Jacon Gorzhaltsan Quartet
August 24 @ 5:00 PM

Jacob Gorzhaltsan - Clarinet/Sax
Noam Lemish - Piano 
Bret Higgins - Bass
Eric West - Drums 

NO RESERVATIONS

PAY WHAT YOU CAN

The Jacob Gorzhaltsan Quartet is an ensemble led by Jacob Gorzhaltsan. Blending sounds from around the world, the band performs Jacob’s original compositions, while also showcasing songs by artists that helped shape his sound. Jacob’s music is influenced by his roots and the sounds of the Israeli jazz-scene and Jewish music. 

Yvette Tollar sings Joni Mitchell
August 23 & 24 @ 8:00 PM

Yvette Tollar - vocals, arrangements

Elizabeth Shepherd - piano

Michael Occhipinti - guitar

Mike Downes - bass

Davide Direnzo - drums

Vocalist Yvette Tollar is a mainstay on the Canadian  jazz and world music scenes. She studied in New  York with Sheila Jordan and participated in  workshops at the Banff Centre for the Arts, working  with Dave Holland, Kenny Werner and Joe Lovano.  

Tollar started her professional career at 16, and has  been a regular at several Toronto live music spots  for years. She is a former member of the The Merlin  Factor, and she has recorded with the Toronto Tabla  Ensemble for Japan's Naxus label. She has also  toured her own ensemble through Europe and parts  of Canada. In addition, has collaborated with  guitarist Kevin Breit, pianist David Restivo, her  brother Ernie Tollar, and sings with the Hungarian  band Kek Duna, performs with Michael Occhipinti’s  “Shine On: The Universe of John Lennon” provides  backing vocals for Maryem Tollar and has sung with  Rich Brown’s contemporary jazz super group  rinsethealgorithm. 

She released her album "Ima" in November 2008 at  the Glenn Gould Studio, earning a 2009 JUNO  Award nomination. Yvette is now finishing an album  dedicated to the music of Joni Mitchell.

Trombone Charlotte & Jared Higgins Present: GRAPEVINE QUARTET
August 25 @ 5:00 PM

Charlotte McAfee-Brunner - Trombone and Vocals

Jared Higgins - Guitar

Max Simpson - Bass

Andrew McCarthy - Drums

NO RESERVATIONS

PAY WHAT YOU CAN

A force in the city’s jazz scene since 2016, Charlotte has spent nearly a decade crafting her sound as both a sideman and star. Since stepping into the spotlight in 2021, she’s led high-energy ensembles across Canada’s top stages — Toronto Jazz Festival, Kensington Market Jazz Festival, Port Hope, Mont Tremblant, and a knockout appearance at Massey Hall’s Women’s Blues Revue where she belted out originals that brought the house down.

Classic REx jam
hosted by chris banks
AUGUST 4, 11, 18, 25 @ 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.

Fction
August 26 @ 5:00 PM

Finn Chercover - Bass
Sam Heggum-Trescott - Drums
Gianluca Occhipinti - Keys
Avshalom Ravitz-Heller - Alto Sax

NO RESERVATIONS

PAY WHAT YOU CAN

FCTION is a modern jazz quartet led by bassist Finn Chercover and featuring Gianluca Occhipinti on keys, Avshalom Ravitz-Heller on alto sax and Sam Heggum-Truscott on drums. As FCTION, they perform original compositions, drawing inspiration from modern jazz and fusion artists, blending a strong groove with thoughtful harmonies to create an atmospheric landscape. 

Finn, Gianluca and Sam have been playing together since meeting at Humber Polytechnic Jazz program and can be found performing at venues throughout Toronto.

MARK KELSO'S MYSTIC ISLE PROJECT
August 26, 27, 28, 29 @ 8:00 PM

Mark Kelso - Drums,
Luis Deniz - Alto sax,
Mike Downes - Acoustic bass
Ewen Farncombe - Acoustic piano

The Mystic Isle Project is drummer/composer Mark Kelso’s new acoustic quartet, and his coinciding recording “The Antrim Coast”, (2025 JUNO jazz nominee)  featured music written for and dedicated to his birthplace of Belfast and its  surrounding areas in Northern Ireland. Incidentally, Mark says the Mystic Isle  refers to the whole island of Ireland, for the poets and writers, their wonderful  storytelling, and the country’s stunning landscapes.  

For the group, Mark hand-picked 3 of his all-time favourite musicians to bring his project to life. Mike Downes, a long-time musical cohort is on acoustic bass, Luis  Deniz, his Cuban compatriot in the Jazz Exiles, is on alto & soprano sax and rising  jazz superstar Ewen Farncombe is on acoustic piano. Mark says,“Even though  I’ve lived in Canada since I was 9 years old, Northern Ireland has always  remained close to my heart, and through all my visits there over the years, it has  remained one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen. I’m thrilled to be finally  honoring my homeland at this point in my life, and these players are the perfect  musicians to help me do that”.  

The quartet will be heading into the studio this August for a follow-up recording  that will be released sometime in 2027. The band will be performing their all-new 

Laura Dubin Trio
August 27 @ 5:00 PM

Laura Dubin - Piano

Antonio Guerrero - Drums

Mike Downes - Bass

NO RESERVATIONS

PAY WHAT YOU CAN

The Laura Dubin Trio consistently delights audiences with their unique style of music that spans all the eras of jazz and even blends modern jazz styles with classical music. A virtuoso pianist extensively trained in both the jazz and classical traditions, and well-versed in Latin and film music, Laura melds all of her musical loves into a seamless web of breathtaking creativity and adventurous exploration. Based in Rochester, NY, Laura and her husband/musical partner, drummer Antonio Guerrero, are among the most sought-after jazz musicians in the region (both as a duo and as the core members of the Laura Dubin Trio). Visit www.lauradubin.com for complete bio, music/videos, press, and more.

MARK KELSO'S MYSTIC ISLE PROJECT
August 26, 27, 28, 29 @ 8:00 PM

Mark Kelso - Drums,
Luis Deniz - Alto sax,
Mike Downes - Acoustic bass
Ewen Farncombe - Acoustic piano

The Mystic Isle Project is drummer/composer Mark Kelso’s new acoustic quartet, and his coinciding recording “The Antrim Coast”, (2025 JUNO jazz nominee)  featured music written for and dedicated to his birthplace of Belfast and its  surrounding areas in Northern Ireland. Incidentally, Mark says the Mystic Isle  refers to the whole island of Ireland, for the poets and writers, their wonderful  storytelling, and the country’s stunning landscapes.  

For the group, Mark hand-picked 3 of his all-time favourite musicians to bring his project to life. Mike Downes, a long-time musical cohort is on acoustic bass, Luis  Deniz, his Cuban compatriot in the Jazz Exiles, is on alto & soprano sax and rising  jazz superstar Ewen Farncombe is on acoustic piano. Mark says,“Even though  I’ve lived in Canada since I was 9 years old, Northern Ireland has always  remained close to my heart, and through all my visits there over the years, it has  remained one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen. I’m thrilled to be finally  honoring my homeland at this point in my life, and these players are the perfect  musicians to help me do that”.  

The quartet will be heading into the studio this August for a follow-up recording  that will be released sometime in 2027. The band will be performing their all-new 

Melissa Stylianou Trio
August 28 @ 5:00 PM

Melissa Stylianou - Vocals

Reg Schwager - Guitar

Jon Maharaj - Bass

NO RESERVATIONS

PAY WHAT YOU CAN

Toronto-born, NYC-based jazz vocalist Melissa Stylianou, hailed by piano master Fred Hersch for her “gorgeous instrument, superb musicianship, and great taste,” has garnered acclaim as both a gifted songwriter and a bold, imaginative interpreter of wide-ranging material spanning diverse genres, from the Great American Songbook to Johnny Cash to original songs. In addition to her five albums as a leader, Stylianou documented her close musical bond with guitar legend Gene Bertoncini and bassist Ike Sturm on the 2022 album Dream Dancing on Anzic Records. The album received wide critical acclaim, including a rare 5-star review in Downbeat Magazine.

Melissa is a member of the powerhouse vocal trio Duchess, alongside Amy Cervini and Hilary Gardner. Duchess released its 4th full-length recording this summer and has performed all over the US, Canada, the UK, and Europe. As a bandleader and featured vocalist, Stylianou maintains a busy performing and recording schedule. She is currently developing an album of original songs that will reflect and combine her Irish and Greek-Cypriot musical roots.

MARK KELSO'S MYSTIC ISLE PROJECT
August 26, 27, 28, 29 @ 8:00 PM

Mark Kelso - Drums,
Luis Deniz - Alto sax,
Mike Downes - Acoustic bass
Ewen Farncombe - Acoustic piano

The Mystic Isle Project is drummer/composer Mark Kelso’s new acoustic quartet, and his coinciding recording “The Antrim Coast”, (2025 JUNO jazz nominee)  featured music written for and dedicated to his birthplace of Belfast and its  surrounding areas in Northern Ireland. Incidentally, Mark says the Mystic Isle  refers to the whole island of Ireland, for the poets and writers, their wonderful  storytelling, and the country’s stunning landscapes.  

For the group, Mark hand-picked 3 of his all-time favourite musicians to bring his project to life. Mike Downes, a long-time musical cohort is on acoustic bass, Luis  Deniz, his Cuban compatriot in the Jazz Exiles, is on alto & soprano sax and rising  jazz superstar Ewen Farncombe is on acoustic piano. Mark says,“Even though  I’ve lived in Canada since I was 9 years old, Northern Ireland has always  remained close to my heart, and through all my visits there over the years, it has  remained one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen. I’m thrilled to be finally  honoring my homeland at this point in my life, and these players are the perfect  musicians to help me do that”.  

The quartet will be heading into the studio this August for a follow-up recording  that will be released sometime in 2027. The band will be performing their all-new 

Sean Stanley Quartet
August 29 @ 2:00 PM

Sean Stanley - Piano/Vocals

Kyle Tarder-Stoll - Sax

Gram Whitty - Bass

Morgan Childs - Drums

NO RESERVATIONS

PAY WHAT YOU CAN

The Sean Stanley Quartet PROUDLY plays Jazz, Swing & Blues, the music of Louis Armstrong, Stride piano of Fats Waller, Ray Charles soul music and Sean’s original compositions. From hot & firey to smooth & sweet their music is always based in blues and improvisation.

Jakob Durst
August 29 @ 5:00 PM

Jakob Durst - Tenor Saxophone

Jake Wilkinson - Trumpet

Lee Wallace - Guitar

Jonathan Meyer - Bass

Norbert Botos - Drums

NO RESERVATIONS

PAY WHAT YOU CAN

Jakob Durst (b. 2003) is a Canadian saxophonist currently residing in Toronto. Drawing his main influence from the Black American Art-form “Jazz”, Jakob cites Lester Young, Ben Webster and Charlie Parker as his greatest inspirations. Jakob has had the opportunity to play alongside Terry Clarke, Neil Swainson and Reg Schwager, among many other names in Canadian Jazz. He currently attends the University of Toronto, where he studies Human Biology and Ecology.

MARK KELSO'S MYSTIC ISLE PROJECT
August 26, 27, 28, 29 @ 8:00 PM

Mark Kelso - Drums,
Luis Deniz - Alto sax,
Mike Downes - Acoustic bass
Ewen Farncombe - Acoustic piano

The Mystic Isle Project is drummer/composer Mark Kelso’s new acoustic quartet, and his coinciding recording “The Antrim Coast”, (2025 JUNO jazz nominee)  featured music written for and dedicated to his birthplace of Belfast and its  surrounding areas in Northern Ireland. Incidentally, Mark says the Mystic Isle  refers to the whole island of Ireland, for the poets and writers, their wonderful  storytelling, and the country’s stunning landscapes.  

