We’re all set to resume a new year of jazz this Thursday, when Paoul Gagnon Quartet (PGQ) takes the stage at 7:30. PGQ is Paoul (piano), James Lithgow (bass), Roger Baird (drums), and Tony Morrison (tenor/alto sax and flute).

This talented foursome has promised us numbers ranging from Paoul’s own compositions through bebop and modern jazz, to Latin and funk.

2012 promises to be a great year. The second half of our performance year will bring you 26 weekly performances, and two professional concerts between now and mid June, so mark your calendars and become one of those fortunate jazz lovers who regularly start their weekends a day early! We look forward to seeing our regular crowd, together with new friends. Yes! If you are a regular, make a resolution to introduce a friend to live jazz at the Elks’.

As well, we will be introducing our monthly feature called the Open Mic Set: a third session on the last Thursday of each month during which vocalists and musicians will be invited to participate. Information will be forthcoming on this web page, and through announcements via the emcees each Thursday.

Happy New Year to all our members and all jazz aficionados!

Society members are reminded that the AGM is scheduled for 5:30pm, January 26 at the Elks Home.

Tim Croft Quartet

Thursday Jan 12

Tired of the grey winter weather? Then get some colour and warmth back into your life and join the Georgia Straight Jazz Society at the Elks’ Home this Thursday evening, when the Tim Croft Quartet (TCQ) takes the stage at 7:30pm.

You’re guaranteed a fabulous evening as this line-up includes a special performance by Jenn Forsland, one of Comox Valley’s most popular woman jazz vocalists. Jenn always pulls in a great crowd when she appears with her own combo, but this act (the same one that sold out at Joe’s Garage last month) is a rare opportunity to hear Jenn perform some of her familiar numbers with a different style.

In addition to Tim Croft on stand up bass, TCQ includes Pat MacGibbon, tenor saxophone; Jeff Drummond, Guitar, and Aaron Amar – considered one of the valley’s finest drummers by many jazz aficionados.

Tim promises, “The group will be returning to its roots with a repertoire composed of jazz standards peppered with original compositions.”

So don’t miss this opportunity to listen to some of the best musicians in this part of the world as they play their way through two sets.

Great music, great company, great atmosphere and even great Mediterranean appies served to order: what more could you ask for on a dreary winter evening?

Jazz Society members are reminded to mark their calendars for January 26 when the AGM will be held at the Elks’ at 5:30pm – prior to the regular evening concert.

The Georgia Straight Jazz Society is a non profit organization focused on keeping jazz music of all genres, live! Each performance year (40 regular concerts between September and June), seasoned musicians through to school music students alike, are invited and encouraged to perform as part of the Thursday Night Jazz program.

In addition, we host six professional weekend ticketed performances each year.  People of all ages are welcome to attend: there is no age restriction for teenaged students wishing to attend the Elks’ venue.

Just-In-Time Jazz Choirs

Thursday Jan 19

Get set for a wonderful vocal treat this week!

Those people who attended the recent “Fire and Ice” concert will be most familiar with our show this Thursday, when Just-In-Time Choirs delivers performance highlights when they take the stage at 7:30pm at the Elks’, under the direction of Wendy Nixon Stothert.

Three ensembles will perform discreet sets: a select small group from the 60 voice Unplugged group; Jazzy Gems, a dozen sparkling female voices, and Vocal Minority, an elite assemblage of 14 musicians.

These vocalists sing, without exception, with heart and soul and are guaranteed to lift you to soaring heights and deliver you to a succession of magical moments as they work their way through a wide variety of songs, from swing to pop, including hits like the 1952 hit ‘Glow Worm’, to Owl City’s recent ‘Fireflies.’

Wendy promises even more when she cryptically plays on her song titles, “Watch the ‘Snowfall’ out the window and warm up with a bowl of ‘Chili Con Carne’, finish with ‘Ice Cream’and chestnuts roasting on a ‘Quiet Fire’.  Allow the music of ‘Spain’ totake you away as you fend off the ‘Fever’ of ‘Burnin’ Love’,and chill to the cool sounds of Sean Mooney on keys, Jacob Gregory on drums, and Tim Croft on bass.”

The evening will climax with solo vocal performances by Just-In-Time singers, jam-style.
All this adds up to is a special evening with a warm glow created by these ever popular ensembles. Don’t leave it late if you expect good seats; these folks are perennially popular and always draw a large audience.

For anyone interested, Wendy advises that Just-In-Time’s new season of uplifting music begins January 25th and there’s room for new and seasoned singers alike. Visit www.justintimevocaljazz.ca for more information.

Georgia Straight Jazz Society will continue to host Thursday night live music at the Elks’ every week at 7:30pm between now and mid-June, so mark your calendars.

Society members are advised that the AGM will be held at the Elks’ on January 26 at 5:30pm prior to the evening show by Jeff Drummond. Appetizers will be served. See? There’s another reason why membership in the Society has its privileges.

