Lorne Nehring
October 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 @ 5:00pm

Lorne Nehring - Drums

Alex Dean - Saxophone

George Koller - Bass

Tom Reynolds - Piano

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Harley Card Quintet
October 22, 23, 24, 25 @ 8:00pm

Harley Card- Guitar and Compositions David French- Saxophone
Matt Newton- Piano
Dan Fortin- Bass
Ethan Ardelli- Drums

harley card is a Toronto based guitarist, composer, singer-songwriter and educator originally from Winnipeg Manitoba, via Ottawa Ontario. In addition to leading his own groups, Harley is a member of  and co-composer for the Canadian bands; Hobson's Choice, Stoptime, God's Gift To Yoda, and Dream Logic.

As a contributor to the creative music scene in Toronto since 2003, Harley has played with many artists including; Richard Underhill, Alex Dean, Alex Samaras, Mike Malone, Kelly Jefferson, Colin Fisher, William Carn, Alexander Brown, Michael Herring and Harrington, Chris Gale, Ethan Ardelli, Bernie Senensky, Michael Davidson, Don Scott, Matt Newton, Daniel Jamieson, Felicity Williams, Dave Clark, Carlie Howell, Jon Challoner, Sarah Jerrom, RJ Sachnanathan, Rebecca Hennessy, Dan Fortin, Ted Crosby, Dan Gaucher, and Ernesto Cervini, among others.

"Card’s musical sensibility is fully formed and urbane. His writing reflects a sense of history and is therefore worldly wise." 

                  -Raul d’Gama Rose- All About Jazz

Dhaivat Jani plus
October 23 @ 5:00pm

Dhaivat Jani - Drums/Tabla/Compositions

Jonathan Kay - Sax

Michael Davidson - Vibraphone

Sam Little - Bass

Peter Henry Holbrook - Piano

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Dhaivat Jani PLUS is a contemporary jazz  ensemble led by award-winning drummer/tabla  player and composer Dhaivat Jani. The band’s  music that unfolds like stories blends modern jazz  with Dhaivat’s influences ranging from Indian  classical and folk rhythms to rock and free  improvisation. Their debut album Sum // Parts has  received international acclaim, highlighting the  band’s unique voice in Toronto’s jazz landscape.

Harley Card Quintet
October 22, 23, 24, 25 @ 8:00pm

Harley Card- Guitar and Compositions David French- Saxophone
Matt Newton- Piano
Dan Fortin- Bass
Ethan Ardelli- Drums

harley card is a Toronto based guitarist, composer, singer-songwriter and educator originally from Winnipeg Manitoba, via Ottawa Ontario. In addition to leading his own groups, Harley is a member of  and co-composer for the Canadian bands; Hobson's Choice, Stoptime, God's Gift To Yoda, and Dream Logic.

As a contributor to the creative music scene in Toronto since 2003, Harley has played with many artists including; Richard Underhill, Alex Dean, Alex Samaras, Mike Malone, Kelly Jefferson, Colin Fisher, William Carn, Alexander Brown, Michael Herring and Harrington, Chris Gale, Ethan Ardelli, Bernie Senensky, Michael Davidson, Don Scott, Matt Newton, Daniel Jamieson, Felicity Williams, Dave Clark, Carlie Howell, Jon Challoner, Sarah Jerrom, RJ Sachnanathan, Rebecca Hennessy, Dan Fortin, Ted Crosby, Dan Gaucher, and Ernesto Cervini, among others.

"Card’s musical sensibility is fully formed and urbane. His writing reflects a sense of history and is therefore worldly wise." 

                  -Raul d’Gama Rose- All About Jazz

Sandra Bouza
october 24 @ 5:0pm

Sandra Bouza - Vocals / Guitar

No reservations
Pay What You Can

Sandra Bouza, a powerhouse artist with Canadian and Spanish roots, has had a year of career milestones. The soulful singer has played Massey Hall, was nominated for Maple Blues Award, and her last album; A Sound in the Dark, was nominated for best contemporary folk album of the year with the Canadian Folk Music Awards. 

Harley Card Quintet
October 22, 23, 24, 25 @ 8:00pm

Harley Card- Guitar and Compositions David French- Saxophone
Matt Newton- Piano
Dan Fortin- Bass
Ethan Ardelli- Drums

harley card is a Toronto based guitarist, composer, singer-songwriter and educator originally from Winnipeg Manitoba, via Ottawa Ontario. In addition to leading his own groups, Harley is a member of  and co-composer for the Canadian bands; Hobson's Choice, Stoptime, God's Gift To Yoda, and Dream Logic.

As a contributor to the creative music scene in Toronto since 2003, Harley has played with many artists including; Richard Underhill, Alex Dean, Alex Samaras, Mike Malone, Kelly Jefferson, Colin Fisher, William Carn, Alexander Brown, Michael Herring and Harrington, Chris Gale, Ethan Ardelli, Bernie Senensky, Michael Davidson, Don Scott, Matt Newton, Daniel Jamieson, Felicity Williams, Dave Clark, Carlie Howell, Jon Challoner, Sarah Jerrom, RJ Sachnanathan, Rebecca Hennessy, Dan Fortin, Ted Crosby, Dan Gaucher, and Ernesto Cervini, among others.

"Card’s musical sensibility is fully formed and urbane. His writing reflects a sense of history and is therefore worldly wise." 

                  -Raul d’Gama Rose- All About Jazz

Just Prince
October 24 @ 10:45 pm

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Toronto-based singer-songwriter, Just Prince, is known for  seamlessly blending Western and Eastern sounds into a  harmonious tapestry. With a captivating style that defies  genre constraints, his music weaves elements of folk,  rock, blues, and Hindustani classical music into a  mesmerizing experience. Just Prince's evocative  compositions take listeners on a sonic journey,  transcending cultural boundaries and resonating with the  soul. With Max Senitt on Drums, Patrick O'Reilly on Guitar  and Joan Lomas Ortega on Bass, they will craft a musical  landscape that bridges worlds with the intention of genuine  songwriting and experimental expression

Megacity Swing Band
October 25 @ 2:00pm

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Toronto’s own MegaCity Swing Band burst onto the scene in 2000 and is one of the swingingest bands in the GTA. We are a full sized jazz band – all 18 of us! We are comprised of some to Toronto’s best musicians performing the best jazz, latin, and swing tunes in Toronto.
 
Megacity enjoys performing at special events, weddings, parties, and corporate events all across the Toronto area. In the past we have been nominated for several awards at the CNE Big Band Festival. They have been guests at the Sunday Serenade Series in Mel Lastman Square. The band has been featured on Breakfast Television. Megacity has performed at Casa Loma, the Royal Ontario Museum, as well as at many golf clubs and retirement homes in the Toronto area. They can be seen every fourth Monday of the month at The 744 on Mt. Pleasant.
 
Megacity is one of the few (if not the only) big band that plays original compositions. The leader writes original tunes for the band, and these can usually be heard at the 744 gigs when they play on Monday nights.
 
In addition to our vocalist, the fabulous Gillian Steyck, this eighteen piece band is often joined on Monday nights by at least two –sometimes three – guest vocalists that guarantee to bring the house down.

Not Bob Brough Quartet
October 25 @ 5:00pm

Shawn Nyquist - Saxophone
Artie Roth - Bass
Terry Clarke - Drums

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Harley Card Quintet
October 22, 23, 24, 25 @ 8:00pm

Harley Card- Guitar and Compositions David French- Saxophone
Matt Newton- Piano
Dan Fortin- Bass
Ethan Ardelli- Drums

harley card is a Toronto based guitarist, composer, singer-songwriter and educator originally from Winnipeg Manitoba, via Ottawa Ontario. In addition to leading his own groups, Harley is a member of  and co-composer for the Canadian bands; Hobson's Choice, Stoptime, God's Gift To Yoda, and Dream Logic.

As a contributor to the creative music scene in Toronto since 2003, Harley has played with many artists including; Richard Underhill, Alex Dean, Alex Samaras, Mike Malone, Kelly Jefferson, Colin Fisher, William Carn, Alexander Brown, Michael Herring and Harrington, Chris Gale, Ethan Ardelli, Bernie Senensky, Michael Davidson, Don Scott, Matt Newton, Daniel Jamieson, Felicity Williams, Dave Clark, Carlie Howell, Jon Challoner, Sarah Jerrom, RJ Sachnanathan, Rebecca Hennessy, Dan Fortin, Ted Crosby, Dan Gaucher, and Ernesto Cervini, among others.

"Card’s musical sensibility is fully formed and urbane. His writing reflects a sense of history and is therefore worldly wise." 

                  -Raul d’Gama Rose- All About Jazz

James Griffith Quartet
October 25 @ 10:45 pm

James Griffith - Alto Saxophone

Andrew Marzotto - Guitar

Julian Anderson Bowes - Bass

Alex Sgrignoli  - 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 a Canadian all-star quartet composed of Toronto's finest musicians.

Global Jazz Series: waleed kush afro-jazz
October 26 @ 2:00pm

Waleed Abdulhamid - Bass / Vocals
Band - Tba

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Waleed Abdulhamid is a Canadian Multi-instrumentalist; Composer; Vocalist; Music and Film Producer, and is known for his striking vocals, innovative bass technique, and his speed and precision on percussion. He has been an active member of the Toronto music scene since his arrival from Sudan in 1992, and is the recipient of the Canadian New Pioneer Award; African Tama Award; Reel World Film Festival Award; Canadian Film Board of Excellence Award; Two times DORA Award; other international awards. He demonstrates his versatility playing 20 instruments: guitar; bass; drums; flute; harmonica; kirin; bass kirin; darabhuka; marimba; balimbo; congas; bongos; djembe; dumbek; aghera; tambour; cajun; denger; ekaa; tama. Waleed has played and recorded with a large number of well-known artists including David Clayton Thomas of the Grammy Award winning band Blood, Sweat & Tears, and with the Motown legend, The Drifters. However, Waleed is most proud of his role as a mentor to many acclaimed artists such as D’bi Young, Ngozi Paul, and Zaki Ibrahim to name a few.  Waleed has also been the subject of study for many researchers and PhD candidates seeking to understand the workings of the virtuoso mind. Waleed is also a Professor and faculty member of the Music Degree Program at Humber College.

Hans Luchs
October 26 & 27 @ 8:00 PM

Hans Luchs- Guitar
Felipe Arce- Bass
Agustín Grasso- Drums

 Hans Luchs is a guitarist, composer, recording artist, and bandleader  living in New York City. Hans has performed in a wide array of  settings, from small jazz clubs to large outdoor festivals. He originally  got his start playing around his native Chicago, performing at The  Auditorium Theatre, The Chicago Jazz Festival, The Green Mill,  Buddy Guy’s Legends, and The Jazz Showcase to name a few. Since  moving to New York, Hans has played at Smalls, The Django,  Midnight Blue, Ornithology, Cafe Ornithology, Minton’s Playhouse,  The Bitter End, The Bowery Electric, and many other venues around  New York City. He has also played internationally at jazz clubs and  festivals in Sweden, England, Scotland, Ireland, Northern Ireland,  Mexico, Canada, and Turkey.  

 Hans has performed and toured with an array of artists in several  musical traditions, including 8-time Grammy winner Pepe Aguilar,  Motown legend Martha Reeves, “daughter of the blues” Shirley King,  and many jazz musicians in New York, Chicago, and beyond.  

 As a recording artist, Hans has recorded in various formats as a leader  and sideman, including projects produced by NPR and Apple Music.  His 2015 debut recording “Time Never Pauses” (OA2 records) was met  with critical acclaim, including Downbeat Magazine, Jazz Weekly, and  All About Jazz. His most recent endeavor is 2025’s “The Spell is  Broken” (Fresh Sound New Talent), which features eight original  compositions of various moods and grooves, and has also been praised  by listeners and critics alike. 

Hans Luchs
October 26 & 27 @ 8:00 PM

Hans Luchs- Guitar
Felipe Arce- Bass
Agustín Grasso- Drums

 Hans Luchs is a guitarist, composer, recording artist, and bandleader  living in New York City. Hans has performed in a wide array of  settings, from small jazz clubs to large outdoor festivals. He originally  got his start playing around his native Chicago, performing at The  Auditorium Theatre, The Chicago Jazz Festival, The Green Mill,  Buddy Guy’s Legends, and The Jazz Showcase to name a few. Since  moving to New York, Hans has played at Smalls, The Django,  Midnight Blue, Ornithology, Cafe Ornithology, Minton’s Playhouse,  The Bitter End, The Bowery Electric, and many other venues around  New York City. He has also played internationally at jazz clubs and  festivals in Sweden, England, Scotland, Ireland, Northern Ireland,  Mexico, Canada, and Turkey.  

 Hans has performed and toured with an array of artists in several  musical traditions, including 8-time Grammy winner Pepe Aguilar,  Motown legend Martha Reeves, “daughter of the blues” Shirley King,  and many jazz musicians in New York, Chicago, and beyond.  

 As a recording artist, Hans has recorded in various formats as a leader  and sideman, including projects produced by NPR and Apple Music.  His 2015 debut recording “Time Never Pauses” (OA2 records) was met  with critical acclaim, including Downbeat Magazine, Jazz Weekly, and  All About Jazz. His most recent endeavor is 2025’s “The Spell is  Broken” (Fresh Sound New Talent), which features eight original  compositions of various moods and grooves, and has also been praised  by listeners and critics alike. 

Classic REx jam
hosted by chris banks
OCTOBER 7, 14, 21, 28 @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.