For the group, Mark hand-picked 3 of his all-time favourite musicians to bring his project to life. Mike Downes, a long-time musical cohort is on acoustic bass, Luis  Deniz, his Cuban compatriot in the Jazz Exiles, is on alto & soprano sax and rising  jazz superstar Ewen Farncombe is on acoustic piano. Mark says,“Even though  I’ve lived in Canada since I was 9 years old, Northern Ireland has always  remained close to my heart, and through all my visits there over the years, it has  remained one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen. I’m thrilled to be finally  honoring my homeland at this point in my life, and these players are the perfect  musicians to help me do that”.  

The quartet will be heading into the studio this August for a follow-up recording  that will be released sometime in 2027. The band will be performing their all-new 

CCP
August 29 @ 11:00 PM

Aaron Comeau - Bass / Vocals
Matthew Cooke - Guitar / Vocals
Galen Pelley - Drums / Vocals

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Fatefully formed by three longtime musical comrades to fill a last-minute gig at one of Toronto's music hubs, guitarist Matt Cooke (C), bassist Aaron Comeau (C), and drummer Galen Pelley (P) knew from the first downbeat it would be more than just a one-off.

Playing timeless originals, roots rock deep cuts, and reimagined local favourites, their vast repertoire is a ride across eras, brought together by a shared love of groove and harmony. Each taking a turn leading the vocal charge, the trio burns with an unhurried feel, bending time through atmospheric solos and leaving listeners entranced, wondering what might come next.

At its heart, CCP is a bond of like-minded musicians sharing the music that inspires them, following each song wherever it wants to go.

Al Qahwa
August 30 @ 2:00 PM

Maryem Tollar - Vocals, riqq (Arabic tambourine) and qanun (Arabic tableharp); 
Ernie Tollar - Wind instruments;
Naghmeh Fahrahmand - Percussion
Omneya Tollar - Vocals and percussion
Lauren Barnett - Vocals and saxophone

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Al Qahwa performs original and traditional music with diverse influences such as North African grooves, Arabic melodies, and jazz . The group name Al Qahwa is Arabic for “the coffee house”. It was inspired by the coffee house culture in the Middle East where people would go to hear the latest news, music, poetry and stories. Al Qahwa is Maryem Tollar on vocals, riqq (Arabic tambourine) and qanun (Arabic tableharp); Ernie Tollar on wind instruments; Naghmeh Fahrahmand on percussion; Omneya Tollar on vocals and percussion; and Lauren Barnett on vocals and saxophone and other special guests.

PowerHouse TreeOh!
August 30 & 31 @ 8:00 PM

Wojtek Justyna (PL) – guitar

David Ryshpan (CA) – organ/keyboards

Shayneondrums (CA) – drums

PowerHouse TreeOh! (PL/CA) 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 Montreal’s vibrant music scene: keyboardist David Ryshpan, whose imaginative work on keys and synthesizer adds color and depth; and hayneondrums, whose dynamic groove 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.

Wide Arches
August 31 @ 5:00 PM

Jacob Gorzhaltsan - Vocals/winds

Meagan Luchko - Vocals 

Bret Higgins - Bass

Jared Higgins - Guitar 

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Wide Arches is the debut singer-songwriter project of multi-instrumentalist and composer, Jacob Gorzhaltsan. Formed during the pandemic lockdown by way of online recording collaborations, the band features a talented array of local Toronto artists. With lyrical content that is introspective yet playful, the band’s music draws off Jacob’s influences in folk music and singer-songwriters such as Nick Drake, Leonard Cohen, Harry Nilsson, Damien Jurado, Daniel Rossen, and Andy Shauf. The debut album by Wide Arches, “Farewell to All the Lovely Things”, was graciously funded by the Toronto Arts Council and was released on Sept 12th, 2023.

PowerHouse TreeOh!
August 30 & 31 @ 8:00 PM

Wojtek Justyna (PL) – guitar

David Ryshpan (CA) – organ/keyboards

Shayneondrums (CA) – drums

PowerHouse TreeOh! (PL/CA) 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 Montreal’s vibrant music scene: keyboardist David Ryshpan, whose imaginative work on keys and synthesizer adds color and depth; and hayneondrums, whose dynamic groove 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.

Tania Gill Trio
September 1 @ 5:00 PM

Tania Gill - piano
Chris Banks - bass
Blake Howard - drums

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Toronto pianist Tania Gill has developed a distinctive improvisational language in jazz  and improvised music, and her unconventional versatility keeps her engaged in an  eclectic array of styles. She leads and composes for the Tania Gill Quartet and is a member of The Brodie West Quintet, The Titillators, and Susanna Hood Trio. She is a past member of The Flying Bulgar Klezmer Band, The See Through Trio, St. Dirt Elementary School and Deep Dark United, and has performed with artists including Lina Allemano, Steve Reich, Andrew Downing, Mats Gustafsson and The Weather Station among many others. Tania teaches music at both Humber Polytechnic and the University of Toronto.

Classic REx jam
hosted by chris banks
september 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 @ 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.

David Riddel
September 2 @ 5:00 PM

David Riddel - guitar
Mark Godfrey - bass
Lowell Whitby - drums

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

'Herbie Hancock-esque...(Riddel's) music is beautifully expressed—intricate and cerebral while remaining engaging and cohesive..'' - All About Jazz 

'Riddel’s guitar playing is marvelous.. and includes soaring single note lines, beautiful wide intervallic solo playing..and genre-less musical improvisations.' - The Whole Note 

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. 

His second original album ''The Consumption: A Tragic Folktale in Six Parts'' was released in March 2025 to critical acclaim.

Colleen Allen
September 2, 3 & 4 @ 8:00 PM

Colleen Allen - sax 

Adrean Farrugia - piano 

Mike Downes - bass 

Ethan Ardelli - drums

Alberta born Colleen Allen plays all saxes, flute, and clarinet. She is top call in Toronto for live shows, festivals, and recording projects. Recent performances include Sessionsx recordings with Gospel legend Carvin Winans, featuring Michael MacDonald, Take 6 and Martha Reeves.

She has performed extensively with Molly Johnson, David Clayton Thomas, Holly Cole, Emilie-Claire Barlow, Shakura S'Aida, Jackie Richardson, Cirque Du Soleil, SoulPepper Theatre, Brian Barlow's Big Band and is a proud member of Manteca, one of Canada's premier fusion jazz bands. Recent recordings include Hilario Duran's Juno and Latin Grammy award winning Big Band featuring Paquito D'Rivera.

Her first CD, "Colleen Allen," is a beautiful collection of nine tracks displaying her many talents as instrumentalist, arranger, band leader and producer. Her sophomore disc features bassist George Koller, guitarist Rob Piltch and Snarky Puppy drummer, Larnell Lewis. Her most recent recording is a collaboration with pianist Fern Lindzon and bassist George Koller entitled "Tryptique."

Colleen's latest project is playing alongside a Brazilian ensemble called ONA. The group features 2 french horns, bassoon, flute and clarinet, guitar and Brazilian percussion with custom arrangements written for this unique and dynamic ensemble.

Alongside her professional performance career, Ms. Allen is also the Artistic Director of the Port Hope Jazz Festival and has programmed two sell-out seasons: 2024/2025. Colleen also programmed the Prince Edward Island Jazz Festival in 2023. She developed these leadership roles as an artist in residence at Soulpepper Theatre (2015-2018).

Whether touring with the celebrated Marc Jordan, teaching in Humber College's esteemed Jazz Studies Program, or Artistic Directing jazz festivals, Colleen is considered one of the most cherished musicians on the Canadian music scene. A dynamic solo performer and flawless ensemble musician, Colleen is known for her gorgeous warm tone, soulful style, and brilliant soloing. Colleen is a world-class musician whose musical talents have touched many audiences around the globe.

Steve Koven Trio
September 3 @ 5:00 PM

Illios Steryannis - Drums
Sergio Dhelomme - Bass
Steve Koven - Piano

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Steve Koven is a composer, performer, producer, educator and film maker. In 1993 he established the Steve Koven Trio.   Touring the world for more then two decades, they have been coined as ‘Canadian Cultural Ambassadors’.  Aside from performing world wide with his trio, Steve also performs solo piano concerts throughout North America, Europe and the Caribbean. Dozens of Koven’s compositions have been licensed for national and international film and television productions.

Colleen Allen
September 2, 3 & 4 @ 8:00 PM

Colleen Allen - sax 

Adrean Farrugia - piano 

Mike Downes - bass 

Ethan Ardelli - drums

Alberta born Colleen Allen plays all saxes, flute, and clarinet. She is top call in Toronto for live shows, festivals, and recording projects. Recent performances include Sessionsx recordings with Gospel legend Carvin Winans, featuring Michael MacDonald, Take 6 and Martha Reeves.

She has performed extensively with Molly Johnson, David Clayton Thomas, Holly Cole, Emilie-Claire Barlow, Shakura S'Aida, Jackie Richardson, Cirque Du Soleil, SoulPepper Theatre, Brian Barlow's Big Band and is a proud member of Manteca, one of Canada's premier fusion jazz bands. Recent recordings include Hilario Duran's Juno and Latin Grammy award winning Big Band featuring Paquito D'Rivera.

Her first CD, "Colleen Allen," is a beautiful collection of nine tracks displaying her many talents as instrumentalist, arranger, band leader and producer. Her sophomore disc features bassist George Koller, guitarist Rob Piltch and Snarky Puppy drummer, Larnell Lewis. Her most recent recording is a collaboration with pianist Fern Lindzon and bassist George Koller entitled "Tryptique."

Colleen's latest project is playing alongside a Brazilian ensemble called ONA. The group features 2 french horns, bassoon, flute and clarinet, guitar and Brazilian percussion with custom arrangements written for this unique and dynamic ensemble.

Alongside her professional performance career, Ms. Allen is also the Artistic Director of the Port Hope Jazz Festival and has programmed two sell-out seasons: 2024/2025. Colleen also programmed the Prince Edward Island Jazz Festival in 2023. She developed these leadership roles as an artist in residence at Soulpepper Theatre (2015-2018).

Whether touring with the celebrated Marc Jordan, teaching in Humber College's esteemed Jazz Studies Program, or Artistic Directing jazz festivals, Colleen is considered one of the most cherished musicians on the Canadian music scene. A dynamic solo performer and flawless ensemble musician, Colleen is known for her gorgeous warm tone, soulful style, and brilliant soloing. Colleen is a world-class musician whose musical talents have touched many audiences around the globe.

Colleen Allen
September 2, 3 & 4 @ 8:00 PM

Colleen Allen - sax 

Adrean Farrugia - piano 

Mike Downes - bass 

Ethan Ardelli - drums

Alberta born Colleen Allen plays all saxes, flute, and clarinet. She is top call in Toronto for live shows, festivals, and recording projects. Recent performances include Sessionsx recordings with Gospel legend Carvin Winans, featuring Michael MacDonald, Take 6 and Martha Reeves.

She has performed extensively with Molly Johnson, David Clayton Thomas, Holly Cole, Emilie-Claire Barlow, Shakura S'Aida, Jackie Richardson, Cirque Du Soleil, SoulPepper Theatre, Brian Barlow's Big Band and is a proud member of Manteca, one of Canada's premier fusion jazz bands. Recent recordings include Hilario Duran's Juno and Latin Grammy award winning Big Band featuring Paquito D'Rivera.

Her first CD, "Colleen Allen," is a beautiful collection of nine tracks displaying her many talents as instrumentalist, arranger, band leader and producer. Her sophomore disc features bassist George Koller, guitarist Rob Piltch and Snarky Puppy drummer, Larnell Lewis. Her most recent recording is a collaboration with pianist Fern Lindzon and bassist George Koller entitled "Tryptique."

Colleen's latest project is playing alongside a Brazilian ensemble called ONA. The group features 2 french horns, bassoon, flute and clarinet, guitar and Brazilian percussion with custom arrangements written for this unique and dynamic ensemble.

