Tryptique
July 19 & 20 @ 8:00 PM

Fern Lindzon - Piano & Vocals
Colleen Allen - Flute & Saxophone
George Koller - Bass

Tryptique is three kindred spirits with one compelling musical vision that balances the resonance of history with the here-and-now of improvisation. Their music ranges from Baroque to bop to the blues and beyond, with a particular flair for the work of several wonderful Canadian composers. Tryptique is chamber music with a jazz soul. It is a conversation between award winning musicians and close friends Fern Lindzon (piano), Colleen Allen (flute, saxophones) and George Koller (bass). It is about exploration, taking chances, and following refined musical intuition to create a unique sound entirely Tryptique’s own. Tryptique derives its name from the visual art world (triptych) meaning either three works intended to be shown together, or a single work of art divided into three. The three works together form a whole which is greater than the sum of its parts.
Colleen: Fern, George, and I have been friends and colleagues for many years. In fact, our paths have crossed for my entire music career. During the pandemic, or The Grand Pause, as George called it, we were fortunate to be able to play weekly—socially distanced of course. During those sessions we amassed an incredibly diverse repertoire. Our communications are deep, flow easily and cover diverse topics, so not surprisingly, the musical language follows suit. This recording represents our diverse musical landscape through connected, conversational playing.
Fern: 
 Tryptique, it's how we finish each other's phrases. It's about trust, beauty and exploration. Of sound, tonality, and form. it's about going on a journey together. Listening, reacting, and being immersed in a whole that's greater than the sum of our three parts.
George: I simply love the vibes with Colleen and Fern. In the Tryptique trio we create chamber jazz with full use of space, allowing for free exploration while working within forms. Our repertoire is unlimited in scope with diverse styles and genres, and we often put the spotlight on Canadian composers in our live performances. It is playful and textural, sometimes referencing counterpoint and simultaneous interplay that one might hear in contemporary classical, Dixieland or third-stream jazz.

Classic REx jam
hosted by chris banks
jUly 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.

Andrew Scott
July 22 @ 5:00 PM

Andrew Scott -Guitar
Taylor Maslin -Clarinet/saxophone
Nathan Tran -Piano
Jonathan Meyer -Bass
Norbert Botos -Drums

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

 As a musician, writer, journalist, and arts educator, Andrew Scott’s work has impacted many aspects of the educational, and creative arts and culture space in Canada and beyond for nearly three decades. 

A jazz guitarist, Andrew has worked as an in-demand side person, led his own bands with a focus on classic jazz repertoire, and performed and recorded with such musicians as Bernie Senensky, Dan Block, Harry Allen, Grant Stewart, Jim Clayton (The Clayton/Scott Group), Ben Paterson, Randy Sandke, and Jon-Erik Kellso for such labels as Cellar Live, Marshmallow, Boomtang, and Sackville Records. 

Andrew has performed for members of the House of Lords, international dignitaries, and two former Canadian Prime Ministers. 

His latest album, Horizon Song with Kelsley Grant, Amanda Tosoff, Neil Swainson, and Order of Canada winner Terry Clarke was released on Cellar Live records in 2024. 

Andrew’s guitar playing and compositions are featured on saxophonist’s Alex Dean’s 2025 album Put it There by Bari-ed Alive (Sony/Cornerstone Records).

Andrew has committed himself to learning from the elders of this music and has enjoyed meaningful musical relationships with the late drummer Archie Alleyne—for whom he worked as side musician, music director of Alleyne’s Evolution of Jazz Ensemble, and co-composer of “Syncopation: Life in the Key of Black”—and the nonagenarian pianist Gene DiNovi, with whom Andrew has recorded three albums.

Andrew’s music has been heard internationally in film and television (“Pretend We’re Kissing,” “Once a Thief,” CBC’s “The Border” and “Kim’s Convenience”), and his writing about music has appeared in Downbeat Magazine, Wax Poetics, CODA (where he was the final Managing Editor), Jazz Research Journal, the Havurah Journal, We Jazz, the Humber Literary Review, the Journal of Popular Music Studies, and in more than one hundred sets of jazz liner notes. 

In 2024, Andrew was the principal researcher, essayist, and Associate Producer of an archival release of a 1972 recording from the famed American jazz organist Jack McDuff.

Andrew has also worked as an independent juror and consultant for the Toronto Arts Foundation and as a public educator was an invited lecturer for the Hot Docs “Curious Minds” speaker series, where he presented a six-part series entitled “Nights to Remember: The Great Concerts,” and Anthems: Six Songs That Shaped the World We Live In) for The Speakers Annex in 2025.

Andrew is frequently called upon to speak to such media outlets as the Globe & Mail, Now Toronto, CTV, the Canadian Press and others on topical issues and various events in the world of music, arts, and culture. 

His comedic writing regularly appears on such humour platforms as The Haven, The Daily Drunk, MuddyUm, and The Toronto Harold where it garners between multiple hundreds and more than 11K online views, and his poetry has been anthologized by Alien Buddha Press (Alien Buddha Zine #58, Alien Buddha Zine #66, the chapbook Resist the Zeitgeist and in the compilation publication Best of 2024). 

Having earned his PhD from York University, Andrew has lectured at universities and conferences across North America (NYU, Kent State, McGill, York University, Western University, the University of Guelph) and has enjoyed a long professional relationship with Humber College, where he is a Professor and the Program Co-ordinator of the Bachelor of Music Program. In this capacity Andrew has taught, administered, advised, and mentored thousands of students.  

Andrew was the former Associate Dean and Acting Dean of Humber’s School of Creative and Performing Arts, where he oversaw and administratively stewarded multiple music programs, as well as creative writing, arts administration, theatre, and comedy faculties. 

At Humber, Andrew has been recognized for his professional efforts, earning the “Administrative Distinguished Service” Award for valued administrative leadership in 2021, and being named a “Champion of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion” for contributing to an environmental scan with the Humber EDI Taskforce in 2022. 

As of 2025, Andrew has been involved with numerous research projects that have received nearly $1,000,000 of federal funding through SSHRC and other research granting bodies. Currently, Andrew is a part of a SSHRC Partnership Development project with the DeGroote School of Business at McMaster University entitled: “The show must go on: Supporting Canadian professional musicians” that examines employment issues surrounding professional musicians in Canada.

Andrew is the recipient of The Toronto Musician’s Association (Local 149) “Music Educator of the Year” (2024).

Joaquin Núñez & Habana Safari
July 22, 23, 24, 25 @ 8:00 PM

Joaquin Núñez - Drums/percussion
Paco - Bass
Marta E - Vocal
Luis Anselmi - Piano
Luis Denis - Sax

Joaquin Núñez is a multi-award-winning Cuban-Canadian percussionist and founder of Habana Safari, a Toronto-based ensemble established in 2007 that has become one of Canada’s most distinctive Cuban music acts. Blending traditional Cuban music, Afro-Cuban jazz, and contemporary influences, the group explores the evolution of Cuban music from early genres such as danza, contradanza, and danzón to modern interpretations, combining traditional instruments like bata drums with trumpet, piano, bass, and violin. Known for their electrifying live performances and dynamic percussion, Habana Safari captivates audiences with an authentic yet innovative sound. Their acclaimed debut album, Ruta de la Clave, won the Latin Canada Award for Album of the Year and received a 2026 CFMA nomination, with original compositions by Núñez and collaborations with Cuban pianist Dayramir Gonzálezearning praise as a standout modern Afro-Cuban jazz recording.

the Roast Chicken Ramblers
July 23 @ 5:00 PM

led by: Isaak Bonk – Guitar / Vocals
Mo Mitchell - Violin
Yiki Wang - Guitar
Clayton Harder - Bass

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Isaak Bonk’s stride guitar playing serves as the foundation for turn of the 20th century jazz,  blues and ragtime. By way of the great early American blues guitarists (Blind Blake, Lonnie  Johnson) Isaak has cultivated a playing style to suit swing music of the pre war era. The Roast  Chicken Ramblers are comprised of Toronto’s finest musicians, they blend humour and reverie  into an eclectic repertoire from a by-gone age.

Joaquin Núñez & Habana Safari
July 22, 23, 24, 25 @ 8:00 PM

Joaquin Núñez - Drums/percussion
Paco - Bass
Marta E - Vocal
Luis Anselmi - Piano
Luis Denis - Sax

Joaquin Núñez is a multi-award-winning Cuban-Canadian percussionist and founder of Habana Safari, a Toronto-based ensemble established in 2007 that has become one of Canada’s most distinctive Cuban music acts. Blending traditional Cuban music, Afro-Cuban jazz, and contemporary influences, the group explores the evolution of Cuban music from early genres such as danza, contradanza, and danzón to modern interpretations, combining traditional instruments like bata drums with trumpet, piano, bass, and violin. Known for their electrifying live performances and dynamic percussion, Habana Safari captivates audiences with an authentic yet innovative sound. Their acclaimed debut album, Ruta de la Clave, won the Latin Canada Award for Album of the Year and received a 2026 CFMA nomination, with original compositions by Núñez and collaborations with Cuban pianist Dayramir Gonzálezearning praise as a standout modern Afro-Cuban jazz recording.

The 501 East
July 24 @ 5:00 PM

Carlos Lopes: Guitar (Acoustic).

Aidan Mason: Guitar (Acoustic) and Violin.

Russ Boswell: Bass (Electric).

Gary Craig: Drums.

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

The 501 East is a group made up of 4 of Canada's finest musicians; Aidan Mason on guitar, violin, and vocals, Carlos Lopes on guitar, Russ Boswell on bass, and Gary Craig on drums.

Each of these performers is a major player in the Canadian and Global music scenes. They have been performing in this configuration since 2014 but have been friends and musical compatriots since the 80s.

Their sound is an instrumental blend of bluesy, jazz lines over rootsy, Americana grooves. The original and cover songs are a reflection of their extensive and diverse musical backgrounds. Aidan's South African upbringing, Carlos' Latin/jazz, and film scoring background, Gary's deep folk and blues roots and Russ' rock, pop and jazz experience.

The first group album "Short Turn" was selected as one of Jazz FM's picks for albums of the year: 2024.

Joaquin Núñez & Habana Safari
July 22, 23, 24, 25 @ 8:00 PM

Joaquin Núñez - Drums/percussion
Paco - Bass
Marta E - Vocal
Luis Anselmi - Piano
Luis Denis - Sax

Joaquin Núñez is a multi-award-winning Cuban-Canadian percussionist and founder of Habana Safari, a Toronto-based ensemble established in 2007 that has become one of Canada’s most distinctive Cuban music acts. Blending traditional Cuban music, Afro-Cuban jazz, and contemporary influences, the group explores the evolution of Cuban music from early genres such as danza, contradanza, and danzón to modern interpretations, combining traditional instruments like bata drums with trumpet, piano, bass, and violin. Known for their electrifying live performances and dynamic percussion, Habana Safari captivates audiences with an authentic yet innovative sound. Their acclaimed debut album, Ruta de la Clave, won the Latin Canada Award for Album of the Year and received a 2026 CFMA nomination, with original compositions by Núñez and collaborations with Cuban pianist Dayramir Gonzálezearning praise as a standout modern Afro-Cuban jazz recording.

George Lake Big Band
july 25 @ 2:00 PM

Vocals by - Vincent Wolfe & Diya Tirone
Led by : Steve Pettafor

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Since 1997 The 20-piece George Lake BIG Band has been performing for audiences around the GTA and beyond. Regulars on the festival, dance and jazz venue scene, the band’s repertoire includes the timeless hits of the big band era. Music from Miller, Dorsey, Ellington, Basie and Herman has always been the core of the band’s repertoire but the band has always moved with the times. 

 We’re pleased that we have two young singers with us this month. John Amato brings his take on classic and modern jazz standards, swinging and singing in the likes of Frank Sinatra, Mel Torme and Michael Buble.  Young Diya Tirone brings her vocal talents to wide range of music. Her performance ranges from Ella Fitzgerald, Doris Day and June Christy to Nancy Wilson, Linda Ronstadt and Allicia Keys. Not to be missed are John and Diya’s vocal duets.

Under direction of band leader Steve Pettafor, the George Lake BIG Band is pleased to return to The Rex where the focus is always on great music.

www.georgelakebigband.com

Neon Eagle
July 25 @ 5:00 PM

Led by: Mike Eckert - Pedal Steel

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Bringing entrancing instrumental fusion music featuring the pedal steel.

Come in, sit back, and feel the hypnotic vibes of this incredible group!

Joaquin Núñez & Habana Safari
July 22, 23, 24, 25 @ 8:00 PM

Joaquin Núñez - Drums/percussion
Paco - Bass
Marta E - Vocal
Luis Anselmi - Piano
Luis Denis - Sax

Joaquin Núñez is a multi-award-winning Cuban-Canadian percussionist and founder of Habana Safari, a Toronto-based ensemble established in 2007 that has become one of Canada’s most distinctive Cuban music acts. Blending traditional Cuban music, Afro-Cuban jazz, and contemporary influences, the group explores the evolution of Cuban music from early genres such as danza, contradanza, and danzón to modern interpretations, combining traditional instruments like bata drums with trumpet, piano, bass, and violin. Known for their electrifying live performances and dynamic percussion, Habana Safari captivates audiences with an authentic yet innovative sound. Their acclaimed debut album, Ruta de la Clave, won the Latin Canada Award for Album of the Year and received a 2026 CFMA nomination, with original compositions by Núñez and collaborations with Cuban pianist Dayramir Gonzálezearning praise as a standout modern Afro-Cuban jazz recording.

Tzevi Sherman
July 25 @ 11PM

Tzevi Sherman - Guitar

Justin McHugh - Drums

Chris Adriaanse - Bass

PAY WHAT YOU CAN

NO RESERVATIONS

Tzevi Sherman is a guitarist based in Toronto. He is an active member of the local music scene performing in Toronto, the GTA and across Canada in many groups as a freelance musician and bandleader.

You are likely to see Tzevi performing as a sideman playing top 40 songs one night, leading his original instrumental band Astrosurf the next, accompanying a singer-songwriter at a recording session the next afternoon or even playing banjo in a traditional jazz band after that.