Jeff Drummond Quartet

Thursday Jan 26

Three weeks ago Jeff Drummond stood in at the last minute to play on behalf of another musician who couldn’t make it to the show. You would have never known it was an impromptu performance because his guitar playing blended perfectly, despite the fact he hadn’t even had a chance to rehearse before show time.

This week, you have the chance to hear just how accomplished he is as he appears with his own quartet – complete with rehearsals – when the Georgia Straight Jazz Society presents four impressive musicians, with international performance credentials, on the Elks’ stage at 7:30 this Thursday. This is JDQ’s second appearance this season at the Elks’. Jeff is joined by accompanied by Dan Craven, tenor saxophone; Aaron Amar, drums, and John Hyde, bass. These guys have worked across Canada and around the world: and we’re the lucky folk that reap the benefit of hearing them play on their own doorstep – yet one more piece of the musical legacy we’re so fortunate to enjoy in this region.

So come out and break the mp3 habit by experiencing live music this Thursday when this band is guaranteed to entertain you with its broad musical palette and many years of experience as it plays choice standards, contemporary jazz as well as some of Jeff’s original pieces. Be sure not to miss some of north island’s finest musicians!

As part of the Society’s goal to encourage established and budding talent to the stage, an old tradition returns this week with the re-introduction of what used to be called “The Jam”: now a new style of third session during the last 30 minutes of the evening’s entertainment. This will take place under the title “Open Mic Set”. It offers an opportunity for jazz vocalists to perform a song before a live audience, with the benefit of a backing combo. This will be held on the last Thursday of each month between January and April. For more information about Open Mic procedures and rules (and forthcoming events up until June) please visit Open Mic

Nick Everett Quintet

Thursday Feb 2

There are some people who choose only to listen to tunes performed by established musicians, without recognizing that each of those big names started their careers with no eminence and little recognition. Years later they acknowledge, regrettably, their missed opportunities to listen to great talent at its inception. Well, this is one of those moments: don’t miss it!

This week, Thursday Night Jazz at the Elks’ brings you an exciting new combo from the jazz program at Vancouver Island University when The Nick Everett Quintet takes the stage at 7:30pm. Those jazz lovers who have witnessed the succession of VIU bands during Thursdays over the past three years have been amazed by the degree to which the music quality has soared. Young musicians, many of whom will become tomorrow’s celebrities, offer you the opportunity to listen to the sounds and style of the future. We, the fortunate recipients just up the road, are pleased to present yet one more new act: rooted in a classic hard bop quintet in the style of Clifford Brown and Art Blakey and the Messengers, yet able extend into swing, modal and many other ear-catching styles. While gaining experience on the bandstand is the band’s priority, the main objective is providing an enjoyable collage of music with a little bit of something for everyone. Among the repertoire, expect to listen to standards such as Take The A Train, 'Round Midnight and Come Rain Or Come Shine.

This band consists of wholly of students from the jazz program at Vancouver Island University. All of the players have played in many different bands island wide in both jazz and other genres; this is your opportunity to hear how their incredible talent combines into a musical collage ranging from original compositions to tunes from the Great American Songbook, as well as jazz standards. The quintet comprises Nick Everett, Trumpet; Theo Hughes, Tenor Sax; Phil Hamlin, Piano; Dan Montgomery, bass, and Colin Paugh on Drums.

So, plan on coming down to the Elks’ home this week, and give these young guys the support they deserve. For them, music education within the confines of VIU is only part of the curriculum; the other essential ingredient is live performance in front of a discerning audience. You’re invited to become part of the process. Don’t miss it – remember, LIVE JAZZ LIVES at the Elks’!

Cure All Dance Band

Get ready for a great fun evening of the season at this week’s Thursday Night Jazz at the Elks’. The 11 piece Cure-All Dance Band performs, complete with deadpan jokes, courtesy of Brent Hart, focusing on original 1920s and early ‘30s arrangements from Tin Pan Alley.   The band presents itself authentically in period attire and feature instruments from the era, recreating the feel of the hotels, roadhouses and steamships of the 1920s. This is Cure All’s first appearance at the Georgia Straight Jazz Society’s Thursday Night Jazz during the 2011-2012 season – it’s ten months since this talented band entertained us in their inimitable style. The band is excited to have its founder Greg Sumner join us for this gig. Playing banjo and coronet, Greg adds a sparkle to the sound.

Jazz club regulars will recognize the players from other combos with which they share their talents: Paul Charter- percussion; Al West – banjo; Donna Griffiths – piano; Gordon James – tuba; Rick Howell – trombone; Laura Stevens – trumpet; Jim Mitchell – trumpet; Ann Bayles – violin; Brock Lupton – sax; Mike Schwartz – soprano and alto sax; Brent Hart – clarinet and alto sax and music director. As well, Kate Morrison brings her authentic ’20s style on vocals. Between her and Len Wilkie, you will hear wonderful songs of the 1920’s come alive again. Fans may recognize her from her many appearances in the Light Fantastic musicals. Her soaring voice and wonderful phrasing are a real addition to the band.

