazz Album (Group). The music is inspired by the deep musical traditions of India, Africa and Brazil, rooted within the framework of modern jazz. In an innovative marriage of ancient and modern, driving grooves intersect with cinematic atmospheres and soaring melodies, creating a fresh, emotive sonic experience. Bandmembers share an eclectic range of musical expertise - hardbop, pop, rock, electronica, free improvisation, world and R&B/Soul filter into the interpretations of the tunes. Both Worldview and Petal (Avataar’s debut CD (2016)) received critical acclaim internationally from publications including DOWNBEAT, JAZZIZ, allaboutjazz, Jazz Weekly, and worldmusiccentral.com. Production of both albums and an upcoming live video was generously supported with grants from Ontario and Canada Arts Councils.

The band’s original compositions are informed by artists including Shakti, Jarrett, Oregon, Jan Garbarek, Jobim, Robert Glasper, Snarky Puppy, Kenny Garrett and Ornette Coleman, and at their core are imbued with an intent toward political and social change and a spiritual focus that transcends the sound. While Avataar’s debut album, Petal, explored the evanescence of human life and was a call for a return to spiritual connectedness, Worldview attempts to also present a musical commentary on the state of our world, on the pandemic and on the inability of our leaders to lead with integrity, honesty and compassion. While the actions of our leaders affected so many, some of the songs started as gut responses to the treatment of children, our most valuable and vulnerable citizens, and act as vehicles of catharsis for the composer.

Avataar has been making original music together for over 12 years, and continues to develop a national and international reputation. The band's performance record includes the Toronto, Guelph, Antigonish, Sudbury, Markham and Brampton Jazz Festivals, JUNOFEST (Toronto), Lula Lounge, Trane Studio, The Rose Theater (Brampton), Hugh's Room, the Small World Centre, NUMUS concert series, the Emmett Ray, the Jazz Room (Waterloo) several universities and colleges in Ontario, and other venues. In 2018 Avataar successfully toured South Africa, playing in venues ranging from intimate jazz clubs to universities and concert halls. This tour took the band through Cape Town, Kalk Bay, Durban, Johannesburg and Pretoria. And in 2019, a tour of Western Canada helped develop a national profile through performances to enthusiastic audiences in BC, AB and SK (Penticton, Revelstoke, Canmore, Saskatoon, Regina, Calgary, Nelson and Cranbrook). Both tours were supported by grants from Ontario Arts Council and the Canada Council for the Arts.

Avataar’s work has received critical acclaim from a wide range of online and print publications and from presenters internationally. Some quotes:

Don Griffiths (The Bassment) offers praise “Sundar Viswanathan and Avataar wowed our patrons with a first-rate performance…. Drawing on the jazz traditions of composition and improvisation, the group added a varied pallet of world music influences resulting in an exciting performance for our patrons. People will be talking about this show for a long time.”

Dutch Journalist Ivan Rod says “..technically and artistically impressive, outrageous, thought-provoking.. the music is magnetic, many faceted, and brave”

Tom Haugen of ‘Take Effect’ writes “a very eclectic and original listen that’s capable of being cinematic, is always unpredictable and deserves to be listened to many, many times”

James A. Cox of ‘Midwest Book Review’ says “Worldview is emotional, profound, utterly unforgettable, and highly recommended”

John Frederick Moore of ‘Jazziz’ writes “This is fusion in the very best sense of the word. Whether the group is expressing ecstasy, transcendence or tranquility, there’s never a dull moment”

Nancy Walker Quartet
October 29, 30, 31 & November 1

Nancy Walker - Piano / Compositions
Tara Davidson - Saxophones
Lauren Falls - Bass
Ethan Ardelli - Drums

Pianist and composer Nancy Walker has been recognized with honours Canada-wide, including the Montréal Jazz Festival’s Grand Prix de Jazz, the National Jazz Awards Keyboardist Of The Year Award, a JUNO nomination for Instrumental Album Of The Year, and an induction into the Mississauga Music Walk Of Fame. A dynamic improviser, an artful composer and a responsive accompanist, Nancy has been praised both for her work as a solo artist and as a musical collaborator. As a side player she can be heard on a wide range of recordings, by artists from saxophonist Kirk MacDonald to vocalist Emilie-Claire Barlow to children’s entertainer Raffi. More recently she can be heard on the 2024 recording Here’s To Life by John Neudorf (on which she was both pianist and co-producer), and Sarah Jerrom’s 2025 JUNO-nominated Magpie.

