Come catch the late night performance with special guests: 

Kebbi Williams (Sax)

Emmanuel Echem (Trumpet)

Brandon Boone (Bass)

Isaac Eady (Drums)

Come on in, and Pay What You Can!

Support the incredible artists!

JV’s Boogaloo Squad
septeber 3rd @ 5:00 pm

Joel Visentin - Organ
Adam Beer-Colacino - Guitar
Jeff Halischuk - Drums

No Reservations
$10 Cover Charge

Toronto-based keyboardist and composer Joel Visentin is a proud Winnipeg export with a passion for the Hammond B3 organ. Originally a pianist, the organ first grabbed him while studying music at Humber College. In 2015 he joined up with the unparalleled guitarist Adam Beer-Colacino and veteran Toronto drummer Jeff Halischuk to form the group of his dreams, JV’s Boogaloo Squad.  The musical connection was electric, and all three musicians immediately recognized that they had stumbled on something greater than the sum of its parts.  They have since worked their way up through the national club circuit, recently headlining at major jazz festivals throughout Ontario and Québec including Toronto's International Jazz Festival in 2018. In the short time since the release of their 2019 album, "Going to Market", JV's Boogaloo Squad has reached #6 on US Campus Jazz Radio charts as well as number #29 on JazzWeek's chart for US commercial Radio. Brad Barker of Jazz FM 91 has even named this project one of three "new jazz albums from 2019 that you need to hear".  This group has truly crafted a unique and soulful sound that is both thrilling on impact and deeply evocative of a timeless musical nostalgia.  With an extensive repertoire combining original music and soul hits, along with a palatable energy on stage, a show with JV's Boogaloo squad is guaranteed to have audiences dancing on their feet and calling out for more. 

Alyssa Giammaria Quintet
September 3, 4, 5, 6 @ 8:00 pm

Alyssa Giammaria - Vocals
Steven Noronha - Piano
Josh Sparks - Guitar
Paul Trevor - Bass
Aidan MacConell - Drums
(Sept 4th: Robert Diack - Drums)

Alyssa Giammaria is a vocalist and composer based in Toronto, Canada, whose music is described as demonstrating “a unique style that fits perfectly on the international jazz scene today or tomorrow” (Thierry De Clemensat, Paris Move). She released her debut EP, “Moments” in 2021 with a seven piece band of her own compositions and arrangements. She released her first full length album with her quintet, “In Time” in September 2023 and has another project slated for release in 2025. 

Alyssa also collaborates with other musicians including duo collaborations with pianist Jen Lo, and arranges for The University of Toronto’s Vocal Jazz Ensemble as a guest conductor with Raquel Marina. Outside of performing she is an arranger for classical and jazz projects in Toronto.

Mathieu Fiset
September 4th @ 5:00pm

Mathieu Fiset - Keys

Joel Harbans - Sax

Marc Decho - Bass

Renato Iturriaga - Drums

NO RESERVATIONS

PAY WHAT YOU CAN

Mathieu Fiset is a Canadian keyboardist, composer, and producer known for his high-energy  performances and virtuosic approach to the instrument. Originally from Quebec City and now  based in Toronto, he blends jazz, progressive rock, funk, electronic and world music elements  into a distinctive and dynamic sound. 

With over 140,000 monthly listeners on Spotify, Mathieu has built a dedicated audience  worldwide. His music gained international recognition when Snarky Puppy drummer Larnell  Lewis performed his composition “Chick’s Pain” in a viral Drumeo video, amassing millions  of views. The success of that video helped Chick’s Pain accumulate over 12 million streams  across all platforms, making it one of the most streamed independent jazz fusion tracks in  recent years. 

Since relocating to Toronto, Mathieu has quickly made an impact, selling out three headlining  shows and assembling an all-star live band featuring some of the city’s finest musicians.

Alyssa Giammaria Quintet
September 3, 4, 5, 6 @ 8:00 pm

Alyssa Giammaria - Vocals
Steven Noronha - Piano
Josh Sparks - Guitar
Paul Trevor - Bass
Aidan MacConell - Drums
(Sept 4th: Robert Diack - Drums)

Alyssa Giammaria is a vocalist and composer based in Toronto, Canada, whose music is described as demonstrating “a unique style that fits perfectly on the international jazz scene today or tomorrow” (Thierry De Clemensat, Paris Move). She released her debut EP, “Moments” in 2021 with a seven piece band of her own compositions and arrangements. She released her first full length album with her quintet, “In Time” in September 2023 and has another project slated for release in 2025. 

Alyssa also collaborates with other musicians including duo collaborations with pianist Jen Lo, and arranges for The University of Toronto’s Vocal Jazz Ensemble as a guest conductor with Raquel Marina. Outside of performing she is an arranger for classical and jazz projects in Toronto.

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!

Alyssa Giammaria Quintet
September 3, 4, 5, 6 @ 8:00 pm

Alyssa Giammaria - Vocals
Steven Noronha - Piano
Josh Sparks - Guitar
Paul Trevor - Bass
Aidan MacConell - Drums
(Sept 4th: Robert Diack - Drums)

Alyssa Giammaria is a vocalist and composer based in Toronto, Canada, whose music is described as demonstrating “a unique style that fits perfectly on the international jazz scene today or tomorrow” (Thierry De Clemensat, Paris Move). She released her debut EP, “Moments” in 2021 with a seven piece band of her own compositions and arrangements. She released her first full length album with her quintet, “In Time” in September 2023 and has another project slated for release in 2025. 