Lorne Nehring
October 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 @ 5:00pm

Lorne Nehring - Drums

Alex Dean - Saxophone

George Koller - Bass

Tom Reynolds - Piano

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Nancy Walker Quartet
October 29, 30, 31 & November 1

Nancy Walker - Piano / Compositions
Tara Davidson - Saxophones
Lauren Falls - Bass
Ethan Ardelli - Drums

Pianist and composer Nancy Walker has been recognized with honours Canada-wide, including the Montréal Jazz Festival’s Grand Prix de Jazz, the National Jazz Awards Keyboardist Of The Year Award, a JUNO nomination for Instrumental Album Of The Year, and an induction into the Mississauga Music Walk Of Fame. A dynamic improviser, an artful composer and a responsive accompanist, Nancy has been praised both for her work as a solo artist and as a musical collaborator. As a side player she can be heard on a wide range of recordings, by artists from saxophonist Kirk MacDonald to vocalist Emilie-Claire Barlow to children’s entertainer Raffi. More recently she can be heard on the 2024 recording Here’s To Life by John Neudorf (on which she was both pianist and co-producer), and Sarah Jerrom’s 2025 JUNO-nominated Magpie.

Nancy has several discs to her credit as leader. This engagement at The Rex celebrates the release of her most recent recording Deeper Down, featuring Nancy as pianist and composer, with Tara Davidson (saxophones), Lauren Falls (bass) and Ethan Ardelli (drums). Her compositions reflect her view of the age we live in - at times intense, at times poignant, at times cerebral. Her inspirations include architecture, cinema, literature, visual art and nature.

Nancy has taught on the music faculties of Humber College and York University, and she herself holds a Master of Arts in Music (Composition) from York University.

“Walker’s music vocabulary is strong and varied enough to provide an emotional experience that never wallows. It’s music that celebrates itself while including the audience in that celebration. In other words it’s accessible without any commercial compromises.” John Corcelli, criticsatlarge.ca

“Nancy Walker has played enough piano to know how to keep listeners interested however hard she pushes the boundaries of familiarity.” Geoff Chapman, Toronto Star

“Harmonically she's influenced by the usual suspects—Evans, Hancock, Jarrett, etc.—but her delicate touch and denser harmonic constructs brings to mind British pianist John Taylor as well…Walker's music is easy on the ears, but don't mistake that for lacking in interest or challenge, because she masks an advanced harmonic concept within an accessible veneer.” John Kelman, All About Jazz

“A fine example of the modern jazz musician’s art.” Mark Miller, The Globe and Mail

“A gifted pianist and composer, Nancy Walker is possessed of a lyricism that can suggest lapping water and bright skies, and a contrasting rhythmic drive. A former student of Fred Hersch, she builds on a tradition of romantic jazz piano that has deep roots in the harmonic innovations of Bill Evans.” Stuart Broomer, Toronto Life Magazine

“Toronto pianist Nancy Walker continues to write some of the most interesting and sophisticated contemporary jazz in the country. Contemporary, yet firmly connected to the history of jazz and therefore accessible.” Lyle Rebbeck, Medicine Hat Jazz Festival

Avataar
October 2, 9, 16, 30 @ 5:00pm

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

Special guests include Aaron Lightstone (oud) and Todd Pentney (piano, Fender Rhodes, synth). 

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Avataar is a JUNO award winning Toronto-based world-jazz group featuring some of the Canada’s finest jazz, world, funk, and pop musicians. The personnel includes bandleader Sundar Viswanathan (saxophones, bansuri, vocals), Laura Swankey (vocals), Michael Occhipinti (guitar), Tyler Emond (bass), Ravi Naimpally (tablas) and Max Senitt (drums and percussion). Special guests on the most recent, sophomore album, Worldview, include Aaron Lightstone (oud) and Todd Pentney (piano, Fender Rhodes, synth). 

Earmarked by JAZZFM91 as one of the ‘Best 25 Albums of 2021’, Worldview won the 2022 JUNO award for Best Jazz Album (Group). The music is inspired by the deep musical traditions of India, Africa and Brazil, rooted within the framework of modern jazz. In an innovative marriage of ancient and modern, driving grooves intersect with cinematic atmospheres and soaring melodies, creating a fresh, emotive sonic experience. Bandmembers share an eclectic range of musical expertise - hardbop, pop, rock, electronica, free improvisation, world and R&B/Soul filter into the interpretations of the tunes. Both Worldview and Petal (Avataar’s debut CD (2016)) received critical acclaim internationally from publications including DOWNBEAT, JAZZIZ, allaboutjazz, Jazz Weekly, and worldmusiccentral.com. Production of both albums and an upcoming live video was generously supported with grants from Ontario and Canada Arts Councils.

The band’s original compositions are informed by artists including Shakti, Jarrett, Oregon, Jan Garbarek, Jobim, Robert Glasper, Snarky Puppy, Kenny Garrett and Ornette Coleman, and at their core are imbued with an intent toward political and social change and a spiritual focus that transcends the sound. While Avataar’s debut album, Petal, explored the evanescence of human life and was a call for a return to spiritual connectedness, Worldview attempts to also present a musical commentary on the state of our world, on the pandemic and on the inability of our leaders to lead with integrity, honesty and compassion. While the actions of our leaders affected so many, some of the songs started as gut responses to the treatment of children, our most valuable and vulnerable citizens, and act as vehicles of catharsis for the composer.

Avataar has been making original music together for over 12 years, and continues to develop a national and international reputation. The band's performance record includes the Toronto, Guelph, Antigonish, Sudbury, Markham and Brampton Jazz Festivals, JUNOFEST (Toronto), Lula Lounge, Trane Studio, The Rose Theater (Brampton), Hugh's Room, the Small World Centre, NUMUS concert series, the Emmett Ray, the Jazz Room (Waterloo) several universities and colleges in Ontario, and other venues. In 2018 Avataar successfully toured South Africa, playing in venues ranging from intimate jazz clubs to universities and concert halls. This tour took the band through Cape Town, Kalk Bay, Durban, Johannesburg and Pretoria. And in 2019, a tour of Western Canada helped develop a national profile through performances to enthusiastic audiences in BC, AB and SK (Penticton, Revelstoke, Canmore, Saskatoon, Regina, Calgary, Nelson and Cranbrook). Both tours were supported by grants from Ontario Arts Council and the Canada Council for the Arts.

Avataar’s work has received critical acclaim from a wide range of online and print publications and from presenters internationally. Some quotes:

Don Griffiths (The Bassment) offers praise “Sundar Viswanathan and Avataar wowed our patrons with a first-rate performance…. Drawing on the jazz traditions of composition and improvisation, the group added a varied pallet of world music influences resulting in an exciting performance for our patrons. People will be talking about this show for a long time.”

Dutch Journalist Ivan Rod says “..technically and artistically impressive, outrageous, thought-provoking.. the music is magnetic, many faceted, and brave”

Tom Haugen of ‘Take Effect’ writes “a very eclectic and original listen that’s capable of being cinematic, is always unpredictable and deserves to be listened to many, many times”

James A. Cox of ‘Midwest Book Review’ says “Worldview is emotional, profound, utterly unforgettable, and highly recommended”

John Frederick Moore of ‘Jazziz’ writes “This is fusion in the very best sense of the word. Whether the group is expressing ecstasy, transcendence or tranquility, there’s never a dull moment”

Nancy Walker Quartet
October 29, 30, 31 & November 1

Nancy Walker - Piano / Compositions
Tara Davidson - Saxophones
Lauren Falls - Bass
Ethan Ardelli - Drums

Pianist and composer Nancy Walker has been recognized with honours Canada-wide, including the Montréal Jazz Festival’s Grand Prix de Jazz, the National Jazz Awards Keyboardist Of The Year Award, a JUNO nomination for Instrumental Album Of The Year, and an induction into the Mississauga Music Walk Of Fame. A dynamic improviser, an artful composer and a responsive accompanist, Nancy has been praised both for her work as a solo artist and as a musical collaborator. As a side player she can be heard on a wide range of recordings, by artists from saxophonist Kirk MacDonald to vocalist Emilie-Claire Barlow to children’s entertainer Raffi. More recently she can be heard on the 2024 recording Here’s To Life by John Neudorf (on which she was both pianist and co-producer), and Sarah Jerrom’s 2025 JUNO-nominated Magpie.

Nancy has several discs to her credit as leader. This engagement at The Rex celebrates the release of her most recent recording Deeper Down, featuring Nancy as pianist and composer, with Tara Davidson (saxophones), Lauren Falls (bass) and Ethan Ardelli (drums). Her compositions reflect her view of the age we live in - at times intense, at times poignant, at times cerebral. Her inspirations include architecture, cinema, literature, visual art and nature.

Nancy has taught on the music faculties of Humber College and York University, and she herself holds a Master of Arts in Music (Composition) from York University.

“Walker’s music vocabulary is strong and varied enough to provide an emotional experience that never wallows. It’s music that celebrates itself while including the audience in that celebration. In other words it’s accessible without any commercial compromises.” John Corcelli, criticsatlarge.ca

“Nancy Walker has played enough piano to know how to keep listeners interested however hard she pushes the boundaries of familiarity.” Geoff Chapman, Toronto Star

“Harmonically she's influenced by the usual suspects—Evans, Hancock, Jarrett, etc.—but her delicate touch and denser harmonic constructs brings to mind British pianist John Taylor as well…Walker's music is easy on the ears, but don't mistake that for lacking in interest or challenge, because she masks an advanced harmonic concept within an accessible veneer.” John Kelman, All About Jazz

“A fine example of the modern jazz musician’s art.” Mark Miller, The Globe and Mail

“A gifted pianist and composer, Nancy Walker is possessed of a lyricism that can suggest lapping water and bright skies, and a contrasting rhythmic drive. A former student of Fred Hersch, she builds on a tradition of romantic jazz piano that has deep roots in the harmonic innovations of Bill Evans.” Stuart Broomer, Toronto Life Magazine

“Toronto pianist Nancy Walker continues to write some of the most interesting and sophisticated contemporary jazz in the country. Contemporary, yet firmly connected to the history of jazz and therefore accessible.” Lyle Rebbeck, Medicine Hat Jazz Festival

Nancy Walker Quartet
October 29, 30, 31 & November 1

Nancy Walker - Piano / Compositions
Tara Davidson - Saxophones
Lauren Falls - Bass
Ethan Ardelli - Drums

Pianist and composer Nancy Walker has been recognized with honours Canada-wide, including the Montréal Jazz Festival’s Grand Prix de Jazz, the National Jazz Awards Keyboardist Of The Year Award, a JUNO nomination for Instrumental Album Of The Year, and an induction into the Mississauga Music Walk Of Fame. A dynamic improviser, an artful composer and a responsive accompanist, Nancy has been praised both for her work as a solo artist and as a musical collaborator. As a side player she can be heard on a wide range of recordings, by artists from saxophonist Kirk MacDonald to vocalist Emilie-Claire Barlow to children’s entertainer Raffi. More recently she can be heard on the 2024 recording Here’s To Life by John Neudorf (on which she was both pianist and co-producer), and Sarah Jerrom’s 2025 JUNO-nominated Magpie.

Nancy has several discs to her credit as leader. This engagement at The Rex celebrates the release of her most recent recording Deeper Down, featuring Nancy as pianist and composer, with Tara Davidson (saxophones), Lauren Falls (bass) and Ethan Ardelli (drums). Her compositions reflect her view of the age we live in - at times intense, at times poignant, at times cerebral. Her inspirations include architecture, cinema, literature, visual art and nature.

Nancy has taught on the music faculties of Humber College and York University, and she herself holds a Master of Arts in Music (Composition) from York University.

“Walker’s music vocabulary is strong and varied enough to provide an emotional experience that never wallows. It’s music that celebrates itself while including the audience in that celebration. In other words it’s accessible without any commercial compromises.” John Corcelli, criticsatlarge.ca

“Nancy Walker has played enough piano to know how to keep listeners interested however hard she pushes the boundaries of familiarity.” Geoff Chapman, Toronto Star

“Harmonically she's influenced by the usual suspects—Evans, Hancock, Jarrett, etc.—but her delicate touch and denser harmonic constructs brings to mind British pianist John Taylor as well…Walker's music is easy on the ears, but don't mistake that for lacking in interest or challenge, because she masks an advanced harmonic concept within an accessible veneer.” John Kelman, All About Jazz

“A fine example of the modern jazz musician’s art.” Mark Miller, The Globe and Mail

“A gifted pianist and composer, Nancy Walker is possessed of a lyricism that can suggest lapping water and bright skies, and a contrasting rhythmic drive. A former student of Fred Hersch, she builds on a tradition of romantic jazz piano that has deep roots in the harmonic innovations of Bill Evans.” Stuart Broomer, Toronto Life Magazine

“Toronto pianist Nancy Walker continues to write some of the most interesting and sophisticated contemporary jazz in the country. Contemporary, yet firmly connected to the history of jazz and therefore accessible.” Lyle Rebbeck, Medicine Hat Jazz Festival

Ronley Teper
October 31 @ 10:45 pm

Ronley Teper - Vocals
Chris Banks - Bass
Tim Posgate - Banjo/guitar
Caleb Hamilton - Trumpet/accordion
Elena Kapeleris - Bari/Tenor Saxophone Dafydd Hughes - Piano
Dave Clark - Drums

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Children at heart who love comedic, poetic, theatric, yet at times serious storytelling alongside truly magical music, should prepare themselves for the surprising world of Ronley Teper. Born in South Africa and growing up in Toronto, she is an active composer, producer & multimedia artist. As Ronley Teper and The Lipliners, Teper invites a rotating roster of some of the finest musicians, animators and multimedia artists to publicly improvise around her storytelling and songwriting styles that cycle through many influences from folk, funk, jazz, cabaret, cinematic, post rock and pop musical sensibilities. This process has developed a series of collaborations and an ever flowing body of work. She has been described as reminiscent of artists including Tom Waits, Mary Margaret O’Hara, Kate Bush, Talking Heads, and Frank Zappa.