Tzevi’s eclectic style and versatility through many popular genres are what set him apart as a musician.

https://www.tzevisherman.com/

https://www.instagram.com/tzevisherman/?hl=en

Maurice Gordon
July 26 @ 2:00 Pm

• Maurice Gordon – Guitar and vocals

• Michael Kennedy – Bass

• Young Sam – Drums

• Rickie McIntosh – Keyboards

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Maurice Gordon and Friends features guitarist and vocalist Maurice Gordon performing classic Jamaican repertoire along with original compositions that celebrate the richness and diversity of Caribbean music. The program includes Jamaican folk music, ska, reggae, and selections inspired by the music and cultural legacy of Harry Belafonte and Miss Lou, delivered with an interactive and energetic spirit.

Grant Lyle and Brotherhood
July 26 @ 5:00 PM

Grant Lyle - Guitar & Vocals
Scott Brammer - Bass
Al Cross - Drums

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Veteran Canadian Roots & Blues musician, 
Grant Lyle is an esteemed guitarist,
singer and songwriter.

Having performed in top clubs,
festivals and other select venues,
his fresh approach and unique
craft is tastefully displayed on each
of his eight albums to date.

Grant has consistently enthralled
audiences with his ceaseless
dedication and passion for the
music he plays.

Grant's commitment to the quality
of music shines through while
performing live as much as in the studio.

Mike Murley
July 26 & 27 @ 8:00 PM

Mike Murley - Saxophone
Kevin Turcotte - Trumpet
Dan Fortin - Bass 
Reg Schwager - Guitar 
Nick Fraser - Drums

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).  

Hiro Tanaka Quartet
July 27 @ 5:00 Pm

Hiro Tanaka: Double Bass

Joel Bracken: Tenor Saxophone

Nathan Tran: Piano

Petros Anagnostakos: Drums

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Hiro Tanaka is a Toronto-based bassist and composer making his mark on the city’s jazz scene. Since moving to Toronto in 2018 to study at Humber College, he has built a reputation for his rock-solid feel and commanding presence. A recipient of the Humber Bass Faculty Scholarship and the Lenny Boyd Memorial Award, Hiro is recognized for his strong sense of time and his ability to elevate any ensemble he performs with. 

The Hiro Tanaka Quartet features some of Toronto’s most distinctive voices: Nathan Tran on piano, Joel Bracken on tenor saxophone, and Petros Anagnostakos on drums. Performing beloved standards, selections from the Great American Songbook, and original compositions, the group embodies modern bebop.

Mike Murley
July 26 & 27 @ 8:00 PM

Mike Murley - Saxophone
Kevin Turcotte - Trumpet
Dan Fortin - Bass 
Reg Schwager - Guitar 
Nick Fraser - Drums

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).  

Aria De Castro Quartet
July 28 @ 5:00 Pm

Aria De Castro - Vocals
Ben Payne - Bass
Evan De Castro - Drums
Tyler Prince - Piano

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Aria De Castro is a jazz vocalist, actor, and multi-instrumentalist based in Toronto. Known for her rich and silky voice, she takes inspiration from Ella Fitzgerald, Eydie Gormé, Keely Smith, Jo Stafford, and Peggy Lee to fuel her personal artistry. She has performed with various swing big bands as well as her own group at musical venues across Ontario including the Palais Royale Ballroom, the Beaches Jazz Festival, the Old Mill Toronto, the Emmet Ray, Reid’s Distillery and more. She has also headlined musical events outside of Canada, all the way from New York to Madeira, Portugal. Along with her swingin' band, Aria effortlessly captures the nostalgic sound and style of the 1940s/50s while still bringing her individual flair to the genre.

Classic REx jam
hosted by chris banks
jUly 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.

Dylan Pilcher Group
July 29 @ 5:00 PM

Dylan Pilcher - Trumpet
Jordan Middleton - Saxophone
Diya Tirone - Voice
Georgia Korba - Bass
Zane Shihadeh - Piano
Will Bentley - Drums

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Dylan Pilcher is an emerging Métis artist and musician currently based in Toronto, Canada. Originally from Treaty One Territory, his performance practice explores the intersection of cultural identity and contemporary Canadian music, weaving traditional influences into a distinct compositional and storytelling voice. 

Drawing early inspiration from jazz greats like Kenny Dorham, Miles Davis, Scott Tinkler, and Terumasa Hino, Dylan’s artistry balances virtuosic improvisation with emotional nuance and sensitivity. His dynamic voice as a trumpeter and composer reflects both fiery spontaneity and deep introspection. His debut album Swan Song is set to come out in fall 2026, exploring straight ahead, contemporary and avant-garde textures. 

Dylan has performed alongside leading Canadian artists such as David Braid, Greg Gatien, and Ariel Posen, and has studied under internationally recognized musicians including Kevin Turcotte, Dr. Edward Bach, and Greg Gatien. Looking forward, Dylan looks to find the intersection between music, culture and people through expression and improvisation

Ale Nuñez
July 29, 30, 31 & August 1 @ 8:00 PM

Ale Nuñez - Vocals
NYC’s Peter Bernstein - Guitar (July 29 & 30)
Neil Swainson - Bass (July 29 & 30)
Vlad Redzic - Guitar (July 31)
Petros Anagnostakos - Drums (July 31)
Eric Liang - Piano (July 31 & Aug 1)
Hiro Tanaka - Bass (July 31 & Aug 1)
Keith Barstow - Drums (Aug 1)
Tymish Koznarsky - Saxophone (Aug 1)

Ale Avery Nunez is a 2026 first time Juno Nominee for Best Vocal Jazz Album, Under the Lemon Tree.  Ale is a vocalist, songwriter and bandleader rooted in jazz and soul and based in Toronto. Her influences range from Sarah Vaughan, Carmen McRae, Nat King Cole, and Etta Jones to Aretha Franklin, Norah Jones and Feist.  Ale has performed with musicians including Neil Swainson, Peter Bertstein, Terry Clarke and Adam Arruda. Ale closely collaborates with a friend and fellow musician, Eric Liang. Eric Liang is a pianist and composer in his final year studying jazz piano at the University of Toronto. He has previously studied with Glenn Zaleski, Aaron Parks and Chris Donnelly. An active pianist in the Toronto jazz scene, Eric has performed with musicians including Neil Swainson, Pat Labarbara, Terry Clarke, and Kirk Macdonald. Ale and Eric have been collaborating for more than 4 years now performing across Toronto, arranging and composing songs together.

Julie Mahendran
July 30 @ 5:00 PM

Julie Mahendran - Vocals
Hiro Suzuki - Guitar
Sean Croal - Bass
Jay Hay - Saxophone

No reservations
Pay What You Can

Julie Mahendran’s first vocal inspiration was Whitney Houston, and the legacy of her influences from Chaka Khan to Aretha Franklin. Expanding back in time to find new influences in jazz greats like Ella Fitzgerald and Billie Holiday, she also found a love for vocalese- singing and writing lyrics set to instrumental classics which was popularized by Jon Hendricks and Annie Ross. Bringing these various decades of music into her arrangements and original songs, Julie’s versatile voice interprets it all with her signature clarity, feeling and sense of fun. Born in Montreal and raised in Edmonton, Julie has lived in London, New York and Boston- where she attended Berklee College of Music on scholarship, studying with and performing for legends including Cheryl Bentyne of the Manhattan Transfer, Herb Alpert, Patti Austin, and Benny Golson. Currently based in Toronto, Julie has released 2 albums. The first, NEVER DO WITHOUT YOU, reveals her classic jazz influences in a chordless trio setting with just bass and drums. The second, LOVELIGHT, includes arrangements of more soulful modern classics by artists like Annie Lennox, the Supremes and Sade. Find her online at JulieMahendran.com.

AAle Nuñez Feat. NYC’s Peter Bernstein
July 29, 30, 31 & August 1 @ 8:00 PM

Ale Nuñez - Vocals
NYC’S Peter Bernstein - Guitar (July 29 & 30)
Neil Swainson - Bass (July 29 & 30)
Vlad Redzic - Guitar (July 31)
Petros Anagnostakos - Drums (July 31)
Eric Liang - Piano (July 31 & Aug 1)
Hiro Tanaka - Bass (July 31 & Aug 1)
Keith Barstow - Drums (Aug 1)
Tymish Koznarsky - Saxophone (Aug 1)

Ale Avery Nunez is a 2026 first time Juno Nominee for Best Vocal Jazz Album, Under the Lemon Tree.  Ale is a vocalist, songwriter and bandleader rooted in jazz and soul and based in Toronto. Her influences range from Sarah Vaughan, Carmen McRae, Nat King Cole, and Etta Jones to Aretha Franklin, Norah Jones and Feist.  Ale has performed with musicians including Neil Swainson, Peter Bertstein, Terry Clarke and Adam Arruda. Ale closely collaborates with a friend and fellow musician, Eric Liang. Eric Liang is a pianist and composer in his final year studying jazz piano at the University of Toronto. He has previously studied with Glenn Zaleski, Aaron Parks and Chris Donnelly. An active pianist in the Toronto jazz scene, Eric has performed with musicians including Neil Swainson, Pat Labarbara, Terry Clarke, and Kirk Macdonald. Ale and Eric have been collaborating for more than 4 years now performing across Toronto, arranging and composing songs together.

Patrick Smith Quartet
july 31 @ 5:00 PM

Patrick Smith Quartet 
Patrick Smith-Saxophone 
Jen Lo-Piano 
Julian Anderson Bowes-Bass 
Angelica Zavala-Drums 

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

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

He has established himself as one of the most in-demand saxophonists of 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), The Reklaws, the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, Yemen Blues, Erez Zobary, Heavyweights Brass Band, Alex Bird and the Jazz Mavericks, Eighth Street Orchestra, Dan Pitt Quintet, King Cardiac, Duck Society, Kazdoura, and Shout The Band. An active bandleader, he currently leads three projects. His quintet which plays hard hitting original modern jazz. A quartet, his generation’s take on classic jazz which swings hard and pays hommage to the great artists of the jazz tradition. And Pangea, which features 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), Kae Murphy (BADBADNOTGOOD, Whitney), and Jon Catanus (Erez Zobary, Diskarte)

He has released several albums with his various projects.

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

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 titled “Pangea:Rebirth was released January 2025. In December 2025 he released “Words Underlined” on Lit Soc records, a trio recording featuring Dan Pitt and Lowell Whitty. 

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

Ale Nuñez
July 29, 30, 31 & August 1 @ 8:00 PM

Ale Nuñez - Vocals
Peter Bernstein - Guitar (July 29 & 30)
Neil Swainson - Bass (July 29 & 30)
Vlad Redzic - Guitar (July 31)
Petros Anagnostakos - Drums (July 31)
Eric Liang - Piano (July 31 & Aug 1)
Hiro Tanaka - Bass (July 31 & Aug 1)
Keith Barstow - Drums (Aug 1)
Tymish Koznarsky - Saxophone (Aug 1)

Ale Avery Nunez is a 2026 first time Juno Nominee for Best Vocal Jazz Album, Under the Lemon Tree.  Ale is a vocalist, songwriter and bandleader rooted in jazz and soul and based in Toronto. Her influences range from Sarah Vaughan, Carmen McRae, Nat King Cole, and Etta Jones to Aretha Franklin, Norah Jones and Feist.  Ale has performed with musicians including Neil Swainson, Peter Bertstein, Terry Clarke and Adam Arruda. Ale closely collaborates with a friend and fellow musician, Eric Liang. Eric Liang is a pianist and composer in his final year studying jazz piano at the University of Toronto. He has previously studied with Glenn Zaleski, Aaron Parks and Chris Donnelly. An active pianist in the Toronto jazz scene, Eric has performed with musicians including Neil Swainson, Pat Labarbara, Terry Clarke, and Kirk Macdonald. Ale and Eric have been collaborating for more than 4 years now performing across Toronto, arranging and composing songs together.

Tribute to Donny Hathaway - Kurt Nielsen
August 1 @ 2:00 PM

Clerel - Vocals
Adam Beer Calacino - Guitar
Joel Visentin - Keys
Kurt Nielson - Bass
Chendy Leon - Percussion
Da-Rell Clifton - Drums

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Everything is Everything is a loving tribute to the Donny Hathaway live record featuring Toronto Musicians Clerel Djamen on vocals, Adam Beer-Colacino on guitar, Joel Visentin on Keys, Chendy Leon on Percussion and Da-Rell Clifton on drums.  The seeds of the band started on a Noah Reid tour in 2024 when Noah's bassist Kurt Nielsen discovered that the opener Clerel shared a deep love of Donny Hathaway's music. After the tour Kurt organized getting Clerel together with Adam Beer-Colacino, Joel Visentin, Da-Rell Clifton and Chendy Leon. They all quickly realized the mutual love of this material and quickly sold out their first show in December of 2025. This has become a labour of love for the band as they continue to book shows into 2026

Mateo Mancuso quintet
August 1 @ 5:00 PM

Kirk Macdonald - Sax 
Lorne Lofsky - Guitar
Mateo Mancuso - Piano
Roberto Occhipinti - Bass
Norbert Botos - Drums

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Mateo Mancuso is a multi-instrumentalist based in Toronto, Canada. He has played alongside some of Canada's legends such as Dave Young, Neil Swainson, Roberto Occhipinti, Brian Dickinson, JUNO award winners Caity Gyorgy and Laura Anglade, and many more.