Alyssa also collaborates with other musicians including duo collaborations with pianist Jen Lo, and arranges for The University of Toronto’s Vocal Jazz Ensemble as a guest conductor with Raquel Marina. Outside of performing she is an arranger for classical and jazz projects in Toronto.

Alison Young and Donnybrook
September 5 & 6 @ 10:45pm

Alison Young - Saxophone
Band - TBA

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

"Wearing gleaming red stilettos and a black orchid over her left ear, she played with endless creativity and flair. From Hank Crawford-esque to Dexter Gordon-meets-Herschel Evans, to Eddie "Lockjaw" Davis and Sonny Stitt territory." - Ted Panken, DownBeat Magazine

Born and raised in Ottawa, JUNO nominated saxophonist and composer Alison Young discovered jazz at an early age, gravitating towards the exuberance of Sonny Rollins and Cannonball Adderley, who continue to influence her to this day. As well as being featured in the National Youth Jazz Ensemble at the Ottawa jazz festival in 2001 and 2002, she began playing professionally as a teenager, developing an affinity for soul and R&B as well as jazz. Since moving to Toronto in the early 2000s to study music at the University of Toronto, Alison has been an active presence on the Toronto jazz scene. 

​

As a sideman, Alison is versatile and in-demand, at home on soprano, alto, tenor and baritone saxophones, in a wide range of genres. She has toured across North America, Europe, South America, the Caribbean, and Asia with Joe Sealy, the Heillig Manoeuvre, Alysha Brilla, Big Rude Jake, Johnny Reid, and the Shuffle Demons, and has appeared on over 40 recordings. Her 2018 album, 'So Here We Are', has received regular play on JazzFM and CBC radio, as well as numerous jazz radio programs across Canada. In DownBeat magazine, writer Ted Panken described her playing at the Dominican Republic Jazz Festival as having "endless creativity and flair". In 2017 Alison was chosen as one of the 'Best 35 jazz Canadian Jazz Artists under 35' by the CBC. Later that year, she was featured in Pat LaCroix and Ted O'Reilly's book, "Toronto Jazz Treasures" alongside many of her musical heroes. In the summer of 2019, Alison toured across Canada accompanying iconic pop star Corey Hart, and was featured on his single "Dreaming Time Again".

​

"Alison Young takes musical chances and has something to say." - The WholeNote

​

Alison has been leading her own band in various formations since 2012,  composing and arranging for duo through to septet. Her latest project features a line up of her favourite Toronto musicians: virtuoso bassist Ross MacIntyre on upright and electric; Saskatchewan's hard swinging Jeff McLeod on piano and organ; the eclectic and energetic Eric St Laurent on guitar; and the excellent Sly Juhas and Chris Wallace alternating on drums. The Alison Young Quintet has played the main stages of the Toronto Jazz Festival, the Ottawa Jazz Festival, the Markham Jazz Festival and the Niagara Jazz Festival. Seeking to combine her love of hard bop, soul, and New Orleans-style funk, Alison recorded an album of mostly originals with this ensemble in 2017, putting an emphasis on energy and drive, but also prioritising elegant, singable melodies. Canadian jazz star Guido Basso joins the quintet on two songs, lending his lyrical sound to the album. The Alison Young Quintet's debut album, 'So Here We Are', was released in November of 2018, and was nominated for a 2019 JUNO in the Solo Jazz Instrumental Album of the Year category. 

​

"Alison Young is a rising star in Toronto and beyond. One of the most versatile musicians in Canada!" 

- Jaymz Bee,  JazzFM 91

Selena Savage 7tet
September 6th @ 2:00pm

Selena Savage - Trombone / Vocals
James Griffith - Alto Sax
Joel Bracken - Tenor Sax
Christian Antonacci - Trumpet
Evan Miles - Piano
Hiro Tanaka - Bass
Alex Sgrignoli - Drums

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Selena Savage is a trombonist, vocalist, arranger and composer from Whitehorse, Yukon. A recent graduate of the UofT jazz program, Selena has developed a distinct voice in the scene, both as a performer and through her work in arranging and composition. Her writing and playing take inspiration from iconic Canadian trombonists like Rob McConnell and Terry Promane. 

The Selena Savage 7tet is a dynamic large jazz ensemble comprised of some of the city's best young musicians. Selena's writing is a fresh take on the classic Toronto big band sound, and her band plays a mix of standards and her original compositions.

Lauren Falls Quartet
September 6 @ 5:00pm

Lauren Falls - Bass
Kelly Jefferson-Sax
Trevor Giancola-Guitar
Ernesto Cervini-Drums

NO RESERVATIONS
PAY WHAT YOU CAN

Lauren Falls is a sought-after bassist, composer, and bandleader who over the last decade has  been making her mark both on the Toronto and New York jazz scenes. Ms. Falls has an  undeniably strong command of the bass and is in demand both as a sidewoman and  bandleader. As a composer and arranger, she creates music that is melodically enticing and  harmonically entrancing. Her compositions stem from the jazz tradition with modern elements  of rock, pop, and folk woven throughout. Her recent record release, “A Little Louder Now,” was  nominated for a Juno Award. 