A musician and performance artist, Teper has been an active member in the arts scene for almost two decades. Over this time, she has recorded 5 independent LP’s; with an upcoming 6th “Everyone Loves A Good Story” (Coming out Fall 2021). Composed, and performed works for puppet theatre in both Summerworks and Fringe Festivals in Toronto and Montreal; in COVID times created & directed So Whatcha Doin? A Youtube series hosted by Sock Face Teper that explores music, art, friendship and philosophical questions, such as: What is your favourite snack? hosted by a sock remote.  She has had musical placements in television, documentary films, and a few video games.  She was a guest speaker at the first TEDx talks in Bangkok, Thailand. Teper has participated in a variety of collaborations, artist’s residencies and has toured regularly in Canada, Europe and abroad.

Lerner / Brubeck Duo
November 1 @ 5:00 pm

Marilyn Lerner - Piano,
Matt Brubeck - Cello 

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Join master musicians Matt and Marilyn for an evening of original music, discovery,  reverie and sonic exploration... 

Matt Brubeck is a JUNO award -winning performer/composer/educator specializing in  improvisation on the cello. Raised on jazz and classically trained at Yale, Matt is at ease  in multiple genres and has taken his cello improvisation skills into diverse musical  territories. Matt has collaborated with more artists than he can remember, including  Marilyn Lerner, Nick Fraser, Kevin Breit, Caylie Staples, and David Braid. In addition to  his jazz/improvising work, Matt has had many eclectic musical adventures including  touring and/or recording with Tom Waits, Sheryl Crow, Dixie Chicks, Natalie McMaster,  and Yo-Yo Ma.  

For more information please visit: https://www.mattbrubeck.com 

Internationally renowned composer pianist Marilyn Lerner is a prolific recording artist  and performer. Her work, always utterly recognizable, is a singular expression of her  passion and deep commitment to a lifelong study of modern jazz, creative improvisation  and klezmer. Recording highlights include Birds Are Returning/Marilyn Lerner in Cuba,  (featuring Dafnis Prieto, Jane Bunnett and Yosvany Terry), Luminance, (experimental  solo piano) and Romanian Fantasy, (interpretations of Ashkenazi klezmer and folk  tunes). Ongoing jazz/improvised projects include Ugly Beauties (with Nick Fraser and  Matt Brubeck), Lerner/Filiano/ Grassi, and Brass Knuckle Sandwich with trumpeter  Nicole Rampersaud. Marilyn was recently awarded the Ontario Arts Foundation's Paul  de Hueck and Norman Walford Career Achievement Award for Keyboard Artistry.

Nancy Walker Quartet
October 29, 30, 31 & November 1

Nancy Walker - Piano / Compositions
Tara Davidson - Saxophones
Lauren Falls - Bass
Ethan Ardelli - Drums

Pianist and composer Nancy Walker has been recognized with honours Canada-wide, including the Montréal Jazz Festival’s Grand Prix de Jazz, the National Jazz Awards Keyboardist Of The Year Award, a JUNO nomination for Instrumental Album Of The Year, and an induction into the Mississauga Music Walk Of Fame. A dynamic improviser, an artful composer and a responsive accompanist, Nancy has been praised both for her work as a solo artist and as a musical collaborator. As a side player she can be heard on a wide range of recordings, by artists from saxophonist Kirk MacDonald to vocalist Emilie-Claire Barlow to children’s entertainer Raffi. More recently she can be heard on the 2024 recording Here’s To Life by John Neudorf (on which she was both pianist and co-producer), and Sarah Jerrom’s 2025 JUNO-nominated Magpie.

Nancy has several discs to her credit as leader. This engagement at The Rex celebrates the release of her most recent recording Deeper Down, featuring Nancy as pianist and composer, with Tara Davidson (saxophones), Lauren Falls (bass) and Ethan Ardelli (drums). Her compositions reflect her view of the age we live in - at times intense, at times poignant, at times cerebral. Her inspirations include architecture, cinema, literature, visual art and nature.

Nancy has taught on the music faculties of Humber College and York University, and she herself holds a Master of Arts in Music (Composition) from York University.

“Walker’s music vocabulary is strong and varied enough to provide an emotional experience that never wallows. It’s music that celebrates itself while including the audience in that celebration. In other words it’s accessible without any commercial compromises.” John Corcelli, criticsatlarge.ca

“Nancy Walker has played enough piano to know how to keep listeners interested however hard she pushes the boundaries of familiarity.” Geoff Chapman, Toronto Star

“Harmonically she's influenced by the usual suspects—Evans, Hancock, Jarrett, etc.—but her delicate touch and denser harmonic constructs brings to mind British pianist John Taylor as well…Walker's music is easy on the ears, but don't mistake that for lacking in interest or challenge, because she masks an advanced harmonic concept within an accessible veneer.” John Kelman, All About Jazz

“A fine example of the modern jazz musician’s art.” Mark Miller, The Globe and Mail

“A gifted pianist and composer, Nancy Walker is possessed of a lyricism that can suggest lapping water and bright skies, and a contrasting rhythmic drive. A former student of Fred Hersch, she builds on a tradition of romantic jazz piano that has deep roots in the harmonic innovations of Bill Evans.” Stuart Broomer, Toronto Life Magazine

“Toronto pianist Nancy Walker continues to write some of the most interesting and sophisticated contemporary jazz in the country. Contemporary, yet firmly connected to the history of jazz and therefore accessible.” Lyle Rebbeck, Medicine Hat Jazz Festival

Dan Pitt Trio
November 1 @ 10:45pm

Dan Pitt - Electric Guitar and Compositions

Alex Fournier - Double Bass

Aaron Blewett - Drums

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

An adventurous trio led by guitarist Dan Pitt, this group proves not to be your average jazz guitar trio. Featuring Alex Fournier on Bass and Aaron Blewett on Drums, the three musicians create music woven together through various textures of the group's instrumentation and unique voices. The trio will be performing music recorded from their two records: "Fundamentally Flawed" (2019) and "Stages" (2023) along with a few new pieces recently recorded in a larger band format. Come join the band for an evening of adventurous music inspired by a plethora of influences while being strung together with atmospheric and spontaneous musical moments.

Laura hubert Band
november 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 @ 5:00 PM

Laura Hubert - Vocals
Peter Hill - Piano

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.  

Marc Decho w/NYC's Damion Reid
November 2 & 3 @ 8:00pm

Marc Decho - Bass
NYC’S Damion Reid - Drums
James Hill - Piano

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.

Marc Decho w/NYC's Damion Reid
November 2 & 3 @ 8:00pm

Marc Decho - Bass
NYC’S Damion Reid - Drums
James Hill - Piano

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.

Anise Russow
November 4 @ 5:00 pm

Anise Russow - Vocals
Band - TBA

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Anise Russow is a twenty year-old jazz and soul vocalist recognized for her rich, expressive voice and dynamic stage presence. Originally from Victoria BC, she began performing regularly by the age of thirteen years old. She has since led her own groups, drawing from a wide variety of genres such as jazz, R&B, funk, pop, and folk. 

Shortly after beginning her Bachelor of Music at Humber College, Anise became a rising artist in the Toronto music scene. Her versatility has led her to notable stages across both Victoria and Toronto, including appearances at the TD Victoria International JazzFest (2019, 2023, 2025) and the Toronto Undergraduate JazzFest (2024). Featuring some of the city’s best young musicians, the Anise Russow Quartet is guaranteed to create a warm and immersive evening of music from the jazz idiom.

Classic REx jam
hosted by chris banks
november 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.

Lorne Nehring
november 5 @ 5:00pm

Lorne Nehring - Drums

Alex Dean - Saxophone

George Koller - Bass

Tom Reynolds - Piano

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Mike Murley & Pat LaBarbera : The Music Of Joe Henderson
November 5, 6, 7, 8 @ 8:00pm

Pat LaBarbara - saxophone
Mike Murley- saxophone
Brian Dickinson - piano
Neil Swainson - bass
Fabio Ragnelli - drums

An engaging, lyrical saxophonist, Mike Murley is one of Canada’s most celebrated jazz artists.  He has played on fourteen Juno Award-winning recordings since 1990, seven as a leader or co-leader, seven as a sideman.  His most recent Junos include The North (2018), Metalwood’s Twenty (2017) and his trio’s Test of Time (2013).

Murley moved to Toronto from his native Nova Scotia in 1981 and has enjoyed a career that has spanned a wide stylistic spectrum.  Recordings with legendary Canadian artists such as Ed Bickert, Rob McConnell, and Guido Basso showcase the saxophonist’s talents in the mainstream standard repertoire.  On the more contemporary side, Murley has collaborated frequently with younger generations of improviser/composers including pianist David Braid and guitarist David Occhipinti.  He is also well known for his work with the three-time Juno Award winning electric jazz group Metalwood. In addition, he has recorded and performed with numerous international artists including David Liebman, Renee Rosnes, John Schofield, Norma Winstone, as well as the late Paul Bley, John Abercrombie, and Kenny Wheeler.

As an educator Murley has held positions at the University of Toronto, York University, Humber College, and as a visiting member of faculty at the Banff School of Fine Arts.  He also served as Jazz Area Chair/Coordinator at both U of T (2016-18, 2020-21) and York (2008-11). 

In 2022 Murley retired from U of T and returned to Halifax NS, from where he continues to tour nationally and internationally.

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 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.

Miles Cakebread - Kraus
November 6 @ 5:00pm

Miles Cakebread-Kraus - Guitar and Electronics

Lazar Miric - Alto Saxophone

Steven Norohna - Keyboards

Carlo Santo Domingo - Electric Bass

Aidan McConnell - Drums

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Hailing from Prince Edward County and based in Toronto, Miles Cakebread-Kraus is a 24-year-old guitarist, and composer.

A passionate and creative musician, Miles uniquely blends jazz and improvised music with other genres, such as electronic, folk, and different types of popular music.

He has studied with the likes of Toronto musicians Michael Davidson, Trevor Giancola, Jocelyn Gould, and Kim Ratcliffe, as well as renowned Richmond VA
saxophonist Charles Owens.

Miles has a unique vision of melody and harmony that brings about captivating and distinctive compositions.

Mike Murley & Pat LaBarbera : The Music Of Joe Henderson
November 5, 6, 7, 8 @ 8:00pm

Pat LaBarbara - saxophone
Mike Murley- saxophone
Brian Dickinson - piano
Neil Swainson - bass
Fabio Ragnelli - drums

An engaging, lyrical saxophonist, Mike Murley is one of Canada’s most celebrated jazz artists.  He has played on fourteen Juno Award-winning recordings since 1990, seven as a leader or co-leader, seven as a sideman.  His most recent Junos include The North (2018), Metalwood’s Twenty (2017) and his trio’s Test of Time (2013).

Murley moved to Toronto from his native Nova Scotia in 1981 and has enjoyed a career that has spanned a wide stylistic spectrum.  Recordings with legendary Canadian artists such as Ed Bickert, Rob McConnell, and Guido Basso showcase the saxophonist’s talents in the mainstream standard repertoire.  On the more contemporary side, Murley has collaborated frequently with younger generations of improviser/composers including pianist David Braid and guitarist David Occhipinti.  He is also well known for his work with the three-time Juno Award winning electric jazz group Metalwood. In addition, he has recorded and performed with numerous international artists including David Liebman, Renee Rosnes, John Schofield, Norma Winstone, as well as the late Paul Bley, John Abercrombie, and Kenny Wheeler.

As an educator Murley has held positions at the University of Toronto, York University, Humber College, and as a visiting member of faculty at the Banff School of Fine Arts.  He also served as Jazz Area Chair/Coordinator at both U of T (2016-18, 2020-21) and York (2008-11). 

In 2022 Murley retired from U of T and returned to Halifax NS, from where he continues to tour nationally and internationally.

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 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.

Mike Murley & Pat LaBarbera : The Music Of Joe Henderson
November 5, 6, 7, 8 @ 8:00pm

Pat LaBarbara - saxophone
Mike Murley- saxophone
Brian Dickinson - piano
Neil Swainson - bass
Fabio Ragnelli - drums

An engaging, lyrical saxophonist, Mike Murley is one of Canada’s most celebrated jazz artists.  He has played on fourteen Juno Award-winning recordings since 1990, seven as a leader or co-leader, seven as a sideman.  His most recent Junos include The North (2018), Metalwood’s Twenty (2017) and his trio’s Test of Time (2013).

Murley moved to Toronto from his native Nova Scotia in 1981 and has enjoyed a career that has spanned a wide stylistic spectrum.  Recordings with legendary Canadian artists such as Ed Bickert, Rob McConnell, and Guido Basso showcase the saxophonist’s talents in the mainstream standard repertoire.  On the more contemporary side, Murley has collaborated frequently with younger generations of improviser/composers including pianist David Braid and guitarist David Occhipinti.  He is also well known for his work with the three-time Juno Award winning electric jazz group Metalwood. In addition, he has recorded and performed with numerous international artists including David Liebman, Renee Rosnes, John Schofield, Norma Winstone, as well as the late Paul Bley, John Abercrombie, and Kenny Wheeler.

As an educator Murley has held positions at the University of Toronto, York University, Humber College, and as a visiting member of faculty at the Banff School of Fine Arts.  He also served as Jazz Area Chair/Coordinator at both U of T (2016-18, 2020-21) and York (2008-11). 

In 2022 Murley retired from U of T and returned to Halifax NS, from where he continues to tour nationally and internationally.

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 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.