Nancy has several discs to her credit as leader. This engagement at The Rex celebrates the release of her most recent recording Deeper Down, featuring Nancy as pianist and composer, with Tara Davidson (saxophones), Lauren Falls (bass) and Ethan Ardelli (drums). Her compositions reflect her view of the age we live in - at times intense, at times poignant, at times cerebral. Her inspirations include architecture, cinema, literature, visual art and nature.

Nancy has taught on the music faculties of Humber College and York University, and she herself holds a Master of Arts in Music (Composition) from York University.

“Walker’s music vocabulary is strong and varied enough to provide an emotional experience that never wallows. It’s music that celebrates itself while including the audience in that celebration. In other words it’s accessible without any commercial compromises.” John Corcelli, criticsatlarge.ca

“Nancy Walker has played enough piano to know how to keep listeners interested however hard she pushes the boundaries of familiarity.” Geoff Chapman, Toronto Star

“Harmonically she's influenced by the usual suspects—Evans, Hancock, Jarrett, etc.—but her delicate touch and denser harmonic constructs brings to mind British pianist John Taylor as well…Walker's music is easy on the ears, but don't mistake that for lacking in interest or challenge, because she masks an advanced harmonic concept within an accessible veneer.” John Kelman, All About Jazz

“A fine example of the modern jazz musician’s art.” Mark Miller, The Globe and Mail

“A gifted pianist and composer, Nancy Walker is possessed of a lyricism that can suggest lapping water and bright skies, and a contrasting rhythmic drive. A former student of Fred Hersch, she builds on a tradition of romantic jazz piano that has deep roots in the harmonic innovations of Bill Evans.” Stuart Broomer, Toronto Life Magazine

“Toronto pianist Nancy Walker continues to write some of the most interesting and sophisticated contemporary jazz in the country. Contemporary, yet firmly connected to the history of jazz and therefore accessible.” Lyle Rebbeck, Medicine Hat Jazz Festival

Nancy Walker Quartet
October 29, 30, 31 & November 1

Nancy Walker - Piano / Compositions
Tara Davidson - Saxophones
Lauren Falls - Bass
Ethan Ardelli - Drums

Pianist and composer Nancy Walker has been recognized with honours Canada-wide, including the Montréal Jazz Festival’s Grand Prix de Jazz, the National Jazz Awards Keyboardist Of The Year Award, a JUNO nomination for Instrumental Album Of The Year, and an induction into the Mississauga Music Walk Of Fame. A dynamic improviser, an artful composer and a responsive accompanist, Nancy has been praised both for her work as a solo artist and as a musical collaborator. As a side player she can be heard on a wide range of recordings, by artists from saxophonist Kirk MacDonald to vocalist Emilie-Claire Barlow to children’s entertainer Raffi. More recently she can be heard on the 2024 recording Here’s To Life by John Neudorf (on which she was both pianist and co-producer), and Sarah Jerrom’s 2025 JUNO-nominated Magpie.

Nancy has several discs to her credit as leader. This engagement at The Rex celebrates the release of her most recent recording Deeper Down, featuring Nancy as pianist and composer, with Tara Davidson (saxophones), Lauren Falls (bass) and Ethan Ardelli (drums). Her compositions reflect her view of the age we live in - at times intense, at times poignant, at times cerebral. Her inspirations include architecture, cinema, literature, visual art and nature.

Nancy has taught on the music faculties of Humber College and York University, and she herself holds a Master of Arts in Music (Composition) from York University.