Lauren has toured North America and Europe with performances at the Kennedy Center and at  jazz festivals including The Mary Lous Williams Jazz Festival in Washington DC, Ottawa  International Jazz Festival, and Toronto Jazz Festival to name a few. You will find her in Toronto  at venues such as The Rex, The Jazz Bistro, Lula Lounge, and in New York at venues such as  Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola, Smalls, and 55 Bar. Recently Lauren performed as part of Jake  Epstein’s Mirvish production “Boy Falls From The Sky,” which was nominated for Six Dora  Awards.  

In 2020, Ms. Falls was a finalist for the Toronto Arts Council Emerging Artist Award and has  been the recipient of multiple Canada Council Grants. She has been an artist-in-residence at  The Betty Carter Jazz Ahead program and The Ravinia Steans Institute. She holds a Master's  Degree from the Manhattan School of Music and a Bachelor's Degree from Humber College.  Lauren is currently on faculty at Humber College.

Alyssa Giammaria Quintet
September 3, 4, 5, 6 @ 8:00 pm

Alyssa Giammaria - Vocals
Steven Noronha - Piano
Josh Sparks - Guitar
Paul Trevor - Bass
Aidan MacConell - Drums
(Sept 4th: Robert Diack - Drums)

Alyssa Giammaria is a vocalist and composer based in Toronto, Canada, whose music is described as demonstrating “a unique style that fits perfectly on the international jazz scene today or tomorrow” (Thierry De Clemensat, Paris Move). She released her debut EP, “Moments” in 2021 with a seven piece band of her own compositions and arrangements. She released her first full length album with her quintet, “In Time” in September 2023 and has another project slated for release in 2025. 

Alyssa also collaborates with other musicians including duo collaborations with pianist Jen Lo, and arranges for The University of Toronto’s Vocal Jazz Ensemble as a guest conductor with Raquel Marina. Outside of performing she is an arranger for classical and jazz projects in Toronto.

Alison Young Quartet
September 5 & 6 @ 10:45pm

Alison Young - Saxophone
Band - TBA

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

"Wearing gleaming red stilettos and a black orchid over her left ear, she played with endless creativity and flair. From Hank Crawford-esque to Dexter Gordon-meets-Herschel Evans, to Eddie "Lockjaw" Davis and Sonny Stitt territory." - Ted Panken, DownBeat Magazine

Born and raised in Ottawa, JUNO nominated saxophonist and composer Alison Young discovered jazz at an early age, gravitating towards the exuberance of Sonny Rollins and Cannonball Adderley, who continue to influence her to this day. As well as being featured in the National Youth Jazz Ensemble at the Ottawa jazz festival in 2001 and 2002, she began playing professionally as a teenager, developing an affinity for soul and R&B as well as jazz. Since moving to Toronto in the early 2000s to study music at the University of Toronto, Alison has been an active presence on the Toronto jazz scene. 

​

As a sideman, Alison is versatile and in-demand, at home on soprano, alto, tenor and baritone saxophones, in a wide range of genres. She has toured across North America, Europe, South America, the Caribbean, and Asia with Joe Sealy, the Heillig Manoeuvre, Alysha Brilla, Big Rude Jake, Johnny Reid, and the Shuffle Demons, and has appeared on over 40 recordings. Her 2018 album, 'So Here We Are', has received regular play on JazzFM and CBC radio, as well as numerous jazz radio programs across Canada. In DownBeat magazine, writer Ted Panken described her playing at the Dominican Republic Jazz Festival as having "endless creativity and flair". In 2017 Alison was chosen as one of the 'Best 35 jazz Canadian Jazz Artists under 35' by the CBC. Later that year, she was featured in Pat LaCroix and Ted O'Reilly's book, "Toronto Jazz Treasures" alongside many of her musical heroes. In the summer of 2019, Alison toured across Canada accompanying iconic pop star Corey Hart, and was featured on his single "Dreaming Time Again".

​

"Alison Young takes musical chances and has something to say." - The WholeNote

​

Alison has been leading her own band in various formations since 2012,  composing and arranging for duo through to septet. Her latest project features a line up of her favourite Toronto musicians: virtuoso bassist Ross MacIntyre on upright and electric; Saskatchewan's hard swinging Jeff McLeod on piano and organ; the eclectic and energetic Eric St Laurent on guitar; and the excellent Sly Juhas and Chris Wallace alternating on drums. The Alison Young Quintet has played the main stages of the Toronto Jazz Festival, the Ottawa Jazz Festival, the Markham Jazz Festival and the Niagara Jazz Festival. Seeking to combine her love of hard bop, soul, and New Orleans-style funk, Alison recorded an album of mostly originals with this ensemble in 2017, putting an emphasis on energy and drive, but also prioritising elegant, singable melodies. Canadian jazz star Guido Basso joins the quintet on two songs, lending his lyrical sound to the album. The Alison Young Quintet's debut album, 'So Here We Are', was released in November of 2018, and was nominated for a 2019 JUNO in the Solo Jazz Instrumental Album of the Year category. 

​

"Alison Young is a rising star in Toronto and beyond. One of the most versatile musicians in Canada!" 

- Jaymz Bee,  JazzFM 91

Dominic Mancuso
September 7 @ 2:00 PM

Dominic Mancuso - Vocals

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

Dominic Mancuso has spent the last 20 years cultivating his signature sound—a fusion of rock, jazz, R&B, and world music, all peppered with his distinctive rasp. He has earned both Juno and Canadian Folk Music awards for his artistry. A consummate storyteller, Mancuso weaves narratives with his rich, deeply expressive voice, soaring through emotions and touching the essence of the soul. Driven by a passion for his craft and a humanist spirit, he connects viscerally with audiences, captivating all who listen.