The lounge will throb to the syncopated rhythms of authentic numbers from original charts. Music director, Brent Hart has pulled a selection of tunes to please every taste from Muskrat Ramble to Alexander’s Ragtime Band. Other sure-to-please tunes are Davenport Blues, Russian Lullaby, Can’t Help Lovin’ That Man and Anything Goes, as well as a host of other vintage numbers.

Brett Martens String Band

The Brett Martens String Band is back.  Currently recording their first album, the group has widened its repertoire since the last full house at the Elks’ on Sixth Street last November 10th. We are fortunate to be able to bring the band back to our stage for a return performance – such is the demand!

Brett is one of Vancouver Island's most astounding young guitar pickers; currently touring with The Marc Atkinson Trio, 'Caravan' with Daniel Lapp, and leading his new band The Brett Martens String Band. His zeal for music is addictive, passionate, and fun; his playing has been described as enlivening, creative, engaging, and exciting.

The Brett Martens String Band follows the sound of 'Django Reinhardt and the Quintette du Hotclub de France'; a musical style pioneered in the 30's when a very inventive gypsy living in France discovered American jazz.  His name: Django Reinhardt.  Known as 'manouche' or 'gypsy jazz', the sound is all acoustic and rich with delightful rhythm, melody and improvisation.  Because its origins are largely in France it is frequently known by the French name, "jazz manouche", or alternatively, "manouche jazz", even in English language sources. Brett states, "When first listening to Django, I was pleasantly perplexed; I had never heard anything like it! Guitar players, composers, improvisers and the like have much to thank from this timeless, two fingered genius" - Django lost the use of all but two fingers in his left hand. The String Band plays Brett's original compositions, alongside an array of tunes from different eras, and styles; all interpreted to fit a small string band.

Brett's compositions pull from his upbringing in classical and jazz, and dip into musette, bluegrass, latin and "just about anything that swings".  Alongside original material, the band plays many standards of the 'swing' era:  anything from romantic ballads, to "dance on the table" party swing.  Be it for the intellectual or the fire of the gypsy... the trio's music is moving.

Joining Brett are some fine musicians in their own right:  Jim Lambert on rhythm guitar and Tim Croft on upright bass.  Jim is on the top of the list for gigs in the Comox valley; a great lead player as well as solid rhythm guitarist. As Brett commented, "The heart of the groove, in manouche, lies with the drummer... who’s in none but the rhythm guitarist".  Tim has been the backbone for many groups over the years, and it shows, "His sound is big and his ears even bigger; just what you want in a great bass player." 
Brett lives with his wife and daughter on Hornby Island.  "Writing, touring, playing and teaching are a big part of my life, and much inspiration comes from living in such a wonderful part of the world.  When I think music, I think celebration of life; of joy, sadness, love, and all... everything summed up into 12 notes with a good tempo."

Expect this to be another busy night! Be there by 7pm if you want to find seating for a group of friends to sit together; after that you will be lucky to find all but the few remaining seats, before it becomes standing room only at the back of the lounge.

The Flora Ware Trio

Get ready for something very special this week! Rather than featuring one of our local bands we are fortunate to have dovetailed our Thursday night stage with a great touring band when The Flora Ware Trio plays two sets, beginning at 7:30p.m.

Expect to hear a combination of hip jazz and original soul/pop. Backed by a smooth guitar and a solid rhythm section, Flora will captivate you with her lead vocals and soft keyboard style. Her voice has been described as silky, seductive, powerful, yet intimate. Nominated for Best Jazz Artist of the Year in 2008 by the BC Interior Music Awards, her album 'Insight' continues to receive airplay on CBC and community/college radio stations in Western Canada. “Insight” features her original songs alongside modern renditions of favourite jazz standards. Playing as a trio, Flora will be on keys and vox, with Sam Shoichet on bass, and Jeffrey Drummond on guitar. And if you don’t believe that this show will be spectacular, visit Flora Ware and listen to a cool selection of Flora’s music. She’s absolutely terrific, and this is your chance to hear her one and only performance in our region.

Come see for yourself why this Vancouver-based artist is legitimately compared to Norah Jones, Sade, and Diana Krall. With a maturity that belies her youthful looks, she possesses a special combination of wisdom, eloquence and sophisticated sex appeal. Don't miss this show!

This is your opportunity to experience a “Sunday Night Concert” event under the guise of a regular Thursday show. Plan on getting down early for the best seat selection; this is bound to be a popular show.

The Jazztet

After the excitement of last week’s performance by Flora Ware, which blew away an audience of about 100, we return to our local roots when the no-less-gifted perennial favourites, "Jazztet " will be performing at Thursday Night Jazz this Thursday March 1st; its first appearance on the Elks’ stage since May last year. Jazztet has been a constantly evolving and interesting ensemble dedicated to the fostering of jazz in the Comox Valley which over recent years has driven the calibre of jazz performance in the Comox Valley to new levels. That evolution, has included many of the finest jazz players from our region as they honed their art in various performances throughout the valley playing extended weekly gigs at well known local jazz supporting venues, including Whistle Stop, Joe's Garage and The Griffin Pub.