Roshane Wright
November 7 @ 10:45 pm

Roshane Wight - Drums / Percussion
Band - TBA

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Roshane Wright is a percussionist, drummer, composer and educator coming from Portmore, Jamaica. He started playing percussion instruments at the age of 7 and has never looked back since. In Jamaica, Roshane was a musical accompanist and educator at the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts for 5 years. He has toured Jamaica’s finest hotels playing with Caribbean - African Fusion ensemble named ‘Jamique Ensemble’ and also did various solo acts across the island. Roshane moved to Canada in 2019 and quickly began to progress musically at the Humber College Bachelors of Music Program, where he was mentored by some of Canada’s best musicians (Mark Kelso, Larnell Lewis, Waleed Abdulaid, etc.). He currently performs his own music with his band primarily in Toronto. He has also played with numerous great bands and for known artists in Toronto including The Maple Blues Band, The DubWize Band, Juno Award winning Reggae artists Kirk Diamond, Kairo Mclean and many others. Passionate to share his knowledge with others, Roshane also does Music Education specifically teaching Caribbean rhythms and culture to aspiring musicians. Roshane plays *Music From the Heart.*

Michael Arnowitt
November 8 @ 2:00 pm

Michael Arnowitt - Piano
Band - TBA

No Reservations
Pay What you Can

Pianist Michael Arnowitt is well known for his musical creativity and for his innovative jazz concert programs. He has performed jazz in Europe in clubs and concert halls in Moscow, St. Petersburg and Yaroslavl, Russia; Paris, France; Budapest, Hungary; Delft and Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Düsseldorf, Germany; and in Prague, Czech Republic, where he performed at the famed Reduta Jazz Club as part of the 29th Prague International Jazz Festival. He performed in New York City in September 2006 at Hunter College in a duo concert with the tenor saxophonist John McKenna.

An award-winning documentary film about his life and music, “Beyond 88 Keys,” was released in 2004. The film has been shown at various festivals and venues including The Anthology, a theater in New York City’s East Village, and De Rode Pomp, an arts center in Ghent, Belgium, and was also broadcast twice on public television.

In addition to leading an active life as a performer, Michael Arnowitt has helped to build the jazz infrastructure in his part of the country, providing performance opportunities for other musicians and uniting performers from different states in collaborative projects. He has made a contribution to jazz music appreciation through appearing on radio and TV shows and presenting jazz educational demonstrations at the piano in diverse venues such as schools, libraries, art centers, and theaters.

His solo piano recording Classical/Jazz on the national Musical Heritage Society label explored the mutual influence of jazz and classical music throughout the twentieth century. The program illustrated connections between the two genres of music, such as the common style of harmonies of the jazz bassist Dave Holland and the classical composer Aaron Copland. The CD sold 6,000 copies and was praised by both the classical and jazz communities, including the publication L.A. Jazz Scene.

In April of 2003, Michael Arnowitt organized “Ella Fitzgerald Night,” a tribute concert to the late jazz singer, with 23 musicians performing transcriptions Michael Arnowitt wrote out of arrangements used by Ella on historic recordings from 1939 to 1964. The concert, with a mix of big band and combo numbers, was a great success and attracted a standing room only audience. As a follow-up to “Ella Fitzgerald Night,” his second transcription project presented the hard bop arrangements used by Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers groups from the 1950’s through the 1980’s: this tribute sextet concert premiered in July of 2004.

His most recent compositional effort is an intriguing, full concert-length jazz suite entitled “The Five Chinese Elements,” written with bassist Anthony Santor and drummer-percussionist Steve Wienert. The ancient Chinese had five elements, not four: water, earth, wood, metal, and fire. In this free-jazz oriented composition, special new “hybrid scales” developed by Arnowitt serve as the basis for jazz harmony and melodic improvisation. The music is influenced by the ancient Chinese associations for each of the five elements combined with the performers’ own feel for the various elements’ character traits.

Michael Arnowitt’s new concert program “A Trip Through The Four Seasons” guides the listener on an evocative voyage through the calendar year, starting with jazz tunes about spring, proceeding through music about summer, autumn, and winter, and completing the circle by ending where the journey began, with music about spring. Many of these jazz tunes personify the seasons, as if Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter were living, animate actors touching us directly and granting us joy or sorrow. In addition to standards by Vernon Duke, Richard Rodgers, George Gershwin, and Hoagy Carmichael, the program features novel tunes such as the Californian pianist-composer Billy Childs’ “His April Touch,” based on a poem by e.e. cummings, and Michael Arnowitt’s own ingenious slow Latin jazz version of the opening of Stravinsky’s Rite of Spring. Michael Arnowitt’s other new projects include a program of Bill Evans tunes and three new programs featuring spoken word poetry read simultaneously with his solo piano improvisations.

In September 2000 he was the artistic director of the Vermont Millennium Music Festival, a four-day event featuring 24 concerts which presented in chronological order music from the year 1000 to the year 2000. As part of this festival he devised a program tracing the evolution of jazz through history: this concert included the rarely-heard original Paul Whiteman jazz band version of Gershwin’s Rhapsody In Blue.

Michael Arnowitt’s varied and unique style of improvising features graceful transitions from “in” to “out” playing, where freer, more rhapsodic sections develop motifs from the original melody of the tune. The “in” portions of an improvisation provide stability and anchor episodes of ear-stimulating “out” adventures.

Michael Arnowitt has performed jazz concerts, both solo and with quartets, at various art centers, concert halls, churches and synagogues, colleges and schools, theaters, house concerts, art galleries, libraries, and festivals.

Mike Murley & Pat LaBarbera : The Music Of Joe Henderson
November 5, 6, 7, 8 @ 8:00pm

Pat LaBarbara - saxophone
Mike Murley- saxophone
Brian Dickinson - piano
Neil Swainson - bass
Fabio Ragnelli - drums

An engaging, lyrical saxophonist, Mike Murley is one of Canada’s most celebrated jazz artists.  He has played on fourteen Juno Award-winning recordings since 1990, seven as a leader or co-leader, seven as a sideman.  His most recent Junos include The North (2018), Metalwood’s Twenty (2017) and his trio’s Test of Time (2013).

Murley moved to Toronto from his native Nova Scotia in 1981 and has enjoyed a career that has spanned a wide stylistic spectrum.  Recordings with legendary Canadian artists such as Ed Bickert, Rob McConnell, and Guido Basso showcase the saxophonist’s talents in the mainstream standard repertoire.  On the more contemporary side, Murley has collaborated frequently with younger generations of improviser/composers including pianist David Braid and guitarist David Occhipinti.  He is also well known for his work with the three-time Juno Award winning electric jazz group Metalwood. In addition, he has recorded and performed with numerous international artists including David Liebman, Renee Rosnes, John Schofield, Norma Winstone, as well as the late Paul Bley, John Abercrombie, and Kenny Wheeler.

As an educator Murley has held positions at the University of Toronto, York University, Humber College, and as a visiting member of faculty at the Banff School of Fine Arts.  He also served as Jazz Area Chair/Coordinator at both U of T (2016-18, 2020-21) and York (2008-11). 

In 2022 Murley retired from U of T and returned to Halifax NS, from where he continues to tour nationally and internationally.

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 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.

Frank Botos
November 8 @ 10:45 pm

Frank Botos - Drums
Eric St. Laurent - Guitar
Andrew Stuart - Bass

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Frank Botos Bio  

Born into a musical family, Frank became a first call drummer in  Hungary at an early age. He worked and recorded with  Hungary’s most well known musicians including Szakcsi, Tony  Lakatos, Robert Lakatos, Gabor Gado. Frank studied at the  Ferenc Liszt Academy of Music with Gyula Kovacs and Ivan  Nesztor. After leaving the school in 1991, Frank won first place  in the “Krakow International Jazz Competition” in Poland. He  has played on the main stages of European jazz festivals. In  1998 Frank Botos immigrated to Canada. Shortly after arriving  in Canada with his brother Robi Botos. 

Frank and Robi became well established in the Toronto jazz  scene as “The Botos Brothers”. They soon released their  independent CD featuring Pat LaBarbara, Don Thompson and  Attila Darvas, which has received extensive airplay. Frank  continued his professional development in Canada by studying  with renowned jazz educator Jim Blackley. Since then, Frank  has worked with such international and local stars as Bela Fleck  and Jean Luc-Ponty (Toronto International Jazz Festival main  stage 2005), Avishai Cohen (Hungarian Jazz Festival  2005),Sonny Fortune(Hungarian Jazz Festival 2006), Mario  Rodrigues, Joe Sealy and Paul Novotny (Du Maruier  International Jazz Festival Toronto 1999), Dave Young, Pat  LaBarbara, Don Thompson, Kirk MacDonald, Mike Murley,  Michael Stewart,Phil Dwyer, Hugh Fraser, Jake Langley, Steve  Wallace, Bernie Senensky,Stan Fomin, Shawan Nykwist, Neil  Swanson, Gene Dinovi, David Braid, Lorne Lofsky, Shelley  Berger, Nancy Walker,Mike Downs, and Kirk Lightsey to name  a few.

Laura hubert Band
november 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 @ 5:00 PM

Laura Hubert - Vocals
Peter Hill - Piano

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.  

Roberto Occhipinti
November 9 & 10 @ 8:00 PM

Roberto Occhipinti - Bass
Band - TBA

Roberto Occhipinti is diversity personified. He’s won awards and acclaim as a musician, composer and record producer. Throughout his career, the Toronto-born bassist has performed in classical orchestras, jazz ensembles, Latin groups, rhythm & blues outfits and rock bands. He has worked in theatre and opera, written for radio and television, played on film soundtracks and done more recording session jobs than he can remember. To call the hard-working musician versatile would be the height of understatement.

“I’ve always had very catholic tastes about my musical endeavors,” admits Occhipinti. “I don’t wait for the phone to ring. I’d rather make a call than hang around. I get involved with projects because I’m interested in doing lots of different things and you never know what they’re going to lead to.”

Occhipinti believes that his versatility is the direct result of his instrument. “The bass is the source of everything for me,” he says. “Unlike other instruments, it puts you in the centre of all sorts of situations. I play both double bass and electric bass, which creates a lot of opportunities. A guitar player can’t play in a symphony orchestra, for instance. I’m attracted to the social nature of music and the bass is the perfect instrument for that.”

From a young age, Occhipinti began straddling the worlds of jazz and classical music. His two earliest mentors, Joel Quarrington and Dave Young, represented that musical duality. Quarrington, a classical bassist with whom he grew up in the Toronto suburb of Don Mills, encouraged him to study with Peter Madgett and Thomas Monahan, while Young played bass with both orchestras and such jazz musicians as Oscar Peterson and Moe Koffman. “Dave was also doing studio work,” recalls Occhipinti, “basically all the kinds of things I wanted to do.”

After stints with the Winnipeg Symphony, the Hamilton Philharmonic and the Canadian Opera Company, Occhipinti fell under the spell of Latin music. Playing with Memo Acevedo’s Banda Brava led saxophonist Jane Bunnett to ask him to fill in for her bass player on a tour. Occhipinti wound up going to Cuba and playing on three of Bunnett’s albums, including the Juno Award-winning Ritmo and Soul and the Grammy-nominated Alma de Santiago. Through that association, he met Cuban-Canadian pianist Hilario Durán and produced three of Durán’s albums, including the Juno-winning New Danzon.

Throughout all of this, Occhipinti also worked in the field of contemporary music, acting as principal bassist with the Esprit Orchestra and as a longtime member of Arraymusic. At the same time, he wrote music for CBC radio dramas and scored the soundtrack for the animated hit children’s series George Shrinks, which earned him a SOCAN composer’s award.

But it has been on his own recordings that Occhipinti has best bridged his classical background with his deep love of jazz and world music. From his first album right up to last year’s A Bend in the River, he has forged a synthesis of symphonic strings, big-band horns with a rhythm section on a mix of original compositions and his interpretations of works by composers as varied as Giacomo Puccini, Thelonious Monk, Jimi Hendrix and Brazil’s Djavan. “I consider jazz to be the original world music,” says Occhipinti. “It’s an open platform—it can be whatever you want it to be.

Occhipinti’s talent and adventurous tastes have taken him as far afield as West Africa, where he appeared with the Mali Music project of Damon Albarn, frontman of British rockers Blur (he’d previously toured with Albarn’s experimental hip-hop act Gorillaz). Since 1990, he has played electric bass with Soul Stew, his six-piece funk and r&b band that includes some of Toronto’s most accomplished studio musicians.

Yet another of his undertakings has deep familial roots. Born of Sicilian heritage, Occhipinti introduced his guitarist brother Michael to field recordings made by ethnomusicologist Alan Lomax, when he visited Sicily in the 1950s. The result was The Sicilian Jazz Project, a CD of reinterpretation of that traditional folk music with arrangements by Michael and production by Roberto. Recently, after Roberto completed a tour with his own jazz quartet, the two brothers traveled to their parents’ hometown of Modica in Sicily to receive an award from the local government for their work. It was a “bittersweet” experience, says Roberto, “because our parents are no longer alive and they didn’t get to see Michael and I working together on this. But I’m very happy we did it.”

Next up for the busy bass player are new albums that he’s produced for Durán, Cuban drummer Dafnis Prieto and Quarrington, now one of the world’s top classical bassists. Not surprisingly, Occhipinti credits his instrument with giving him steady production work. “Bass players make good producers,” he says, “because their job is to tie into the larger picture and they wind up with a more holistic view of the music that they’re playing. Ultimately,” he adds, “it all comes back to playing the bass.”

Roberto Occhipinti
November 9 & 10 @ 8:00 PM

Roberto Occhipinti - Bass
Band - TBA

Roberto Occhipinti is diversity personified. He’s won awards and acclaim as a musician, composer and record producer. Throughout his career, the Toronto-born bassist has performed in classical orchestras, jazz ensembles, Latin groups, rhythm & blues outfits and rock bands. He has worked in theatre and opera, written for radio and television, played on film soundtracks and done more recording session jobs than he can remember. To call the hard-working musician versatile would be the height of understatement.