Dominic Mancuso Group (DMG) features some of Canada’s most forward-thinking musicians, creating a sophisticated blend of adult contemporary music. Mancuso’s live performances are a must-see experience—exploring the depths of songwriting and emotional resonance.

“Dominic Mancuso is one of the most distinctive voices in music. He is a paramount storyteller; a premier griot of these times. He wails with the best. He cries the blues from the depths of his soul—bringing great measures of duende to the music. His Juno Awarded Comfortably Mine is a rare album indeed, quite simply one of a kind.” — Raul da Gama, All That Jazz

PowerHouse TreeOh!
September 7 & 8 @ 8:00PM

Wojtek Justyna – Guitar 

Jake Zap – Organ/ Keyboards 

Mark Kelso – Drums

PowerHouse TreeOh! is a tight, groove-driven jazz trio blending punchy funk rhythms, vibrant keyboard textures, and gritty guitar flair. Led by Polish guitarist Wojtek Justyna—known for his distinctive tone, versatility, and inventive compositional style—the group features two outstanding musicians from Ontario’s vibrant scene: keyboardist Jake Zap, whose imaginative work on keys and synth adds color and depth; and renowned groove drummer Mark Kelso, whose driving rhythm locks everything in place. Together, they use Wojtek’s original compositions as springboards for improvisation and fiery interplay, guiding music lovers on an uplifting journey where the spirit of jazz and groove is felt in every note. “A powerhouse of groove-jazz and grit.”

PowerHouse TreeOh!
September 7 & 8 @ 8:00PM

Wojtek Justyna – Guitar 

Jake Zap – Organ/ Keyboards 

Mark Kelso – Drums

PowerHouse TreeOh! is a tight, groove-driven jazz trio blending punchy funk rhythms, vibrant keyboard textures, and gritty guitar flair. Led by Polish guitarist Wojtek Justyna—known for his distinctive tone, versatility, and inventive compositional style—the group features two outstanding musicians from Ontario’s vibrant scene: keyboardist Jake Zap, whose imaginative work on keys and synth adds color and depth; and renowned groove drummer Mark Kelso, whose driving rhythm locks everything in place. Together, they use Wojtek’s original compositions as springboards for improvisation and fiery interplay, guiding music lovers on an uplifting journey where the spirit of jazz and groove is felt in every note. “A powerhouse of groove-jazz and grit.”

Micaela Rae
September 9 @ 5:00PM

Micaela Rae - Vocals
Jesse White - guitar

Steven Noronha - piano

Hiro Tanaka - bass

Keith Barstow - drums

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Micaela Rae is a Toronto based singer, songwriter, & guitarist currently studying at Humber College, and is set to graduate this spring. Micaela has a wide range of influences, including the great singers of jazz such as Sarah Vaughan, Anita O’ Day, and Cecile McLorin Salvant, as well as revered songwriters like Joni Mitchell and Leonard Cohen. She performs at various Toronto music venues such as the Rex, Jazz Bistro, the Emmet Ray, and Annette Studios. She has had the privilege of performing with, and studying under great Canadian artists like Jocelyn Gould, Duncan Hopkins, Nancy Walker, and Larnell Lewis. Micaela is currently working on writing & recording original music that she hopes to share with the world in the upcoming years.

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. 

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!

Fern Lindzon Trio
September 13 @ 2:00pm

Fern Lindzon - Piano / Vocals

Band - TBA

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

“Fern Lindzon is an engaging pianist and singer who brings an unassuming authority, an inquiring spirit and a natural grace to contemporary jazz.”–Mark Miller, jazz writer

With the release of her third CD, Like a Circle in a Spiral, in 2014, Fern Lindzon has continued to put her own, unique spin on contemporary jazz.

The Toronto singer, pianist, arranger, composer and 2012 JUNO Award Nominee has again drawn on a wide range of inspirations, finding both the personal and the universal in the work of Michel Legrand, Egberto Gismonti, Cole Porter, Mary Lou Williams and others old and new, near and far, all warmly sung, imaginatively arranged and gracefully played. This wealth of musical riches is complemented by the work of saxophonist David French, vibraphonist Michael Davidson, bassist George Koller (also the recording’s producer), drummer Nick Fraser and guest flutist Bill McBirnie.

Like a Circle in a Spiral is the culmination to date of a fascinating musical journey that began when Fern took classical voice and piano lessons as a child and continued through a degree in music history at the University of Toronto, studies with Frank Falco and Don Thompson and on, as a performer, into jazz and world music.

Since its launch in May 2014 at Toronto’s prestigious Jazz Bistro, Like a Circle in a Spiral has received extensive airplay and uniformly favorable reviews. Stuart Broomer, writing in The WholeNote, described Fern as “a rare jazz singer” and noted that her “strong identity [is] based on nuanced expression, a clear, almost silky voice, and a freedom from the collections of mannerisms that many jazz singers use to distinguish themselves.” Shelley Gummeson, commenting in !earshot, suggested that Fern “personifies a woman who lives confidently with her own instincts and artistry” on Like a Circle in a Spiral, and lauded her interpretations as “smart and smouldering” and “sublimely elegant.”