Ale Nuñez
July 29, 30, 31 & August 1 @ 8:00 PM

Ale Nuñez - Vocals
Peter Bernstein - Guitar (July 29 & 30)
Neil Swainson - Bass (July 29 & 30)
Vlad Redzic - Guitar (July 31)
Petros Anagnostakos - Drums (July 31)
Eric Liang - Piano (July 31 & Aug 1)
Hiro Tanaka - Bass (July 31 & Aug 1)
Keith Barstow - Drums (Aug 1)
Tymish Koznarsky - Saxophone (Aug 1)

Ale Avery Nunez is a 2026 first time Juno Nominee for Best Vocal Jazz Album, Under the Lemon Tree.  Ale is a vocalist, songwriter and bandleader rooted in jazz and soul and based in Toronto. Her influences range from Sarah Vaughan, Carmen McRae, Nat King Cole, and Etta Jones to Aretha Franklin, Norah Jones and Feist.  Ale has performed with musicians including Neil Swainson, Peter Bertstein, Terry Clarke and Adam Arruda. Ale closely collaborates with a friend and fellow musician, Eric Liang. Eric Liang is a pianist and composer in his final year studying jazz piano at the University of Toronto. He has previously studied with Glenn Zaleski, Aaron Parks and Chris Donnelly. An active pianist in the Toronto jazz scene, Eric has performed with musicians including Neil Swainson, Pat Labarbara, Terry Clarke, and Kirk Macdonald. Ale and Eric have been collaborating for more than 4 years now performing across Toronto, arranging and composing songs together.

Lightstone / Katz / Koller Klezmer Trio
August 2 @ 2:00 Pm

Jonno Lightstsone - flute and clarinet

Brian Katz - guitar and piano

George Koller - bass

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Acclaimed klezmer clarinetist / flutist Jonno Lightstone; famed jazz and Jewish music artist Brian Katz (guitar, piano); and virtuoso bassist George Koller, best known for his work in jazz, free jazz and world music combine their talents to explore some rarely performed klezmer repertoire: songs from the collection of Russian ethnomusicologist Moshe Beregovski; tunes by cimbalom virtuoso Joseph Moskowitz; and music of the greatest masters of klezmer clarinet Dave Tarras, Naftule Brandwine, and Shloimke Beckerman. Bringing together a multitude of musical styles and experience, they create a variety of diverse moods by weaving the melodies of klezmer and Yiddish song with the sounds and textures of chamber music, jazz, Indian raga, Israeli music and down home rock’n blues! The inviting texture of the classical guitar and flute will especially intrigue listeners who have yet to hear the more intimate side of klezmer. And when they play some good old-fashioned up-tempo Jewish dances with clarinet, piano and bass, don’t just sit there!

ABOUT THE ARTISTS

Jonno Lightstone

Jonno Lightstone is regarded as one of Toronto's finest klezmer musicians. A clarinetist, equally at home on flute and saxophone, he is a multi-faceted musician whose projects, however eclectic, always reveal his passion for klezmer and his thorough knowledge of the idiom. He is the leader of the Yiddish Swingtet, a trio whose music runs the gamut from traditional Eastern European klezmer to American jazz and swing. He founded Hu tsa tsa, a traditional klezmer group with a chamber music aesthetic and has performed klezmer music to the R & B grooves of Matzo Ball Gumbo. In collaboration with guitarist Brian Katz, the duo Lightstone / Katz explores rarely performed klezmer repertoire, creating a variety of diverse moods by weaving together klezmer melodies with the sounds and textures of chamber music, modal jazz, Indian raga, and blues. A collaboration with renowned saxophonist David Mott, and drummer Nick Fraser led to the formation of Klezmology, a group dedicated to exploring the interface between klezmer music and free improvisation.

Lightstone has produced and played on a number of CDs including, Hu tsa tsa’s Well Tempered Klezmorim, The Hot Latkes Klezmer Band’s Eine Kleine Klezmer Muzik, Matzo Ball Gumbo’s Peyes Up Front, and The Yiddish Swingtet’s Shul Days. He has performed with the touring Broadway show Evita, Zalman Mlotek’s Soul to Soul and has played at many festivals including: Ashkenaz, The Distillery Jazz Festival, Toronto Jazz Festival and, Caribana.

A much sought after teacher, he instructs privately at Royal St. George College and has taught klezmer workshops for CAMMAC and at Klezkanada. He has coached award-winning ensembles and is the musical director of Klezkonnection, Canada’s largest community klezmer orchestra. He holds a Masters Degree in Ethnomusicology from York University.

Brian Katz

Brian Katz is an internationally acclaimed guitarist, pianist, composer and recording artist, and adjunct professor of music education and performance at the Faculty of Music, University of Toronto, and York University. Brian is also a specialist in Dalcroze Eurhtyhmics, an approach to music education that examines the intrinsic relationships between music and physical movement, and has created a Jewish offshoot, “YidRhythmics.” Brian draws on Jewish, jazz, classical, and various folk traditions to form his personal sound. His longstanding love of Jewish music has led to collaborations with leading Jewish music artists such as virtuoso clarinettists, Martin van de Ven and Jonno Lightstone and a host of Yiddish singers including Michael Alpert (Brave Old World), Shura Lipovsky, Lenka Lichtenberg and Theresa Tova. Brian has also worked alongside many esteemed jazz and world-beat artists including Cuban-Jazz specialist Jane Bunnett, and Grammy recipients, tabla master, Sukhwinder Singh (Ry Cooder), and jazz legend, Barry Harris. Brian has a wide range of recordings to his credit ranging from Jewish to Brazilian to Korean to modern jazz.  Of his recording, Solana for the prestigious German label, Bellaphon, the Belgian journal Jazz in Time wrote, "a recording of abundant intelligence."  The Toronto Star referred to his CD Collected Stories (with virtuoso klezmer clarinetist Martin van de Ven) as   "enchanting,” and “Pashtes” (with vocalist Lenka Lichtenberg) received international glowing reviews including CD of the month by Wholenote Magazine, who wrote, “Katz has a sumptuous guitar sound, full of facile runs and lush harmonies.  Although forged firmly in tradition, this recording has a very contemporary feel that will leave you uplifted and spiritually refreshed – just like a great piece of strudel and a 'glass tea'.” Brian’s latest CD, Leaves Will Speak, a solo guitar recording featuring original compositions and improvisations, was released internationally recently. “If you want music that speaks – here it is.” Jazz Podium, Germany (May 2014)

Duck Society
August 2 & 3 @ 8:00 PM

Minh Hoang: Piano and synth

Jen Lo: Synth

Patrick Smith: Sax

Christian Antonacci: Trumpet

Jon Catanus: Drums

Miles Johnson: Percussion

Jay Yoo: Guitar

Carlo Santo Domingo: Bass

Chase Ward
August 3 @ 5:00 PM

Chase Ward - Drums
Andrew Marzotto -Guitar
Ethan Zabarylo - Sax
Evan Miles -Piano
Josh Warren -Bass

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Chase Ward is a Toronto-based musician, composer, and multi-instrumentalist originally from Victoria, BC. His work is guided by a simple conviction: to create art that invites people into a shared story. Rather than working within a single genre, Ward draws from the jazz tradition while weaving in Latin, Afro-Cuban, and New Orleans influences, dense harmony, and the occasional backbeat. The result is music that moves fluidly, reaching new heights with each performance while remaining grounded in feel rather than labels. 

A dynamic presence on Canada’s live music scene, Ward has performed at venues including Hermann’s Jazz Club, where he has led sold-out shows, and The Rex Hotel Jazz & Blues Bar. As a sideman, he has performed and recorded alongside Juno Award–winning artist Jeremy Ledbetter, GRAMMY-nominated artist Joaquín Núñez Hidalgo, and ensembles including The West Coast Soul Collective, The Simon Williams Sextet, Michael Davidson, Kayla Hoshizaki, and The Mumbo Jumbo Combo. He is also the featured drummer on Ryan Van Winkle’s (20 EYES) debut album, Naught For Nothing, and has appeared as a substitute percussionist for Mirvish Productions’ Disney’s The Lion King. 

Ward’s primary creative outlet is his trio project, an ever-evolving, improvisatory vehicle rooted in spontaneity, constant evolution, and real-time interaction. While the lineup has shifted over time, frequent collaborators include pianist/arranger Simon Williams and bassist Josh Warren. The trio’s sound is best described not by style but by momentum. A mosaic of kinetic highs and lows, The Chase Ward Trio is an ocean—untamed, untempered. 

In September 2025, Ward released his debut record, Senary, a vivid statement of artistic purpose that traces his transition from the West Coast to Toronto. Featuring guest artists Joaquín Núñez Hidalgo and Kayla Hoshizaki, the album channels the conversational energy of classic small-group improvisation through contemporary rhythmic and harmonic language, offering moments of reflection, tension, and shared wonder. 

Beyond the bandstand, Ward’s musical foundation has been shaped by mentorship from GRAMMY Award–winning artists Larnell Lewis and Hilario Durán, GRAMMY-nominated artists Joaquín Núñez Hidalgo and Justin Gray, and respected Canadian musicians Mark Kelso and Steve Mancuso. Working across roles as a drummer, percussionist, vocalist, songwriter, composer, arranger, educator, and producer, with a growing practice in mixing and engineering, Ward approaches music-making as both craft and conversation, always in service of connection.

Duck Society
August 2 & 3 @ 8:00 PM

Minh Hoang: Piano and synth

Jen Lo: Synth

Patrick Smith: Sax

Christian Antonacci: Trumpet

Jon Catanus: Drums

Miles Johnson: Percussion

Jay Yoo: Guitar

Carlo Santo Domingo: Bass

Jackson Haynes Quintet
August 4 @ 5:00 PM

Jackson Haynes - Drums
James Griffith - Alto sax
Evans Miles - Piano
Jesse White - Guitar
Chris Parnis - Bass

No Reservations
Pay what You Can

Toronto-based Drummer/Composer

Jackson Haynes is a 23 year old jazz drummer and composer based in the Toronto area. Being a graduate of Humber College’s Bachelors of Music program, he has been making a name for himself through his side work and band leading. He has had the pleasure to play alongside Randy Brecker, Guido Basso, Ingrid Jensen, Brandi Disterheft and Ron Westray while in the Jazz FM Youth Big Band and through Humber College.

In July 2024, Jackson released an EP of his original compositions and arrangements untitled “New Light” with James Griffith, Julian Straatsma, Jesse White and Jack Johnston. Jackson brings inspiration within his drumming and compositions from musicians such as Bill Stewart, Billy Drummond, Walter Smith III and Kurt Rosenwinkel amongst others. Jackson is starting to establish his own voice as a musician and composer in the Toronto jazz scene.

Classic REx jam
hosted by chris banks
AUGUST 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.

Sloth Broth
August 5 @ 5:00 Pm

Jamie Wells - keys/percussion
Gianluca Occhipinti - keys
Jordan Pelunsky - guitar
Jonathan Scott - drums

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Sloth Broth returns to The Rex, debuting new barrier-breaking compositions from up and coming Toronto artist Jamie Wells. Sloth Broth is a melting pot of contemporary musical talent, heavily influenced by hip hop & rnb. With a large focus on timbres and sonic environment, Sloth Broth takes an individual approach to jazz harmony & groove, in a memorable and accessible fashion.

Virginia MacDonald & Todd Marcus Quintet
August 5, 6, 7, 8 @ 8:00 PM

Virginia MacDonald: Clarinet

Todd Marcus: Bass clarinet

Xavier Davis: Piano

Blake Meister: Bass

Eric Kennedy: Drums

Mr. Marcus is probably the most inventive bass clarinetist working in straight-ahead jazz today" - New York Times" [Virginia] is one of the only people I've heard get that completely soulful essence that you get on the saxophone; she gets it on the clarinet. She's got her own voice" Grammy- Award winning trombonist Michael Dease, London Jazz NewsLong considered a fringe instrument within the jazz lineage, Virginia MacDonald and Todd Marcus are bringing the clarinet to the forefront of the music with their unique quintet that features a rare soprano and bass clarinet frontline. The two clarinetists started their musical partnership in 2022, and have since completed several successful tours across Canada and the United States, performing in 20+ cities throughout their short time as collaborators. They have played together at venues such as Smalls, The Baltimore Museum of Art, Takoma Station Tavern, and the Bop Stop, and have performed at multiple festivals across North America, including headlining the 50th anniversary celebration of the International Clarinet Association in Denver in 2023.The rare appearance of the clarinet in a modern, straight-ahead jazz setting has been a point of interest and excitement for audiences listening to the MacDonald-Marcus Quintet. In a 2023 interview with music journalist John Chacona, MacDonald said "I think we both really feel that clarinet in jazz music has been underrepresented even though there are a lot of great players out there. So to bring it to the forefront by having two clarinets in the same band catches a lot of people's attention."Todd and Virginia enjoy playing a mix of their original music and jazz standards together. Their quintet has featured leading voices of jazz including pianists Bruce Barth and Xavier Davis, bassists Ira Coleman and Kris Funn, and drummer Eric Kennedy. With collective decades of musical experience and accolades between them, both Marcus and MacDonald have dedicated followings and a strong presence on the international jazz scene. They are looking forward to further collaborations, including releasing their debut album as co-leaders imminently.Baltimore bass clarinetist, composer, and arranger Todd Marcus is one of the few jazz artists worldwide to focus exclusively on use of the bass clarinet as a solo instrument. While most uses of bass clarinet in jazz typically lean towards avant-garde and free-music styles, Marcus' playing presents the instrument with a modern straight-ahead jazz approach. His music swings hard with both fiery and introspective intensity but also maintains a strong lyrical sensibility.Marcus has presented music for 15 years and along the way received accolades including a Jazz Hero Award from the Jazz Journalists Association in 2017, Maryland's $25,000 Baker prize in 2014, selections as a rising star by national jazz magazine Downbeat annually in its annual critics poll since 2013, an NPR pick for one of the top 10 jazz albums of 2012, and a JazzTimes pick for one of the top 40 albums of 2015.In 2006, Todd released his debut album In Pursuit of the 9th Man with his Todd Marcus Jazz Orchestra, and his sophomore album Inheritance was released in 2012 for jazz quartet. He again featured his jazz orchestra with 2015's Blues for Tahrir and a 2018 quintet album On These Streets before the trio album Trio+ in 2019.His work includes international performances, clinics, and radio play and he has worked with other jazz artists such as Gary Bartz, Bennie Maupin, Don Byron, Larry Willis, Odean Pope, Gary Thomas, Joel Frahm, Tim Warfield, Ralph Peterson, Warren Wolf, Sean Jones, Xavier Davis, George Colligan, and Orrin Evans. He was a featured artist in 2017 Jazz Tales Festival in Egypt, 2015 Cairo Jazz Festival in Egypt, and in 2005 at the 1st World Bass Clarinet Convention in Rotterdam, Holland.Juno Award-winning clarinetist Virginia MacDonald has established herself as a rising star of her generation. Known for her lyrical and dynamic approach to the clarinet, Virginia has been described as playing "like a scholar, very refined with plenty of soul" by legendary clarinetist Doreen Ketchens. As a highly in-demand bandleader, sidewoman, and composer, she keeps a regular performance schedule across Canada, the United States, and Europe, and can be found on stage at venues such as Ronnie Scott's, Birdland, Smalls, and Dizzy's Jazz Club. Virginia has performed at jazz festivals globally including the Detroit Jazz Festival, Rochester Jazz Festival, Montreal Jazz Festival, and Toronto Jazz Festival, to name a few.In 2020, Virginia was selected as the first-prize winner of the International Clarinetist Corona Competition; judges included Anat Cohen, Victor Goines, Ken Peplowski, and Doreen Ketchens.Virginia has recorded and performed with esteemed artists including Kirk Lightsey, Geoffrey Keezer, Ira Coleman, Michael Dease, Dick Oatts, Joe Magnarelli, Harold Mabern, Bruce Barth, and Derrick Gardner. She was featured on Caity Gyorgy's 2022 Juno Award-winning album "Now Pronouncing" and her 2023 Juno Award-winning follow-up "Featuring". She has been a recent and frequent collaborator of Grammy Award-winning trombonist Michael Dease and appeared on his 2023 album "The Other Shoe: The Music of Gregg Hill" and his 2024 release "Found in Space: The Music of Gregg Hill". Virginia has appeared on twenty-plus albums as a sidewoman.Virginia's debut album is set to be released in 2025 on Cellar Live. Comprised of original compositions for quartet, her band features luminaries Geoffrey Keezer on piano and Ira Coleman on bass, along with preeminent voices of the next generation, drummer Curtis Nowosad and vocalist Laura Anglade.