“I’ve always had very catholic tastes about my musical endeavors,” admits Occhipinti. “I don’t wait for the phone to ring. I’d rather make a call than hang around. I get involved with projects because I’m interested in doing lots of different things and you never know what they’re going to lead to.”

Occhipinti believes that his versatility is the direct result of his instrument. “The bass is the source of everything for me,” he says. “Unlike other instruments, it puts you in the centre of all sorts of situations. I play both double bass and electric bass, which creates a lot of opportunities. A guitar player can’t play in a symphony orchestra, for instance. I’m attracted to the social nature of music and the bass is the perfect instrument for that.”

From a young age, Occhipinti began straddling the worlds of jazz and classical music. His two earliest mentors, Joel Quarrington and Dave Young, represented that musical duality. Quarrington, a classical bassist with whom he grew up in the Toronto suburb of Don Mills, encouraged him to study with Peter Madgett and Thomas Monahan, while Young played bass with both orchestras and such jazz musicians as Oscar Peterson and Moe Koffman. “Dave was also doing studio work,” recalls Occhipinti, “basically all the kinds of things I wanted to do.”

After stints with the Winnipeg Symphony, the Hamilton Philharmonic and the Canadian Opera Company, Occhipinti fell under the spell of Latin music. Playing with Memo Acevedo’s Banda Brava led saxophonist Jane Bunnett to ask him to fill in for her bass player on a tour. Occhipinti wound up going to Cuba and playing on three of Bunnett’s albums, including the Juno Award-winning Ritmo and Soul and the Grammy-nominated Alma de Santiago. Through that association, he met Cuban-Canadian pianist Hilario Durán and produced three of Durán’s albums, including the Juno-winning New Danzon.

Throughout all of this, Occhipinti also worked in the field of contemporary music, acting as principal bassist with the Esprit Orchestra and as a longtime member of Arraymusic. At the same time, he wrote music for CBC radio dramas and scored the soundtrack for the animated hit children’s series George Shrinks, which earned him a SOCAN composer’s award.

But it has been on his own recordings that Occhipinti has best bridged his classical background with his deep love of jazz and world music. From his first album right up to last year’s A Bend in the River, he has forged a synthesis of symphonic strings, big-band horns with a rhythm section on a mix of original compositions and his interpretations of works by composers as varied as Giacomo Puccini, Thelonious Monk, Jimi Hendrix and Brazil’s Djavan. “I consider jazz to be the original world music,” says Occhipinti. “It’s an open platform—it can be whatever you want it to be.

Occhipinti’s talent and adventurous tastes have taken him as far afield as West Africa, where he appeared with the Mali Music project of Damon Albarn, frontman of British rockers Blur (he’d previously toured with Albarn’s experimental hip-hop act Gorillaz). Since 1990, he has played electric bass with Soul Stew, his six-piece funk and r&b band that includes some of Toronto’s most accomplished studio musicians.

Yet another of his undertakings has deep familial roots. Born of Sicilian heritage, Occhipinti introduced his guitarist brother Michael to field recordings made by ethnomusicologist Alan Lomax, when he visited Sicily in the 1950s. The result was The Sicilian Jazz Project, a CD of reinterpretation of that traditional folk music with arrangements by Michael and production by Roberto. Recently, after Roberto completed a tour with his own jazz quartet, the two brothers traveled to their parents’ hometown of Modica in Sicily to receive an award from the local government for their work. It was a “bittersweet” experience, says Roberto, “because our parents are no longer alive and they didn’t get to see Michael and I working together on this. But I’m very happy we did it.”

Next up for the busy bass player are new albums that he’s produced for Durán, Cuban drummer Dafnis Prieto and Quarrington, now one of the world’s top classical bassists. Not surprisingly, Occhipinti credits his instrument with giving him steady production work. “Bass players make good producers,” he says, “because their job is to tie into the larger picture and they wind up with a more holistic view of the music that they’re playing. Ultimately,” he adds, “it all comes back to playing the bass.”

Classic REx jam
hosted by chris banks
november 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.

Jill McCarron Quartet
November 12, 13, 14, 15 @ 8:00 PM

Jill McCarron - Piano and vocals

Brian O'Kane- Trumpet

Tony DePaolis - Bass

Terry Clarke - Drums

A bluesy, boppy, altogether terrific leader and pianist who chooses a number of rarely heard tunes by heroic players from the past. Jill McCarron has it all at her fingertips. I'm convinced she's headed for a lengthy career, playing so exquisitely. -- George Fendel, High Standards Jazz

McCarron, who in 1995 won the thirteenth annual Great American Jazz Piano competition in Jacksonville, FL, is a superb soloist who comps with perception and assurance. ★★★★☆ -- Jack Bowers, All About Jazz

Jill McCarron’s playing throughout Jazz Motif successfully makes the case that she is one of the top pianists in today’s jazz scene. -- Scott Yanow, LA Jazz Scene

Jill McCarron is an icon of the New York City jazz scene. She's been uptown at Dizzy's, Carlyle, Knickerbocker, Iridium, Harvard Club, Pierre Hotel, Birdland; she's been downtown at Blue Note, Smalls, Mezzrow, Hermana. She has been there and she is there, with a timeless and classic sound and a deeply-rooted jazz sensitivity. -- Jazz Bird Records

Jill McCarron is the real deal. Let’s simply say that she has done her homework and the swinging results are a pure delight. -- High Standards Jazz

A gal that's been knocking them dead for years. A fellow traveler of Randy Brecker and other jazz police certified players, ever since she won her first competition, you can well hear she never looked back. With a set card of classics and chestnuts leading the way, this is a mighty fine calling card for anyone that wants to hear the real deal done right. Hot stuff. -- Midwest Record

Jill McCarron has bop in her blood. A looker and a cooker. -- Jazz Weekly

Matt Newton
November 13 @ 5:00pm

Matt Newton - Piano
Band - TBA

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Matt Newton is a Toronto based pianist, composer and educator. Hailing from Ottawa, Ontario, Newton has been performing and composing professionally since the late 90s. He holds a Bachelor of Music from the University of Toronto and has attended the Banff International Workshop in Jazz and Creative Music where he studied with world renowned trumpeter/ composer Dave Douglas and pianist Deron Johnson (Miles Davis). In the fall of 2010 Newton performed a cross Canada tour promoting the release of his debut album Push. The critically acclaimed album features Petr Cancura, Mark McIntyre, and Ethan Ardelli, and was included in Paul J. Youngman’s list of Favourite Jazz CD’s of 2009. In 2012 Newton received an Ontario Arts Council grant to record his second album Within Reach, featuring his trio with Dan Fortin and Ethan Ardelli.

In his review of the record, Dan Bilawsky of All About Jazz wrote that “Newton doesn’t simply play piano. He expertly shapes phrases, lets notes pool together, creates rich and luxuriant arcs of sound, and balances the yin and yang that exists within these songs. His playing exudes warmth and comfort, yet it remains unpredictable.”

A longtime member of the Harley Card Quintet, Newton is featured on four of Card’s full length recordings. He has also performed alongside such respected artists as Rob Frayne, Melissa Lauren, Pat Collins, Kevin Turcotte, Ashley St. Pierre, Michael Herring, Ernesto Cervini, Jim Vivian, Felicity Williams, Alex Samaras, Chris Gale, Nick Fraser, Robin Dann, Rebecca Hennessy, Allison Au, and Tim Shia, among many others. 

Jill McCarron Quartet
November 12, 13, 14, 15 @ 8:00 PM

Jill McCarron - Piano and vocals

Brian O'Kane- Trumpet

Tony DePaolis - Bass

Terry Clarke - Drums

A bluesy, boppy, altogether terrific leader and pianist who chooses a number of rarely heard tunes by heroic players from the past. Jill McCarron has it all at her fingertips. I'm convinced she's headed for a lengthy career, playing so exquisitely. -- George Fendel, High Standards Jazz

McCarron, who in 1995 won the thirteenth annual Great American Jazz Piano competition in Jacksonville, FL, is a superb soloist who comps with perception and assurance. ★★★★☆ -- Jack Bowers, All About Jazz

Jill McCarron’s playing throughout Jazz Motif successfully makes the case that she is one of the top pianists in today’s jazz scene. -- Scott Yanow, LA Jazz Scene

Jill McCarron is an icon of the New York City jazz scene. She's been uptown at Dizzy's, Carlyle, Knickerbocker, Iridium, Harvard Club, Pierre Hotel, Birdland; she's been downtown at Blue Note, Smalls, Mezzrow, Hermana. She has been there and she is there, with a timeless and classic sound and a deeply-rooted jazz sensitivity. -- Jazz Bird Records

Jill McCarron is the real deal. Let’s simply say that she has done her homework and the swinging results are a pure delight. -- High Standards Jazz

A gal that's been knocking them dead for years. A fellow traveler of Randy Brecker and other jazz police certified players, ever since she won her first competition, you can well hear she never looked back. With a set card of classics and chestnuts leading the way, this is a mighty fine calling card for anyone that wants to hear the real deal done right. Hot stuff. -- Midwest Record

Jill McCarron has bop in her blood. A looker and a cooker. -- Jazz Weekly

Ale Nunez Group
November 14 @ 5:00pm

Ale Nunez - Vocals
Band - TBA

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Ale Avery Nunez, a 22 year old Canadian vocalist, songwriter and band-leader based in Toronto, has exploded onto the Jazz scene, where you can see her perform in Toronto at Jazz Bistro, Drom Taberna, The Emmet Ray and Manhattans in Guelph to name a few. She most recently performed as part of Ontario Creates Women's in Music series curated by Sammy Jackson at Hugh's Room Live.  Ale loves to share her passion for Jazz and all genres of music in every performance, drawing her audience in, having them hanging on to every note.  Her voice is uniquely her own yet reminiscent of artists such as Carmen McRae, Nancy Wilson, Sarah Vaughan and Julie London.  When she is not gigging, she is pursuing her Bachelor of Music Degree at Humber College and had the honour of performing at Humber's 50th Anniversary Celebration.  July 2023 she was named "Artist of the Year" by the TU Jazz Festival and placed first in the Doc Awards” as part of the 2022 Etobicoke Jazz Festival.  Ale is excited to be recording original music this year. 

Jill McCarron Quartet
November 12, 13, 14, 15 @ 8:00 PM

Jill McCarron - Piano and vocals

Brian O'Kane- Trumpet

Tony DePaolis - Bass

Terry Clarke - Drums

A bluesy, boppy, altogether terrific leader and pianist who chooses a number of rarely heard tunes by heroic players from the past. Jill McCarron has it all at her fingertips. I'm convinced she's headed for a lengthy career, playing so exquisitely. -- George Fendel, High Standards Jazz

McCarron, who in 1995 won the thirteenth annual Great American Jazz Piano competition in Jacksonville, FL, is a superb soloist who comps with perception and assurance. ★★★★☆ -- Jack Bowers, All About Jazz

Jill McCarron’s playing throughout Jazz Motif successfully makes the case that she is one of the top pianists in today’s jazz scene. -- Scott Yanow, LA Jazz Scene

Jill McCarron is an icon of the New York City jazz scene. She's been uptown at Dizzy's, Carlyle, Knickerbocker, Iridium, Harvard Club, Pierre Hotel, Birdland; she's been downtown at Blue Note, Smalls, Mezzrow, Hermana. She has been there and she is there, with a timeless and classic sound and a deeply-rooted jazz sensitivity. -- Jazz Bird Records

Jill McCarron is the real deal. Let’s simply say that she has done her homework and the swinging results are a pure delight. -- High Standards Jazz

A gal that's been knocking them dead for years. A fellow traveler of Randy Brecker and other jazz police certified players, ever since she won her first competition, you can well hear she never looked back. With a set card of classics and chestnuts leading the way, this is a mighty fine calling card for anyone that wants to hear the real deal done right. Hot stuff. -- Midwest Record

Jill McCarron has bop in her blood. A looker and a cooker. -- Jazz Weekly

Jim Gelcer Trio
November 15 @ 5:00pm

Jim Glacer - drums and vocals

Evan Miles - piano

George Koller - bass

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Jim Gelcer is a singing drummer and multiple chart topping recording artist, hailed as “a hidden jewel in the Canadian jazz landscape” who sings with “a purity of tone, a resonant vocal aesthetic and a deeply embedded rhythmic sensibility,” and sounds “like Chet Baker, with edge.”He is at home in an eclectic range of genres, from jazz and rock to klezmer and new age, and an accomplished film and television composer. His recording "Jim and Paul Play Glenn and Ludwig" hit #1 in Canada on both the jazz and classical charts. He is also renowned for his meditative music recordings, including “Quiet Expanse” which topped the New Age charts in 2025.

Jill McCarron Quartet
November 12, 13, 14, 15 @ 8:00 PM

Jill McCarron - Piano and vocals

Brian O'Kane- Trumpet

Tony DePaolis - Bass

Terry Clarke - Drums

A bluesy, boppy, altogether terrific leader and pianist who chooses a number of rarely heard tunes by heroic players from the past. Jill McCarron has it all at her fingertips. I'm convinced she's headed for a lengthy career, playing so exquisitely. -- George Fendel, High Standards Jazz

McCarron, who in 1995 won the thirteenth annual Great American Jazz Piano competition in Jacksonville, FL, is a superb soloist who comps with perception and assurance. ★★★★☆ -- Jack Bowers, All About Jazz

Jill McCarron’s playing throughout Jazz Motif successfully makes the case that she is one of the top pianists in today’s jazz scene. -- Scott Yanow, LA Jazz Scene

Jill McCarron is an icon of the New York City jazz scene. She's been uptown at Dizzy's, Carlyle, Knickerbocker, Iridium, Harvard Club, Pierre Hotel, Birdland; she's been downtown at Blue Note, Smalls, Mezzrow, Hermana. She has been there and she is there, with a timeless and classic sound and a deeply-rooted jazz sensitivity. -- Jazz Bird Records

Jill McCarron is the real deal. Let’s simply say that she has done her homework and the swinging results are a pure delight. -- High Standards Jazz

A gal that's been knocking them dead for years. A fellow traveler of Randy Brecker and other jazz police certified players, ever since she won her first competition, you can well hear she never looked back. With a set card of classics and chestnuts leading the way, this is a mighty fine calling card for anyone that wants to hear the real deal done right. Hot stuff. -- Midwest Record

Jill McCarron has bop in her blood. A looker and a cooker. -- Jazz Weekly

Joe Bowden & The Pocket Squares
November 15 @ 10:45PM

Ewen Farncombe - piano
Jesse Ryan - alto sax
Andrew McAnsh - trumpet
Andrew Stewart - bass
Jojo Bowden - drums

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Playing music from Joe's catalogue and his newest album Music is Life. Also, remixes of the Great Wayne Shorter.