Like a Circle in a Spiral follows Two Kites (2011), which was nominated for a Juno Award in 2012 as Vocal Jazz Album of the Year. The work of “a rare and fascinating talent,” in the words of Montreal writer Irwin Block, Two Kites features Fern with George Koller, Nick Fraser and saxophonist Mike Murley in a typically embracing Lindzon program that flies gracefully on the winds of contemporary jazz, soaring from Antonio Carlos Jobim to Norma Winstone and touching down in Eastern Europe and on Broadway and Basin Street along the way. Fern’s Juno nomination for Two Kites was foreshadowed by a juried Special Projects award from Toronto Downtown Jazz in support of the CD’s launch in April 2011 Toronto’s Lula Lounge.

Her first CD, Moments Like These (2008), of duets with George Koller, vibraphonist Don Thompson and guitarist Reg Schwager, was also critically well received and brought her to national attention through a feature article in The Globe and Mail and a broadcast performance in 2009 on CBC Radio’s Canada Live. Tracks from all three of her CDs have been heard widely on other CBC radio programs, JAZZ.FM91, Espace Musique and many college and community stations across Canada.

Fern herself has appeared in leading jazz clubs in Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, Victoria, Ottawa and Waterloo, and at several festivals in Ontario, notably the Barrie Jazz and Blues Festival, where she has been a favorite for several years and in 2011 presented a special concert in tribute to the great American pianist and composer Mary Lou Williams.

Fern’s embracing vision of music has further been evident in her work as the music director from 2005 to 2011 of the klezmer-swing Sisters of Sheynville, who appeared at world music events in Canada, the United States and Poland, and won the Canadian Folk Music Award in 2008 for Vocal Group of the Year. She received a Canada Council grant in 2009 to study Yiddish repertoire and improvisation with Marilyn Lerner in Toronto and has also studied improvisation with Alan Bern at Yiddish Summer Weimar in Germany. More recently, she has collaborated on special Jewish music projects in Toronto with singer Theresa Tova and trumpeter David Buchbinder.

In 2010 she entered a new musical phase of her career when she led her own jazz/klezmer sextet in several performances of her original score for Buster Keaton’s Sherlock Jr. at the Toronto International Film Festival’s Bell Lightbox. Fern has continued to compose and improvise scores for other classic films by Keaton, Charlie Chaplin and others presented by the TIFF Bell Lightbox, the Toronto Silent Film Festival and the Vintage Film Festival.

Even as Like a Circle in a Spiral brings Fern new fans internationally, she remains vitally involved in the Toronto music scene as a performer and composer, a community event organizer and a voice and piano teacher, roles that she plays with an ever-inquiring mind and a wonderful generosity of spirit.

The Brian An Quintet
September 13 @ 5:00pm

Brian An - Trombone

Paul Tarussov - Trombone

Mark Ferguson - Piano / Trombone

Ted Warren - Drums

Max Simpson - Bass

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

The Brian An Quintet follows in the footsteps of the great two-trombone groups of the 1950s and 1960s that featured stellar hornmen such as J.J. Johnson, Kai Winding, Curtis Fuller and Slide Hampton. The quintet even performs a few three-trombone arrangements, thanks to the versatility of Ottawa pianist / trombonist and kingpin of the Canadian jazz scene, Mark Ferguson (Ella Fitzgerald, Gil Evans, Tony Bennett, the Boss Brass). Join the band for an evening of swinging jazz, dueling trombones, and even some three-trombone insanity! 

Brian An (pronounced “on”) is a trombonist from Ottawa. His previous appearances include the Ottawa International Jazz Festival and the National Arts Centre. Brian has also been interviewed by CBC regarding his career and performances. He studied with freelance trombonists Drum Hudson (Frank Sinatra, Paul Anka, Tony Bennett) and Chris Glassman (Michael Bublé, Ulysses Owens Jr.,, Kurt Elling). Outside of his musical pursuits, Brian studies Mathematics at the University of Waterloo.

Ewen Farncombe Trio
September 13 @ 10:45pm

Ewen Farncombe - Piano
Band - TBA

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Ewen Farncombe is a Juno nominated pianist and composer based out of Toronto and  has been a professional on the scene there for nearly a decade. Having played on  various recordings and with numerous bands, he has earned his reputation as a highly  skilled musician.  

While he was attending Humber College for a degree in music performance, he  received several prestigious awards, including the Hnatyshyn Foundation Oscar  Peterson award. While jazz is Ewen’s passion, he is a versatile player and is known to  play many genres of music.

MAGDA BARACZKA & GRACIE SINGH-YUZ
September 14th @ 2:00pm

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

Entering their third year of jazz voice studies at the University of Toronto, Magda Baraczka and Gracie Singh-Yuz are two very promising young rising artists in the Toronto jazz scene. They share a passion for playing popular jazz standards, putting their own creative twists on the arrangements. Magda and Gracie have spent the past 2 years working on their sound as a duo. They have taken to the stages across Toronto jazz venues in several ensembles and have led their own groups at the Rex Hotel Jazz and Blues Bar, the Emmet Ray, the Only Cafe, and The Duke. This evening of music will feature vocal arrangements by both Magda and Gracie, with music from the traditional jazz idiom. Highlighting their individual abilities as well as their enthralling vocal blend, this show is one you do not want to miss!