Reagan Mitchell
August 6 @ 5:00 Pm

Reagan Mitchell - Saxophone
Matt Endahl - Piano
Alex Fournier - Bass

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Reagan Mitchell, a native of Nashville, Tennessee, earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in music with an emphasis in Jazz Studies and his Educational Specialist’s and Doctor of Philosophy degrees with an emphasis in Curriculum and Instruction. The transdisciplinary training in composition, performance, and educational philosophy has afforded them the space to explore the social, communal, therapeutic, political, and geographic implications of music. In addition to currently being independent scholar based in Toronto, ON, Reagan was an Associate Professor (2019-2025) in the Division of Liberal Arts at University of North Carolina School of the Arts (UNCSA) and prior was the A. Lindsay O’Connor Endowed Visiting Professor in the Department of Educational Studies at Colgate University (2017-2019). Reagan has freelanced as a saxophonist, composer, and arranger in the Nashville, Greeley, Denver, Baton Rouge, New Orleans, Winston-Salem, Charlotte, Raleigh-Durham, New York, and Greensboro areas. Some of the musical luminaries he/they have performed with are Charlie Hunter, Bobby Previte, Jnerio Jarel, Randy Brecker, Ernestine Anderson, David Liebman, Slide Hampton, Deborah Brown, Tim Hagans, Dick Oatts, Steve Wiest, Marvin Stamm, Mike Longo, and Benny Golson. The opportunity to perform in such culturally and ethnically diverse settings has profoundly influenced Reagan’s overall approach to scholarship, pedagogy, and music. Moreover, the merger of scholarship and performance has proven to be invaluable to Reagan’s artistic and intellectual development. Through these expanded courses of engagement, they have laid the foundation for a program of research on the cultural and historical influences of race, space, gentrification, auditory architecture, and communal wisdom on education. Reagan’s scholarship brings together curriculum theory, ethnic studies, Black diaspora studies, Critical Race Theory, Queer theory, critical geography, and critical sound studies. 

Virginia MacDonald & Todd Marcus Quintet
August 5, 6, 7, 8 @ 8:00 PM

Virginia MacDonald: Clarinet

Todd Marcus: Bass clarinet

Xavier Davis: Piano

Blake Meister: Bass

Eric Kennedy: Drums

Mr. Marcus is probably the most inventive bass clarinetist working in straight-ahead jazz today" - New York Times" [Virginia] is one of the only people I've heard get that completely soulful essence that you get on the saxophone; she gets it on the clarinet. She's got her own voice" Grammy- Award winning trombonist Michael Dease, London Jazz NewsLong considered a fringe instrument within the jazz lineage, Virginia MacDonald and Todd Marcus are bringing the clarinet to the forefront of the music with their unique quintet that features a rare soprano and bass clarinet frontline. The two clarinetists started their musical partnership in 2022, and have since completed several successful tours across Canada and the United States, performing in 20+ cities throughout their short time as collaborators. They have played together at venues such as Smalls, The Baltimore Museum of Art, Takoma Station Tavern, and the Bop Stop, and have performed at multiple festivals across North America, including headlining the 50th anniversary celebration of the International Clarinet Association in Denver in 2023.The rare appearance of the clarinet in a modern, straight-ahead jazz setting has been a point of interest and excitement for audiences listening to the MacDonald-Marcus Quintet. In a 2023 interview with music journalist John Chacona, MacDonald said "I think we both really feel that clarinet in jazz music has been underrepresented even though there are a lot of great players out there. So to bring it to the forefront by having two clarinets in the same band catches a lot of people's attention."Todd and Virginia enjoy playing a mix of their original music and jazz standards together. Their quintet has featured leading voices of jazz including pianists Bruce Barth and Xavier Davis, bassists Ira Coleman and Kris Funn, and drummer Eric Kennedy. With collective decades of musical experience and accolades between them, both Marcus and MacDonald have dedicated followings and a strong presence on the international jazz scene. They are looking forward to further collaborations, including releasing their debut album as co-leaders imminently.Baltimore bass clarinetist, composer, and arranger Todd Marcus is one of the few jazz artists worldwide to focus exclusively on use of the bass clarinet as a solo instrument. While most uses of bass clarinet in jazz typically lean towards avant-garde and free-music styles, Marcus' playing presents the instrument with a modern straight-ahead jazz approach. His music swings hard with both fiery and introspective intensity but also maintains a strong lyrical sensibility.Marcus has presented music for 15 years and along the way received accolades including a Jazz Hero Award from the Jazz Journalists Association in 2017, Maryland's $25,000 Baker prize in 2014, selections as a rising star by national jazz magazine Downbeat annually in its annual critics poll since 2013, an NPR pick for one of the top 10 jazz albums of 2012, and a JazzTimes pick for one of the top 40 albums of 2015.In 2006, Todd released his debut album In Pursuit of the 9th Man with his Todd Marcus Jazz Orchestra, and his sophomore album Inheritance was released in 2012 for jazz quartet. He again featured his jazz orchestra with 2015's Blues for Tahrir and a 2018 quintet album On These Streets before the trio album Trio+ in 2019.His work includes international performances, clinics, and radio play and he has worked with other jazz artists such as Gary Bartz, Bennie Maupin, Don Byron, Larry Willis, Odean Pope, Gary Thomas, Joel Frahm, Tim Warfield, Ralph Peterson, Warren Wolf, Sean Jones, Xavier Davis, George Colligan, and Orrin Evans. He was a featured artist in 2017 Jazz Tales Festival in Egypt, 2015 Cairo Jazz Festival in Egypt, and in 2005 at the 1st World Bass Clarinet Convention in Rotterdam, Holland.Juno Award-winning clarinetist Virginia MacDonald has established herself as a rising star of her generation. Known for her lyrical and dynamic approach to the clarinet, Virginia has been described as playing "like a scholar, very refined with plenty of soul" by legendary clarinetist Doreen Ketchens. As a highly in-demand bandleader, sidewoman, and composer, she keeps a regular performance schedule across Canada, the United States, and Europe, and can be found on stage at venues such as Ronnie Scott's, Birdland, Smalls, and Dizzy's Jazz Club. Virginia has performed at jazz festivals globally including the Detroit Jazz Festival, Rochester Jazz Festival, Montreal Jazz Festival, and Toronto Jazz Festival, to name a few.In 2020, Virginia was selected as the first-prize winner of the International Clarinetist Corona Competition; judges included Anat Cohen, Victor Goines, Ken Peplowski, and Doreen Ketchens.Virginia has recorded and performed with esteemed artists including Kirk Lightsey, Geoffrey Keezer, Ira Coleman, Michael Dease, Dick Oatts, Joe Magnarelli, Harold Mabern, Bruce Barth, and Derrick Gardner. She was featured on Caity Gyorgy's 2022 Juno Award-winning album "Now Pronouncing" and her 2023 Juno Award-winning follow-up "Featuring". She has been a recent and frequent collaborator of Grammy Award-winning trombonist Michael Dease and appeared on his 2023 album "The Other Shoe: The Music of Gregg Hill" and his 2024 release "Found in Space: The Music of Gregg Hill". Virginia has appeared on twenty-plus albums as a sidewoman.Virginia's debut album is set to be released in 2025 on Cellar Live. Comprised of original compositions for quartet, her band features luminaries Geoffrey Keezer on piano and Ira Coleman on bass, along with preeminent voices of the next generation, drummer Curtis Nowosad and vocalist Laura Anglade.

Nate Renner & Friends!
August 7 @ 5:00 PM

Nate Renner - Guitar
Allison Au- Saxophone
Todd Pentney - Piano
Dan Fortin - Bass
Jeff Halischuck - Drums

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Nate is a Canadian guitarist who, since the 2010s, has been based in Japan. He was born in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. He graduated from Humber College's Jazz Program and attended the Banff Centre for the Arts Jazz and Creative Music Workshop twice when it was led by Dave Douglas. He plays standards, improvises freely, and composes music for guitar and a variety of ensembles with musicians from around the world. He holds a PhD in Ethnomusicology from the University of Toronto and continues research on connections between music and environment.

Virginia MacDonald & Todd Marcus Quintet
August 5, 6, 7, 8 @ 8:00 PM

Virginia MacDonald: Clarinet

Todd Marcus: Bass clarinet

Xavier Davis: Piano

Blake Meister: Bass

Eric Kennedy: Drums

Mr. Marcus is probably the most inventive bass clarinetist working in straight-ahead jazz today" - New York Times" [Virginia] is one of the only people I've heard get that completely soulful essence that you get on the saxophone; she gets it on the clarinet. She's got her own voice" Grammy- Award winning trombonist Michael Dease, London Jazz NewsLong considered a fringe instrument within the jazz lineage, Virginia MacDonald and Todd Marcus are bringing the clarinet to the forefront of the music with their unique quintet that features a rare soprano and bass clarinet frontline. The two clarinetists started their musical partnership in 2022, and have since completed several successful tours across Canada and the United States, performing in 20+ cities throughout their short time as collaborators. They have played together at venues such as Smalls, The Baltimore Museum of Art, Takoma Station Tavern, and the Bop Stop, and have performed at multiple festivals across North America, including headlining the 50th anniversary celebration of the International Clarinet Association in Denver in 2023.The rare appearance of the clarinet in a modern, straight-ahead jazz setting has been a point of interest and excitement for audiences listening to the MacDonald-Marcus Quintet. In a 2023 interview with music journalist John Chacona, MacDonald said "I think we both really feel that clarinet in jazz music has been underrepresented even though there are a lot of great players out there. So to bring it to the forefront by having two clarinets in the same band catches a lot of people's attention."Todd and Virginia enjoy playing a mix of their original music and jazz standards together. Their quintet has featured leading voices of jazz including pianists Bruce Barth and Xavier Davis, bassists Ira Coleman and Kris Funn, and drummer Eric Kennedy. With collective decades of musical experience and accolades between them, both Marcus and MacDonald have dedicated followings and a strong presence on the international jazz scene. They are looking forward to further collaborations, including releasing their debut album as co-leaders imminently.Baltimore bass clarinetist, composer, and arranger Todd Marcus is one of the few jazz artists worldwide to focus exclusively on use of the bass clarinet as a solo instrument. While most uses of bass clarinet in jazz typically lean towards avant-garde and free-music styles, Marcus' playing presents the instrument with a modern straight-ahead jazz approach. His music swings hard with both fiery and introspective intensity but also maintains a strong lyrical sensibility.Marcus has presented music for 15 years and along the way received accolades including a Jazz Hero Award from the Jazz Journalists Association in 2017, Maryland's $25,000 Baker prize in 2014, selections as a rising star by national jazz magazine Downbeat annually in its annual critics poll since 2013, an NPR pick for one of the top 10 jazz albums of 2012, and a JazzTimes pick for one of the top 40 albums of 2015.In 2006, Todd released his debut album In Pursuit of the 9th Man with his Todd Marcus Jazz Orchestra, and his sophomore album Inheritance was released in 2012 for jazz quartet. He again featured his jazz orchestra with 2015's Blues for Tahrir and a 2018 quintet album On These Streets before the trio album Trio+ in 2019.His work includes international performances, clinics, and radio play and he has worked with other jazz artists such as Gary Bartz, Bennie Maupin, Don Byron, Larry Willis, Odean Pope, Gary Thomas, Joel Frahm, Tim Warfield, Ralph Peterson, Warren Wolf, Sean Jones, Xavier Davis, George Colligan, and Orrin Evans. He was a featured artist in 2017 Jazz Tales Festival in Egypt, 2015 Cairo Jazz Festival in Egypt, and in 2005 at the 1st World Bass Clarinet Convention in Rotterdam, Holland.Juno Award-winning clarinetist Virginia MacDonald has established herself as a rising star of her generation. Known for her lyrical and dynamic approach to the clarinet, Virginia has been described as playing "like a scholar, very refined with plenty of soul" by legendary clarinetist Doreen Ketchens. As a highly in-demand bandleader, sidewoman, and composer, she keeps a regular performance schedule across Canada, the United States, and Europe, and can be found on stage at venues such as Ronnie Scott's, Birdland, Smalls, and Dizzy's Jazz Club. Virginia has performed at jazz festivals globally including the Detroit Jazz Festival, Rochester Jazz Festival, Montreal Jazz Festival, and Toronto Jazz Festival, to name a few.In 2020, Virginia was selected as the first-prize winner of the International Clarinetist Corona Competition; judges included Anat Cohen, Victor Goines, Ken Peplowski, and Doreen Ketchens.Virginia has recorded and performed with esteemed artists including Kirk Lightsey, Geoffrey Keezer, Ira Coleman, Michael Dease, Dick Oatts, Joe Magnarelli, Harold Mabern, Bruce Barth, and Derrick Gardner. She was featured on Caity Gyorgy's 2022 Juno Award-winning album "Now Pronouncing" and her 2023 Juno Award-winning follow-up "Featuring". She has been a recent and frequent collaborator of Grammy Award-winning trombonist Michael Dease and appeared on his 2023 album "The Other Shoe: The Music of Gregg Hill" and his 2024 release "Found in Space: The Music of Gregg Hill". Virginia has appeared on twenty-plus albums as a sidewoman.Virginia's debut album is set to be released in 2025 on Cellar Live. Comprised of original compositions for quartet, her band features luminaries Geoffrey Keezer on piano and Ira Coleman on bass, along with preeminent voices of the next generation, drummer Curtis Nowosad and vocalist Laura Anglade.