As well known as this band is to local jazz fans, it comes with a slight difference, and an instrumental focus: this week the band will feature Rick Husband on the guitar, Michael Eddy on piano, Don MacKay on bass, Bill Street on drums and Mike Schwartz on Saxophones. A talented line-up for sure.

The multi-talented Mike Schwarz will have multiple saxophones on stage with him for this performance. While you will not hear him play all of them at once, you will hear his assured touch and beautifully lyrical playing on each of the soprano, alto and tenor saxes over the course of the evening. Don MacKay’s five string bass playing is clean and structured, holding the centre for the quintet, but he is also well capable of innovation and improvisation. Bill Street’s drumming expertly drives the changes in feel and tempo for the five some. Add to that the superb keyboard skills of Mike Eddy, arguably the finest jazz pianist regularly performing on the local scene, and you have a formula for an evening of great music.

Expect to hear some refreshing arrangements of standard as well as not-so-standard jazz tunes including music by Bill Evans, Chet Baker, Chick Corea and Wayne Shorter.

The members of the band have played with most of the major players on the island and between them have performed at venues from London to Tokyo.

Members and jazz fans are reminded that tickets are now on sale for the Eric St. Laurent Trio Sunday Concert on March 18th; available at Thursday Jazz at the Elks’, or at Bop City in Courtenay and Videos ’n’ More in Comox. Prices are $12 and $16 for members and non-members respectively.

Women of Jazz

“Women of Jazz” is returning to the Valley.  With International Women’s Day falling on a Thursday, the Georgia Straight Jazz Society thought there was no better way to salute the day than by presenting a fourth “Women of Jazz” concert.  As with the previous concerts, this is a fundraiser for the Comox Valley Transition Society. 

Three of the Valley’s most popular, talented and exciting vocalists – Dale Graham, Jenn Forsland and Wendy Nixon Stothert – will be featured.  During the evening they will introduce five up and coming young  vocalists from two of the Valley high schools, Vanier and Mark Isfeld.

Dale Graham is best known for her solo vocals with local group Indigo Jazz, as well as being a member of the women’s jazz quartet Swing Set.  She developed her singing chops through work in the Celtic/folk scene but discovered her true love in jazz, a genre that showcases her supple and fluid vocals.

Fellow Swing Set member Jenn Forsland fronts the Jenn Forsland Group, directs Celebration Singers, and teaches music privately and in the schools.  Her strong technical skills are beautifully complemented by her playful interpretations and her delightful rapport with the audience.

The third vocalist, Wendy Nixon Stothert, also a member of the fabulous Swing Set, has been teaching music in the school system for 14 years.  She is the passionate director of the Just in Time Vocal Jazz Choirs, now in their sixth year, and performs with the stellar Comox Valley jazz musicians whenever she can.

A fourth featured musician is Rachel Fuller, on saxophone.  Tucking her First Class Honours Degree in Music Performance under her arm, Rachel joined an international five piece show band where she specialized on the alto saxophone, playing seven nights a week for eighteen months to audiences of all sizes.  Now based in the Comox Valley, she teaches clarinet and saxophone at Motif Music Studios in Courtenay.

The young women who will be joining Dale, Jenn, Wendy and Rachel are Alyssa Dawe and Christina Demeo of Mark Isfeld and Kaitlyn Card, Tonja Maslin and Jenna Spowart of Vanier.  Alyssa has had music in her life “forever”, including voice lessons, choir and involvement in Valley Idol.  Christina was in her first musical theatre production at the age of five and is currently part of both the concert and jazz choirs at Mark Isfeld.  Kaitlyn has been singing for eight years and like Alyssa has been part of Valley Idol.  Tonja, a student of Jenn Forsland’s, hopes to one day be a music/vocal teacher in the school system.  Jenna, who has been dancing since the age of four, is now discovering her voice and the freedom of sharing song.

During the evening all of the featured musicians will perform solos, and to mix it up each of the “veterans” will be paired with one of the young guests for a duet number.  The results will be exciting, fresh and innovative.  To tempt you,  some of the pieces that you will hear – “At Last”, “Summertime”, “Straighten Up and Fly Right”, and “Peel Me A Grape”.

Last, but far from least, is the band, with Rick Husband on guitar, Bill Street on drums and Don MacKay on bass.  Wendy and Jenn will both take turns at the keyboard and there just may be a mystery keyboard player as well!

Heather Ney, Executive Director of the Transition Society, is thrilled that the Georgia Straight Jazz Society is once more hosting a fundraiser for the society.  “We really appreciate the support of the Jazz Society.  The funds raised make a big difference for our programs and an event like this sends a powerful message of support to the women and children we serve.”

So mark March 8th on your calendar – once more “Women of Jazz” will pack the hall!
Don’t be disappointed.  Arrive early to guarantee a fine seat to hear an evening of fabulous jazz while supporting not one but two good causes – particularly if you hope to sit in a group.  The Elks is located on 6th Street in Courtenay, and showtime is 7:30 p.m.