The Steve Holt Jazz Impact Quintet
September 14, & 15 @ 8:00pm

Kevin Turcotte - Trumpet & Flugelhorn 

Perry White - Tenor Saxophone 

Steve Holt - Piano 

Duncan Hopkins - Bass  

Terry Clarke - Drums 

Steve Holt is a JUNO-nominated jazz pianist and one of Canada’s premier jazz artists. A graduate of McGill University’s prestigious music program  (B.Mus Jazz Performance, 1981), Holt built his career through decades of  international performances, collaborations, and critically acclaimed recordings. He has performed with legendary figures such as Archie Shepp, Larry  Coryell, James Moody, Eddie "Cleanhead" Vinson, Bob Mover, and Michel Urbaniak. In 1983, Holt's debut album earned a JUNO nomination, setting the tone for a career marked by artistic excellence and innovation. In 2002, he earned Honorable Mention at  the USA Songwriting Competition, the world’s largest songwriting contest. In 2025 he put together The Steve Holt Jazz Impact Quintet, a powerhouse all-star ensemble featuring Canada’s top jazz talent. The group delivers electrifying performances rooted in jazz  tradition but fueled by modern creativity.  In April 2025, Steve Holt released "The Steve Holt Jazz Impact Quintet – IMPACT," his first album  as leader and composer in over two decades. 

The Steve Holt Jazz Impact Quintet
September 14, & 15 @ 8:00pm

Kevin Turcotte - Trumpet & Flugelhorn 

Perry White - Tenor Saxophone 

Steve Holt - Piano 

Duncan Hopkins - Bass  

Terry Clarke - Drums 

Steve Holt is a JUNO-nominated jazz pianist and one of Canada’s premier jazz artists. A graduate of McGill University’s prestigious music program  (B.Mus Jazz Performance, 1981), Holt built his career through decades of  international performances, collaborations, and critically acclaimed recordings. He has performed with legendary figures such as Archie Shepp, Larry  Coryell, James Moody, Eddie "Cleanhead" Vinson, Bob Mover, and Michel Urbaniak. In 1983, Holt's debut album earned a JUNO nomination, setting the tone for a career marked by artistic excellence and innovation. In 2002, he earned Honorable Mention at  the USA Songwriting Competition, the world’s largest songwriting contest. In 2025 he put together The Steve Holt Jazz Impact Quintet, a powerhouse all-star ensemble featuring Canada’s top jazz talent. The group delivers electrifying performances rooted in jazz  tradition but fueled by modern creativity.  In April 2025, Steve Holt released "The Steve Holt Jazz Impact Quintet – IMPACT," his first album  as leader and composer in over two decades. 

Jordana Talsky
September 16 & 30 @ 5:00PM

Jordana Talsky - Vocals
Band - TBA

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.

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. 

Barry Elmes Quintet
September 17, 18, 19, 20 @ 8:00PM

Barry Elmes -Drums

Brian O’Kane - Trumpet

Mike Murley - Saxophone

Lorne Lofsky - Guitar 

Pat Collins - Bass

Barry Elmes has occupied a position of prominence on the Canadian jazz scene since  the 1980s and has become internationally respected over the years since, not only as  one of Canada’s most talented drummers, but for parallel accomplishments as a  composer, producer, recording artist, and dedicated educator. His award-winning work  has been documented on over 90 jazz CDs, and he has performed all over the world  with many renowned jazz artists including Dizzy Gillespie, Tommy Flanagan, Charlie  Haden, Diana Krall, Joe Henderson, John Abercrombie, Oliver Jones, Cedar Walton,  Phil Nimmons, and Moe Koffman. In 1991 he formed the Barry Elmes Quintet, featuring  a “who’s who” of the best in Canadian jazz. A success from the beginning, this group  has toured internationally and released seven critically acclaimed recordings. The new  CD “Night Flight” showcases Barry’s arrangements of compositions by a wide range of  iconic jazz composers, from Duke Ellington to Charles Mingus to Keith Jarrett. 

At the Jazz Room performance, the quintet will perform selections from “Night Flight”  and from all their previous releases. 

James Bryan Trio
September 18 @ 5:00pm

Guitar - James Bryan
Band - TBA

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

James Bryan McCollum (PKA James Bryan) is a  Juno and Latin Grammy winning songwriter, guitarist and producer who’s mission is to inspire, uplift and connect through music. He began his career in Canadian acts The Philosopher Kings and Prozzak before James’ passion for collaboration grew into a global songwriting and recording career with top artists including Drake, Nelly Furtado, Shawn Mendes, Luis Fonsi, Martin Garrix, Yuna, Lisa Marie Presley and many more.

James has co-written and performed on hundreds of recordings, with artists from every continent , performed on stages from Wembley Stadium to Madison Square Gardens and Massey Hall. He has lived in Toronto,London and LA and is at home in any studio in the world. James has also released 4 albums as a solo guitarist , most recently , We Rise.

​

 "With anyone I work with, my goal is to find what makes them unique and nurture that until it shines bright enough for the whole world to see and hear."

Barry Elmes Quintet
September 17, 18, 19, 20 @ 8PM

Barry Elmes -Drums

Brian O’Kane - Trumpet

Mike Murley - Saxophone

Lorne Lofsky - Guitar 

Pat Collins - Bass

Barry Elmes has occupied a position of prominence on the Canadian jazz scene since  the 1980s and has become internationally respected over the years since, not only as  one of Canada’s most talented drummers, but for parallel accomplishments as a  composer, producer, recording artist, and dedicated educator. His award-winning work  has been documented on over 90 jazz CDs, and he has performed all over the world  with many renowned jazz artists including Dizzy Gillespie, Tommy Flanagan, Charlie  Haden, Diana Krall, Joe Henderson, John Abercrombie, Oliver Jones, Cedar Walton,  Phil Nimmons, and Moe Koffman. In 1991 he formed the Barry Elmes Quintet, featuring  a “who’s who” of the best in Canadian jazz. A success from the beginning, this group  has toured internationally and released seven critically acclaimed recordings. The new  CD “Night Flight” showcases Barry’s arrangements of compositions by a wide range of  iconic jazz composers, from Duke Ellington to Charles Mingus to Keith Jarrett. 