Lester McLean
August 8 @ 2:00 Pm

Lester McLean - Vocals / Saxophone
Nikku Nayar - Bass
Michael Occhipinti - Guitar

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Lester McLean is a native of Toronto, Ontario and has been active on the city’s busy music scene since the early 90’s. He studied jazz as a saxophonist while earning a Bachelors Degree in Mass Communications and Sociology at York University. Although he performed as a lead vocalist in high school, he resumed singing with a serious focus in the late 90’s. The instrumental funk-fusion band The Colour of Soul was the first outlet for McLean’s songwriting and under his leadership the band recorded and released 3 Independent records in 1998, 1999, and 2002 respectively.

The next endeavour was The Lester McLean Trio featuring Lester on lead vocals and Soprano Sax, Juno award winning and nationally recognized Michael Occhipinti on acoustic guitar, and multi-instrumentalist Louis Simao on upright acoustic bass. The trio released a full-length CD entitled “Best Foot Forward” in 2005. Drummer Mark McLean guests on a few tracks. The disc features a collection of covers and originals, 5 of which were penned by Lester.

Fast forwarding to 2009, the band went into John “Beetle” Bailey’s Drive Shed Studio for sessions that resulted in the 2011 release “Lester McLean – LM: 4, 3,2,1” which features 12 originals all penned by McLean and 3 covers. LM: 4,3,2,1 continues to demonstrate Lester’s versatility with a wide array of musical styles and genres, great melodies, thoughtful lyrics, ear catching grooves, thick harmonies, and the soulful, eclectic sound that defines Lester McLean’s listening tastes and talents.

Since the release of Lester McLean – LM: 4, 3,2,1, Lester has expanded his already wide array of talents by taking up congas, djembe, and other percussive instruments which has increased his demand as a freelance artist. When the tribute band Elton Rohn came calling in 2013, Lester answered and is the 7th member of the group on Saxes, percussion, and backing vocals. This is a role that he enjoys and it shows.

Fast forwarding to March 2014, Lester again found himself in the studio with his long-time friend and former Colour of Soul band mate bassist/producer “jk” to start the sessions that what would become “A Mostly A Cappella Christmas” released in December 2014. This album was a collection of original compositions and the culmination of a long-time dream come true.

If all of these qualities are not enough, Lester’s skills a musician are complimented by his dynamic stage presence. His drive and passion for music and live performance show no signs of diminishing.

Neon Eagle
AUGUST 8 & 22 @ 5:00 PM

Led by: Mike Eckert - Pedal Steel

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Bringing entrancing instrumental fusion music featuring the pedal steel.

Come in, sit back, and feel the hypnotic vibes of this incredible group!

Virginia MacDonald & Todd Marcus Quintet
August 5, 6, 7, 8 @ 8:00 PM

Virginia MacDonald: Clarinet

Todd Marcus: Bass clarinet

Xavier Davis: Piano

Blake Meister: Bass

Eric Kennedy: Drums

Mr. Marcus is probably the most inventive bass clarinetist working in straight-ahead jazz today" - New York Times" [Virginia] is one of the only people I've heard get that completely soulful essence that you get on the saxophone; she gets it on the clarinet. She's got her own voice" Grammy- Award winning trombonist Michael Dease, London Jazz NewsLong considered a fringe instrument within the jazz lineage, Virginia MacDonald and Todd Marcus are bringing the clarinet to the forefront of the music with their unique quintet that features a rare soprano and bass clarinet frontline. The two clarinetists started their musical partnership in 2022, and have since completed several successful tours across Canada and the United States, performing in 20+ cities throughout their short time as collaborators. They have played together at venues such as Smalls, The Baltimore Museum of Art, Takoma Station Tavern, and the Bop Stop, and have performed at multiple festivals across North America, including headlining the 50th anniversary celebration of the International Clarinet Association in Denver in 2023.The rare appearance of the clarinet in a modern, straight-ahead jazz setting has been a point of interest and excitement for audiences listening to the MacDonald-Marcus Quintet. In a 2023 interview with music journalist John Chacona, MacDonald said "I think we both really feel that clarinet in jazz music has been underrepresented even though there are a lot of great players out there. So to bring it to the forefront by having two clarinets in the same band catches a lot of people's attention."Todd and Virginia enjoy playing a mix of their original music and jazz standards together. Their quintet has featured leading voices of jazz including pianists Bruce Barth and Xavier Davis, bassists Ira Coleman and Kris Funn, and drummer Eric Kennedy. With collective decades of musical experience and accolades between them, both Marcus and MacDonald have dedicated followings and a strong presence on the international jazz scene. They are looking forward to further collaborations, including releasing their debut album as co-leaders imminently.Baltimore bass clarinetist, composer, and arranger Todd Marcus is one of the few jazz artists worldwide to focus exclusively on use of the bass clarinet as a solo instrument. While most uses of bass clarinet in jazz typically lean towards avant-garde and free-music styles, Marcus' playing presents the instrument with a modern straight-ahead jazz approach. His music swings hard with both fiery and introspective intensity but also maintains a strong lyrical sensibility.Marcus has presented music for 15 years and along the way received accolades including a Jazz Hero Award from the Jazz Journalists Association in 2017, Maryland's $25,000 Baker prize in 2014, selections as a rising star by national jazz magazine Downbeat annually in its annual critics poll since 2013, an NPR pick for one of the top 10 jazz albums of 2012, and a JazzTimes pick for one of the top 40 albums of 2015.In 2006, Todd released his debut album In Pursuit of the 9th Man with his Todd Marcus Jazz Orchestra, and his sophomore album Inheritance was released in 2012 for jazz quartet. He again featured his jazz orchestra with 2015's Blues for Tahrir and a 2018 quintet album On These Streets before the trio album Trio+ in 2019.His work includes international performances, clinics, and radio play and he has worked with other jazz artists such as Gary Bartz, Bennie Maupin, Don Byron, Larry Willis, Odean Pope, Gary Thomas, Joel Frahm, Tim Warfield, Ralph Peterson, Warren Wolf, Sean Jones, Xavier Davis, George Colligan, and Orrin Evans. He was a featured artist in 2017 Jazz Tales Festival in Egypt, 2015 Cairo Jazz Festival in Egypt, and in 2005 at the 1st World Bass Clarinet Convention in Rotterdam, Holland.Juno Award-winning clarinetist Virginia MacDonald has established herself as a rising star of her generation. Known for her lyrical and dynamic approach to the clarinet, Virginia has been described as playing "like a scholar, very refined with plenty of soul" by legendary clarinetist Doreen Ketchens. As a highly in-demand bandleader, sidewoman, and composer, she keeps a regular performance schedule across Canada, the United States, and Europe, and can be found on stage at venues such as Ronnie Scott's, Birdland, Smalls, and Dizzy's Jazz Club. Virginia has performed at jazz festivals globally including the Detroit Jazz Festival, Rochester Jazz Festival, Montreal Jazz Festival, and Toronto Jazz Festival, to name a few.In 2020, Virginia was selected as the first-prize winner of the International Clarinetist Corona Competition; judges included Anat Cohen, Victor Goines, Ken Peplowski, and Doreen Ketchens.Virginia has recorded and performed with esteemed artists including Kirk Lightsey, Geoffrey Keezer, Ira Coleman, Michael Dease, Dick Oatts, Joe Magnarelli, Harold Mabern, Bruce Barth, and Derrick Gardner. She was featured on Caity Gyorgy's 2022 Juno Award-winning album "Now Pronouncing" and her 2023 Juno Award-winning follow-up "Featuring". She has been a recent and frequent collaborator of Grammy Award-winning trombonist Michael Dease and appeared on his 2023 album "The Other Shoe: The Music of Gregg Hill" and his 2024 release "Found in Space: The Music of Gregg Hill". Virginia has appeared on twenty-plus albums as a sidewoman.Virginia's debut album is set to be released in 2025 on Cellar Live. Comprised of original compositions for quartet, her band features luminaries Geoffrey Keezer on piano and Ira Coleman on bass, along with preeminent voices of the next generation, drummer Curtis Nowosad and vocalist Laura Anglade.

Fuat Tuaç
August 9 @ 2:00 PM

Fuat Tuaç (vocals),
Eric St-Laurent (guitar),
Tania Gill (piano),
Nico Dann (drums),
Phil Albert (bass).

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Fuat Tuaç is a Toronto-based jazz vocalist celebrated for his warm tone, refined phrasing, and cosmopolitan musical sensibility. Performing in French, English, Turkish, and Spanish, he brings a distinctive cross-cultural voice to the jazz tradition by bringing motifs from Turkish classical music to jazz singing, blending timeless standards with subtle contemporary influences.

Graduated from Concordia University, Jazz Department, he has appeared at festivals and venues across Canada and Europe, including performances at jazz clubs in Montreal, Vancouver, Detroit Germany, France, Poland, Portugal, Mexico and Turkey. 
Fuat has collaborated with a variety of accomplished musicians like Eric St-Laurent, George Koller and Kim Richardson, and continues to develop projects that bridge cultures and musical traditions. His performances are marked by elegance, emotional depth, and an authentic connection to the music.

Heather Luckhart Blues Trio
August 9 @ 5:00 PM

Heather Luckhart - Vocals
Eric St. Laurent - Guitar
Matias Recharte - Drums

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Heather Luckhart blues trio brings a gritty and timeless blues vibe with Eric St-Laurent on guitar, Matias Recharte on drums, and Luckhart leading the charge on vocals. Stories and songs from her upcoming Wild Women Blues album will be heavily featured, along with some of our favourites from the recent Make It Through album, and more.

Johnathan Challoner
august 9 & 10 @ 8:00 PM

Jonathan Challoner - Trumpet
David French - Tenor Sax
Adrean Farrugia - Piano
Neil Swainson - Bass
Fabio Ragnelli - Drums

Jonathan Challoner is one of Canada’s most versatile and imaginative voices on the trumpet. Growing up in Qualicum Beach, BC he began his career with mentorship from Canadian legends Phil Dwyer, Ingrid Jensen and Arnie Chycoski. In Toronto his eclectic disposition led to collaborations in a wide variety of genres across the city’s diverse music scene. Upon relocating to New York to attend the Juilliard School Jonathan began performing at some of the jazz’s most iconic venues, including Birdland, Mezzrow, Jazz at Lincoln Center and the Newport Jazz Festival. His collaborations span names such as Bobby Sanabria, Vince Giordano, Miho Hazama, Remy LeBeouf, Louis Cole, Braxton Cook, Adrian Cunningham, the Heavyweights Brass Band, Don Thompson and John MacLeod. Now based in Winnipeg, Jonathan serves as Assistant Professor in Jazz Performance at the University of Manitoba. A recent collaboration with the Winnipeg Jazz Orchestra, ‘East Meets West: Connections’ won the 2026 JUNO award for Jazz Album of the Year - Group.

Tom Reynolds Trio
August 10 @ 5:00 PM

Thomas Reynolds - Piano
George Koller - Bass
Lorne Nehring - Drums

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Growing up in Chicago, and then moving to Nashville after his university days, Tom had the fortune of performing with fabulous musicians during the mid-1990’s before beginning his career as a professor teaching religion and theology.  

He worked as music director and toured with Grammy-winning jazz vocal group, “Take Six,” which included an HBO House of Blues special and appearances on The Tonight Show and The Today Show.  He also toured extensively as music director for Engelbert Humperdinck.  In addition, he performed and toured with country artists like Shania Twain, Shelby Lynn, Crystal Gayle, and Ty Herndon, as well as with R&B artists Max Carl (from “38 Special”) and Glen Frey (from the “Eagles”).  

On the jazz front, while in Nashville, Tom performed with artists like Jeff Coffin (sax from Dave Matthews Band), Bela Fleck, Victor Wooten, Kirk Whalum, Chester Thompson (drummer from “Genesis”), Denny Jiosa, and Boots Randolph, among others.

Now that he lives in Toronto (since 2007), Tom has worked with local musicians in the recording studio, performed in jazz clubs around town and across Canada, and been active since 2009 as pianist at St. Andrew’s United Church.  He has recorded two trio projects, “Convergence” (2010) and “Open Skies” (2022), with bassist George Koller and drummer Lorne Nehring, featuring all original compositions and arrangements.  Other musical ventures included recording and touring with Jim McCarty (drummer for “Yardbirds”), performing locally with acclaimed vocalist Jackie Richardson, and some touring in North America as member of the band, “In Orbit,” which features Jeff Coffin, Felix Pastorius (bass, son of Jaco Pastorius) and Toronto-based musicians Michael Occhipinti (guitar) and Davide Direnzo (drums).  “In Orbit” has released one CD and recorded a second, soon to be released. 

Tom also teaches theology at Emmanuel College, University of Toronto.