Anderson Jazz Syndicate

It’s almost a year since the Anderson Jazz Syndicate appeared on our Thursday Night Jazz stage, and you are invited to listen to some of the coolest jazz music in the Valley. For this week's gig, the Syndicate will be appearing as a trio: under the leadership of Comox guitar player Doug Anderson, who brings original compositions to the performance, including “Dragonfly Trail” a composition he wrote for a favorite Gulf Island location.  Doug will be accompanied by perennial favourite John Hyde on bass, and Aaron Amar on drums.  Amar brings his professional jazz experience from Toronto where he was active on the jazz scene for several years. His rhythmic talents are much sought after and he has performed with numerous local groups. His strong musicality and polyrhythmic mastery put him in a class all his own, propelling this group to new musical heights.

Expect to hear a mixture of standard tunes and original compositions. Key among these will be a new number, Shadowgraphs, a Latin tune composed in ¾ time. As Doug says, “For us, the trio setting offers an open format which allows for a great deal of musical interaction and interplay, and therefore each instrument plays a pivotal role in shaping the music.”

Show time is 7:30pm at the Elks Home on 6th Street. Great music, great Mediterranean food, great venue, a social atmosphere second to none: what lovelier way could there be to spend an evening and start your weekend a day early?

Jazz fans, please note: some tickets are still available for the Eric St. Laurent concert this coming Sunday evening at 7:30pm, so don’t miss the opportunity to listen to this wonderful guitarist. Prices are $12 for society members and $16 for non members, available from Bop City in Courtenay and Videos ’n’ More in Comox.

Sax and Violins

This is turning out to be a really extraordinary season. Two weeks ago we were turning people away at the door due to the popularity of the “Women of Jazz” concert when the Elks lounge was filled to capacity for a stunning concert in celebration of International Women’s Day – more than 250 wanted to see the show. In total contrast, last week we were lulled into a dream space with the beautiful guitar playing of Doug Anderson when the Anderson Jazz Syndicate returned after nearly a year away from our stage. And then last Sunday we were treated to a stellar performance by Montreal guitarist Eric St. Laurent.

This week the music heads in yet another direction. Part of what makes our jazz scene so exciting is not only the amount of local talent we have in established bands and combos, but also the ways in which the musicians choose to shift and change their line-up. Such is the essence of jazz music. But occasionally something really exciting and new pops up like a mushroom. On Thursday, Tony Morrison leads such an event onto the Elks’ stage when “Sax and Violins” makes its debut at 7:30pm.

One of the most often asked questions we receive is, “Doesn’t anyone around here play jazz violin?” Well, if you like the music of Stefan Grapelli or Jean Luc Ponty this is the week for you!

This is a group of well respected musicians in their own right, from the Comox Valley who began to collaborate last summer.  Ralph Barrat on vocals and piano, John Hyde on upright bass, Blaine Dunaway on violin with Tony Morrison on sax and flute together make up "Sax and Violins".  These four musicians have a great time playing standard jazz tunes. As an added bonus, and special treat, they are pleased to invite Aaron Amar as guest on drums for the evening.  This week’s performance will be fun as these guys try and stay out of treble. Come down and enjoy the music of Sax and Violins and discover why the live jazz music scene is thriving in Comox Valley.

Velvet Swing

Velvet Swing with a New Twist.

Velvet Swing, one of the Valleys’ smoothest groups takes the Elks’ stage at the Elks with a new look this Thursday at 7:30pm. Well known to local jazz aficionados, the combo has evolved into a quintet since its last appearance just over a year ago.

Three regulars return: Brent Hart on piano, Len Wilkie on drums and Mike Schwarz on saxophones, but the band will include two exciting additions: Greg Sumner on his mini travelling bass and cornet, and Kate Morrison on vocals. Greg brings a lifetime of musical experience to the group, and Kate’s wonderful vocals will bring back memories of the great big band singers of years gone by.  Relax to a couple of hours of the velvety smooth sounds from this fine group of musicians as they play such favourite tunes as: Dream a Little Dream of Me, La Vie En Rose, Stars Fell on Alabama, and Summertime. If you’re fond of smooth swing music from the 30s, 40s and 50s this is an evening you shouldn’t miss.

Velvet Swing will also provide the instrumental backing for the third part of the evening, when aspiring vocalists and instrumentalists will conclude with an open microphone set beginning at about 9:30pm. Those who would like to sing or play a song or two in front of a live audience are required to bring copies of the charts they wish to perform to make it easy on the musicians, and sign up during the evening with the Open Mic Set director.

Nanaimo Musicians' Association Big Band

BIG BAND SINGERS – HOW IT ALL BEGAN

Thursday Night Jazz features something extra special this week!