Alongside her professional performance career, Ms. Allen is also the Artistic Director of the Port Hope Jazz Festival and has programmed two sell-out seasons: 2024/2025. Colleen also programmed the Prince Edward Island Jazz Festival in 2023. She developed these leadership roles as an artist in residence at Soulpepper Theatre (2015-2018).

Whether touring with the celebrated Marc Jordan, teaching in Humber College's esteemed Jazz Studies Program, or Artistic Directing jazz festivals, Colleen is considered one of the most cherished musicians on the Canadian music scene. A dynamic solo performer and flawless ensemble musician, Colleen is known for her gorgeous warm tone, soulful style, and brilliant soloing. Colleen is a world-class musician whose musical talents have touched many audiences around the globe.

Selena Savage septet
September 5 @ 2:00 pm

James Griffith - alto

Steve Carson - tenor

Kevin Turcotte - trumpet

Selena Savage - trombone

Eric Liang - 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. 

The West End Riverboat Band
September 5 @ 5:00 PM

John David Williams -clarinet
Ben Lee - Banjo
Chris Adriaanse - Bass.

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

The West End Riverboat Band have been performing together since 2017. The trio of musicians long steeped in various facets of Toronto's traditional jazz scenes first got together to make music inspired by the small ensemble recordings of the New Orleans “revival” era musicians. Since their beginnings they've branched out to include a diverse and unique repertoire spanning the last 200 years, drawing tunes from Brazilian choro to klezmer, country ballads to Chopin; and ultimately, transmuting these tunes through their stompin’ high energy take on traditional jazz style. 

The West End Riverboat Band have released two albums: “May 25, 2018” (2018) recorded live at Grossman’s Tavern on Friday afternoon, and “Sidewalk Blues” (2022) recorded live at Legion Hall Branch 344. 

They have played jazz festivals, folk festivals, swing dances, bars, weddings, street parties and community celebrations. They perform as a trio, or occasionally, as an expanded band with 4-6 members. 

Benson Lee, banjo, has played in Toronto’s jazz and blues communities since 2013, including a weekly residency with Toronto’s New Orleans jazz legacy band the Happy Pals and guest spots with celebrated New Orleans jazz musicians Dr. Michael White and Gregg Stafford. 

John David Williams plays a variety of traditions on the clarinet and can be heard on Juno-nominated and Canadian Folk Music Award winning albums. He’s been a member of the Boxcar Boys, Jaron Freeman-Fox and the Opposite of Everything, Lemon Bucket Orchestra and Vinta. 

Chris Adriaanse has been a busy bassist in Toronto jazz for over 10 years. He can be seen in clubs most nights playing in many different styles of jazz, world folk and pop music. He has toured across Europe and North America and appears on many recordings with artists such as Tia Brazda, Doug Tielli, Simone Morris, Delta Will, Tom Richards’ ‘The Big Butter and Men’, and his own group, Astrosurf.

The Pannonica Jazz Orchestra
September 5 @ 8:00 PM

Led by: Angela Pincente - Trombone

The Pannonica Jazz Orchestra is a multi-generational collection of Canada’s finest Jazz musicians.The all-female ensemble, led by Trombonist/Arranger Angela Pincente, features compositions primarily composed and arranged by women specifically for this ensemble. The PJO’s mission is to highlight the contributions of women in music and provide a space to showcase their artistry. 

This ensemble is named in honour of Pannonica de Koenigswarter, a photographer and writer who was a patron to many jazz musicians in New York City. She became known as the “Jazz Baroness” and would go by the nickname “Nica”, which is found in the names of countless compositions by those who she helped. 

The Pannonica Jazz Orchestra will be making its debut at The Rex Hotel on 

Saturday September 5th at 8:00pm.

Papalote - son cubano
September 6 @ 2:00pm

• Neil Gardiner - lead vocals, piano

  Larry Lewis - tres guitar, classical guitar, vocals

• Jonno Lightstone - flute, saxophones, vocals

• Mario Allende - percussion

• Yoser Rodriguez - bass

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Papalote has created a sound rooted in the rich tradition of ‘son  montuno’, a Cuban musical style celebrated for its intoxicating mix of  intricate rhythms, folkloric poetry and breathtaking improvisation.  Featuring the traditional Cuban rhythm section of ‘tres’ guitar, bongos,  bass and vocals, Papalote adds piano, conga, flute, clarinet, and  saxophone, creating a soulful interplay of rhythms and lyricism. Evolving  around a group of devoted musicians digging into ‘son montuno’,  Papalote draws inspiration from legends like Arsenio Rodriguez and  explores less common Cuban musical styles, like ‘changüi’ and ‘nengón’. They merge the traditional with the unconventional, infusing elements of  Latin, Jazz and Salsa into classic ‘son’ repertoire in a way that captivates  and exhilarates. 

Papalote is: Neil Gardiner - lead vocals and piano; Larry Lewis - tres  guitar, classical guitar and vocals; Jonno Lightstone - flute, saxophones  and vocals; Mario Allende - percussion and Yoser Rodriguez - bass.

Laura hubert Band
september 6 & 13 @ 5:00 PM

Led by : Laura Hubert - Vocals

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Canadian vocal treasure, born and raised in Toronto, Laura Hubert has remained a steady force on the city’s music scene over the past 25 years. Although she retired from rock and roll back per se when JUNO-winning indie-rock group Leslie Spit Treeo split up late last millennium, for several decades now she has been singing her soulful interpretations of vintage blues, jazz and Western swing all over the Greater Toronto Area. “I want to participate in the joy of the world, try to keep it light,” says Hubert.  “Just trying to have some fun. Sing some songs. Make some music. Give some joy.”

Over the years she recorded 3 solo albums with her band, led by pianist Peter Hill and featuring some of Toronto’s finest including Chris Whiteley, Brandi Disterheft, Victor Bateman, William Sperandei: “Girlish Days” (2000), “Live at the Rex” (2001) and “Half Bridled” (2004).

In the years since these recordings, Hubert and her fans enjoyed residencies at venerable venues such as Grossman’s Tavern, The Cameron House and The Rex Hotel. Singing many of the same old classic songs over the years, like the finest of wine Hubert’s art has aged in the best way, her bluesy growl deeper and more powerful than ever.

“One Night in Kensington” is an initiative spearheaded by Order of Canada member, singer-songwriter and long-time friend of Hubert, is the new recording fans have long been waiting for. “Hubert’s unique and soulful vocal delivery can make any old song sound brand new,” says Molly Johnson.

Produced by Johnson and her Kensington Market Jazz Festival team, the new album live at Poetry Jazz Café find Hubert in the happy company of four very fine players: Eric St-Laurent on guitar, Davide DiRenzo on drums, Steve Wallace on bass and long-time musical partner Peter Hill on piano.  

Michael Sarian
September 6 & 7 @ 8:00 PM

Michael Sarian: trumpet/fx
Patrick O'Reilly: electric guitar
Josh Cole: bass 
Nick Fraser: drums

Trumpeter and composer Michael Sarian has been praised for his "unique compositional and  instrumental voice" (Friedrich Kunzmann, All About Jazz) and his "endlessly renewable strain of lyric  improvisation regardless of context or material." (Peter Margasak, Downbeat Magazine). 

Born in Toronto and raised in Buenos Aires, Sarian moved to New York City in 2012 and has since  performed on some of the world’s most iconic stages, including the Montreux Jazz Festival in  Switzerland, the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., the O2 Arena in London, and Teatro Colón in  Argentina, as well as beloved NYC venues and festivals such as the Blue Note, Jazz at Lincoln Center,  BRIC JazzFest, Festival of New Trumpet Music, the Beacon Theatre, Yankee Stadium, Barclays Center,  and Central Park SummerStage. He has appeared on WNYC’s Soundcheck, NPR’s World Cafe, and more. 

Michael's artistic output is as diverse as his background. He has released several albums with his long standing acoustic quartet, including Live at Cliff Bell’s (Shifting Paradigm Records), which was named one  of the best live albums of 2024 by The New York City Jazz Record, praising the quartet as “a band that’s  developed the kind of telepathy only the road can build… there’s a late ’70s–early ’80s feel to the music  throughout, more akin to the ‘stadium jazz’ of V.S.O.P. or Milestone-era McCoy Tyner” (Philip Freeman). 

His latest project, ESQUINA (out now on Greenleaf Music), shaped by Sarian’s Armenian heritage,  Argentine upbringing, and deep grounding in jazz and improvisation, blends layered synths, extended  trumpet techniques, and graphic scores into immersive performances rooted in memory, dislocation,  and ritual, “with the mysterious groove and haunting delay on his trumpet lines carrying the lessons of  Miles Davis’ Bitches Brew into the 21st century” (George Grella, Bandcamp Daily). Their follow up album,  a double CD titled ‘In This Desert’, is set for release in September of 2026 on Burning Ambulance. 

In 2023, Michael joined the Jonas Brothers on their world tour, performing at sold out arenas and  stadiums across the globe, and appears on their ‘Live From the O2 London’ album. He has also recorded  and toured extensively with artists such as soul powerhouse Bette Smith and progressive jazz orchestra  The NYChillharmonic. 

His artistic and compositional pursuit has led Michael to attend residencies at the Virginia Center for the  Creative Arts (2026), Millay Arts (2025), and Art Omi: Music (2024), and was an artist-in-residence at  Culture Lab LIC during the winter/spring 2022 season. In 2026, he continues his creative journey as a  National Arts Club Fellow. 

Michael is a Del Quadro Trumpets Arist, performs on his signature ‘SARIAN’ custom line of mouthpieces  made in France by Atelier Donat, and is endorsed by Applied Microphone Technologies (AMT).

Noah Kosta
September 7 @ 5:00 PM

Sax: Paul Mifsud 

Piano: Leon Racine 

Bass: Mauro Belloto 

Drums: Leigh Robinson

Noah Kosta : Vocals

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Noah Kosta is a 22 year old jazz/pop artist, captivating audiences across Canada with his mesmerizing and unique voice. Fresh off an engaging appearance on “Canada’s Got Talent,” Noah’s musical journey is a testament to his deep-rooted passion for entertaining, solidifying his place as one of the most promising emerging talents in the industry. From the jazz-infused halls of his grandfather’s home to the grand stages of Toronto, Noah’s musical journey began at a young age. Exposed early to the classic tunes of Frank Sinatra and the Rat Pack, Noah was steered towards mastering the Big Band/Crooner style with distinctive flair. Since the age of 15, he has showcased his growing talent at notable venues, including Richmond Hill Center for the Performing Arts, Casino Rama, Koerner Hall, Mel Lastman’s Square for Summer Serenades, and the International Beaches Jazz Festival. At 17 years old, Noah won the Grand Prize for “The LIVECITY™ Music Awards”, which granted him a fully produced performance video of “Angel Eyes” (view Performance Clips below), as well as garnering Noah a guaranteed spot at “Youth Day 2022”. When Noah was 18, he won “The Long & McQuade Singing Contest with John Santos”, winning the opportunity to record eight songs with producer Anthony Wright (worked with Bryan Adams, Christina Aguilera, BoB, Jadakiss, and Flo Rida). Before turning 20, Noah had already collaborated with renowned vocal coaches Elaine Overholt (worked with John Travolta, Zac Efron, Shawn Mendes) and Stanislas Vitort (finalist on “The Voice” in Russia). He has also worked with prestigious artists, including Alma Deutscher, Bill King, and Charles T. Cozens. In 2026, Noah is lighting up stages across Canada with varied musical styles, ranging from timeless jazz classics, to modern jazz-pop repertoire.

Michael Sarian
September 6 & 7 @ 8:00 PM

Michael Sarian: trumpet/fx
Patrick O'Reilly: electric guitar
Josh Cole: bass 
Nick Fraser: drums

Trumpeter and composer Michael Sarian has been praised for his "unique compositional and  instrumental voice" (Friedrich Kunzmann, All About Jazz) and his "endlessly renewable strain of lyric  improvisation regardless of context or material." (Peter Margasak, Downbeat Magazine). 