Johnathan Challoner
august 9 & 10 @ 8:00 PM

Jonathan Challoner - Trumpet
David French - Tenor Sax
Adrean Farrugia - Piano
Neil Swainson - Bass
Fabio Ragnelli - Drums

Jonathan Challoner is one of Canada’s most versatile and imaginative voices on the trumpet. Growing up in Qualicum Beach, BC he began his career with mentorship from Canadian legends Phil Dwyer, Ingrid Jensen and Arnie Chycoski. In Toronto his eclectic disposition led to collaborations in a wide variety of genres across the city’s diverse music scene. Upon relocating to New York to attend the Juilliard School Jonathan began performing at some of the jazz’s most iconic venues, including Birdland, Mezzrow, Jazz at Lincoln Center and the Newport Jazz Festival. His collaborations span names such as Bobby Sanabria, Vince Giordano, Miho Hazama, Remy LeBeouf, Louis Cole, Braxton Cook, Adrian Cunningham, the Heavyweights Brass Band, Don Thompson and John MacLeod. Now based in Winnipeg, Jonathan serves as Assistant Professor in Jazz Performance at the University of Manitoba. A recent collaboration with the Winnipeg Jazz Orchestra, ‘East Meets West: Connections’ won the 2026 JUNO award for Jazz Album of the Year - Group.

The Atcheleh Aryee 6tet
August 11 @ 5:00 PM

Atcheleh Aryee - Trumpet
Angela Pincente - Trombone
Ethan Williams - Tenor Saxophone
Nathan Tran - Piano
Alex McPherson - Acoustic Bass
Daniel Villarraga - Drums

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

The Atcheleh Aryee Sextet is a swinging 6-piece group composed of some of Toronto’s finest musicians. This jazz sextet features the compositions and arrangements of bandleader and trumpeter Atcheleh Aryee, whose writing gives every musician a spotlight while also showcasing ensemble playing inspired by the traditions established by the great Canadian bandleaders of all generations.

Classic REx jam
hosted by chris banks
AUGUST 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.

Andrew Scott
August 12 @ 5:00 PM

Andrew Scott - Guitar
Jake Wilkinson - Trumpet
Jonathan Meyer - Bass
Phil Stewart - Drums

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

As a musician, writer, journalist, and arts educator, Andrew Scott’s work has impacted many aspects of the educational, and creative arts and culture space in Canada and beyond for nearly three decades. 

A jazz guitarist, Andrew has worked as an in-demand side person, led his own bands with a focus on classic jazz repertoire, and performed and recorded with such musicians as Bernie Senensky, Dan Block, Harry Allen, Grant Stewart, Jim Clayton (The Clayton/Scott Group), Ben Paterson, Randy Sandke, and Jon-Erik Kellso for such labels as Cellar Live, Marshmallow, Boomtang, and Sackville Records. 

Andrew has performed for members of the House of Lords, international dignitaries, and two former Canadian Prime Ministers. 

His latest album, Horizon Song with Kelsley Grant, Amanda Tosoff, Neil Swainson, and Order of Canada winner Terry Clarke was released on Cellar Live records in 2024. 

Andrew’s guitar playing and compositions are featured on saxophonist’s Alex Dean’s 2025 album Put it There by Bari-ed Alive (Sony/Cornerstone Records).

Andrew has committed himself to learning from the elders of this music and has enjoyed meaningful musical relationships with the late drummer Archie Alleyne—for whom he worked as side musician, music director of Alleyne’s Evolution of Jazz Ensemble, and co-composer of “Syncopation: Life in the Key of Black”—and the nonagenarian pianist Gene DiNovi, with whom Andrew has recorded three albums.

Andrew’s music has been heard internationally in film and television (“Pretend We’re Kissing,” “Once a Thief,” CBC’s “The Border” and “Kim’s Convenience”), and his writing about music has appeared in Downbeat Magazine, Wax Poetics, CODA (where he was the final Managing Editor), Jazz Research Journal, the Havurah Journal, We Jazz, the Humber Literary Review, the Journal of Popular Music Studies, and in more than one hundred sets of jazz liner notes. 

In 2024, Andrew was the principal researcher, essayist, and Associate Producer of an archival release of a 1972 recording from the famed American jazz organist Jack McDuff.

Andrew has also worked as an independent juror and consultant for the Toronto Arts Foundation and as a public educator was an invited lecturer for the Hot Docs “Curious Minds” speaker series, where he presented a six-part series entitled “Nights to Remember: The Great Concerts,” and Anthems: Six Songs That Shaped the World We Live In) for The Speakers Annex in 2025.

Andrew is frequently called upon to speak to such media outlets as the Globe & Mail, Now Toronto, CTV, the Canadian Press and others on topical issues and various events in the world of music, arts, and culture. 

His comedic writing regularly appears on such humour platforms as The Haven, The Daily Drunk, MuddyUm, and The Toronto Harold where it garners between multiple hundreds and more than 11K online views, and his poetry has been anthologized by Alien Buddha Press (Alien Buddha Zine #58, Alien Buddha Zine #66, the chapbook Resist the Zeitgeist and in the compilation publication Best of 2024). 

Having earned his PhD from York University, Andrew has lectured at universities and conferences across North America (NYU, Kent State, McGill, York University, Western University, the University of Guelph) and has enjoyed a long professional relationship with Humber College, where he is a Professor and the Program Co-ordinator of the Bachelor of Music Program. In this capacity Andrew has taught, administered, advised, and mentored thousands of students.  

Andrew was the former Associate Dean and Acting Dean of Humber’s School of Creative and Performing Arts, where he oversaw and administratively stewarded multiple music programs, as well as creative writing, arts administration, theatre, and comedy faculties. 

At Humber, Andrew has been recognized for his professional efforts, earning the “Administrative Distinguished Service” Award for valued administrative leadership in 2021, and being named a “Champion of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion” for contributing to an environmental scan with the Humber EDI Taskforce in 2022. 

As of 2025, Andrew has been involved with numerous research projects that have received nearly $1,000,000 of federal funding through SSHRC and other research granting bodies. Currently, Andrew is a part of a SSHRC Partnership Development project with the DeGroote School of Business at McMaster University entitled: “The show must go on: Supporting Canadian professional musicians” that examines employment issues surrounding professional musicians in Canada.

Andrew is the recipient of The Toronto Musician’s Association (Local 149) “Music Educator of the Year” (2024).

Artie Roth Quartet "Resonants" Album release celebration
August 12, 13, 14, 15 @ 8:00 PM

Artie Roth: Acoustic Bass/Electric Bass, Compositions.

Mike Filice: Tenor Saxophone, Soprano Saxophone, Flute.

Sam Dickinson: Electric/Acoustic Guitar, effects.

Anthony Michelli: Drums and percussion.

Toronto-born jazz bassist Artie Roth is a composer, bandleader, performer and  educator who has been active nationally and internationally for over 30 years and  is on over 60 full length recordings. As a bandleader, bassist and composer, Artie  has four recordings “Parallels”(2005), “Currently Experiencing” (2013) , “Discern” (2015) and “Resonants” (2023). As well as leading his own group, Artie is also a  co-leader of Tunetown releasing “There From Here” (2018) and “Entering Utopia”  (2020). 

"Resonants" on TPR Records, is the third release by the Toronto based Artie Roth  Quartet, with Mike Filice (Sax), Anthony Michelli (Drums) and Sam Dickinson  (Guitar). Featuring 11 new compositions by Bassist/Composer Artie Roth and  produced with Brooklyn based producer Roman Klun, the music seamlessly  crosses genres between jazz, rock, funk, folk and ambient soundscapes. Bristling  with the recorded sounds of sympathetic resonances of close and remote objects  in the studio, this is a trailblazing, conceptual jazz album. "Resonants” weaves  palpable vibrations into a tapestry of new Jazz music with lyrical melodies, catchy  bass lines, driving rhythms and soaring guitars.

Sean Bray
August 13 @ 5:00 PM

Sean Bray - Guitar
George Koller - Bass
David MacDougall - Drums

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Sean Bray Sean Bray is considered to be one of  Canada’s top guitarists. After studying at the prestigious  Manhattan School of Music in New York City, Sean moved  to Toronto in 1990. Sean has the ability to fit into many  musical genres while still retaining an unmistakably original  voice on his instrument. This quickly helped him become a  sought after sideman, studio guitarist and leader of his own  projects. Sean has played and/or recorded with Pat  LaBarbera, Mike Murley, Kirk MacDonald, Bob Mintzer,  George Garzone, Campbell Ryga, Brian Dickinson, Alex  Dean, Roy Styffe, Big Miller and many more. Sean Bray is  endorsed D’Addario Strings. 

Artie Roth Quartet "Resonants" Album release celebration
August 12, 13, 14, 15 @ 8:00 PM

Artie Roth: Acoustic Bass/Electric Bass, Compositions.

Mike Filice: Tenor Saxophone, Soprano Saxophone, Flute.

Sam Dickinson: Electric/Acoustic Guitar, effects.

Anthony Michelli: Drums and percussion.

Toronto-born jazz bassist Artie Roth is a composer, bandleader, performer and  educator who has been active nationally and internationally for over 30 years and  is on over 60 full length recordings. As a bandleader, bassist and composer, Artie  has four recordings “Parallels”(2005), “Currently Experiencing” (2013) , “Discern” (2015) and “Resonants” (2023). As well as leading his own group, Artie is also a  co-leader of Tunetown releasing “There From Here” (2018) and “Entering Utopia”  (2020). 

"Resonants" on TPR Records, is the third release by the Toronto based Artie Roth  Quartet, with Mike Filice (Sax), Anthony Michelli (Drums) and Sam Dickinson  (Guitar). Featuring 11 new compositions by Bassist/Composer Artie Roth and  produced with Brooklyn based producer Roman Klun, the music seamlessly  crosses genres between jazz, rock, funk, folk and ambient soundscapes. Bristling  with the recorded sounds of sympathetic resonances of close and remote objects  in the studio, this is a trailblazing, conceptual jazz album. "Resonants” weaves  palpable vibrations into a tapestry of new Jazz music with lyrical melodies, catchy  bass lines, driving rhythms and soaring guitars.

Fern Lindzon
August 14 @ 5:00 PM

Fern Lindzon - Piano
with George Koller - Bass
Ethan Ardelli - Dums.

No Reservations
Pay what You Can

JUNO Award Nominee, Fern Lindzon is a multi-faceted pianist/vocalist/arranger. Fern possesses a technique WholeNote Magazine called ‘breathtakingly beautiful’, respected jazz critic Mark Miller wrote ‘is secure in her sense of herself, her art, and her craft’, New Canadian Music described as ‘one of the most adventurous and accomplished vocalists, pianists, and songwriters on the T.O. jazz scene’, and Montreal critic Irwin Block lauded as ‘a rare and fascinating talent’. 

Fern’s three solo CDs move comfortably and creatively through a highly personal repertoire of her own arrangements of jazz standards and original compositions inspired by World, Classical and Baroque music. Her second CD, Two Kites received a JUNO Nomination as Vocal Jazz Album of the Year. Fern also composes and performs scores for silent films and has worked as a Musical Director for theatrical productions.

Fern’s Tryptique trio with Colleen Allen (flute/saxophones) and George Koller (bass) released their first CD to rave reviews. “This is music to contemplate, to marvel at—a work that effortlessly earns its place among our Essential Albums.” Paris Move. 5 stars. 

Artie Roth Quartet "Resonants" Album release celebration
August 12, 13, 14, 15 @ 8:00 PM

Artie Roth: Acoustic Bass/Electric Bass, Compositions.

Mike Filice: Tenor Saxophone, Soprano Saxophone, Flute.

Sam Dickinson: Electric/Acoustic Guitar, effects.

Anthony Michelli: Drums and percussion.

Toronto-born jazz bassist Artie Roth is a composer, bandleader, performer and  educator who has been active nationally and internationally for over 30 years and  is on over 60 full length recordings. As a bandleader, bassist and composer, Artie  has four recordings “Parallels”(2005), “Currently Experiencing” (2013) , “Discern” (2015) and “Resonants” (2023). As well as leading his own group, Artie is also a  co-leader of Tunetown releasing “There From Here” (2018) and “Entering Utopia”  (2020). 

"Resonants" on TPR Records, is the third release by the Toronto based Artie Roth  Quartet, with Mike Filice (Sax), Anthony Michelli (Drums) and Sam Dickinson  (Guitar). Featuring 11 new compositions by Bassist/Composer Artie Roth and  produced with Brooklyn based producer Roman Klun, the music seamlessly  crosses genres between jazz, rock, funk, folk and ambient soundscapes. Bristling  with the recorded sounds of sympathetic resonances of close and remote objects  in the studio, this is a trailblazing, conceptual jazz album. "Resonants” weaves  palpable vibrations into a tapestry of new Jazz music with lyrical melodies, catchy  bass lines, driving rhythms and soaring guitars.

Diane Roblin’s Life Force
August 15 @ 2:00 PM

Diane Roblin - piano/keys,compositions George Koller - upright/electric bass
Tim Shia - drums 
John Johnson - reeds
Alex Dean - reeds
John MacLeod - trumpet/flugel horn

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Diane Roblin’s Life Force band has been described as a "virtuosic  ensemble of Canadian hotshots” who play Diane’s diverse and spirited  compositions that blend her broad influences ranging from high-energy  jazz-funk to impressionism…something unique to offer jazz  fans" (JAZZ.FM91).  

Diane Roblin’s dynamic career has earned her a place among Canada’s  most respected women in jazz. Known for her powerful compositions and  expressive keyboard style, Diane’s performances blend technical agility  with a deep commitment to the connective power of music. As a composer,  pianist, electric keyboardist, improviser, and bandleader, Diane’s spirited,  genre-crossing work has led to collaborations with artists ranging from  avant-garde improviser Charles Gayle to the iconic rock band Rough  Trade. Her new album, Breath of Fresh Air showcases Roblin’s expansive  musical voice, weaving jazz, funk, and impressionist harmony into  compositions that are both adventurous and deeply moving. WholeNote  says…“Roblin reminds us of her skill, not only as a pianist but as a new  music composer.” Diane”s performances have reached audiences at major  venues both domestically and abroad including Amsterdam’s Bimhuis and  Smalls NYC. Diane is also an active member of the Association of  Canadian Women Composers. www.dianeroblin.com 

SAM BROVERMAN
August 15 @ 5:00 PM

Sam Broverman - Vocals
Peter Hill - Piano
Chris Banks - Bass
Shawn Nyquist - Saxophone

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Sam Broverman is a Toronto based jazz singer and songwriter who performs in Toronto jazz venues regularly across Canada, as well as Asia and the United States. He has released five jazz albums since 2011, the most recent being an album of original songs released in 2024. In his other avocation, he is a retired mathematics professor at the University of Toronto and has released an album of math parody songs. 

