Favorites from the Great American Songbook and reimagined pop classics
Jenn Forsland is a dynamic and seasoned performer whose work has been a defining thread in the Comox Valley music scene for nearly two decades. Known for her expressive stage presence, stylistic versatility, and deep connection to audience and ensemble alike, Jenn brings performance-first storytelling to every show — blending musicianship, humor, and emotional nuance into a compelling live experience.
Currently based in Bangkok, Thailand, Jenn continues to perform internationally while working as a teacher, conductor, adjudicator, and clinician. Over the past four years, extensive travel and life across Southeast Asia — along with journeys through Morocco, Japan, Nepal, Korea, Indonesia, Spain, Kenya, Vietnam, Maldives, Philippines, Malaysia, Cambodia, China, the UAE, Italy, Germany, Switzerland,Sri Lanka, and beyond — have broadened her artistic palette and shaped her programming choices. These global influences have added rhythmic, stylistic, and cultural depth to her interpretations and repertoire, giving her performances a distinctive scope and freshness.
A jazz specialist at heart, Jenn has also performed and recorded across a wide stylistic spectrum including bluegrass, rock and roll, folk, indie, classical, and country. Her performances are known for their stylistic authenticity paired with imaginative reinterpretation — honoring tradition while keeping the music alive and immediate.
She is joined by an exceptional lineup of collaborators — the usual suspects and longtime musical partners: Grahame Edwards on bass, Beau Stocker on drums, Rick Husband on guitar, and Rachel Cooper on saxophone — each bringing their own artistry and energy to the stage. Their shared history and musical chemistry create performances that are tight, responsive, and joyfully spontaneous.
The GSJS and the Jenn Forsland Group remain especially meaningful to Jenn as touchstones of her musical roots in the Comox Valley. Reuniting with these musicians and performing again for GSJS patrons is both a homecoming and a celebration.
On July 2nd at 40 Knots Winery, audiences can expect a performance-driven evening built around stylized favorites from the Great American Songbook and re-imagined pop classics with a jazzy twist woven together with storytelling, personality, and moments of playful surprise.