Born in Toronto and raised in Buenos Aires, Sarian moved to New York City in 2012 and has since  performed on some of the world’s most iconic stages, including the Montreux Jazz Festival in  Switzerland, the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., the O2 Arena in London, and Teatro Colón in  Argentina, as well as beloved NYC venues and festivals such as the Blue Note, Jazz at Lincoln Center,  BRIC JazzFest, Festival of New Trumpet Music, the Beacon Theatre, Yankee Stadium, Barclays Center,  and Central Park SummerStage. He has appeared on WNYC’s Soundcheck, NPR’s World Cafe, and more. 

Michael's artistic output is as diverse as his background. He has released several albums with his long standing acoustic quartet, including Live at Cliff Bell’s (Shifting Paradigm Records), which was named one  of the best live albums of 2024 by The New York City Jazz Record, praising the quartet as “a band that’s  developed the kind of telepathy only the road can build… there’s a late ’70s–early ’80s feel to the music  throughout, more akin to the ‘stadium jazz’ of V.S.O.P. or Milestone-era McCoy Tyner” (Philip Freeman). 

His latest project, ESQUINA (out now on Greenleaf Music), shaped by Sarian’s Armenian heritage,  Argentine upbringing, and deep grounding in jazz and improvisation, blends layered synths, extended  trumpet techniques, and graphic scores into immersive performances rooted in memory, dislocation,  and ritual, “with the mysterious groove and haunting delay on his trumpet lines carrying the lessons of  Miles Davis’ Bitches Brew into the 21st century” (George Grella, Bandcamp Daily). Their follow up album,  a double CD titled ‘In This Desert’, is set for release in September of 2026 on Burning Ambulance. 

In 2023, Michael joined the Jonas Brothers on their world tour, performing at sold out arenas and  stadiums across the globe, and appears on their ‘Live From the O2 London’ album. He has also recorded  and toured extensively with artists such as soul powerhouse Bette Smith and progressive jazz orchestra  The NYChillharmonic. 

His artistic and compositional pursuit has led Michael to attend residencies at the Virginia Center for the  Creative Arts (2026), Millay Arts (2025), and Art Omi: Music (2024), and was an artist-in-residence at  Culture Lab LIC during the winter/spring 2022 season. In 2026, he continues his creative journey as a  National Arts Club Fellow. 

Michael is a Del Quadro Trumpets Arist, performs on his signature ‘SARIAN’ custom line of mouthpieces  made in France by Atelier Donat, and is endorsed by Applied Microphone Technologies (AMT).

Brian An
September 8 @ 5:00 PM

Brian An - trombone 

Ewen Farncombe - piano 

Nick Fraser - drums 

Mark Godfrey - bass 

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

An Ottawa native, Brian An (pronounced “on”) has been dubbed "one of Ontario's most exciting young jazz trombonists" (Mark Ferguson, Canadian trombonist and pianist) and "a compelling hard bop trombonist with plenty to say on his horn" (Peter Hum, Ottawa Citizen). Brian's previous appearances include The Rex and the Jazz Bistro in Toronto, the Ottawa International Jazz Festival and the National Arts Centre in Ottawa, and The Jazz Room and the Registry Theatre in Waterloo. Additionally, he has performed with some of Canada's great jazz musicians, including Ted Warren, Brian Dickinson, Adrian Vedady, Ethan Ardelli, Roddy Ellias, John Geggie, and Mark Ferguson. Brian has also been interviewed by CBC regarding his career and performances. Besides his own projects as a leader, Brian has performed with groups such as Broken Social Scene, the Ottawa Jazz Orchestra, and The Espionage Orchestra (a tribute to the music of James Bond led by Juno award-winning trumpeter Ed Lister.) He studied with trombonists Drum Hudson (Frank Sinatra, Paul Anka, Tony Bennett), Chris Glassman (Michael Bublé, Ulysses Owens Jr., Kurt Elling), and Doug Elliott (Airmen of Note). In addition to his musical pursuits, Brian studies Mathematics at the University of Waterloo.

Classic REx jam
hosted by chris banks
september 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 @ 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.

James Griffith Quartet
september 9 @ 5:00 PM

James Griffith (Alto Saxophone),
Eric Liang (Piano),
Julian Anderson-Bowes (Bass),
Jackson Haynes (Drums).

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

James Griffith is an international-award winning Toronto-based jazz saxophonist, bandleader and composer. Born and raised in Lloydminster, Alberta, Griffith aims to push the envelope of contemporary jazz while staying grounded within the swinging tradition of bebop and beyond. 

Winner of the 2024 International Saxophone Symposium Jazz Saxophone Competition, Griffith has had the pleasure of working and performing with international jazz icons such as Joe Farnsworth, Larnell Lewis, Terri Lyne Carrington, Dayna Stephens, David Virelles, The U.S. Navy Commodores Big Band, Lucas Pino, Jacob Chung, Mike Downes and more. As a highly in-demand sideman, Griffith has been a member of many notable groups including The Shuffle Demons, the Marmalade/Listening Room Collective, The Live Video Game Jazz Orchestra and most recently the Joe Farnsworth Quartet. Griffith is elated to be back at The Rex as a leader presenting a program of new original music with an all-star group composed of many of Canada’s most notable musicians.

Roberto Occhipinti Quintet
September 9, 10, 11, 12 @ 8:00 pm

Roberto Occhipinti - Bass
Mike Murley - Sax
Adrean Farrugia - Piano
Mark MacLean - Drums 
Kevin Turcotte -trumpet

Playing music from his Juno nominated recordings of the last 20 years, on Modica Music, Performing contemporary jazz compositions and standards with the finest Canadian Jazz musicians in a classic ensemble setting.

Roberto Occhipinti Quintet
September 9, 10, 11, 12 @ 8:00 pm

Roberto Occhipinti - Bass
Mike Murley - Sax
Adrean Farrugia - Piano
Mark MacLean - Drums 
Kevin Turcotte -trumpet

Playing music from his Juno nominated recordings of the last 20 years, on Modica Music, Performing contemporary jazz compositions and standards with the finest Canadian Jazz musicians in a classic ensemble setting.

John Troy Group
September 11 @ 5:00 PM

John Troy (Woodwinds, Compositions, Electronics),
Gianluca Occhipinto (Keyboards, Piano), Lowell Whitty (Drums, Cymbals).

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

 JAT is a woodwind artist originally hailing from Buffalo, NY. Having pursued his musical  journey & working experience in New York City, through his passion & consistency, John  maintains an active itinerary as an entrepreneur, performer, instructor, educator, &  endorsing artist throughout the United States. John is also the owner & operator of John  Aaron Troy Entertainment, LLC, an entertainment & events company, servicing multiple  states with public & private event entertainment & planning, as well as a private lesson,  consult & coaching studio, John Troy Enterprises Inc. 

 Recent professional performances include appearances with The John Brown Big  Band, Nicholas Payton, Dr. Lonnie Smith, Take 6, The Revive Big Band, Regina Carter,  Goapole, Lance Ellington, Brown Man, Sam Hill Entertainment, Atlas Band, and the Erie  Philharmonic. He has recently served as a clinician for Penn State & the North Carolina  Arts Council. Evolving his experience & journey via touring productions of musicals &  cabaret-style shows, John has since traveled extensively as a soloist, guest artist,  servicing a variety of concerts, presentations & engagements for commercial bands,  touring bands & musicals. John is currently celebrating a string of recent original music  releases, comprising of singles & music videos, exploring his writing for electronic effects  drenched Jazz | Hip-hop Organ Quintet, whilst being anchored in bop traditions. John is  also currently delighted to offer educational passions & enthusiasm to his clients. John  loves when he can collaborate with greater Toronto area musicians, do not miss this  show @ The Rex, Friday September 11th, 2026 | 5-7pm.  

Roberto Occhipinti Quintet
September 9, 10, 11, 12 @ 8:00 pm

Roberto Occhipinti - Bass
Mike Murley - Sax
Adrean Farrugia - Piano
Mark MacLean - Drums 
Kevin Turcotte - Trumpet

Playing music from his Juno nominated recordings of the last 20 years, on Modica Music, Performing contemporary jazz compositions and standards with the finest Canadian Jazz musicians in a classic ensemble setting.

Oscar Evans Group
September 12 @ 2:00 PM

• Sean McCarthy: Soprano saxophone

• Zachary Nevins: Trombone

• Andrew McCarthy: Drums

• Oscar Evans: Bass

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Oscar Evans Bio  

Oscar Evans is a Canadian jazz composer and multi-instrumentalist from Kingston, Ontario  specializing in upright bass and trumpet. Blinded in his adolescence, Oscar has gravitated  toward learning multiple instruments as a medium for understanding music theory and  musicianship. 

Oscar studied Jazz Trumpet at Humber College from 2017-2020 and looks forward to coming  back to Toronto with his ensemble of incredibly talented jazz musicians: Paul Morrison on  piano, Nicholas Adema on trombone, Bobby Hsu on saxophone, Andy Love on drums. Oscar  Evans will play double bass. In recent years, Oscar has spent his time focusing on his bass  playing and composition. 

Oscar consistently pushes his own boundaries to create interesting new music. In 2026 he will  release two full-length records: one consisting of free jazz, and the other of original  compositions.  

You can find all of his new releases on Bandcamp. Follow him on Instagram  @oscarmayfieldevans for information about upcoming live performances.

Neon Eagle
september 12 and 26 @ 5:00 PM

Led by: Mike Eckert - Pedal Steel

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Bringing entrancing instrumental fusion music featuring the pedal steel.

Come in, sit back, and feel the hypnotic vibes of this incredible group!

Roberto Occhipinti Quintet
September 9, 10, 11, 12 @ 8:00 pm

Roberto Occhipinti - Bass
Mike Murley - Sax
Adrean Farrugia - Piano
Mark MacLean - Drums 
Kevin Turcotte -trumpet

Playing music from his Juno nominated recordings of the last 20 years, on Modica Music, Performing contemporary jazz compositions and standards with the finest Canadian Jazz musicians in a classic ensemble setting.

Avataar
September 13 @ 2:00 PM

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

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Avataar is an award-winning Brampton-based world-jazz group featuring some of Canada’s  finest jazz, world, funk, and pop musicians. Petal, (2016) received critical acclaim from  publications including DOWNBEAT, JAZZIZ, allaboutjazz and worldmusiccentral.com. Worldview (2021), was earmarked as one of the ‘Best Albums of 2021’ by JAZZFM, and won the 2022 JUNO  award for Best Jazz Album of the Year (Group).

Laura hubert Band
september 6 & 13 @ 5:00 PM

Led by : Laura Hubert - Vocals

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Canadian vocal treasure, born and raised in Toronto, Laura Hubert has remained a steady force on the city’s music scene over the past 25 years. Although she retired from rock and roll back per se when JUNO-winning indie-rock group Leslie Spit Treeo split up late last millennium, for several decades now she has been singing her soulful interpretations of vintage blues, jazz and Western swing all over the Greater Toronto Area. “I want to participate in the joy of the world, try to keep it light,” says Hubert.  “Just trying to have some fun. Sing some songs. Make some music. Give some joy.”

Over the years she recorded 3 solo albums with her band, led by pianist Peter Hill and featuring some of Toronto’s finest including Chris Whiteley, Brandi Disterheft, Victor Bateman, William Sperandei: “Girlish Days” (2000), “Live at the Rex” (2001) and “Half Bridled” (2004).

In the years since these recordings, Hubert and her fans enjoyed residencies at venerable venues such as Grossman’s Tavern, The Cameron House and The Rex Hotel. Singing many of the same old classic songs over the years, like the finest of wine Hubert’s art has aged in the best way, her bluesy growl deeper and more powerful than ever.

“One Night in Kensington” is an initiative spearheaded by Order of Canada member, singer-songwriter and long-time friend of Hubert, is the new recording fans have long been waiting for. “Hubert’s unique and soulful vocal delivery can make any old song sound brand new,” says Molly Johnson.