What do Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, Doris Day, Perry Como and Rosemary Clooney all have in common?  They all began their singing career as featured vocalists with a big band.  That was the way countless singers started out, right up to the time that big bands ceased to be economically viable.  Diana Krall sang with this band when she was in high school. Phil Dwyer, Ingrid Jensen and Christine Jensen are band alumni as well. It was a great way to gain musical experience, before striking out on their own.  Those opportunities are not readily available to aspiring singers today – except in Nanaimo! And we get the opportunity this Thursday to see for ourselves in the Comox Valley.

The Nanaimo Musicians’ Association Big Band has long time connections with Vancouver Island University.  The Band comprises some of the Mid Island’s best big band musicians and has been directed by VIU faculty members Steve Jones and Bryan Stovell for most of the last 20 years; top VIU Jazz Studies program students play in the Band, and vocal students from that program are able to take advantage of this unique opportunity to work with a great Big Band.

This combination of talents will be on show on April 5th when the NMA Big Band will perform at The Elks Club and will feature vocalists Sydney Needham and Niall Harvey.

Sydney was born and raised in Victoria into a musical family, and has been singing from an early age.  She has trained with Victoria legend Louise Rose and performs in many musical styles.  She was the winner of Victoria Idol contest in 2011, and is currently studying vocal jazz at VIU.

Niall hails from the Comox Valley, and as well as singing in the style of Frank Sinatra and Michael Buble, he also plays trumpet. He plays and sings with many local bands, and is also enrolled in the Jazz Studies program at VIU.

Sydney and Niall will front Nanaimo’s own NMA Big Band in this evening of Big Band music, from the swing era through to contemporary big band arrangements.

So treat yourself to a most amazing evening. Show time is 7:30pm but you are advised to arrive a little earlier than that if you want the best seats in the house.

Herb Alpert Tribute

A Night with a difference! This is the first time an entire evening has been dedicated to one particular artist, as a group of well established local musicians combine to perform the much anticipated Tribute to Herb Alpert & the Tijuana Brass at the Elks Lounge this Thursday, April 12. Spanning a musical career of over 50 years, Alpert built a solid reputation as one of the most successful performing artists of the 20th century. Back in 1962, while attending a bullfight in Tijuana, Mexico, (which featured a local mariachi band), he felt inspired to co-write his first of many hit singles “The Lonely Bull”. Their music has been featured in advertising, TV specials, game shows, and movies - including title song from Casino Royale. The Tijuana Brass eventually disbanded in 1984, after which Alpert enjoyed a successful solo career in R&B for many years.

Jeff Drummond (lead guitar) obtained his Diploma in Jazz Performance from Mount Royal College in 1995. He went on to perform throughout Canada & the UK., touring with many different artists in a variety of musical genres. Drummond has also appeared on national radio and television programs, produced and engineered countless albums, and played with many well known artists. In total, he has accumulated over 20 years as a music educator, which contributes towards a high demand for his skills & services.

Mike Eddy is new to the valley and has had the opportunity to play with many great musicians over the past year. His Degree in classical piano performance has greatly enhanced his love for Jazz. He has performed in a multitude of groups from Dixie to Rock and was Musical Director for Keyano College Theatre in Ft. McMurray for ten years. Mike was the recipient of the Alberta Band Director of the Year and of the Alberta Excellence in Teaching Award.

Jacob Gregory has been drumming for 27 years in many varied styles, from orchestral percussion and jazz, to punk, death metal and progressive rock. He began his training in Medicine Hat, moving to Vancouver to obtain his B.Mus Ed at Trinity Western University. He has been teaching drums for 22 years, and bass guitar for 15. Jacob and his family moved to the Comox Valley in the fall of 2009, where he set up his studio. Teaching, recording, & playing as often as possible have always been his passion. With a thriving arts & music community such as the Comox Valley, Jacob hopes to be here for a very long time indeed.

Bassist Don MacKay moved to the valley after 30 years of playing, directing, writing and teaching music in Victoria. During his tenure there he played with nearly everyone in the local jazz scene. Don holds a Master's degree in Jazz studies and has written his own composition and arranging method. He has also travelled extensively with his jazz bands to countries as diverse as Cuba and Japan. Don is an avid supporter of the local jazz scene and currently an active board member of The Georgia Straight Jazz Society. (Don says he was too young to play in the original "Herb Alpert Band" so he’s excited to be a part of this tribute! We’re not sure.)

Jake Masri was first attracted by the music of Herb Alpert & the Tijuana Brass before taking up the trumpet at age 11. He also draws his inspiration from classical repertoire to musical theatre to Afro-Cuban/New Orleans, and Bebop styles. Since moving to Comox in 2002, Jake has appeared with Quintessence Brass; 6th Street, Jazztown, Jazz Noir, & Forbidden Jazz combos; Sounds of 17, Georgia Straight, Arrowsmith, & CR Big Bands; Strathcona Symphony Orchestra, and more recently the local Latin group Zandhunga.

Ross Robinson began his musical studies on trumpet at age 11, taking private lessons from George Laverock. He played in the New Westminster Community Band for 2 years, before joining the school band program in South Burnaby. He also performed with the UBC Orchestra, National Youth Orchestra of Canada, & as an extra with the Vancouver Symphony while completing his Bachelor of Music Degree at UBC. More recently, Ross has played in the pit orchestra for many musicals in the Comox Valley and was a founding member of the Quintessence Brass Quintet.