At the Jazz Room performance, the quintet will perform selections from “Night Flight”  and from all their previous releases. 

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!

Barry Elmes Quintet
September 17, 18, 19, 20 @ 8:00PM

Barry Elmes -Drums

Brian O’Kane - Trumpet

Mike Murley - Saxophone

Lorne Lofsky - Guitar 

Pat Collins - Bass

Barry Elmes has occupied a position of prominence on the Canadian jazz scene since  the 1980s and has become internationally respected over the years since, not only as  one of Canada’s most talented drummers, but for parallel accomplishments as a  composer, producer, recording artist, and dedicated educator. His award-winning work  has been documented on over 90 jazz CDs, and he has performed all over the world  with many renowned jazz artists including Dizzy Gillespie, Tommy Flanagan, Charlie  Haden, Diana Krall, Joe Henderson, John Abercrombie, Oliver Jones, Cedar Walton,  Phil Nimmons, and Moe Koffman. In 1991 he formed the Barry Elmes Quintet, featuring  a “who’s who” of the best in Canadian jazz. A success from the beginning, this group  has toured internationally and released seven critically acclaimed recordings. The new  CD “Night Flight” showcases Barry’s arrangements of compositions by a wide range of  iconic jazz composers, from Duke Ellington to Charles Mingus to Keith Jarrett. 

At the Jazz Room performance, the quintet will perform selections from “Night Flight”  and from all their previous releases. 

Dr. Nick & The Rollercoasters
september 20 @ 2:00 PM

Blues Band

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Over the past 20 years, Doctor Nick and the Rollercoasters have performed countless gigs at the venerable Rex Hotel and elsewhere. Their Blues is rooted in the early electric post-war period of Chicago's south side of the 1950's, where Blues luminaries such as Muddy Waters, Jimmy Rogers, Little Walter and others honed their craft to produce a sound which is at the root of most of the contemporary music that we hear today.

Doctor Nick fronts the band singing and laying down the fat sax-like tone of the amplified harmonica that is so emblematic of that era. Juno award winning Julian Fauth also graces the stage on piano and vocals. On guitar, the talented Darren Gallen digs into some deep Blues grooves and is supported by the stellar rhythm section of Bob Vespaziani on drums and James Thompson on acoustic bass.

The Rollercoasters play the Blues in the only way they know how: with passion, sincerity and respect.

We invite you to come down and catch a show. 

If you have the Blues, Doctor Nick has the remedy.

Barry Elmes Quintet
September 17, 18, 19, 20 @ 8:00PM

Barry Elmes -Drums

Brian O’Kane - Trumpet

Mike Murley - Saxophone

Lorne Lofsky - Guitar 

Pat Collins - Bass

Barry Elmes has occupied a position of prominence on the Canadian jazz scene since  the 1980s and has become internationally respected over the years since, not only as  one of Canada’s most talented drummers, but for parallel accomplishments as a  composer, producer, recording artist, and dedicated educator. His award-winning work  has been documented on over 90 jazz CDs, and he has performed all over the world  with many renowned jazz artists including Dizzy Gillespie, Tommy Flanagan, Charlie  Haden, Diana Krall, Joe Henderson, John Abercrombie, Oliver Jones, Cedar Walton,  Phil Nimmons, and Moe Koffman. In 1991 he formed the Barry Elmes Quintet, featuring  a “who’s who” of the best in Canadian jazz. A success from the beginning, this group  has toured internationally and released seven critically acclaimed recordings. The new  CD “Night Flight” showcases Barry’s arrangements of compositions by a wide range of  iconic jazz composers, from Duke Ellington to Charles Mingus to Keith Jarrett. 

At the Jazz Room performance, the quintet will perform selections from “Night Flight”  and from all their previous releases. 

SB Organ Trio
September 20 @ 10:45pm

Stuart Brignell - Saxophone
Alan Zemaitis - Organ
Lowell Whitty - Drums

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

The SB Organ trio is a funky, soulful and high energy  trio from Toronto, playing only the best tunes from the  extensive canon of Organ jazz. Pulling repertoire from  the greats of this genre such as Jimmy Smith, Booker  

T, Maceo Parker, Jimmy McGriff and Dr. Lonnie Smith,  this electrifying trio never fails to ignite, energize and  uplift the souls of all who are lucky enough to hear  them. The group is led by rising Canadian  saxophonist, Stuart Brignell, and features in demand  players Alan Zemaitis (organ) and Lowell Whitty  (drums).

Quisha Wint
September 21st @ 2:00PM

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

Join celebrated artist Quisha Wint for an intimate afternoon of jazz and R&B soul at The Rex Toronto. Known for her powerhouse vocals and undeniable stage presence, Quisha effortlessly blends the smooth elegance of jazz with the soulful grooves of R&B. With years of experience captivating audiences across Canada and beyond, she has shared stages with music legends and earned acclaim for her dynamic performances.

This special duo performance with the phenomenal Michael Shand on piano promises an unforgettable afternoon of music, featuring reimagined classics and heartfelt originals. Whether you’re a jazz aficionado or a lover of soulful melodies, Quisha’s artistry will leave you inspired and uplifted.