Produced by Johnson and her Kensington Market Jazz Festival team, the new album live at Poetry Jazz Café find Hubert in the happy company of four very fine players: Eric St-Laurent on guitar, Davide DiRenzo on drums, Steve Wallace on bass and long-time musical partner Peter Hill on piano.  

Mike Murray Presents Wired at 50: A Tribute to Jeff Beck
September 13 & 14 @ 8:00 PM

• Mike Murray (Guitar)

• Giovanni Campanelli (Keys)

• Peter Bleakney (Bass)

• Dan Klas (Drums)

• Shourya Jain (Vocals)

Mike Murray is one of Canada’s leading voices on the guitar, known for fearless approach to music, explosive playing style, and genre-bending composition. His music exists in the space between worlds, built on a foundation of Jazz harmony and complexity blended with textures and rhythms from South Asia, Latin America, and beyond, and performed with a Rock attitude and intensity where every note sends a message. He is extremely active in the guitar-driven music space, both with his own band the Mike Murray Group and as a collaborator with internationally renowned guitarists such as Mekaal Hasan of Pakistan, Yiannis Kapoulas of Greece, and many more. He is sought-out as an educator for his expertise, having been invited to join the music faculty at Centennial College at age 24, and in 2025 was invited to develop a new curriculum of progressive music and guitar at York University. He is a highly in-demand session player, having performed with an incredibly diverse array of artists and productions in virtually every imaginable style of popular music and various world styles, ranging from dozens of major musical theatre productions, to award-winning artists such as Jeremy Voltz and Garrett Jamieson, tributes to Jeff Beck and Frank Zappa, Bollywood superstars Karthik and Vijay Prakash, and many more. He is endorsed by Godin Guitars, SGI guitars, and D'addario strings.

University of Toronto Student Jazz ENSEMBLES
September 14 & 21 @ 5:00 PM

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Mike Murray Presents Wired at 50: A Tribute to Jeff Beck
September 13 & 14 @ 8:00 PM

• Mike Murray (Guitar)

• Giovanni Campanelli (Keys)

• Peter Bleakney (Bass)

• Dan Klas (Drums)

• Shourya Jain (Vocals)

Mike Murray is one of Canada’s leading voices on the guitar, known for fearless approach to music, explosive playing style, and genre-bending composition. His music exists in the space between worlds, built on a foundation of Jazz harmony and complexity blended with textures and rhythms from South Asia, Latin America, and beyond, and performed with a Rock attitude and intensity where every note sends a message. He is extremely active in the guitar-driven music space, both with his own band the Mike Murray Group and as a collaborator with internationally renowned guitarists such as Mekaal Hasan of Pakistan, Yiannis Kapoulas of Greece, and many more. He is sought-out as an educator for his expertise, having been invited to join the music faculty at Centennial College at age 24, and in 2025 was invited to develop a new curriculum of progressive music and guitar at York University. He is a highly in-demand session player, having performed with an incredibly diverse array of artists and productions in virtually every imaginable style of popular music and various world styles, ranging from dozens of major musical theatre productions, to award-winning artists such as Jeremy Voltz and Garrett Jamieson, tributes to Jeff Beck and Frank Zappa, Bollywood superstars Karthik and Vijay Prakash, and many more. He is endorsed by Godin Guitars, SGI guitars, and D'addario strings.

Magda Baraczka Quartet
September 15 @ 5:00 PM

Magda Baraczka (Vocals)
Duncan Wilson (Piano)
Hiro Tanaka (Bass)
Alex Sgrignoli (Drums)

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Magda Baraczka is a young rising artist, educator, and arranger based in the Toronto jazz scene. Entering her final year of studies in the Faculty of Music at the University of Toronto, she has flourished in her love of live performance. Coming from backgrounds of playing instrumental jazz and performing in live musical theatre, she invited listeners into a multifaceted listening experience and performance. 

Taking inspiration from the wonderful Betty Carter, Carmen Mcrae, and Lorez Alexandria, Magda sings traditional jazz standards with the aim of creating a fresh and unique sound. In addition to the Rex, she has sung and led her bands at venues across the city, such as the Jazz Bistro, the Emmet Ray, the Only Cafe, and the Duke Live. 

You can find Magda and her music on Instagram with her handle @music.magda.

Classic REx jam
hosted by chris banks
september 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 @ 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.

Trombone Charlotte & Jared Higgins Present: GRAPEVINE QUARTET
September 16, 23 & 30 @ 5:00 PM

Charlotte McAfee-Brunner - Trombone and Vocals

Jared Higgins - Guitar

Max Simpson - Bass

Andrew McCarthy - Drums

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

A force in the city’s jazz scene since 2016, Charlotte has spent nearly a decade crafting her sound as both a sideman and star. Since stepping into the spotlight in 2021, she’s led high-energy ensembles across Canada’s top stages — Toronto Jazz Festival, Kensington Market Jazz Festival, Port Hope, Mont Tremblant, and a knockout appearance at Massey Hall’s Women’s Blues Revue where she belted out originals that brought the house down.

John Stretch Trio
September 16, 17, 18, 19 @ 8:00 PM

John Stetch (Piano),
Ethan Ardelli (Drums),
Mike Downes (Bass).

Steinway pianist John Stetch has played at most of the top NYC jazz clubs and is a 7-time  Juno Nominee. He was a finalist at the Kennedy Center Thelonious Monk International  Piano Competition, as a composer (1993) and pianist (1999). UBC Master of Music grad  Stetch has performed across several continents, and critics often use the word 'original' to  describe the classically trained Stetch. His trio plays mostly swinging classic standards - with his long time collaborators Mike Downes on bass and Ethan Ardelli on drums.

Michael Herring, Allison Au & Ernesto Cervini Trio
September 17 @ 5:00 PM

Michael Herring - Bass
Allison Au - Sax
Ernesto Cervini - Drums

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Three of Canada's most respected jazz voices come together as the Michael Herring, Allison Au and Ernesto Cervini Trio to take the stage at the Rex. 

Michael Herring is a Toronto-based composer and double bassist, a JUNO nominee and 2026 Louis Applebaum Composers Award nominee whose playing and writing have shaped some of Canada's most distinctive jazz voices over two decades. He leads or co-leads eight bands spanning jazz, roots, Americana and indie rock, including the JUNO-nominated Peripheral Vision, co-led with guitarist Don Scott. His latest releases are 918 Bathurst Videos by Peripheral Vision, and singles, Front of Mind and Oh, Vulnerable Voice, co-written with Harley Card. His bass has been called "soaring and swooping" by the Toronto Star. 

Allison Au is a JUNO Award–winning saxophonist, composer and arranger and one of Toronto's most compelling bandleaders. Her sophomore record, Forest Grove, won the JUNO for Best Jazz Album: Group in 2016, with further nominations in 2013 and 2019. Her writing fuses jazz with classical, Latin, pop and R&B influences — most recently on 2023's Migrations, which wove vocals, strings and poetry into a meditation on her family's history. Ernesto Cervini is a JUNO Award–winning drummer, composer and bandleader whose playing has been called that of "an arranger at heart." He's built one of the most varied bodies of work on the Canadian scene, including the Ernesto Cervini Quartet, the JUNO-nominated sextet Turboprop, and the trio Myriad3. Critics have likened his feel to old-school greats like Art Blakey and Billy Higgins. 

Together, this trio brings the full weight of Toronto's jazz scene to one bandstand. It's a night not to be missed.

John Stretch Trio
September 16, 17, 18, 19 @ 8:00 PM

John Stetch (Piano),
Ethan Ardelli (Drums),
Mike Downes (Bass).

Steinway pianist John Stetch has played at most of the top NYC jazz clubs and is a 7-time  Juno Nominee. He was a finalist at the Kennedy Center Thelonious Monk International  Piano Competition, as a composer (1993) and pianist (1999). UBC Master of Music grad  Stetch has performed across several continents, and critics often use the word 'original' to  describe the classically trained Stetch. His trio plays mostly swinging classic standards - with his long time collaborators Mike Downes on bass and Ethan Ardelli on drums.

Duncan Wilson Trio
September 18 @ 5:00 PM

Duncan Wilson - piano
Christopher Parnis - bass
Frank Botos - drums

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Toronto-based pianist Duncan Wilson (b. 2002) is an exciting and versatile voice  in Canadian jazz. Since 2023, Duncan has led one of the most consistently  working piano trios in Ontario. Duncan’s playing style and compositions  combine the beloved familiarity of classic jazz piano recordings with a 21st Century freshness and intensity. His catchy melodies and inspiring grooves have  helped him connect with audiences at the finest venues and festivals across  Ontario. In addition to his academic training at the University of Toronto's  Faculty of Music, the Orillia, Ontario native has learned his craft by sharing the  bandstand with many masters of the Toronto jazz scene, including Dave Young,  Terry Clarke, Don Thompson, Alex Dean, Kevin Turcotte, and many more. Also  known as one of the city's most in-demand sidemen, Duncan's playing can be  heard on Jack Zorawski's 2026 album Another Rhythm Song.

John Stretch Trio
September 16, 17, 18, 19 @ 8:00 PM

John Stetch (Piano),
Ethan Ardelli (Drums),
Mike Downes (Bass).

Steinway pianist John Stetch has played at most of the top NYC jazz clubs and is a 7-time  Juno Nominee. He was a finalist at the Kennedy Center Thelonious Monk International  Piano Competition, as a composer (1993) and pianist (1999). UBC Master of Music grad  Stetch has performed across several continents, and critics often use the word 'original' to  describe the classically trained Stetch. His trio plays mostly swinging classic standards - with his long time collaborators Mike Downes on bass and Ethan Ardelli on drums.

Advocats Big Band
September 19 @ 2:00 PM

17 Piece Big Band

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.  Performing on the first Monday of every month since 2004, starting at  the Chick’n’deli and currently at The Duke Live, as well as numerous  other venues and events, and with regular radio airplay, the Advocats  Big Band never fails to please its audience with a widely appealing  repertoire of Jazz, Swing and Latin music.

Ewen Farncombe's Monk Tribute
September 19 @ 5:00 PM

Ewen Farncombe (Piano),
Josh Goldman (Bass),
Perry White (Saxophone),
Morgan Childs (Drums)

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Ewen Farncombe’s Monk Tribute features some of Canada’s finest musicians paying homage  to the great composer and pianist, Thelonious Monk. Featuring some of his most well known  and loved compositions as well as his lesser known gems, the groups’ aim is to present the  music of Monk in a way that he would appreciate, and to provide not only musical  entertainment and the means for joyous dance, but an educational element as well. There are  stories and tales, theres trivia, there are messages passed down from a master, and from the  band there is a truly sincere feeling of respect and admiration for one of America’s greatest. 

John Stretch Trio
September 16, 17, 18, 19 @ 8:00 PM

John Stetch (Piano),
Ethan Ardelli (Drums),
Mike Downes (Bass).

Steinway pianist John Stetch has played at most of the top NYC jazz clubs and is a 7-time  Juno Nominee. He was a finalist at the Kennedy Center Thelonious Monk International  Piano Competition, as a composer (1993) and pianist (1999). UBC Master of Music grad  Stetch has performed across several continents, and critics often use the word 'original' to  describe the classically trained Stetch. His trio plays mostly swinging classic standards - with his long time collaborators Mike Downes on bass and Ethan Ardelli on drums.

Brodie West Quartet
September 20 @ 2:00 PM

Brodie West — saxophone

Tania Gill — piano 

Rob Clutton — bass

Nick Fraser — drums

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

The Brodie West Quartet presents a program of all calypso inspired music. 

The Bentley Collective
September 20 @ 5:00 PM

Brooke Blackburn - Acoustic and Electric Guitars, Lead vocals
Roger Williams - Bass , Backup Vocals
Rich Greenspoon - Drums

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Brooke Blackburn has been performing Acoustic Soul for a number of years in the Toronto area. Brooke incorporates Folk, Blues, Jazz and Soul vibes enveloped in original music. 

