There's excitement in the air for jazz lovers in the Comox Valley as the Georgia Straight Jazz Society has moved to The High Tide pub on 5th Street as its new permanent location. We're happy to be presenting regular jazz concerts in a comfortable lounge setting with great sound, lighting, and sight lines. As well, food from the pub menu will be available for the first part of the evening.

An important item to note is the start time for the two-hour concert has been brought forward to 7:00 pm.

Most appropriately, the opening performance at the new venue is saxophonist and flautist Tony Morrison - one of the original musicians first involved with the Georgia Straight Jazz Society almost twenty years ago. Tony refers to himself as "geographically unstable" since he divides his time between life in Montreal and Comox Valley but counts himself as extremely grateful to still enjoy the opportunity to perform here.

As Tony told me, "I'm so fortunate to be accompanied by Parksville-based pianist and vocalist Gary Lovell. He's lyrical, astute and interactive in a group setting and fun to play alongside. Gary is one of my favorite keyboard players and singers as well as one of my favorite musicians. He sings with mesmerizing vocals and plays lyrical melodic solos."

Parksville's percussionist Wayne Finucan will bring his joy and pep to the band. It is a delight and a privilege to play with him. You can tell as Wayne plays he always has the melody and even lyrics in mind. Has had a long and illustrious career in jazz music since playing in his early years during the sixties with jazz legend Lenny Breau."

Further excitement comes with the upright bass playing of Richard Kilburn, now based in Parksville, following a long and distinguished career in New York. During his fifty years as a bassist, he's played with some of the world's top jazz artists, including Mose Allison, Dave Brubeck, Paul Desmond, Gerry Mulligan, Chet Baker, and Dianna Krall.

Don't miss this inaugural performance! It's bound to be a celebration in the new location! Remember, downbeat is at 7:00 pm. Admission is unchanged at $15 for members, $20 for non members. 2024 memberships ($25) will be available at the door.

This is your opportunity to discover why it is that the Comox Valley has such an enviable jazz scene, and a nationwide reputation. Our primary goal is to keep live jazz alive in the Comox Valley. We feature local, regional, national, and international acts every Thursday at The Little Red Church.

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