David Riddel’s Dr. Purgatory
September 21 & 22 @ 8:00PM

Aline Homzy - Violin

Colleen Allen - alto sax/flute

Liam Mitro - Alto sax/bass clarinet

David Riddel - Guitar

Noam Lemish - Piano

Dan Fortin - Bass

Andrew McCarthy - Drums 

David Riddel is a Toronto-based guitarist and composer. Since graduating from the jazz studies program at the University of Toronto in 2016, he has recorded and performed extensively across Canada and internationally with some of Canada's most notable musicians. Riddel has been awarded multiple grants from the Ontario Arts Council, including the Chalmers Professional Development grant, with which he studied in Amsterdam with renowned Dutch guitarist and composer Reiner Baas. 

Riddel is a veritable composer and leads many of his own projects, including the avant/chamber jazz group Dr. Purgatory, whose second LP was released in 2025 to critical acclaim. The album features Colleen Allen (sax, flute), Andrew Downing (upright 

bass), Noam Lemish (piano), Aline Homzy (violin), Stefan Hegerat (drums) and Conrad Gluch (sax, bass clarinet), and is accompanied by a novella written by Riddel and illustrated by Sid Sharp. 

In addition to his work as a leader, Riddel is an in-demand sideman, whose work with Chelsea McBride’s big band, ethereal vocalist Laura Swankey, Canadian sax-hero Colleen Allen, Vancouver avant-garde harpist Elisa Thorn, among others, has earned him praise from jazz critics in Canada and the United States. Riddel has performed at the Toronto Jazz Festival, the Edmonton Jazz festival, the Calgary Jazz Festival, the Halifax Jazz Festival and more.

David Riddel’s Dr. Purgatory
September 21 & 22 @ 8:00PM

Aline Homzy - Violin

Colleen Allen - alto sax/flute

Liam Mitro - Alto sax/bass clarinet

David Riddel - Guitar

Noam Lemish - Piano

Dan Fortin - Bass

Andrew McCarthy - Drums

David Riddel is a Toronto-based guitarist and composer. Since graduating from the jazz studies program at the University of Toronto in 2016, he has recorded and performed extensively across Canada and internationally with some of Canada's most notable musicians. Riddel has been awarded multiple grants from the Ontario Arts Council, including the Chalmers Professional Development grant, with which he studied in Amsterdam with renowned Dutch guitarist and composer Reiner Baas. 

Riddel is a veritable composer and leads many of his own projects, including the avant/chamber jazz group Dr. Purgatory, whose second LP was released in 2025 to critical acclaim. The album features Colleen Allen (sax, flute), Andrew Downing (upright 

bass), Noam Lemish (piano), Aline Homzy (violin), Stefan Hegerat (drums) and Conrad Gluch (sax, bass clarinet), and is accompanied by a novella written by Riddel and illustrated by Sid Sharp. 

In addition to his work as a leader, Riddel is an in-demand sideman, whose work with Chelsea McBride’s big band, ethereal vocalist Laura Swankey, Canadian sax-hero Colleen Allen, Vancouver avant-garde harpist Elisa Thorn, among others, has earned him praise from jazz critics in Canada and the United States. Riddel has performed at the Toronto Jazz Festival, the Edmonton Jazz festival, the Calgary Jazz Festival, the Halifax Jazz Festival and more.

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 Rex's Annual Birthday Tribute to John Coltrane: Pat LaBarbera Quintet

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

Pat Labarbera - Saxophone

Kirk MacDonald - Saxophone

Brian Dickinson - Piano

Neil Swainson - Bass

Terry Clarke - Drums

The Rex's Annual Birthday Tribute to John Coltrane: Pat LaBarbera 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 Rex's Annual Birthday Tribute to John Coltrane: Pat LaBarbera 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

Swing Shift Big Band is over the moon with the announcement that we are returning to The Rex Hotel in Toronto for our 9th CD release,
featuring the full 19 piece band. We will be the first big band at the Rex in 3 years, the date is Saturday March 4, from 2-4:30 pm.
The Rex is very different since our last appearance there, all seating is facing the stage theatre style and they do not allow standing
room, so we have a limit of about 100 seats by the time we move the front row out of the way. Last fall we had a fundraising campaign
to help finance this new CD, and anyone that contributed has first dibs on the seats, and if there is room, we will open it up to the public. The Rex is not selling tickets, they are only available thru the band. 

“This is the home of Canada’s Premier Big Band - Jim John's Swing Shift Big Band. From the band’s beginning in 1996 it quickly became apparent that this was a band intent on preserving the sounds and quality of the big band era - a band that has since been recognized as one of the top big bands in the country. With 17 talented musicians, male and female vocalists and optional dancers and female vocal trio, this band can entertain audiences of all ages. From dances, corporate galas, and jazz festivals to weddings, theatre shows and everything in-between, Swing Shift has the variety to suit any occasion. We can also provide smaller groups, ranging from solo piano, trio, quartet and right up to our very popular 11 piece group - a versatile band that specializes in music for all ages.  Leader Jim John has twenty years of leadership experience - he knows how to make your event a big success!!”

The Rex's Annual Birthday Tribute to John Coltrane: Pat LaBarbera 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".

Jordana Talsky
September 16 & 30 @ 5:00PM

Jordana Talsky - Vocals
Band - TBA

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.