Brooke is the Composer Vocalist & Guitar player In the Bentley Collective also the 2 time Juno nominated, The Blackburn Brothers. 

Nominated for Male Vocalist of the year and Guitar Player of the year in 2023 also nominated for Song of the Year 2024 Blues Music Awards in Memphis Tennessee. 

Brooke has a writing style well-rooted in Black Canadian History.

Jonathan & Andrew Kay's The Coltrane Sutras feat. Pat LaBarbera
September 20 & 21 @ 8:00 PM

• Andrew Kay – Alto & Soprano Saxophone, Bb & Bass Clarinet, Singing Bowls

• Jonathan Kay – Tenor & Soprano Saxophones, Shakuhachi, Esraj

• Pat LaBarbera – Tenor & Soprano Saxophones

• Roberto Occhipinti – Upright Bass

• Dhaivat Jani – Tabla, Drums & Percussion

The Coltrane Sutras is a transcultural re-imagining of the musical worlds of John and Alice Coltrane. It brings together instruments, rhythms, and melodies from global traditions through leading Canadian jazz and world-music artists. The project extends the Coltranes' spiritual explorations and search for a "multicultural theory of musical transcendence" into a contemporary sound shaped by Toronto's cultural plurality.

University of Toronto Student Jazz ENSEMBLES
September 14 & 21 @ 5:00 PM

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Jonathan & Andrew Kay's The Coltrane Sutras feat. Pat LaBarbera
September 20 & 21 @ 8:00 PM

• Andrew Kay – Alto & Soprano Saxophone, Bb & Bass Clarinet, Singing Bowls

• Jonathan Kay – Tenor & Soprano Saxophones, Shakuhachi, Esraj

• Pat LaBarbera – Tenor & Soprano Saxophones

• Roberto Occhipinti – Upright Bass

• Dhaivat Jani – Tabla, Drums & Percussion

The Coltrane Sutras is a transcultural re-imagining of the musical worlds of John and Alice Coltrane. It brings together instruments, rhythms, and melodies from global traditions through leading Canadian jazz and world-music artists. The project extends the Coltranes' spiritual explorations and search for a "multicultural theory of musical transcendence" into a contemporary sound shaped by Toronto's cultural plurality.

Nickel/Ling Quintet
September 22 @ 5:00 pm

Fionn Ling - Trumpet
Luke Nickel - Trombone
Henry Lewis - Piano
Yoshi Maclear-Wall - Bass
Mark Gerlai - Drums

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

The Nickel-Ling Quintet is a collection of young Toronto musicians led by trumpet player Fionn Ling and Trombonist Luke Nickel. The combo delivers music steeped in the rich tradition of Jazz and takes inspiration from the Big Band sound where instrument timbre was malleable to capture magical soundscapes. By bringing a fresh perspective through a contemporary approach to unique arrangements and the frequent use of instrument mutes, this quintet strives to breathe new life into their inspirations.

Classic REx jam
hosted by chris banks
september 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 @ 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.

Trombone Charlotte & Jared Higgins Present: GRAPEVINE QUARTET
September 16, 23 & 30 @ 5:00 PM

Charlotte McAfee-Brunner - Trombone and Vocals

Jared Higgins - Guitar

Max Simpson - Bass

Andrew McCarthy - Drums

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

A force in the city’s jazz scene since 2016, Charlotte has spent nearly a decade crafting her sound as both a sideman and star. Since stepping into the spotlight in 2021, she’s led high-energy ensembles across Canada’s top stages — Toronto Jazz Festival, Kensington Market Jazz Festival, Port Hope, Mont Tremblant, and a knockout appearance at Massey Hall’s Women’s Blues Revue where she belted out originals that brought the house down.

Pat LaBarbera /Kirk MacDonald Quintet Celebrating John Coltrane at 100
September 23, 24, 25, 26 @ 8:00 PM

Pat LaBarbera - saxophone

Kirk MacDonald - saxophone

Brian Dickinson - piano

Neil Swainson - bass

Terry Clarke - drums

About Pat LaBarbera

saxophonist, flutist, clarinetist, composer, jazz educator was born in Mt. Morris, New York, and spent the first thirty years of his life in the United States before moving to Toronto in 1974. His father taught the basics of music to Pat and his two younger brothers, John (a gifted arranger/trumpeter) and Joe (a highly accomplished drummer). He studied at the famed Berklee College of Music, and soon after graduating, began to make his presence felt with the best of the American big bands. 

By the time he relocated to Toronto, Ontario, Canada 1974, Pat LaBarbera was already well-known for his solo work with the bands of Louis Bellson, Woody Herman, and for seven years, touring and recording as featured tenor saxophone soloist with the Buddy Rich Band throughout every major city in the U.S., Europe, and Japan. Universally considered one of the world’s most exciting saxophonists. 

LaBarbera has performed and recorded consistently with Elvin Jones since 1975, appearing at premier jazz festivals all over the world. After a brief hiatus, he rejoined Elvin Jones’ ‘Time Machine’ in 2001 to perform and tour North America, Britain. Europe, and Japan for the next two years. Describing LaBarbera’s phenomenal talent, Elvin Jones said, “Pat has tremendous musical ability beyond the technical facility. He has great power of concentration to detail and is totally committed with body and soul.” LaBarbera has played on every major network television show including The Ed Sullivan Show and Johnny Carson’s Tonight Show several times. He has worked with the biggest entertainers in the business including Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Dizzy Gillespie, Ella Fitzgerald, Chick Corea, Woody Shaw, and McCoy Tyner. 

Pat LaBarbera has been among the key members of the Toronto jazz scene for the past three-plus decades, claiming Junos and ‘Jazz Report’ Awards for writing and performing with his own jazz ensembles all along the way. He has been on the full-time teaching faculty at Humber College for the past several years instructing on Saxophone, Ensemble Performance, Jazz Repertoire Development, and Advanced Jazz Theory and Performance. His album, Deep in a Dream, won the 2000 Juno Award for Best Mainstream Jazz Album. 

His album, Deep in a Dream, won the 2000 Juno Award for Best Mainstream Jazz Album. His album, Crossing the Line, features pianist Brian Dickinson and bassist Neil Swainson, as well as special guests trumpeter Randy Brecker and drummer Joe LaBarbera. 

In 2013, Pat and pianist Don Thompson released A Little SImple Magic, a duo recording featuring twelve standards. 

About Kirk MacDonald 

With an established reputation as one of Canada’s leading saxophonists, Kirk MacDonald cut his first record at the age of thirteen. Throughout his career, he has received numerous awards and has worked with many leading musicians in a variety of musical genres. He has performed on over fifty

CDs as both leader and sideman and has participated in numerous national broadcast recordings for CBC Radio. In addition to performing extensively throughout Canada, he has also performed in the USA, United Kingdom, Germany, Spain, France, Italy, Holland, Monaco, Australia, Korea, Bermuda, and the Bahamas. 

For over thirty years Kirk MacDonald has worked and recorded with many leading Canadian, U.S., and international jazz musicians including Claude Ranger, Dave Young, Sam Noto, Sonny Greenwich, Kenny Wheeler, Eddie Henderson, Harold Mabern, Walter Bishop Jr., Tom Harrell, Vic Juris, Peter Bernstein, Adam Nussbaum, Rich Perry, Kurt Elling, David Virelles, Ralph Bowen, Dick Oatts, Ben Monder, Seamus Blake, Jonathan Blake, Lorne Lofsky, Bob Mover, Pat LaBarbera, John Taylor, Ron McClure, Jack DeJohnette, Mike Stern, Jim McNeely, Bob Mintzer, Vince Mendoza, John Clayton, Chris Potter, Glenn Ferris, Maria Schneider, Dave Grusin, Danilo Perez, Adam Rogers, Dennis Mackrel, Nancy Walker, Barry Romberg, Andre White, Rob Smith, Brian Dickinson, Denny Christianson, Bernie Senensky, Phil Nimmons, James Moody, Rosemary Clooney, and the Humber College Faculty Ensemble. 

Over 100 performances of Kirk MacDonald’s compositions appear on 25 albums, both as a leader and on recordings by other artists. Kirk has established a substantial body of original work as a saxophonist/composer over the past three decades. As a follow-up to his award-winning recordings Symmetry with Tom Harrell, and Vista Obscura with Harold Mabern, MacDonald released Common Ground, a double CD of his compositions arranged by Joe Sullivan for Jazz Orchestra. Silent Voices, a co-led quartet outing with renowned saxophonist Pat LaBarbera, featuring American jazz great Adam Nussbaum on drums. MacDonald’s latest recording Generations brings him back full circle to his roots in a program of jazz standards and the Great American Songbook. Generations features three generations of musicians: the legendary pianist Harold Mabern at age 82 and MacDonald’s wonderfully talented daughter Virginia MacDonald, at age 23, on clarinet. 

Kirk MacDonald has been active as an educator for 30 years at leading jazz studies programs such as The University of Toronto, Humber College, and McGill University. Through his work with these programs, numerous live performances, recordings, master classes, and workshops throughout Canada and internationally, Kirk has become one of Canada’s most respected and in-demand educators. 

For close to three decades MacDonald has been a leader in his field of performance, composition and education and has had a huge and lasting influence on many of Canada’s younger generation of musicians. Many former students have gone on to forge national and international careers in many genres of music. 

Kirk MacDonald is presently a full-time professor at Humber College in Toronto.

Jay Boehmer's Queen Street Four
September 24 @ 5:00 PM

Chris Gale – tenor sax  

Michael Herring – bass 

Rebecca Hennessy - trumpet 

Jay Boehmer – drums

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Queen Street Four is led by drummer and composer Jay Boehmer (BEE-mer) and exploits  the great sound of trumpet and tenor sax with the absence of piano or guitar for  harmony, similar to the Chet Baker and Gerry Mulligan Quartet. The band’s repertoire is  arranged by Boehmer and combines original compositions along with new arrangements  of standards like Night Train, Yesterdays and Jitterbug Waltz. You may even hear a ballad  by Frank Zappa. 

Pat LaBarbera /Kirk MacDonald Quintet Celebrating John Coltrane at 100
September 23, 24, 25, 26 @ 8:00 PM

Pat LaBarbera - saxophone

Kirk MacDonald - saxophone

Brian Dickinson - piano

Neil Swainson - bass

Terry Clarke - drums

About Pat LaBarbera

saxophonist, flutist, clarinetist, composer, jazz educator was born in Mt. Morris, New York, and spent the first thirty years of his life in the United States before moving to Toronto in 1974. His father taught the basics of music to Pat and his two younger brothers, John (a gifted arranger/trumpeter) and Joe (a highly accomplished drummer). He studied at the famed Berklee College of Music, and soon after graduating, began to make his presence felt with the best of the American big bands. 

By the time he relocated to Toronto, Ontario, Canada 1974, Pat LaBarbera was already well-known for his solo work with the bands of Louis Bellson, Woody Herman, and for seven years, touring and recording as featured tenor saxophone soloist with the Buddy Rich Band throughout every major city in the U.S., Europe, and Japan. Universally considered one of the world’s most exciting saxophonists. 

LaBarbera has performed and recorded consistently with Elvin Jones since 1975, appearing at premier jazz festivals all over the world. After a brief hiatus, he rejoined Elvin Jones’ ‘Time Machine’ in 2001 to perform and tour North America, Britain. Europe, and Japan for the next two years. Describing LaBarbera’s phenomenal talent, Elvin Jones said, “Pat has tremendous musical ability beyond the technical facility. He has great power of concentration to detail and is totally committed with body and soul.” LaBarbera has played on every major network television show including The Ed Sullivan Show and Johnny Carson’s Tonight Show several times. He has worked with the biggest entertainers in the business including Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Dizzy Gillespie, Ella Fitzgerald, Chick Corea, Woody Shaw, and McCoy Tyner. 