Laura hubert Band
november 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 @ 5:00 PM

Laura Hubert - Vocals
Peter Hill - Piano

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.  

John Macleod’s Rex Hotel Orchestra
november 17 @ 8:00 PM

John MacLeod - Trumpet / Flugelhorn
20-piece Juno Award-winning Jazz Big Band

Canada’s Finest Big Band Jazz Ensemble

The life and career of John MacLeod is intricately bound to the history of jazz and big band music in Toronto. A native of this city, he took a very early interest in jazz and by the time he began studying the trumpet at age 12 was already an aficionado of New Orleans, Chicago and swing styles of the music. His earliest local hero was trumpeter "Trump" Davidson and by his early teens he was attending t.v. recording sessions where he would be amazed by studio greats such as Guido Basso, Moe Koffman and Teddy Roderman. A decade later, John would be playing with many of these early heros. In fact he would have professional involvement with every name listed in this release from Benny Louis to Ron Collier to Guido Basso. He even took his boyhood hero "Trump" Davidson's place in Trump's band. Few other musicians of his generation can claim as much direct connection to the entire history of jazz and big band music in Toronto. His long association with Rob McConnell and the Boss Brass would also have a profound effect on his approach to arranging and composing. While his writing may be uniquely his own, the sound of his band is unmistakably "Toronto".

Classic REx jam
hosted by chris banks
november 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.

Maureen Kennedy
November 19 @ 5:00 pm

Maureen Kennedy - Vocals
Lee Wallace - Piano / Guitar
Jon Meyers - Bass

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Maureen has cultivated an extensive repertoire of memorable standards and rediscovered gems that compliment her very personal sound.  Kennedy developed her love for jazz in her early twenties when she studied for six years with Canadian flugelhorn and trumpet player Fred Stone.  The purity of her sound and her restrained use of vibrato developed under his tutelage.

Through the years Ms. Kennedy has performed at numerous venues and arts events in and around the city of Toronto with many of Canada’s accomplished jazz players. This past summer she went to Vancouver for the first time and sang two nights at the Cory Weeds Cellar Jazz Club with a group that included Vancouver saxophonist Cory Weeds and guitarist Bill Coon.

Her debut recording This Is Always features a selection of classic standards including rarely recorded compositions by Billy Strayhorn, Jimmy Van Heusen, Johnny Burke, and Alec  Wilder. In addition, the arranging talents of pianist Nancy Walker are showcased in covers of two folk songs written by Nick Drake and Sandy Denny. Including Nancy Walker, accompanying Maureen on the recording are Kieran Overs (double bass) and Anthony Michelli (drums.)

Ted Ono, the producer of Out of the Shadows, her sophomore CD release says, “Discerning listeners should find Maureen Kennedy’s warm, round and resonant sound both delightful and refreshing. She sings with understatement while still retaining her jazz identity… What she and her four accomplished accompanists successfully achieve here is the art of good mainstream jazz, the kind listeners find both comforting and enticing.”

Maureen’s vast musical knowledge has been put to great use in her work as a Media Librarian and visual researcher for the CBC in Toronto. In her job she catalogues archival arts, music and entertainment programming, which has given her insight into Canadian jazz history.

“Too often we heap praise on an artist. In the case of Maureen Kennedy, it is not often enough. Ethereal, soulful and a singular voice that is immediate in its impact and timeless in its breadth. Maureen Kennedy is that rarest of things, a jazz singer.” Ralph Benmergui, Canadian television and radio personality, formerly with the CBC and Jazz FM 91.1

Carn Davidson 9
November 19, 20, 21, 22 @ 8:00pm

William Carn - Trombone
Tara Davidson - Alto Saxophone
Kelly Jefferson – Tenor Saxophone
Shirantha Beddage – Baritone Saxophone
Jason Logue – Trumpet
Kevin Turcotte – Trumpet
Christian Overton – Trombone
Dan Fortin – Bass
Ernesto Cervini – Drums

The Carn Davidson 9 was formed at the beginning of 2011 as a collaborative project between JUNO Award nominated artists, trombonist William Carn and saxophonist Tara Davidson. As leaders of their own small jazz groups, Carn and Davidson have each released three CDs, all entirely comprised of their own original material. This collaborative project is an opportunity for both artists to “reimagine” their compositions for this chamber jazz instrumentation, shining new perspective on their existing repertoire. This 9-piece chord-less ensemble utilizes its seven horns as both melodic and harmonic devices, anchored by bass and drums.

The Carn Davidson 9’s unique sound is made stronger by an all-star lineup of prominent Canadian artists who are all exceptional ensemble players as well as outstanding soloists.  The CD9 has already been featured at Toronto’s Rex Hotel Jazz Bar and the Toronto Downtown Jazz Festival.  In the Fall of 2012, the group  released their debut recording, 9, on Toronto’s Addo Records.

Trombonist WILLIAM CARN has emerged as one of Canada’s leading contemporary jazz composers and performers.  His debut release, Other Stories, was nominated for a 2007 Juno Award as Traditional Jazz Album of the Year.  He has also been nominated for Trombonist of the Year at the National Jazz Awards from 2004 to 2008.  He has performed and recorded with jazz artists including Rob McConnell, Randy Brecker, David Binney, Kenny Wheeler, Ingrid Jensen, Tim Hagans, Barry Harris, Carla Bley, Steve Swallow, Vince Mendoza, Don Braden, Mike Murley, and Hilario Duran. William also enjoys a diverse freelance career and is a regular member of the Stratford Shakespeare Festival orchestra.  William is a RATH Trombone artist and is an instructor at Humber College and the University of Toronto.

Toronto-born alto and soprano saxophonist TARA DAVIDSON has performed around the world at such prestigious venues as New York City’s Carnegie Hall, the acclaimed North Sea Jazz Festival in the Netherlands, the International Jazz Festival in Lima, Peru, and The Kennedy Center, in Washington, D.C.  She has produced three recordings as a leader since 2003 and performed on over a dozen recordings as a side person.  Davidson’s sophomore CD, Code Breaking, was released in the fall of 2006 and featured JUNO award winners, Mike Murley (tenor saxophone) and David Braid (piano).  The 2008 JUNO Awards nominated Code Breaking for “Traditional Jazz Album of the Year”. Davidson’s most significant musical influence has been saxophonist Mike Murley with whom she studied for five years and she is a graduate of the prestigious University of Toronto Jazz Performance Program.  Davidson is an instructor at York University in Toronto, ON.

WEST END RIVERBOAT BAND
November 20 @ 5:00pm

John Williams - Clarinet

Chris Adriaanse - Double Bass

Ben Lee - Banjo

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

John Williams (clarinet), Chris Adriaanse (double bass) and Ben Lee (banjo) play a broad repertoire drawing from the last 150-years of music, often in a traditional jazz style.

Carn Davidson 9
November 19, 20, 21, 22 @ 8:00pm

William Carn - Trombone
Tara Davidson - Alto Saxophone
Kelly Jefferson – Tenor Saxophone
Shirantha Beddage – Baritone Saxophone
Jason Logue – Trumpet
Kevin Turcotte – Trumpet
Christian Overton – Trombone
Dan Fortin – Bass
Ernesto Cervini – Drums

The Carn Davidson 9 was formed at the beginning of 2011 as a collaborative project between JUNO Award nominated artists, trombonist William Carn and saxophonist Tara Davidson. As leaders of their own small jazz groups, Carn and Davidson have each released three CDs, all entirely comprised of their own original material. This collaborative project is an opportunity for both artists to “reimagine” their compositions for this chamber jazz instrumentation, shining new perspective on their existing repertoire. This 9-piece chord-less ensemble utilizes its seven horns as both melodic and harmonic devices, anchored by bass and drums.

The Carn Davidson 9’s unique sound is made stronger by an all-star lineup of prominent Canadian artists who are all exceptional ensemble players as well as outstanding soloists.  The CD9 has already been featured at Toronto’s Rex Hotel Jazz Bar and the Toronto Downtown Jazz Festival.  In the Fall of 2012, the group  released their debut recording, 9, on Toronto’s Addo Records.

Trombonist WILLIAM CARN has emerged as one of Canada’s leading contemporary jazz composers and performers.  His debut release, Other Stories, was nominated for a 2007 Juno Award as Traditional Jazz Album of the Year.  He has also been nominated for Trombonist of the Year at the National Jazz Awards from 2004 to 2008.  He has performed and recorded with jazz artists including Rob McConnell, Randy Brecker, David Binney, Kenny Wheeler, Ingrid Jensen, Tim Hagans, Barry Harris, Carla Bley, Steve Swallow, Vince Mendoza, Don Braden, Mike Murley, and Hilario Duran. William also enjoys a diverse freelance career and is a regular member of the Stratford Shakespeare Festival orchestra.  William is a RATH Trombone artist and is an instructor at Humber College and the University of Toronto.

Toronto-born alto and soprano saxophonist TARA DAVIDSON has performed around the world at such prestigious venues as New York City’s Carnegie Hall, the acclaimed North Sea Jazz Festival in the Netherlands, the International Jazz Festival in Lima, Peru, and The Kennedy Center, in Washington, D.C.  She has produced three recordings as a leader since 2003 and performed on over a dozen recordings as a side person.  Davidson’s sophomore CD, Code Breaking, was released in the fall of 2006 and featured JUNO award winners, Mike Murley (tenor saxophone) and David Braid (piano).  The 2008 JUNO Awards nominated Code Breaking for “Traditional Jazz Album of the Year”. Davidson’s most significant musical influence has been saxophonist Mike Murley with whom she studied for five years and she is a graduate of the prestigious University of Toronto Jazz Performance Program.  Davidson is an instructor at York University in Toronto, ON.

James Brown Trio
november 21 @ 5:00 pm

James Brown - Guitar
Hannah Barstow -Piano
Clark Johnston - Bass

No Reservations

Pay What You Can

James Brown (Guitarist, Composer, Educator) is one of Canada’s most talented  and versatile musicians. He has preformed and recorded with many leading  artists and ensembles and has recorded four critically acclaimed CD’s of original  music.  

His recent full scale composition “The Mosley Street Suite” was premiered at  Koerner Hall in August 2021 and his fourth studio album “Song Within the Story”, (featuring Clark Johnston, Anthony Michelli and Mike Murley) was  released on NGP records in March of 2022.  

A fifth album was released in 2025 and finds James expanding his craft to  include two new compositions with original lyrics. This new chamber jazz  recording, entitled “Anthem For Everyone” includes Aline Homzy on violin and  Hannah Barstow on vocals and piano. 

Other recordings have featured Don Thompson, Quinsin Nachoff, Jim Vivian, Andrew Downing, Ernie Tollar, John Obercian, Mike Milligan and Christopher  Lee. James has also performed with The Toronto Symphony Orchestra (with  Eric Idol), Toronto Philharmonia, Sound Streams Canada (with The Hilliard  Ensemble), Art of Time Ensemble and CanStage. He also performed in the  Canadian premiere of 2X5: a new work by New York composer Steve Reich. 

James’ compositions range from solo guitar to symphony orchestra and have  been performed and recorded by numerous ensembles and soloists including:  Orchestra Toronto, Trinity Chamber Ensemble, Jeffrey McFadden, William  Beauvais and The Montreal Guitar Trio. James has a Master of Arts Degree in  Composition from York University and is currently on Faculty at The Oscar Peterson School of Music (formerly: The Royal Conservatory School). His  article “The Grundgestalt Concept” was published in the July 2023 issue  of Downbeat Magazine.  

www.jamesbrown.ca

Carn Davidson 9
November 19, 20, 21, 22 @ 8:00pm

William Carn - Trombone
Tara Davidson - Alto Saxophone
Kelly Jefferson – Tenor Saxophone
Shirantha Beddage – Baritone Saxophone
Jason Logue – Trumpet
Kevin Turcotte – Trumpet
Christian Overton – Trombone
Dan Fortin – Bass
Ernesto Cervini – Drums

The Carn Davidson 9 was formed at the beginning of 2011 as a collaborative project between JUNO Award nominated artists, trombonist William Carn and saxophonist Tara Davidson. As leaders of their own small jazz groups, Carn and Davidson have each released three CDs, all entirely comprised of their own original material. This collaborative project is an opportunity for both artists to “reimagine” their compositions for this chamber jazz instrumentation, shining new perspective on their existing repertoire. This 9-piece chord-less ensemble utilizes its seven horns as both melodic and harmonic devices, anchored by bass and drums.

The Carn Davidson 9’s unique sound is made stronger by an all-star lineup of prominent Canadian artists who are all exceptional ensemble players as well as outstanding soloists.  The CD9 has already been featured at Toronto’s Rex Hotel Jazz Bar and the Toronto Downtown Jazz Festival.  In the Fall of 2012, the group  released their debut recording, 9, on Toronto’s Addo Records.

