t's a new year, and a new start! Following the success of our last three concerts in The Little Red Church in Comox, the Board of Georgia Straight Jazz Society voted to adopt it as the regular venue for the continuation of the 2022 - 2023 Thursday Night Jazz season. The last event - a fundraiser for the Food Bank - resulted with a gift of $3,000 for people in need of support. And so, we move into the second half of our performance year with a calendar of 21 concerts between now and May 25th. The first features one of the finest guitarists on Vancouver Island when the Andrew Janusson Trio takes the stage for a two-hour performance.

Andrew was born and raised in Nanaimo, B.C. Starting music at the age of 12, Andrew soon began to garner notice for tearing up the local bar and music venue scene around Vancouver Island. At the request of his high school music teacher, Andrew was awarded the province's prestigious Dogwood Award to pursue a degree in music. Andrew studied at Vancouver Island University, where he quickly became one of the top musicians. At VIU, Andrew was awarded multiple scholarships and has been mentored by jazz greats such as John Clayton, Adam Rogers, Paul Bollenback, Phil Dwyer, and others.

While studying at VIU Andrew also won the esteemed Fraser MacPherson scholarship. After graduating, Andrew has led many of his own groups, performing throughout Canada including the Vancouver International Jazz Festival, the Victoria International Jazz Festival, and regularly appears at the most renowned jazz venues in B.C. including Hermann's Jazz Club, Frankie's Jazz Club, and many more as an in-demand sideman, and as a leader.

The trio consists of Andrew Janusson - guitar; Brock Meades - Bass, and Ethan Olynyk - Drums. As Andrew told me in his recent interview, "This concert marks an exciting start for 2023. Playing to a serious audience of folk who principally turn out to listen to the jazz music makes it even more of a challenge. We musicians have to rise to a higher standard".

The trio will be performing an eclectic mix of swinging jazz standards and originals. The musicians are each virtuoso in their own right, and bring a fiery passion to the music.

Admission is $15 for members, $20 for non members. Since no food or beverages will be served, you are encouraged to bring your own food and drink.

You're invited to expose yourself to an amazing jazz performance in a warm, safe and friendly atmosphere. If you're new to the valley and still exploring what's new and exciting, you will be surprised to discover a jazz performance scene equal to any large city. Select the Calendar tab to see the forthcoming acts in our schedule.

GSJS showcases jazz live in the Comox Valley, giving music lovers an opportunity to enjoys local, regional and internationally-known jazz musicians.