Pat LaBarbera has been among the key members of the Toronto jazz scene for the past three-plus decades, claiming Junos and ‘Jazz Report’ Awards for writing and performing with his own jazz ensembles all along the way. He has been on the full-time teaching faculty at Humber College for the past several years instructing on Saxophone, Ensemble Performance, Jazz Repertoire Development, and Advanced Jazz Theory and Performance. His album, Deep in a Dream, won the 2000 Juno Award for Best Mainstream Jazz Album. 

His album, Deep in a Dream, won the 2000 Juno Award for Best Mainstream Jazz Album. His album, Crossing the Line, features pianist Brian Dickinson and bassist Neil Swainson, as well as special guests trumpeter Randy Brecker and drummer Joe LaBarbera. 

In 2013, Pat and pianist Don Thompson released A Little SImple Magic, a duo recording featuring twelve standards. 

About Kirk MacDonald 

With an established reputation as one of Canada’s leading saxophonists, Kirk MacDonald cut his first record at the age of thirteen. Throughout his career, he has received numerous awards and has worked with many leading musicians in a variety of musical genres. He has performed on over fifty

CDs as both leader and sideman and has participated in numerous national broadcast recordings for CBC Radio. In addition to performing extensively throughout Canada, he has also performed in the USA, United Kingdom, Germany, Spain, France, Italy, Holland, Monaco, Australia, Korea, Bermuda, and the Bahamas. 

For over thirty years Kirk MacDonald has worked and recorded with many leading Canadian, U.S., and international jazz musicians including Claude Ranger, Dave Young, Sam Noto, Sonny Greenwich, Kenny Wheeler, Eddie Henderson, Harold Mabern, Walter Bishop Jr., Tom Harrell, Vic Juris, Peter Bernstein, Adam Nussbaum, Rich Perry, Kurt Elling, David Virelles, Ralph Bowen, Dick Oatts, Ben Monder, Seamus Blake, Jonathan Blake, Lorne Lofsky, Bob Mover, Pat LaBarbera, John Taylor, Ron McClure, Jack DeJohnette, Mike Stern, Jim McNeely, Bob Mintzer, Vince Mendoza, John Clayton, Chris Potter, Glenn Ferris, Maria Schneider, Dave Grusin, Danilo Perez, Adam Rogers, Dennis Mackrel, Nancy Walker, Barry Romberg, Andre White, Rob Smith, Brian Dickinson, Denny Christianson, Bernie Senensky, Phil Nimmons, James Moody, Rosemary Clooney, and the Humber College Faculty Ensemble. 

Over 100 performances of Kirk MacDonald’s compositions appear on 25 albums, both as a leader and on recordings by other artists. Kirk has established a substantial body of original work as a saxophonist/composer over the past three decades. As a follow-up to his award-winning recordings Symmetry with Tom Harrell, and Vista Obscura with Harold Mabern, MacDonald released Common Ground, a double CD of his compositions arranged by Joe Sullivan for Jazz Orchestra. Silent Voices, a co-led quartet outing with renowned saxophonist Pat LaBarbera, featuring American jazz great Adam Nussbaum on drums. MacDonald’s latest recording Generations brings him back full circle to his roots in a program of jazz standards and the Great American Songbook. Generations features three generations of musicians: the legendary pianist Harold Mabern at age 82 and MacDonald’s wonderfully talented daughter Virginia MacDonald, at age 23, on clarinet. 

Kirk MacDonald has been active as an educator for 30 years at leading jazz studies programs such as The University of Toronto, Humber College, and McGill University. Through his work with these programs, numerous live performances, recordings, master classes, and workshops throughout Canada and internationally, Kirk has become one of Canada’s most respected and in-demand educators. 

For close to three decades MacDonald has been a leader in his field of performance, composition and education and has had a huge and lasting influence on many of Canada’s younger generation of musicians. Many former students have gone on to forge national and international careers in many genres of music. 

Kirk MacDonald is presently a full-time professor at Humber College in Toronto.

Matt Brubeck’s Cellomatic
September 25 @ 5:00 PM

Matt Brubeck - cello 

Ted Quinlan - guitar 

Ted Warren - drums

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Matt Brubeck is a JUNO award-winning performer/composer specializing in improvisation on the cello. Matt returns to the Rex with a trio featuring Toronto jazz luminaries Ted Quinlan (guitar) and Ted Warren (drums). Drawing from Matt’s deep catalogue of compositions this band embraces the funky and the ethereal, quirky forms, and a wide harmonic palette. Matt has collaborated with more artists than he can remember, including Marilyn Lerner, David Braid, Nick Fraser, and Kevin Breit. In addition to his jazz/improvising work, Matt has enjoyed many eclectic musical adventures including touring and/or recording with Tom Waits, Sheryl Crow, The (Dixie) Chicks, Natalie McMaster, and Yo-Yo Ma.

Pat LaBarbera /Kirk MacDonald Quintet Celebrating John Coltrane at 100
September 23, 24, 25, 26 @ 8:00 PM

Pat LaBarbera - saxophone

Kirk MacDonald - saxophone

Brian Dickinson - piano

Neil Swainson - bass

Terry Clarke - drums

About Pat LaBarbera

saxophonist, flutist, clarinetist, composer, jazz educator was born in Mt. Morris, New York, and spent the first thirty years of his life in the United States before moving to Toronto in 1974. His father taught the basics of music to Pat and his two younger brothers, John (a gifted arranger/trumpeter) and Joe (a highly accomplished drummer). He studied at the famed Berklee College of Music, and soon after graduating, began to make his presence felt with the best of the American big bands. 

By the time he relocated to Toronto, Ontario, Canada 1974, Pat LaBarbera was already well-known for his solo work with the bands of Louis Bellson, Woody Herman, and for seven years, touring and recording as featured tenor saxophone soloist with the Buddy Rich Band throughout every major city in the U.S., Europe, and Japan. Universally considered one of the world’s most exciting saxophonists. 

LaBarbera has performed and recorded consistently with Elvin Jones since 1975, appearing at premier jazz festivals all over the world. After a brief hiatus, he rejoined Elvin Jones’ ‘Time Machine’ in 2001 to perform and tour North America, Britain. Europe, and Japan for the next two years. Describing LaBarbera’s phenomenal talent, Elvin Jones said, “Pat has tremendous musical ability beyond the technical facility. He has great power of concentration to detail and is totally committed with body and soul.” LaBarbera has played on every major network television show including The Ed Sullivan Show and Johnny Carson’s Tonight Show several times. He has worked with the biggest entertainers in the business including Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Dizzy Gillespie, Ella Fitzgerald, Chick Corea, Woody Shaw, and McCoy Tyner. 

Pat LaBarbera has been among the key members of the Toronto jazz scene for the past three-plus decades, claiming Junos and ‘Jazz Report’ Awards for writing and performing with his own jazz ensembles all along the way. He has been on the full-time teaching faculty at Humber College for the past several years instructing on Saxophone, Ensemble Performance, Jazz Repertoire Development, and Advanced Jazz Theory and Performance. His album, Deep in a Dream, won the 2000 Juno Award for Best Mainstream Jazz Album. 

His album, Deep in a Dream, won the 2000 Juno Award for Best Mainstream Jazz Album. His album, Crossing the Line, features pianist Brian Dickinson and bassist Neil Swainson, as well as special guests trumpeter Randy Brecker and drummer Joe LaBarbera. 

In 2013, Pat and pianist Don Thompson released A Little SImple Magic, a duo recording featuring twelve standards. 

About Kirk MacDonald 

With an established reputation as one of Canada’s leading saxophonists, Kirk MacDonald cut his first record at the age of thirteen. Throughout his career, he has received numerous awards and has worked with many leading musicians in a variety of musical genres. He has performed on over fifty

CDs as both leader and sideman and has participated in numerous national broadcast recordings for CBC Radio. In addition to performing extensively throughout Canada, he has also performed in the USA, United Kingdom, Germany, Spain, France, Italy, Holland, Monaco, Australia, Korea, Bermuda, and the Bahamas. 

For over thirty years Kirk MacDonald has worked and recorded with many leading Canadian, U.S., and international jazz musicians including Claude Ranger, Dave Young, Sam Noto, Sonny Greenwich, Kenny Wheeler, Eddie Henderson, Harold Mabern, Walter Bishop Jr., Tom Harrell, Vic Juris, Peter Bernstein, Adam Nussbaum, Rich Perry, Kurt Elling, David Virelles, Ralph Bowen, Dick Oatts, Ben Monder, Seamus Blake, Jonathan Blake, Lorne Lofsky, Bob Mover, Pat LaBarbera, John Taylor, Ron McClure, Jack DeJohnette, Mike Stern, Jim McNeely, Bob Mintzer, Vince Mendoza, John Clayton, Chris Potter, Glenn Ferris, Maria Schneider, Dave Grusin, Danilo Perez, Adam Rogers, Dennis Mackrel, Nancy Walker, Barry Romberg, Andre White, Rob Smith, Brian Dickinson, Denny Christianson, Bernie Senensky, Phil Nimmons, James Moody, Rosemary Clooney, and the Humber College Faculty Ensemble. 

Over 100 performances of Kirk MacDonald’s compositions appear on 25 albums, both as a leader and on recordings by other artists. Kirk has established a substantial body of original work as a saxophonist/composer over the past three decades. As a follow-up to his award-winning recordings Symmetry with Tom Harrell, and Vista Obscura with Harold Mabern, MacDonald released Common Ground, a double CD of his compositions arranged by Joe Sullivan for Jazz Orchestra. Silent Voices, a co-led quartet outing with renowned saxophonist Pat LaBarbera, featuring American jazz great Adam Nussbaum on drums. MacDonald’s latest recording Generations brings him back full circle to his roots in a program of jazz standards and the Great American Songbook. Generations features three generations of musicians: the legendary pianist Harold Mabern at age 82 and MacDonald’s wonderfully talented daughter Virginia MacDonald, at age 23, on clarinet. 

Kirk MacDonald has been active as an educator for 30 years at leading jazz studies programs such as The University of Toronto, Humber College, and McGill University. Through his work with these programs, numerous live performances, recordings, master classes, and workshops throughout Canada and internationally, Kirk has become one of Canada’s most respected and in-demand educators. 

For close to three decades MacDonald has been a leader in his field of performance, composition and education and has had a huge and lasting influence on many of Canada’s younger generation of musicians. Many former students have gone on to forge national and international careers in many genres of music. 

Kirk MacDonald is presently a full-time professor at Humber College in Toronto.

Borealis Big Band
September 26 @ 2:00 PM

Gord Shephard - Musical Director

Cheryn Lyn Backman - Vocalist

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Since 2017, the Aurora-based Borealis Big Band has been bringing the energy, excitement  and versatility of big band jazz to audiences. Our contemporary repertoire spans Swing,  Funk, Smooth Jazz, Latin and Cuban music, offering something for every jazz lover. 

Over the years, Borealis Big Band has performed at venues including The Duke and The  Smokeshow in Toronto, as well as for audiences throughout Aurora, York Region and the  GTA. 

Under the musical direction of Gord Shephard, Ph.D., Borealis Big Band is thrilled to make  its first appearance at The Rex and excited to bring our unique sound and energy to this  iconic jazz venue. Come join us for an afternoon of big band jazz, great energy and a whole  lot of fun! 

www.borealisbigband.com 

Follow us on Instagram @borealisbigband

Neon Eagle
september 12 and 26 @ 5:00 PM

Led by: Mike Eckert - Pedal Steel

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Bringing entrancing instrumental fusion music featuring the pedal steel.

Come in, sit back, and feel the hypnotic vibes of this incredible group!

Pat LaBarbera /Kirk MacDonald Quintet Celebrating John Coltrane at 100
September 23, 24, 25, 26 @ 8:00 PM

Pat LaBarbera - saxophone

Kirk MacDonald - saxophone

Brian Dickinson - piano

Neil Swainson - bass

Terry Clarke - drums

About Pat LaBarbera

saxophonist, flutist, clarinetist, composer, jazz educator was born in Mt. Morris, New York, and spent the first thirty years of his life in the United States before moving to Toronto in 1974. His father taught the basics of music to Pat and his two younger brothers, John (a gifted arranger/trumpeter) and Joe (a highly accomplished drummer). He studied at the famed Berklee College of Music, and soon after graduating, began to make his presence felt with the best of the American big bands. 