Trombonist WILLIAM CARN has emerged as one of Canada’s leading contemporary jazz composers and performers.  His debut release, Other Stories, was nominated for a 2007 Juno Award as Traditional Jazz Album of the Year.  He has also been nominated for Trombonist of the Year at the National Jazz Awards from 2004 to 2008.  He has performed and recorded with jazz artists including Rob McConnell, Randy Brecker, David Binney, Kenny Wheeler, Ingrid Jensen, Tim Hagans, Barry Harris, Carla Bley, Steve Swallow, Vince Mendoza, Don Braden, Mike Murley, and Hilario Duran. William also enjoys a diverse freelance career and is a regular member of the Stratford Shakespeare Festival orchestra.  William is a RATH Trombone artist and is an instructor at Humber College and the University of Toronto.

Toronto-born alto and soprano saxophonist TARA DAVIDSON has performed around the world at such prestigious venues as New York City’s Carnegie Hall, the acclaimed North Sea Jazz Festival in the Netherlands, the International Jazz Festival in Lima, Peru, and The Kennedy Center, in Washington, D.C.  She has produced three recordings as a leader since 2003 and performed on over a dozen recordings as a side person.  Davidson’s sophomore CD, Code Breaking, was released in the fall of 2006 and featured JUNO award winners, Mike Murley (tenor saxophone) and David Braid (piano).  The 2008 JUNO Awards nominated Code Breaking for “Traditional Jazz Album of the Year”. Davidson’s most significant musical influence has been saxophonist Mike Murley with whom she studied for five years and she is a graduate of the prestigious University of Toronto Jazz Performance Program.  Davidson is an instructor at York University in Toronto, ON.

Carn Davidson 9
November 19, 20, 21, 22 @ 8:00pm

William Carn - Trombone
Tara Davidson - Alto Saxophone
Kelly Jefferson – Tenor Saxophone
Shirantha Beddage – Baritone Saxophone
Jason Logue – Trumpet
Kevin Turcotte – Trumpet
Christian Overton – Trombone
Dan Fortin – Bass
Ernesto Cervini – Drums

The Carn Davidson 9 was formed at the beginning of 2011 as a collaborative project between JUNO Award nominated artists, trombonist William Carn and saxophonist Tara Davidson. As leaders of their own small jazz groups, Carn and Davidson have each released three CDs, all entirely comprised of their own original material. This collaborative project is an opportunity for both artists to “reimagine” their compositions for this chamber jazz instrumentation, shining new perspective on their existing repertoire. This 9-piece chord-less ensemble utilizes its seven horns as both melodic and harmonic devices, anchored by bass and drums.

The Carn Davidson 9’s unique sound is made stronger by an all-star lineup of prominent Canadian artists who are all exceptional ensemble players as well as outstanding soloists.  The CD9 has already been featured at Toronto’s Rex Hotel Jazz Bar and the Toronto Downtown Jazz Festival.  In the Fall of 2012, the group  released their debut recording, 9, on Toronto’s Addo Records.

Trombonist WILLIAM CARN has emerged as one of Canada’s leading contemporary jazz composers and performers.  His debut release, Other Stories, was nominated for a 2007 Juno Award as Traditional Jazz Album of the Year.  He has also been nominated for Trombonist of the Year at the National Jazz Awards from 2004 to 2008.  He has performed and recorded with jazz artists including Rob McConnell, Randy Brecker, David Binney, Kenny Wheeler, Ingrid Jensen, Tim Hagans, Barry Harris, Carla Bley, Steve Swallow, Vince Mendoza, Don Braden, Mike Murley, and Hilario Duran. William also enjoys a diverse freelance career and is a regular member of the Stratford Shakespeare Festival orchestra.  William is a RATH Trombone artist and is an instructor at Humber College and the University of Toronto.

Toronto-born alto and soprano saxophonist TARA DAVIDSON has performed around the world at such prestigious venues as New York City’s Carnegie Hall, the acclaimed North Sea Jazz Festival in the Netherlands, the International Jazz Festival in Lima, Peru, and The Kennedy Center, in Washington, D.C.  She has produced three recordings as a leader since 2003 and performed on over a dozen recordings as a side person.  Davidson’s sophomore CD, Code Breaking, was released in the fall of 2006 and featured JUNO award winners, Mike Murley (tenor saxophone) and David Braid (piano).  The 2008 JUNO Awards nominated Code Breaking for “Traditional Jazz Album of the Year”. Davidson’s most significant musical influence has been saxophonist Mike Murley with whom she studied for five years and she is a graduate of the prestigious University of Toronto Jazz Performance Program.  Davidson is an instructor at York University in Toronto, ON.

Laura hubert Band
november 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 @ 5:00 PM

Laura Hubert - Vocals
Peter Hill - Piano

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.  

Patrick Smith Quintet featuring NYC’s Lex Korten 
November 23 & 24 @ 8:00PM

Patrick Smith - Saxophone
Kae Murphy-Trumpet 
Lex Korten-Piano 
Mark Godfrey-Bass 
Jon Catanus-Drums 

Patrick Smith is a saxophonist based in Toronto (originally from Ottawa)

He has established himself as a gifted and in demand saxophonist in the Canadian music scene. In recent years he has extensively toured Canada, the US, and Europe with Legends of Motown (featuring Michael Dunston and Gary Beals), My Son The Hurricane, The Reklaws, Chelsea Mcbride’s Socialist Night School, and Forever Seger. 

He keeps an active freelance schedule in Toronto and around North America appearing with artists such as Order of Canada Recipient Dave Young, Juini Booth (bassist for Mccoy Tyner and Tony Williams), Yemen Blues, Erez Zobary, Heavyweights Brass Band, Dee Dee and the Dirty Martinis, Eighth Street Orchestra, Dan Pitt Quintet, King Cardiac, Queen Pepper, Kazdoura, and Shout The Band., An active bandleader, he currently leads three projects. His quintet which plays hard hitting original modern jazz. His chord-less trio called “3-Oh” which draws from the spirit of Sonny Rollins and plays music from the standard jazz canon, originals, as well as unique interpretations of more contemporary material. And Pangea,  which is a UK Jazz fused with Neo-Soul, World Music and R&B. A jazz fusion concept group featuring some of the top members of the Toronto music scene. This group draws from the spirit of John Coltrane reimagined in the 21st century in the age of connectivity across the globe. It features local heavyweights of the Toronto music scene. Darryl Joseph-Denie (Ahi, Listening Room), Kae Murphy (BADBADNOTGOOD, Whitney), and Jon Catanus (Erez Zobary, Diskarte)

He has released several albums over the past 5 years with his various projects.

In 2018 he released his debut EP of original compositions with his quintet called “Still Searching.” 

In 2020 he released “Uranium 238” as a co-leader of The Archives of Eternity featuring vibraphonist Mark Hundevad. This music featured the unique avant-garde jazz compositions of the great Raphe Malik (trumpeter for Cecil Taylor) and Mark Hundevad.

In 2023, he released two singles off of his band “3-Oh”s forthcoming EP. An arrangement of “I Love You” the Billie Eilish tune followed by an intense rendition of Joe Henderson’s Afro-Centric

His debut album with Pangea was released January 2025 

He is currently working on recording his quintet’s debut full length album and keeps a very active freelance schedule in Southern Ontario. 

————————————————————-

Born in 1994 to parents with a boundless record collection and multifaceted languages of love towards music, Lex Korten discovered a personal relationship with the work of greats Duke Ellington and Jaki Byard at an early age. His childhood in Manhattan’s Upper West Side allowed him to pursue mentorships with several decorated pianists and achieve modest accolades in the national high school circuit, but it wasn’t until Korten moved to Ann Arbor, MI to study with Geri Allen that his path began to bend more trustfully towards a musical career. By the time he earned his BFA and relocated homeward, Korten had spent 4 years as an apprentice of the great legacy of Detroit Jazz and experimental music, while also completing two years of close mentorship with Benny Greenand others at the University of Michigan.

Korten’s auspicious first steps into the spotlight came in 2018 with a life-changing appointment to the piano chair of Tyshawn Sorey’s newly formed “Unfiltered.” sextet which toured and recorded intermittently for the following four years to notable acclaim. During this period, Korten won 1st prize in the UNISA International Piano Competition in South Africa and began cementing a reputation among his peers in New York as a valuable sideman and promising composer, bringing his first projects to The Jazz Gallery in Manhattan where he continues to perform today.

Since the pandemic, Lex Korten’s emergence into the echelons of the Jazz world has become ever more rapid and difficult to ignore. The list of renowned artists seeking Korten’s contributions over the last few years has become impractically long and impressively diverse, including the likes of Jaleel Shaw, Melissa Aldana, Joel Ross, Tyshawn Sorey, Robert Hurst, Caroline Davis, Mike Moreno, Ari Hoenig, Fay Victor, Dayna Stephens, Jonathan Kreisberg, Joe Farnsworth, Massimo Biolcati, Ben Solomon, Ndabo Zulu, John Ellis, Chris Turner, Joel Harrison, Or Bareket, Lage Lund, Nick Dunston, Luther Allison, DoYeon Kim and Clarence Penn to name just a few. Korten’s touring schedule yearly reaches dozens of US states and worldwide clubs and festivals, in between which he teaches lessons at The New School or privately at his home in New York City. In addition, Korten has given lessons and classes internationally to students from Greece, Germany, South Korea, South Africa, Mexico, Argentina, Switzerland, China, Malaysia, Australia, the United Kingdom (at the Royal Academy of Music in London) and at several universities in the USA. His performance credits include an extensive list of esteemed theaters such as The Kennedy Center(Washington, D.C.) or Teatro Amazonas (Manaus, Brazil) and international festivals (North Sea, Montreal, Earshot, etc).
Perhaps most notably of all, and most enduringly, Lex Korten has defined the first decade of his career by his immersion in his own generation’s forward pushing activity in a way that sidesteps traditional barriers between scenes and styles. Among his 30+ recording credits are projects representing a thorough cross section of the 21st century’s rising leaders in improvised music; names like Simon Moullier, Milena Casado, Zoh Amba, Nicola Caminiti, Tyrone Allen, Hannah Marks, Ben Tiberio, Claire Dickson, Morgan Guerin, Alex Hitchcock, Dave Adewumi, Sasha Berliner, Alfredo Colón, Linda Sikhakhane and more. Korten’s own bandleading projects include the Lex Korten Trio and Quartet as well as Canopy; an experimental 5-member ensemble. Lex Korten’s long anticipated debut original album Canopy released on September 19th, 2025 to critical acclaim from outlets including The Wire Magazine (UK), WNYC, For The Record, All About Jazz and others.

Lex Korten currently is an active bandleader in New York City, bringing his projects to stages at Lincoln Center, Mezzrow, Smalls, The Jazz Gallery, and across a blossoming roster of great Jazz clubs in Brooklyn while also appearing at experimental venues including Roulette, National Sawdust, LPR and The Stone.

​

As a native New Yorker, Lex is an avid student of NYC's history through the present day, and otherwise interested in urban geography as well as graphic design, cooking, world history and film. While a student at the University of Michigan, Lex double majored in Political Science, taking additional coursework for 2 years at the Ford School of Public Policy.

Some of Lex's favorite composers active in 2025 include Angel Marcloid, Ramona Andra Langley, Daniel Lopatin, and Cryptovolans as well as a countless list of improviser peers worldwide.

Patrick Smith Quintet featuring NYC’s Lex Korten 
November 23 & 24 @ 8:00PM

Patrick Smith - Saxophone
Kae Murphy-Trumpet 
Lex Korten-Piano 
Mark Godfrey-Bass 
Jon Catanus-Drums 

Patrick Smith is a saxophonist based in Toronto (originally from Ottawa)

He has established himself as a gifted and in demand saxophonist in the Canadian music scene. In recent years he has extensively toured Canada, the US, and Europe with Legends of Motown (featuring Michael Dunston and Gary Beals), My Son The Hurricane, The Reklaws, Chelsea Mcbride’s Socialist Night School, and Forever Seger. 

He keeps an active freelance schedule in Toronto and around North America appearing with artists such as Order of Canada Recipient Dave Young, Juini Booth (bassist for Mccoy Tyner and Tony Williams), Yemen Blues, Erez Zobary, Heavyweights Brass Band, Dee Dee and the Dirty Martinis, Eighth Street Orchestra, Dan Pitt Quintet, King Cardiac, Queen Pepper, Kazdoura, and Shout The Band., An active bandleader, he currently leads three projects. His quintet which plays hard hitting original modern jazz. His chord-less trio called “3-Oh” which draws from the spirit of Sonny Rollins and plays music from the standard jazz canon, originals, as well as unique interpretations of more contemporary material. And Pangea,  which is a UK Jazz fused with Neo-Soul, World Music and R&B. A jazz fusion concept group featuring some of the top members of the Toronto music scene. This group draws from the spirit of John Coltrane reimagined in the 21st century in the age of connectivity across the globe. It features local heavyweights of the Toronto music scene. Darryl Joseph-Denie (Ahi, Listening Room), Kae Murphy (BADBADNOTGOOD, Whitney), and Jon Catanus (Erez Zobary, Diskarte)

He has released several albums over the past 5 years with his various projects.

In 2018 he released his debut EP of original compositions with his quintet called “Still Searching.” 

In 2020 he released “Uranium 238” as a co-leader of The Archives of Eternity featuring vibraphonist Mark Hundevad. This music featured the unique avant-garde jazz compositions of the great Raphe Malik (trumpeter for Cecil Taylor) and Mark Hundevad.

In 2023, he released two singles off of his band “3-Oh”s forthcoming EP. An arrangement of “I Love You” the Billie Eilish tune followed by an intense rendition of Joe Henderson’s Afro-Centric

His debut album with Pangea was released January 2025 

He is currently working on recording his quintet’s debut full length album and keeps a very active freelance schedule in Southern Ontario. 