“Walker’s music vocabulary is strong and varied enough to provide an emotional experience that never wallows. It’s music that celebrates itself while including the audience in that celebration. In other words it’s accessible without any commercial compromises.” John Corcelli, criticsatlarge.ca

“Nancy Walker has played enough piano to know how to keep listeners interested however hard she pushes the boundaries of familiarity.” Geoff Chapman, Toronto Star

“Harmonically she's influenced by the usual suspects—Evans, Hancock, Jarrett, etc.—but her delicate touch and denser harmonic constructs brings to mind British pianist John Taylor as well…Walker's music is easy on the ears, but don't mistake that for lacking in interest or challenge, because she masks an advanced harmonic concept within an accessible veneer.” John Kelman, All About Jazz

“A fine example of the modern jazz musician’s art.” Mark Miller, The Globe and Mail

“A gifted pianist and composer, Nancy Walker is possessed of a lyricism that can suggest lapping water and bright skies, and a contrasting rhythmic drive. A former student of Fred Hersch, she builds on a tradition of romantic jazz piano that has deep roots in the harmonic innovations of Bill Evans.” Stuart Broomer, Toronto Life Magazine

“Toronto pianist Nancy Walker continues to write some of the most interesting and sophisticated contemporary jazz in the country. Contemporary, yet firmly connected to the history of jazz and therefore accessible.” Lyle Rebbeck, Medicine Hat Jazz Festival

Nancy Walker Quartet
October 29, 30, 31 & November 1

Nancy Walker - Piano / Compositions
Tara Davidson - Saxophones
Lauren Falls - Bass
Ethan Ardelli - Drums

Pianist and composer Nancy Walker has been recognized with honours Canada-wide, including the Montréal Jazz Festival’s Grand Prix de Jazz, the National Jazz Awards Keyboardist Of The Year Award, a JUNO nomination for Instrumental Album Of The Year, and an induction into the Mississauga Music Walk Of Fame. A dynamic improviser, an artful composer and a responsive accompanist, Nancy has been praised both for her work as a solo artist and as a musical collaborator. As a side player she can be heard on a wide range of recordings, by artists from saxophonist Kirk MacDonald to vocalist Emilie-Claire Barlow to children’s entertainer Raffi. More recently she can be heard on the 2024 recording Here’s To Life by John Neudorf (on which she was both pianist and co-producer), and Sarah Jerrom’s 2025 JUNO-nominated Magpie.

Nancy has several discs to her credit as leader. This engagement at The Rex celebrates the release of her most recent recording Deeper Down, featuring Nancy as pianist and composer, with Tara Davidson (saxophones), Lauren Falls (bass) and Ethan Ardelli (drums). Her compositions reflect her view of the age we live in - at times intense, at times poignant, at times cerebral. Her inspirations include architecture, cinema, literature, visual art and nature.

Nancy has taught on the music faculties of Humber College and York University, and she herself holds a Master of Arts in Music (Composition) from York University.

“Walker’s music vocabulary is strong and varied enough to provide an emotional experience that never wallows. It’s music that celebrates itself while including the audience in that celebration. In other words it’s accessible without any commercial compromises.” John Corcelli, criticsatlarge.ca

“Nancy Walker has played enough piano to know how to keep listeners interested however hard she pushes the boundaries of familiarity.” Geoff Chapman, Toronto Star

“Harmonically she's influenced by the usual suspects—Evans, Hancock, Jarrett, etc.—but her delicate touch and denser harmonic constructs brings to mind British pianist John Taylor as well…Walker's music is easy on the ears, but don't mistake that for lacking in interest or challenge, because she masks an advanced harmonic concept within an accessible veneer.” John Kelman, All About Jazz

“A fine example of the modern jazz musician’s art.” Mark Miller, The Globe and Mail

“A gifted pianist and composer, Nancy Walker is possessed of a lyricism that can suggest lapping water and bright skies, and a contrasting rhythmic drive. A former student of Fred Hersch, she builds on a tradition of romantic jazz piano that has deep roots in the harmonic innovations of Bill Evans.” Stuart Broomer, Toronto Life Magazine

“Toronto pianist Nancy Walker continues to write some of the most interesting and sophisticated contemporary jazz in the country. Contemporary, yet firmly connected to the history of jazz and therefore accessible.” Lyle Rebbeck, Medicine Hat Jazz Festival