By the time he relocated to Toronto, Ontario, Canada 1974, Pat LaBarbera was already well-known for his solo work with the bands of Louis Bellson, Woody Herman, and for seven years, touring and recording as featured tenor saxophone soloist with the Buddy Rich Band throughout every major city in the U.S., Europe, and Japan. Universally considered one of the world’s most exciting saxophonists. 

LaBarbera has performed and recorded consistently with Elvin Jones since 1975, appearing at premier jazz festivals all over the world. After a brief hiatus, he rejoined Elvin Jones’ ‘Time Machine’ in 2001 to perform and tour North America, Britain. Europe, and Japan for the next two years. Describing LaBarbera’s phenomenal talent, Elvin Jones said, “Pat has tremendous musical ability beyond the technical facility. He has great power of concentration to detail and is totally committed with body and soul.” LaBarbera has played on every major network television show including The Ed Sullivan Show and Johnny Carson’s Tonight Show several times. He has worked with the biggest entertainers in the business including Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Dizzy Gillespie, Ella Fitzgerald, Chick Corea, Woody Shaw, and McCoy Tyner. 

Pat LaBarbera has been among the key members of the Toronto jazz scene for the past three-plus decades, claiming Junos and ‘Jazz Report’ Awards for writing and performing with his own jazz ensembles all along the way. He has been on the full-time teaching faculty at Humber College for the past several years instructing on Saxophone, Ensemble Performance, Jazz Repertoire Development, and Advanced Jazz Theory and Performance. His album, Deep in a Dream, won the 2000 Juno Award for Best Mainstream Jazz Album. 

His album, Deep in a Dream, won the 2000 Juno Award for Best Mainstream Jazz Album. His album, Crossing the Line, features pianist Brian Dickinson and bassist Neil Swainson, as well as special guests trumpeter Randy Brecker and drummer Joe LaBarbera. 

In 2013, Pat and pianist Don Thompson released A Little SImple Magic, a duo recording featuring twelve standards. 

About Kirk MacDonald 

With an established reputation as one of Canada’s leading saxophonists, Kirk MacDonald cut his first record at the age of thirteen. Throughout his career, he has received numerous awards and has worked with many leading musicians in a variety of musical genres. He has performed on over fifty

CDs as both leader and sideman and has participated in numerous national broadcast recordings for CBC Radio. In addition to performing extensively throughout Canada, he has also performed in the USA, United Kingdom, Germany, Spain, France, Italy, Holland, Monaco, Australia, Korea, Bermuda, and the Bahamas. 

For over thirty years Kirk MacDonald has worked and recorded with many leading Canadian, U.S., and international jazz musicians including Claude Ranger, Dave Young, Sam Noto, Sonny Greenwich, Kenny Wheeler, Eddie Henderson, Harold Mabern, Walter Bishop Jr., Tom Harrell, Vic Juris, Peter Bernstein, Adam Nussbaum, Rich Perry, Kurt Elling, David Virelles, Ralph Bowen, Dick Oatts, Ben Monder, Seamus Blake, Jonathan Blake, Lorne Lofsky, Bob Mover, Pat LaBarbera, John Taylor, Ron McClure, Jack DeJohnette, Mike Stern, Jim McNeely, Bob Mintzer, Vince Mendoza, John Clayton, Chris Potter, Glenn Ferris, Maria Schneider, Dave Grusin, Danilo Perez, Adam Rogers, Dennis Mackrel, Nancy Walker, Barry Romberg, Andre White, Rob Smith, Brian Dickinson, Denny Christianson, Bernie Senensky, Phil Nimmons, James Moody, Rosemary Clooney, and the Humber College Faculty Ensemble. 

Over 100 performances of Kirk MacDonald’s compositions appear on 25 albums, both as a leader and on recordings by other artists. Kirk has established a substantial body of original work as a saxophonist/composer over the past three decades. As a follow-up to his award-winning recordings Symmetry with Tom Harrell, and Vista Obscura with Harold Mabern, MacDonald released Common Ground, a double CD of his compositions arranged by Joe Sullivan for Jazz Orchestra. Silent Voices, a co-led quartet outing with renowned saxophonist Pat LaBarbera, featuring American jazz great Adam Nussbaum on drums. MacDonald’s latest recording Generations brings him back full circle to his roots in a program of jazz standards and the Great American Songbook. Generations features three generations of musicians: the legendary pianist Harold Mabern at age 82 and MacDonald’s wonderfully talented daughter Virginia MacDonald, at age 23, on clarinet. 

Kirk MacDonald has been active as an educator for 30 years at leading jazz studies programs such as The University of Toronto, Humber College, and McGill University. Through his work with these programs, numerous live performances, recordings, master classes, and workshops throughout Canada and internationally, Kirk has become one of Canada’s most respected and in-demand educators. 

For close to three decades MacDonald has been a leader in his field of performance, composition and education and has had a huge and lasting influence on many of Canada’s younger generation of musicians. Many former students have gone on to forge national and international careers in many genres of music. 

Kirk MacDonald is presently a full-time professor at Humber College in Toronto.

Marc Decho Brazilian Jazz Quartet
September 27 @ 2:00 PM

Marc Decho - Bass
Andre Valerio - Guitar
Karl Silveira - Trombone
Austin Gembora - Drums

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Born in Montreal and now based in Toronto, Canada,  electric bassist / composer / educator and producer  Marc Decho has established himself as an incredibly  versatile and creative artist on the Canadian music  scene. Decho is a longstanding member of the  legendary Cuban pianist Miguel De Armas (NG La  Banda) Latin Jazz Quartet & Latin Jazz Orchestra and  has performed with a wide variety of GRAMMY, Latin  GRAMMY, JUNO winning artists. In 2023 Marc  released his first self produced record as leader  “AAAAUM” under the guise of the Marc Decho Quartet  to critical acclaim. His latest record entitled “Forget The  World” was released in 2024-2025 and caused a  massive buzz in the UK jazz and broken beat scenes,  as well as garnered steady radio play across Europe  and Japan. The record was released on legendary jazz  dance and Northern Soul DJ Colin Curtis’ iconic imprint  label.

Damion Reid hailing from West Covina, California a city east of Los Angeles. He is the son of well-respected bassist and astute operatic singer and teacher. By the age of three, Damion was already playing in church. It was around the age of twelve that Damion began being mentored by the world-renowned drummer Billy Higgins. During these formative years Billy's spirit for life and music was deeply seeded in Damion's fertile mind. Seeing Damion's ability to grasp the music both, analytically and conceptually it wasn't long before Billy invited him to be a part of his drum collective. As he began to mature musically he found himself frequenting Billy's club “The World Stage,” learning and playing with the likes of Billy Childs, George Bohanon and Oscar Brashear.

As Damion continued to cultivate his love for music through his high school years, he managed school life with professional obligations. Damion graduated High School and made the move to Boston, Massachusetts New England Conservatory of Music where he spent time with Cecil McBee, Danilo Perez, Fred Buda and George Russell as well as his musical peers. It was while in Boston between the years of 1998 and 1999 that he received the prestigious Alan Dawson scholarship. He then was accepted into the Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz at the University of Southern California. Soon finding himself trekking to New York City to attend The New School. He then began performing and touring alongside Greg Osby, Terence Blanchard, Robert Glasper, Steve Lehman, Rudresh Mahanthappa, Jacky Terrasson, Ravi Coltrane, Reggie Workman, Marcus Belgrave, Lauryn Hill, Robert Hurst, Bilal, Meshell Ndegeocello, Jason Moran, Mark Shim, Mark Turner, Chihiro Yamanaka, Steve Coleman, Bunky Green and many others.

Blues Sunday: Heather Luckhart/Sandra Bouza
September 27 @ 5:00 PM

Heather Luckhart - vocals, guitar

Sandra Bouza - vocals, guitar

Evan Desaulnier - guitar

Matias Recharte - drums

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Women of Blues Sandra Bouza and Heather Luckhart will bring guitarist Evan Desaulnier and drummer Matias Recharte to a matinee performance. You can expect a range of collaborative improvisation to their signature sounds. Both are sure to deliver powerful depths balanced with laughter and stories. Be in the room for this rare collaboration.

Nick Fraser's Special Topics
September 27 @ 8:00 PM

Nick Fraser: drums, compositions
Kae Murphy: trumpet
Max Stover: tenor saxophone
Josh Cole: bass

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.

humber college Student Jazz ENSEMBLES
September 14 & 21 @ 5:00 PM

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Beverley Taft
September 29th @ 5:00 PM

Beverly Taft - Vocals
Tania Gill -Piano 
Chris Gale -Saxophone 

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Tuesday September 29th, 5-7pm: Beverly Taft sings with Tania Gill on Piano  and Chris Gale on Saxophone 

Beverly has been performing jazz standards, bossa nova, blues, and  chansons for more than 20 years, and The Rex is one of her favourite venues  to sing at. It’s a kind of home-away-from-home for so many musicians,  including her terrific musical pals this time, Chris Gale and Tania Gill.  Studying and singing this music has helped Beverly write tunes also – she  and Nathan Hiltz released a critically-acclaimed album of 10 of their jazz and  blues originals. The longer the journey is, the deeper Beverly wants to go into the melodies, harmonies, and rhythms for the essence of a song’s story and  intent. She mines the past for forgotten gems and intro verses, and she’s also been diving into Brazilian bossa nova (especially in the original  Portuguese). Beverly loves her audiences and is thrilled to be able to  welcome people to The Rex for this early-week matinee of great tunes. Come on in! 

“…a voice that envelopes you like a warm embrace…”. Errol Nazareth, CBC  Radio’s "Big City. Small World”

Classic REx jam
hosted by chris banks
september 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 @ 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.

Trombone Charlotte & Jared Higgins Present: GRAPEVINE QUARTET
September 16, 23 & 30 @ 5:00 PM

Charlotte McAfee-Brunner - Trombone and Vocals

Jared Higgins - Guitar

Max Simpson - Bass

Andrew McCarthy - Drums

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

A force in the city’s jazz scene since 2016, Charlotte has spent nearly a decade crafting her sound as both a sideman and star. Since stepping into the spotlight in 2021, she’s led high-energy ensembles across Canada’s top stages — Toronto Jazz Festival, Kensington Market Jazz Festival, Port Hope, Mont Tremblant, and a knockout appearance at Massey Hall’s Women’s Blues Revue where she belted out originals that brought the house down.

Tara Davidson's The Marni Project w. Florian Hoeffler
September 30
October 1, 2, 3

Florian Hoefner (piano and accordion)
Dan Fortin (acoustic bass)
Ethan Ardelli (drums)

A leading voice in Canadian jazz for over two decades, JUNO Award-winning alto and soprano saxophonist Tara Davidson emerged early on as a pioneering female instrumentalist nationally recognized in the industry. She established and distinguished herself through her work as a performer, bandleader, composer, arranger, and educator.

As a bandleader, she has released eight albums since 2004, with six JUNO nominations for "Jazz Album of the Year" (solo and with Carn Davidson 9). Davidson garnered her first JUNO nomination in 2006 for her sophomore recording, "Code Breaking". She has also contributed to dozens of recordings as a side musician, earning eight additional JUNO nominations, and winning the 2020 JUNO for Jazz Album of the Year: Group with Ernesto Cervini's Turboprop.

The Marni Project marks Davidson's return to solo band leadership following an eleven-year hiatus, representing a significant milestone in her musical journey. Joined by world-class musicians Florian Hoefner (piano and accordion), Dan Fortin (acoustic bass), and Ethan Ardelli (drums), Davidson's Marni Project is a formidable and captivating new quartet featuring her original compositions.