If you love Herb Alpert’s sound and the happy music of the sixties, then this is the night for you. Don’t come late if you want good seats together with friends.

Jenn Forsland Quartet

Last November, when Jenn Forsland took the stage, the place went crazy. A packed house offered a memorable start to the evening. And the show that followed was no letdown; almost everyone stayed until the last number two and a half hours later. Jenn is currently our most popular female vocalist: her performances are warm and flirtatious, her presentation is classy and her voice, well, her voice matches her appearance.

Jenn takes the microphone at 7:30pm. Fans take note: come early for the best seating. Come late, and you may just have to stand at the back of the lounge. The evening will feature a handful of standards familiar to the audience (Four, Beautiful Love, Spring Can Really Hang You Up the Most, Get Out Of Town, Peel Me A Grape, All or Nothing At All) and more contemporary tunes with a jazz twist by artists such as Paul Simon, Tracy Chapman, Melanie, and even Beyonce.

For more than 3 years members of the The Jenn Forsland Quartet have been sharing music with one another and engaging Valley audiences with their unique sound and broad repertoire. Forsland, a local musician and teacher, fronts this collection of fine musicians. Trained classically as a vocalist and piano player, her smooth, lyrical tone combined with creative rhythmic flexibility produces a unique and easy listening experience for audiences. She engages audiences with a charming ability to tell the story of each song. Jenn has become a permanent component of the group by lending her skills on the keys.

Also featured in the band are veteran Valley musicians Grahame Edwards on bass and Rick Husband on guitar. Both players have contributed tirelessly to the local scene for many years and bring a sensitivity and skill to the music that is unparalleled. Rounding out the regular ensemble on tenor/alto/soprano saxophone and flute is Tony Morrison, an adventuresome player who solos with passion and imagination. Aaron Amar sits in as guest drummer for the evening. With a combined experience that spans decades, these musicians provide a solid and tasty foundation for Forsland’s lyrical and melodic wanderings.

Admission is by donation.

Georgia Straight Jazz Society promotes live jazz every Thursday evening at the Elks’ Home on Sixth Street between September and June, as well as half a dozen ticketed concerts on Sunday evenings throughout the year.

Aaron Amar Quartet

After two weeks of stunning performances, playing to packed houses, in which jazz fans were treated to the Herb Alpert Tribute, and Jenn Forsland wowed us with her romantic style, this week’s show presents the Aaron Amar Quartet and a return to modern jazz.

Comprising Aaron Amar, drums; Dan Craven, tenor sax; John Hyde, upright bass, and Chad Geekie on piano, these four accomplished musicians will offer “Many Miles Davis tunes and ones which we have come to enjoy over the years,” says Amar. “We play high energy bop style and modern jazz with room for expression, freedom, and rhythmical interpretation. The four of us playing together is a treat, and it allows us to play at a higher level: there is a ‘no fear’ approach to our playing as a whole.”

Amar’s polyrhythmic drumming style results from the musical form as taught by his great world renowned teacher, Jim Blackley, “Much of what I do is an extension of his tutelage,” says Amar. His technique is highly entertaining and his talent has graced stages across Canada. His musical career began in Toronto, and we are very fortunate that it has continued here on Vancouver Island.

Dan Craven teaches at Kwalikum Secondary School, and brings the benefit of extensive performance experience to his students. 2001 recipient of the Prime Minister's Award for Teaching Excellence,  he is an educator who has also had the honour of sharing the stage with top musicians, including Don Thompson, Phil Dwyer, Ian McDougall, P.J. Perry and Campbell Ryga. In 2007 Dan joined Phil Dwyer's Sax Summit, which first launched in 2002 with the release of Sax Summit on CBC Records, and has recurred in various incarnations throughout the country since then.

Chad Geekie is a top class musician with multiple Juno nominations to his recording credit. He has performed around the world with, among others, Benny Golson, Jamie Aebersold, Phil Dwyer, Ingrid Jensen and Christine Jensen, and recorded most recently with Marc Atkinson, Damian Graham and the Kerplunks. Chad’s playing carries with it a refreshingly high level of harmonic prowess; making everything he plays a sensational aural experience.

Bassist John Hyde needs no introduction in the Comox Valley. In his short time on Vancouver Island, he has played just about everywhere and with everyone, which incidentally can be said about him OFF the island as well. His performance credits are so extensive and his experience so diverse, you’ll have to read about them here.

Indigo Jazz Quartet

Indigo Jazz returns to the Thursday Jazz at the Elks! Singer Dale Graham performs with other core members Rick Husband (guitar) and John Hyde (bass), joined by pianist Mike Eddy.