Artie Roth Quartet "Resonants" Album release celebration
August 12, 13, 14, 15 @ 8:00 PM

Artie Roth: Acoustic Bass/Electric Bass, Compositions.

Mike Filice: Tenor Saxophone, Soprano Saxophone, Flute.

Sam Dickinson: Electric/Acoustic Guitar, effects.

Anthony Michelli: Drums and percussion.

Toronto-born jazz bassist Artie Roth is a composer, bandleader, performer and  educator who has been active nationally and internationally for over 30 years and  is on over 60 full length recordings. As a bandleader, bassist and composer, Artie  has four recordings “Parallels”(2005), “Currently Experiencing” (2013) , “Discern” (2015) and “Resonants” (2023). As well as leading his own group, Artie is also a  co-leader of Tunetown releasing “There From Here” (2018) and “Entering Utopia”  (2020). 

"Resonants" on TPR Records, is the third release by the Toronto based Artie Roth  Quartet, with Mike Filice (Sax), Anthony Michelli (Drums) and Sam Dickinson  (Guitar). Featuring 11 new compositions by Bassist/Composer Artie Roth and  produced with Brooklyn based producer Roman Klun, the music seamlessly  crosses genres between jazz, rock, funk, folk and ambient soundscapes. Bristling  with the recorded sounds of sympathetic resonances of close and remote objects  in the studio, this is a trailblazing, conceptual jazz album. "Resonants” weaves  palpable vibrations into a tapestry of new Jazz music with lyrical melodies, catchy  bass lines, driving rhythms and soaring guitars.

SEU
August 16 @ 2:00 PM

Seu Clayton harder - Bass
Kyle Sullivan - Drums
Luis Anselmi - keys
Jorge Morán - melódica and vocals

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Bio 

Seu is a Mexican singer-songwriter based in Toronto, Canada. Over the past  years, he has performed extensively across Canada and internationally,  gracing festivals, private events, and concerts in countries such as Germany,  Spain, Ireland, Mexico, and Canada. His music reinvents the traditional bolero  genre by fusing it with contemporary influences like reggae, funk, soul,  bossanova, jazz, and R&B. 

In recent years, it has been present at important festivals in Mexico and  Canada, such as the Festival Alternativo (MX), Markham Village Music Festival  (CA), Winter Song Music Fest (CA), and Lavazza Inclucity Festival (CA), to  name a few. 

His New single “Deseo” (desire) marks a bold and intimate chapter in Seu’s  musical evolution, blending R&B and reggae with his signature lyrical depth  and unforgettable vocals. The song was produced in collaboration with fellow  Mexican artist Roger Vargas, explores the emotional complexity of longing— 

knowing it might never be fulfilled, or could even be forbidden. The song  features trumpet by Argentine musician Camila Vaudagna, with mixing and  mastering by Adriano Morales (S.C.A.), and visual artwork by Canadian artist  Robyn Lightwalker.

The Gary Kendall Trio
August 16 @ 5:00 PM

Gary Kendall - Bass/Vocals
Teddy Leonard - Guitar/Vocals
Tyler Burgess - Drums/Vocals/Harmonica

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Bio 

“Get Ready, this hot little three piece is on the move”

After the first gig in June 2023, it was obvious that The Gary Kendall Trio had something - had something to develop and take to another level. It sounds right, feels right, and looks right.

The band has now become a fixture in the southern Ontario blues circuit with regular rehearsals on the agenda to develop the show and new compositions. Recording this new music is in the game plan for the future.

“Stay Tuned, Much More To Come”

Alex Goodman
August 16 & 17 @ 8:00 PM

Alex Goodman - Guitar
Chris Cheek - Saxophone
Martin Nevin - Bass
Adam Arruda - Drums

“A definite musical voice” (Guitar International) and a player of “fluid lyricism” (DownBeat), Canadian guitarist and composer Alex Goodman moved to New York City in 2012, where he became recognized as “among the most promising talents of his jazz generation” (JazzTimes) and “one of New York’s most vital guitarists” (Jazziz). In 2014, he won First Prize and the Public’s Choice Award at the International Guitar Competition at the Montreux Jazz Festival. Since then, he has contributed to and been featured on numerous Grammy-nominated recordings, as well as projects recognized by Canada’s JUNO Awards and the German Jazz Prize. Over the past decade, he has established a distinct presence, bringing together his work as a guitarist, composer, bandleader, and active sideman.

In addition to releasing ten albums as a leader or co-leader, Goodman has appeared as a contributor and soloist on a wide array of recordings alongside acclaimed artists including John Patitucci, Dave Douglas, John Ellis, Jonathan Blake, Dick Oatts, Ambrose Akinmusire, Mike Rodriguez, Rich Perry, and many others. He has toured extensively throughout Europe, Asia, and South America and performed at New York’s leading venues, as well as at international stages including the Kennedy Center, Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club, Lincoln Center, Massey Hall, Auditório Ibirapuera in São Paulo, and Chaoyang Theater in Beijing. Festival appearances include Winter Jazzfest, Montreux, Montreal, C6 Brazil, and Jazz Baltica.

Goodman has maintained an active compositional practice, writing for ensembles ranging from solo guitar to chamber groups, orchestras, and big bands, with early recognition including a 2013 ASCAP Herb Alpert Jazz Composer Award. His book of solo guitar etudes, released in both book and recording formats in 2013, reflects an early interest in counterpoint that continues to inform his writing. In 2022, he received a grant from the Canada Council for the Arts to compose a new program for string quartet, guitar, and bass, which premiered on a European tour in 2024 and was subsequently recorded with bassist Rick Rosato and the Netherlands-based Adam Quartet.

A graduate of the Master’s program in Jazz Performance at the Manhattan School of Music, he is currently Professor of Jazz Guitar at the Kunstuniversität Graz.

Gracie Singh-Yuz
August 17 @ 5:00 PM

Gracie Singh-Yuz - Vocals

Duncan Wilson - Piano

Christopher Parnis - Bass

Petros Anagnostakos - Drums

NO RESERVATIONS

PAY WHAT YOU CAN

Gracie Singh-Yuz is a jazz vocalist, bandleader, arranger, and educator located in Toronto, Canada. She is a dedicated and passionate emerging artist gigging with bands around Toronto who creates a joyful and captivating audience experience through her performances of jazz standards. She values paying tribute to the jazz greats while also sharing her musical stylings that make the songs uniquely her own.

Gracie’s performances highlight her exciting and virtuosic improvisatory abilities through the art of scatting and her take on melodies. She performs with bands of other dedicated musicians at venues across Toronto such as The Emmet Ray and The Jazz Bistro. She recently made her debut in the Toronto Jazz Fest as a part of the Jazz Intensive Ensemble. Her biggest musical influences include Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Nat King Cole, Blossom Dearie, along with many other singers from the 1940-60’s time period, giving her sound lots of range and musical depth. Gracie strives to grow her sound through her current jazz education at the University of Toronto where she is entering her fourth year. She is constantly making music with her peers and at jam sessions throughout the city.

Alex Goodman
August 16 & 17 @ 8:00 PM

Alex Goodman - Guitar
Chris Cheek - Saxophone
Martin Nevin - Bass
Adam Arruda - Drums

“A definite musical voice” (Guitar International) and a player of “fluid lyricism” (DownBeat), Canadian guitarist and composer Alex Goodman moved to New York City in 2012, where he became recognized as “among the most promising talents of his jazz generation” (JazzTimes) and “one of New York’s most vital guitarists” (Jazziz). In 2014, he won First Prize and the Public’s Choice Award at the International Guitar Competition at the Montreux Jazz Festival. Since then, he has contributed to and been featured on numerous Grammy-nominated recordings, as well as projects recognized by Canada’s JUNO Awards and the German Jazz Prize. Over the past decade, he has established a distinct presence, bringing together his work as a guitarist, composer, bandleader, and active sideman.

In addition to releasing ten albums as a leader or co-leader, Goodman has appeared as a contributor and soloist on a wide array of recordings alongside acclaimed artists including John Patitucci, Dave Douglas, John Ellis, Jonathan Blake, Dick Oatts, Ambrose Akinmusire, Mike Rodriguez, Rich Perry, and many others. He has toured extensively throughout Europe, Asia, and South America and performed at New York’s leading venues, as well as at international stages including the Kennedy Center, Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club, Lincoln Center, Massey Hall, Auditório Ibirapuera in São Paulo, and Chaoyang Theater in Beijing. Festival appearances include Winter Jazzfest, Montreux, Montreal, C6 Brazil, and Jazz Baltica.

Goodman has maintained an active compositional practice, writing for ensembles ranging from solo guitar to chamber groups, orchestras, and big bands, with early recognition including a 2013 ASCAP Herb Alpert Jazz Composer Award. His book of solo guitar etudes, released in both book and recording formats in 2013, reflects an early interest in counterpoint that continues to inform his writing. In 2022, he received a grant from the Canada Council for the Arts to compose a new program for string quartet, guitar, and bass, which premiered on a European tour in 2024 and was subsequently recorded with bassist Rick Rosato and the Netherlands-based Adam Quartet.

A graduate of the Master’s program in Jazz Performance at the Manhattan School of Music, he is currently Professor of Jazz Guitar at the Kunstuniversität Graz.

Serena Maddalena
AUGUST 18 @ 5:00pm

Serena Maddalena - Vocals

Mateo Mancuso - Piano

Andrew Chiappetta - Guitar

Steve Mancuso - Percussion

Nate Ward - Drums

Jordan Pelunsky - Bass

NO RESERVATIONS

PAY WHAT YOU CAN

Serena Maddalena is a Toronto-based singer-songwriter. She enjoys writing witty pattern-based poetry, from her own personal point of view. While also working through her own challenges with how she thinks, and her personal anecdotes and stories, she loves painting a dramatic picture for her audience. A lover of ambient pop music, sorrowful string quartets, and many layered vocal harmonies, she hopes to, one day, reach as many people as she can with her own music. She loves performing and is so grateful to be able to do so! Playing her pop/folk originals and some favourite covers with her favourite pals, she would love to see you there! 

Classic REx jam
hosted by chris banks
AUGUST 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.

Mattaus Gretzinger
August 19 @ 5:00 PM

Mattaus Gretzinger - Saxophone

Andrew Marzatto - Guitar

Hiro Tanaka - Bass

Adam Arruda - Drums

NO RESERVATIONS

PAY WHAT YOU CAN

Mattaus Gretzinger’s quartet is a Toronto based band playing swinging music. From interpretations of jazz standards and songbook tunes, to modern jazz compositions and originals written by Mattaus, the quartet provides new, fresh perspectives and work together to showcase their unique styles. Mattaus is especially inspired by the John Coltrane quartet and Kenny Garret. He has worked with legends Dave Young and Robi Botos, and has studied with Ben Solomon, Kelly Jefferson, Todd Delgiudice and John Johnson.

allison Au
August 19, 20, 21, 22 @ 8:00 PM

Alex Samaras - Voice
Allison Au - Saxophone
Todd Pentney - Piano
Jon Maharaj - Bass
Fabio Ragnelli - Drums

Allison Au (pronounced “ow”) is a JUNO award-winning Canadian saxophonist, composer and arranger. Leader of the Allison Au Quartet, she has toured extensively throughout Canada and the US. Winner of the 2017 Montreal Jazz Festival TD Grand Prix de Jazz, the 2017 Halifax Jazz Festival Sting Ray Rising Star Award, and a 2017 Finalist for Toronto Arts Foundation Emerging Jazz Artist Award, Allison was also recognized by SFJAZZ’s 2018 list of "10 Rising Instrumentalists You Should Know.”

Anise Russow
August 20 @ 5:00 PM

Anise Russow - Vocals

Vivian Yang - Piano

Serena Mancuso - Bass

Angelica Zavala - Drums

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.

allison Au
August 19, 20, 21, 22 @ 8:00 PM

Alex Samaras - Voice
Allison Au - Saxophone
Todd Pentney - Piano
Jon Maharaj - Bass
Fabio Ragnelli - Drums

Allison Au (pronounced “ow”) is a JUNO award-winning Canadian saxophonist, composer and arranger. Leader of the Allison Au Quartet, she has toured extensively throughout Canada and the US. Winner of the 2017 Montreal Jazz Festival TD Grand Prix de Jazz, the 2017 Halifax Jazz Festival Sting Ray Rising Star Award, and a 2017 Finalist for Toronto Arts Foundation Emerging Jazz Artist Award, Allison was also recognized by SFJAZZ’s 2018 list of "10 Rising Instrumentalists You Should Know.”

Erin Propp
August 21 @ 5:00 PM

Erin Propp - Vocals/Piano

Tristan Clark - Guitar/Vocals

Dan Fortin - Bass

Ethan Ardelli - Drums

NO RESERVATIONS

PAY WHAT YOU CAN

Erin Propp is a Juno-nominated, Western Canadian Award-winning singer and songwriter from Winnipeg, Manitoba. Critically acclaimed for her work in jazz and contemporary music, Erin is a highly sought-after vocalist, collaborator, clinician, educator and mentor, lending her voice to an array of recordings and projects. Erin’s voice is one of rare clarity, defying genre and winning audiences everywhere. As Roberta Flack sang, her voice is killing us softly as it reaches inside and says it out loud. 