————————————————————-

Born in 1994 to parents with a boundless record collection and multifaceted languages of love towards music, Lex Korten discovered a personal relationship with the work of greats Duke Ellington and Jaki Byard at an early age. His childhood in Manhattan’s Upper West Side allowed him to pursue mentorships with several decorated pianists and achieve modest accolades in the national high school circuit, but it wasn’t until Korten moved to Ann Arbor, MI to study with Geri Allen that his path began to bend more trustfully towards a musical career. By the time he earned his BFA and relocated homeward, Korten had spent 4 years as an apprentice of the great legacy of Detroit Jazz and experimental music, while also completing two years of close mentorship with Benny Greenand others at the University of Michigan.

Korten’s auspicious first steps into the spotlight came in 2018 with a life-changing appointment to the piano chair of Tyshawn Sorey’s newly formed “Unfiltered.” sextet which toured and recorded intermittently for the following four years to notable acclaim. During this period, Korten won 1st prize in the UNISA International Piano Competition in South Africa and began cementing a reputation among his peers in New York as a valuable sideman and promising composer, bringing his first projects to The Jazz Gallery in Manhattan where he continues to perform today.

Since the pandemic, Lex Korten’s emergence into the echelons of the Jazz world has become ever more rapid and difficult to ignore. The list of renowned artists seeking Korten’s contributions over the last few years has become impractically long and impressively diverse, including the likes of Jaleel Shaw, Melissa Aldana, Joel Ross, Tyshawn Sorey, Robert Hurst, Caroline Davis, Mike Moreno, Ari Hoenig, Fay Victor, Dayna Stephens, Jonathan Kreisberg, Joe Farnsworth, Massimo Biolcati, Ben Solomon, Ndabo Zulu, John Ellis, Chris Turner, Joel Harrison, Or Bareket, Lage Lund, Nick Dunston, Luther Allison, DoYeon Kim and Clarence Penn to name just a few. Korten’s touring schedule yearly reaches dozens of US states and worldwide clubs and festivals, in between which he teaches lessons at The New School or privately at his home in New York City. In addition, Korten has given lessons and classes internationally to students from Greece, Germany, South Korea, South Africa, Mexico, Argentina, Switzerland, China, Malaysia, Australia, the United Kingdom (at the Royal Academy of Music in London) and at several universities in the USA. His performance credits include an extensive list of esteemed theaters such as The Kennedy Center(Washington, D.C.) or Teatro Amazonas (Manaus, Brazil) and international festivals (North Sea, Montreal, Earshot, etc).
Perhaps most notably of all, and most enduringly, Lex Korten has defined the first decade of his career by his immersion in his own generation’s forward pushing activity in a way that sidesteps traditional barriers between scenes and styles. Among his 30+ recording credits are projects representing a thorough cross section of the 21st century’s rising leaders in improvised music; names like Simon Moullier, Milena Casado, Zoh Amba, Nicola Caminiti, Tyrone Allen, Hannah Marks, Ben Tiberio, Claire Dickson, Morgan Guerin, Alex Hitchcock, Dave Adewumi, Sasha Berliner, Alfredo Colón, Linda Sikhakhane and more. Korten’s own bandleading projects include the Lex Korten Trio and Quartet as well as Canopy; an experimental 5-member ensemble. Lex Korten’s long anticipated debut original album Canopy released on September 19th, 2025 to critical acclaim from outlets including The Wire Magazine (UK), WNYC, For The Record, All About Jazz and others.

Lex Korten currently is an active bandleader in New York City, bringing his projects to stages at Lincoln Center, Mezzrow, Smalls, The Jazz Gallery, and across a blossoming roster of great Jazz clubs in Brooklyn while also appearing at experimental venues including Roulette, National Sawdust, LPR and The Stone.

​

As a native New Yorker, Lex is an avid student of NYC's history through the present day, and otherwise interested in urban geography as well as graphic design, cooking, world history and film. While a student at the University of Michigan, Lex double majored in Political Science, taking additional coursework for 2 years at the Ford School of Public Policy.

Some of Lex's favorite composers active in 2025 include Angel Marcloid, Ramona Andra Langley, Daniel Lopatin, and Cryptovolans as well as a countless list of improviser peers worldwide.

Classic REx jam
hosted by chris banks
november 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.

Thompson Egbo-Egbo Trio
november 26, 27, 28, 29@ 8:00 PM

Thompson Egbo Egbo - Piano
Randall Hall - Bass
Jeff Halischuk - Drums

The Thompson Egbo-Egbo Trio brings a fresh, compelling voice to the Canadian jazz scene — where elegance meets edge, and tradition dances with innovation. Led by acclaimed pianist and composer Thompson Egbo-Egbo, the trio features longtime collaborators Randall Hall on bass and Jeff Halischuk on drums. Together, they create a sound that’s both grounded and adventurous, blending deep grooves, rich harmonic textures, and improvisational fire.

A classically trained pianist with roots in both jazz and contemporary music, Egbo-Egbo is known for his storytelling approach to performance — inviting audiences into a musical world that is at once cinematic, soulful, and rhythmically alive. His original compositions and thoughtful reinterpretations of familiar tunes showcase the trio’s dynamic interplay and unique voice.

Regular performers on major stages and festivals across the country, the trio’s live sets at The Rex have become a Toronto staple — known for their emotional depth, spontaneity, and the kind of chemistry that can only come from years of playing together.

Whether reimagining a pop anthem or diving deep into original works, the Thompson Egbo-Egbo Trio offers a concert experience that’s as thought-provoking as it is joyful. Catch them live and discover a trio redefining what modern jazz can be.

Pianist and composer Thompson Egbo-Egbo returns to The Rex with his long-standing trio featuring Randall Hall (bass) and Jeff Halischuk (drums). Known for their genre-bending approach, the trio blends deep grooves, rich harmonies, and cinematic storytelling. With dynamic originals and bold reimaginings of familiar tunes, their performances are both emotionally charged and rhythmically compelling. A must-see for fans of modern jazz with soul and edge.

Thompson Egbo-Egbo Trio
november 26, 27, 28, 29@ 8:00 PM

Thompson Egbo Egbo - Piano
Randall Hall - Bass
Jeff Halischuk - Drums

The Thompson Egbo-Egbo Trio brings a fresh, compelling voice to the Canadian jazz scene — where elegance meets edge, and tradition dances with innovation. Led by acclaimed pianist and composer Thompson Egbo-Egbo, the trio features longtime collaborators Randall Hall on bass and Jeff Halischuk on drums. Together, they create a sound that’s both grounded and adventurous, blending deep grooves, rich harmonic textures, and improvisational fire.

A classically trained pianist with roots in both jazz and contemporary music, Egbo-Egbo is known for his storytelling approach to performance — inviting audiences into a musical world that is at once cinematic, soulful, and rhythmically alive. His original compositions and thoughtful reinterpretations of familiar tunes showcase the trio’s dynamic interplay and unique voice.

Regular performers on major stages and festivals across the country, the trio’s live sets at The Rex have become a Toronto staple — known for their emotional depth, spontaneity, and the kind of chemistry that can only come from years of playing together.

Whether reimagining a pop anthem or diving deep into original works, the Thompson Egbo-Egbo Trio offers a concert experience that’s as thought-provoking as it is joyful. Catch them live and discover a trio redefining what modern jazz can be.

Pianist and composer Thompson Egbo-Egbo returns to The Rex with his long-standing trio featuring Randall Hall (bass) and Jeff Halischuk (drums). Known for their genre-bending approach, the trio blends deep grooves, rich harmonies, and cinematic storytelling. With dynamic originals and bold reimaginings of familiar tunes, their performances are both emotionally charged and rhythmically compelling. A must-see for fans of modern jazz with soul and edge.

Thompson Egbo-Egbo Trio
november 26, 27, 28, 29@ 8:00 PM

Thompson Egbo Egbo - Piano
Randall Hall - Bass
Jeff Halischuk - Drums

The Thompson Egbo-Egbo Trio brings a fresh, compelling voice to the Canadian jazz scene — where elegance meets edge, and tradition dances with innovation. Led by acclaimed pianist and composer Thompson Egbo-Egbo, the trio features longtime collaborators Randall Hall on bass and Jeff Halischuk on drums. Together, they create a sound that’s both grounded and adventurous, blending deep grooves, rich harmonic textures, and improvisational fire.

A classically trained pianist with roots in both jazz and contemporary music, Egbo-Egbo is known for his storytelling approach to performance — inviting audiences into a musical world that is at once cinematic, soulful, and rhythmically alive. His original compositions and thoughtful reinterpretations of familiar tunes showcase the trio’s dynamic interplay and unique voice.

Regular performers on major stages and festivals across the country, the trio’s live sets at The Rex have become a Toronto staple — known for their emotional depth, spontaneity, and the kind of chemistry that can only come from years of playing together.

Whether reimagining a pop anthem or diving deep into original works, the Thompson Egbo-Egbo Trio offers a concert experience that’s as thought-provoking as it is joyful. Catch them live and discover a trio redefining what modern jazz can be.

Pianist and composer Thompson Egbo-Egbo returns to The Rex with his long-standing trio featuring Randall Hall (bass) and Jeff Halischuk (drums). Known for their genre-bending approach, the trio blends deep grooves, rich harmonies, and cinematic storytelling. With dynamic originals and bold reimaginings of familiar tunes, their performances are both emotionally charged and rhythmically compelling. A must-see for fans of modern jazz with soul and edge.

Hart House Jazz Orchestra
November 29 @ 2:00PM

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

The Hart House Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Combo are active and vibrant bands made up of members from different colleges and campus communities united in one common interest: a love of jazz music.

The Jazz Combo is a group of 5 to 8 members that focuses on small group dynamics, standard jazz repertoire, musical interplay and improvisation. The Hart House Jazz Ensemble is an 18-piece big band that plays large ensemble repertoire from the 1940s all the way to current day arrangements. The group often features special guest performers, and guest vocalists.

Like all Hart House clubs, membership is open to all. The ensemble is conducted by bandleader Anders Azzopardi. Performance opportunities include the Arbor Room, The Rex Hotel Jazz and Blues Bar as well as at festivals in the Greater Toronto Area.

Thompson Egbo-Egbo Trio
november 26, 27, 28, 29@ 8:00 PM

Thompson Egbo Egbo - Piano
Randall Hall - Bass
Jeff Halischuk - Drums

The Thompson Egbo-Egbo Trio brings a fresh, compelling voice to the Canadian jazz scene — where elegance meets edge, and tradition dances with innovation. Led by acclaimed pianist and composer Thompson Egbo-Egbo, the trio features longtime collaborators Randall Hall on bass and Jeff Halischuk on drums. Together, they create a sound that’s both grounded and adventurous, blending deep grooves, rich harmonic textures, and improvisational fire.

A classically trained pianist with roots in both jazz and contemporary music, Egbo-Egbo is known for his storytelling approach to performance — inviting audiences into a musical world that is at once cinematic, soulful, and rhythmically alive. His original compositions and thoughtful reinterpretations of familiar tunes showcase the trio’s dynamic interplay and unique voice.

Regular performers on major stages and festivals across the country, the trio’s live sets at The Rex have become a Toronto staple — known for their emotional depth, spontaneity, and the kind of chemistry that can only come from years of playing together.

Whether reimagining a pop anthem or diving deep into original works, the Thompson Egbo-Egbo Trio offers a concert experience that’s as thought-provoking as it is joyful. Catch them live and discover a trio redefining what modern jazz can be.

Pianist and composer Thompson Egbo-Egbo returns to The Rex with his long-standing trio featuring Randall Hall (bass) and Jeff Halischuk (drums). Known for their genre-bending approach, the trio blends deep grooves, rich harmonies, and cinematic storytelling. With dynamic originals and bold reimaginings of familiar tunes, their performances are both emotionally charged and rhythmically compelling. A must-see for fans of modern jazz with soul and edge.

Eric West
November 29 @ 10:30pm

Luis Deniz - Alto 
Kae Murphy - Trumpet 
James Hill - Piano
Julian Anderson- Bowes - Bass
Eric West - Drums

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Raised just north of Toronto in the suburb of Woodbridge, Eric began playing the drums at the age of 5, and by age 12 was enrolled in the Humber College Community Music Program. It was there that he fostered his love for jazz under the tutelage of Canadian jazz giants Kirk MacDonald, Barry Romberg and Don Palmer.

Eric pursued post-secondary education at Humber College, where he was awarded the Sabian Cymbals Award for outstanding achievement. Following the completion of his Bachelors of Music degree, Eric would go on to tour and perform in many cities across Canada, the United States, Europe and the UK.

 In 2014 Eric was awarded the prestigious Grande Prix de Jazz award at the Montreal Jazz Festival as a member of Pram Trio, a co-led contemporary Jazz trio. Around this time he was beginning to establish himself as an active member in the Toronto Jazz community, as well as branching off into other musical genres. From 2015-17 he toured the United States and Europe with indie rock band Moon King. In 2018 he joined international sensation Banners for a Canada/US tour. And held the drum chair from 2019 through 2022 with multi-platinum Juno award winning artists, the Tenors. One highlight in particular was getting to play the historic Massey Hall.  

In 2022 Eric was nominated for a Juno in the Vocal Jazz Category from having played on Alex Bird’s You Are The Light And The Way album

Aside from working as a freelance musician, Eric Also began venturing into musical accompaniment in the dance community. He’s worked extensively with the Cawthra Park Secondary School program (2017-2023), as well as periodically with the National Ballet of Canada.

Laura hubert Band
november 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 @ 5:00 PM

Laura Hubert - Vocals
Peter Hill - Piano

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.