Mike retired to the Comox Valley after an outstanding career in music education, marked by honours such as Alberta Band Director of the Year and the Alberta Excellence in Teaching Award. His classical piano performance background underpins his playing technique, but his passion for the jazz idiom has led to his immediate adoption by several local small combos when he moved here.  Indigo Jazz welcomes the addition of Mike`s high energy playing and his swinging feel.

Another relatively recent import to the Valley, bassist John Hyde has a wealth of experience in performing, arranging, composing, and teaching jazz. In his hands, the acoustic bass finds the perfect mix of personality, precision, and support.  He has performed with Lee Konitz, Hugh  Fraser, Phil Nimmons, and Oliver Jones, among others.  He has released two CDs in the past two years, as leader of the John Hyde Quartet.   

Rick Husband has performed extensively across Vancouver Island, in big bands, small combos, and everything in between. He is a compelling guitarist, highly responsive to his fellow players.  He also communicates beautifully to his listeners by integrating improvised lines with familiar motifs and genres.

Dale Graham’s compelling performances and her agile, warm voice have garnered her a significant following among local jazz fans. With Indigo Jazz, she offers classic jazz standards with a fresh twist, and lesser-known tunes that feature sweet melodies and rhythmic play.

"Elevate the Arts"

Georgia Straight Jazz Society is proud to be a participant in "Elevate the Arts"in Downtown Courtenay on May 5th, when it hosts three hours of vocal and big band music. Drop in on Saturday evening between 7-10pm to discover why this is the best live music in the region. The Society is committed to offering Comox Valley residents an opportunity to expose themselves to live jazz music between September and June.

Jenn Forsland
Jenn's performances are warm and flirtatious, her presentation is classy and her voice, well, her voice matches her appearance.
Jenn takes the microphone at 7:00pm and she will play a 1 hour set. Come early for the best seating. Come late, and you may just have to stand at the back of the lounge. Her performance will feature a handful of familiar standards (Four, Beautiful Love, Spring Can Really Hang You Up the Most, Get Out Of Town, Peel Me A Grape, All or Nothing At All) and more contemporary tunes with a jazz twist by artists such as Paul Simon, Tracy Chapman, Melanie, and even Beyonce.

Georgia Strait Big Band
You are promised a special evening of swing and vocal music as these eighteen fine local musicians hit their stride. The repertoire will feature some new material, including big band arrangements of seasonal favourites. Well into another super successful season, the Band has become the flagship Swing Band in this region, under the direction of Greg Bush, professor at Vancouver Island University Jazz Program. You won’t need to know that the venue is on Sixth Street: just listen for the sounds of the 30s, 40s and 50s and follow your ears!

The Big Band takes the stage at 8:20pm and will play until about 10pm, with one short intermission.

Rachel Fuller Quartet

Rachel Fuller will more than impress you with her chops on saxophone, clarinet and Electronic Wind Instrument, a synthesizer cable of creating hundreds of timbres and spanning an incredible 8 octaves with the flick of a switch. Rachel gained a First Class Honours Degree in Music from the University of Southampton, England before jetting overseas to more than 50 cities around the world as a musician with Princess Cruise Lines. Whilst studying, she held the position of principal clarinetist of the University Sinfonietta, the same chair in the Southampton City Pops orchestra and principal saxophonist of the University Jazz Orchestra. Her classical training is evident in her lyrical and technical performances.

Grant McLellan is a Campbell River guitar guru who realizes his considerable harmonic inclinations with an amazing plethora of instruments, tone shaping, and techniques to vary his timbre; he is lead guitarist of Time Well Wasted, the Valley’s hottest party band. Grant is truly in his element here when he rips out those rockin’ classics until your hairs stick on end. Grant also has an incredible reputation as a local Guitar teacher.
Aaron Amar will grace us with mastery on Drums. In the short time he has been resident in the valley, he has built himself a solid reputation as the finest technical drummer around. His style results from the musical form as taught by his great world renowned teacher, Jim Blackley. His technique is highly entertaining and his talent has graced stages across Canada. His musical career began in Toronto, and we are very fortunate that it has settled here on Vancouver Island.

Grahame Edwards has a compelling pulse and ability to translate his harmonic knowledge into a grooving linearity makes him sought after as a sideman to many bands in the Valley. This quartet setting is his favourite, the perfect compromise between having enough space for the music, yet with a skilled percussionist to maintain the forward propulsion. We are excited to hear a couple of Grahame’s originals tonight, the musical interpretation and exploration of his scripts will depend on the mood and vibe of the musicians on the night!
Tonight’s added bonus will be special guest Amie Webster, playing some stompin’ honky-tonk piano tunes with Rachel on clarinet. Amie is the owner of Motif Music Studios in Courtenay with 14 years teaching experience and has a long-standing passion and dedication to music making.

Tickets are available at our usual prices for the Jaclyn Guillou Quintet Concert on May 20th, and may be purchased from the Society on Thursday evenings or at Bop City in Courtenay or Videos ’n’ More in Comox. Not heard of Jaclyn before? Well they have in NYC where she recently played a concert in Birdland. So don’t hold back…plan on discovering how fantastic she really is.