Now, Erin releases The Longing Years, her first album as leader, grounding her band from behind the piano. Featuring Grammy-award winning Attacca Quartet, Joey Landreth (of the Bros. Landreth), Fabio Ragnelli and Julian Bradford, this album features songwriting to match Erin’s distinctive voice. Musically, the album is an exploration of her jazz influences, paired with her folk and gospel roots, while the lyrical and emotional quotient is mined from early years in motherhood; quiet days spent surrounded by babies and books, with a voice that is sometimes serene in its acknowledgement of relational struggles, and sometimes passionately seeking resolve. Erin’s live show delivers writing and musicianship that is powerful, confessional, inventive, and intimate. Performing at The Rex on August 21, 2026, Erin brings drummer Ethan Ardelli, bassist Julian Bradford, and guitarist Tristan Clark.

allison Au
August 19, 20, 21, 22 @ 8:00 PM

Alex Samaras - Voice
Allison Au - Saxophone
Todd Pentney - Piano
Jon Maharaj - Bass
Fabio Ragnelli - Drums

Allison Au (pronounced “ow”) is a JUNO award-winning Canadian saxophonist, composer and arranger. Leader of the Allison Au Quartet, she has toured extensively throughout Canada and the US. Winner of the 2017 Montreal Jazz Festival TD Grand Prix de Jazz, the 2017 Halifax Jazz Festival Sting Ray Rising Star Award, and a 2017 Finalist for Toronto Arts Foundation Emerging Jazz Artist Award, Allison was also recognized by SFJAZZ’s 2018 list of "10 Rising Instrumentalists You Should Know.”

Josh Warren
AUGUST 22 @ 2:00 PM

Josh Warren - Bass

Stella White - Vocals

Matt Lagan - Saxophone

Jen Lo - Piano

Jon Catanus - Drums

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Rooted in the jazz tradition but drawing influences from all over the map, Josh Warren is an award-winning Canadian bassist, composer, and arranger originally hailing from Victoria, BC. Since moving to Toronto to study with Canada’s finest, he’s shared the stage and recorded with a plethora of Grammy-nominated and JUNO award-winning musicians (including Ingrid Jensen, Jeremy Ledbetter, Rich Brown, Allison Au, and Joaquin Nunez) and performed all across the country, playing at iconic venues and major festivals from coast to coast. 

His debut album “The Path”  (engineered and mixed by JUNO award-winner Patric McGroarty) features an award-winning cast of young lions on the Canadian jazz scene, and blends the jazz tradition with shades of Pat Metheny, Stevie Wonder and Snarky Puppy. Eclectic, groove-oriented and interactive, this record is a musical coming-of-age, with the core idea of “The Path” representing the journey of growing into who you’re meant to be.

For one night only, join Josh at The Rex to celebrate the release of his debut album - out everywhere the same day!

Neon Eagle
AUGUST 8 & 22 @ 5:00 PM

Led by: Mike Eckert - Pedal Steel

No Reservations
Pay What You Can

Bringing entrancing instrumental fusion music featuring the pedal steel.

Come in, sit back, and feel the hypnotic vibes of this incredible group!

allison Au
August 19, 20, 21, 22 @ 8:00 PM

Alex Samaras - Voice
Allison Au - Saxophone
Todd Pentney - Piano
Jon Maharaj - Bass
Fabio Ragnelli - Drums

Allison Au (pronounced “ow”) is a JUNO award-winning Canadian saxophonist, composer and arranger. Leader of the Allison Au Quartet, she has toured extensively throughout Canada and the US. Winner of the 2017 Montreal Jazz Festival TD Grand Prix de Jazz, the 2017 Halifax Jazz Festival Sting Ray Rising Star Award, and a 2017 Finalist for Toronto Arts Foundation Emerging Jazz Artist Award, Allison was also recognized by SFJAZZ’s 2018 list of "10 Rising Instrumentalists You Should Know.”

Melat Mengesha
August 23 @ 2:00 PM

Melat Mengesha – Vocals

Girma WoldeMichael – Saxophone

Steven Cole – Guitar

Kobi Hass – Bass

Daniel Barnes – Drums

Andy – Guitar

NO RESERVATIONS

PAY WHAT YOU CAN

Hailing from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, now based in Toronto, Melat is a singer, songwriter, producer and composer whose music blends contemporary, folk and Ethio-jazz, roots sounds. Born and raised in Ethiopia's capital, Melat has always been drawn to music, seeking out every opportunity to participate, grow, and contribute meaningfully to both her own artistic journey and the community around her.

Two major influences in her artistic expression are the legendary Ethiopian singers Gigi (Ejigayehu Shibabaw) and Aster Aweke. Her powerful vocal styles, deep connection to Ethiopian musical tradition, and ability to bridge Ethio-jazz sounds with contemporary artistry have left a lasting imprint on Melat's own approach to songwriting and performance.

A major turning point came in 2015, when Melat won the first season of Balageru (Ethiopian Idol). That breakthrough opened the door to a variety of showcases and performances, from intimate stages to large-scale concerts, allowing her to tour across her hometown and beyond. Since then, Melat has released several music videos, explored diverse genres, and used music as a tool for community development and fundraising. Over time, she has stepped more deeply into producing and composing, shaping her own sound from the ground up and bringing original work to life with intention and authenticity.

Melat's path has also included trainings, workshops, and cultural and professional exchange programs that have deepened her artistry and perspective. Now based in Toronto, she performs with her band at concerts and festivals, continuing to build community through music and the arts. Some of the venues include Harbor front Centre, St. Lawrence Market street, Hugh’s Room, Redwood theatre, Habari Festivals and more.

Sandra Bouza
August 23 @ 5:00 PM

Sandra Bouza, featuring Mike Freedman and Bret Higgins

NO RESERVATIONS

PAY WHAT YOU CAN

Sandra Bouza is an award winning Independent Roots Soul artist with decades of live performance experience and a powerful voice not easily forgotten. A singer with roots in Canada and Northern Spain, she cut her teeth performing in Toronto and Vancouver clubs and then spent three years honing her craft overseas in Europe and North and West Africa. Her wealth of life experience is evident in her well crafted and poignant lyrics.

Upon returning to Canada Bouza invested in her songwriting career and immediately received recognition winning the 2019 Toronto Blues Society Talent Search and representing Toronto at the 2020 International Blues Challenge in Memphis.
Her EP ‘Three Years’ received significant radio play in Canada, and her following FACTOR funded album ‘Falling Away From Me” received Canadian radio play and rave reviews in Europe. 

Bouza’s most recent album; A Sound in the Dark, is her best work yet, reaching new heights in songwriting and vocal prowess, and was nominated for a Maple Blues Award and Best Contemporary Album with the Canadian Folk Music Awards.

Bouza has recently been nominated for Maple Blues ‘Best New Artist” award and her recent album ‘A Sound in the Dark’ has been nominated for ‘Best New Contemporary Album’ at the Canadian Folk Music Awards.

Her latest FACTOR and OAC funded album ‘A Sound in the Dark’ is available on all platforms. 

Yvette Tollar sings Joni Mitchell
August 23 & 24 @ 8:00 PM

Yvette Tollar - Vocals
Band - TBA

Vocalist Yvette Tollar is a mainstay on the Canadian  jazz and world music scenes. She studied in New  York with Sheila Jordan and participated in  workshops at the Banff Centre for the Arts, working  with Dave Holland, Kenny Werner and Joe Lovano.  

Tollar started her professional career at 16, and has  been a regular at several Toronto live music spots  for years. She is a former member of the The Merlin  Factor, and she has recorded with the Toronto Tabla  Ensemble for Japan's Naxus label. She has also  toured her own ensemble through Europe and parts  of Canada. In addition, has collaborated with  guitarist Kevin Breit, pianist David Restivo, her  brother Ernie Tollar, and sings with the Hungarian  band Kek Duna, performs with Michael Occhipinti’s  “Shine On: The Universe of John Lennon” provides  backing vocals for Maryem Tollar and has sung with  Rich Brown’s contemporary jazz super group  rinsethealgorithm. 

She released her album "Ima" in November 2008 at  the Glenn Gould Studio, earning a 2009 JUNO  Award nomination. Yvette is now finishing an album  dedicated to the music of Joni Mitchell.

Jacon Gorzhaltzan Quartet
August 24 @ 5:00 PM

Jacob Gorzhaltsan - Clarinet/Sax
Noam Lemish - Piano 
Bret Higgins - Bass
Eric West - Drums 

NO RESERVATIONS

PAY WHAT YOU CAN

The Jacob Gorzhaltsan Quartet is an ensemble led by Jacob Gorzhaltsan. Blending sounds from around the world, the band performs Jacob’s original compositions, while also showcasing songs by artists that helped shape his sound. Jacob’s music is influenced by his roots and the sounds of the Israeli jazz-scene and Jewish music. 

Yvette Tollar sings Joni Mitchell
August 23 & 24 @ 8:00 PM

Yvette Tollar - Vocals
Band - TBA

Vocalist Yvette Tollar is a mainstay on the Canadian  jazz and world music scenes. She studied in New  York with Sheila Jordan and participated in  workshops at the Banff Centre for the Arts, working  with Dave Holland, Kenny Werner and Joe Lovano.  

Tollar started her professional career at 16, and has  been a regular at several Toronto live music spots  for years. She is a former member of the The Merlin  Factor, and she has recorded with the Toronto Tabla  Ensemble for Japan's Naxus label. She has also  toured her own ensemble through Europe and parts  of Canada. In addition, has collaborated with  guitarist Kevin Breit, pianist David Restivo, her  brother Ernie Tollar, and sings with the Hungarian  band Kek Duna, performs with Michael Occhipinti’s  “Shine On: The Universe of John Lennon” provides  backing vocals for Maryem Tollar and has sung with  Rich Brown’s contemporary jazz super group  rinsethealgorithm. 

She released her album "Ima" in November 2008 at  the Glenn Gould Studio, earning a 2009 JUNO  Award nomination. Yvette is now finishing an album  dedicated to the music of Joni Mitchell.

Classic REx jam
hosted by chris banks
AUGUST 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.

Fction
August 26 @ 5:00 PM

Finn Chercover - Bass
Sam Heggum-Trescott - Drums
Gianluca Occhipinti - Keys
Avshalom Ravitz-Heller - Alto Sax

NO RESERVATIONS

PAY WHAT YOU CAN

FCTION is a modern jazz quartet led by bassist Finn Chercover and featuring Gianluca Occhipinti on keys, Avshalom Ravitz-Heller on alto sax and Sam Heggum-Truscott on drums. As FCTION, they perform original compositions, drawing inspiration from modern jazz and fusion artists, blending a strong groove with thoughtful harmonies to create an atmospheric landscape. 

Finn, Gianluca and Sam have been playing together since meeting at Humber Polytechnic Jazz program and can be found performing at venues throughout Toronto.

MARK KELSO'S MYSTIC ISLE PROJECT
August 26, 27, 28, 29 @ 8:00 PM

Mark Kelso - Drums,
Luis Deniz - Alto sax,
Mike Downes - Acoustic bass
Fowen Faracombe - Acoustic piano

The Mystic Isle Project is drummer/composer Mark Kelso’s new acoustic quartet, and his coinciding recording “The Antrim Coast”, (2025 JUNO jazz nominee)  featured music written for and dedicated to his birthplace of Belfast and its  surrounding areas in Northern Ireland. Incidentally, Mark says the Mystic Isle  refers to the whole island of Ireland, for the poets and writers, their wonderful  storytelling, and the country’s stunning landscapes.  

For the group, Mark hand-picked 3 of his all-time favourite musicians to bring his project to life. Mike Downes, a long-time musical cohort is on acoustic bass, Luis  Deniz, his Cuban compatriot in the Jazz Exiles, is on alto & soprano sax and rising  jazz superstar Ewen Farncombe is on acoustic piano. Mark says,“Even though  I’ve lived in Canada since I was 9 years old, Northern Ireland has always  remained close to my heart, and through all my visits there over the years, it has  remained one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen. I’m thrilled to be finally  honoring my homeland at this point in my life, and these players are the perfect  musicians to help me do that”.  

The quartet will be heading into the studio this August for a follow-up recording  that will be released sometime in 2027. The band will be performing their all-new 

Laura Dubin Trio
August 27 @ 5:00 PM

Laura Dubin - Piano

Antonio Guerrero - Drums

Mike Downes - Bass

NO RESERVATIONS

PAY WHAT YOU CAN

The Laura Dubin Trio consistently delights audiences with their unique style of music that spans all the eras of jazz and even blends modern jazz styles with classical music. A virtuoso pianist extensively trained in both the jazz and classical traditions, and well-versed in Latin and film music, Laura melds all of her musical loves into a seamless web of breathtaking creativity and adventurous exploration. Based in Rochester, NY, Laura and her husband/musical partner, drummer Antonio Guerrero, are among the most sought-after jazz musicians in the region (both as a duo and as the core members of the Laura Dubin Trio). Visit www.lauradubin.com for complete bio, music/videos, press, and more.

MARK KELSO'S MYSTIC ISLE PROJECT
August 26, 27, 28, 29 @ 8:00 PM

Mark Kelso - Drums,
Luis Deniz - Alto sax,
Mike Downes - Acoustic bass
Fowen Faracombe - Acoustic piano

The Mystic Isle Project is drummer/composer Mark Kelso’s new acoustic quartet, and his coinciding recording “The Antrim Coast”, (2025 JUNO jazz nominee)  featured music written for and dedicated to his birthplace of Belfast and its  surrounding areas in Northern Ireland. Incidentally, Mark says the Mystic Isle  refers to the whole island of Ireland, for the poets and writers, their wonderful  storytelling, and the country’s stunning landscapes.  

For the group, Mark hand-picked 3 of his all-time favourite musicians to bring his project to life. Mike Downes, a long-time musical cohort is on acoustic bass, Luis  Deniz, his Cuban compatriot in the Jazz Exiles, is on alto & soprano sax and rising  jazz superstar Ewen Farncombe is on acoustic piano. Mark says,“Even though  I’ve lived in Canada since I was 9 years old, Northern Ireland has always  remained close to my heart, and through all my visits there over the years, it has  remained one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen. I’m thrilled to be finally  honoring my homeland at this point in my life, and these players are the perfect  musicians to help me do that”.  

The quartet will be heading into the studio this August for a follow-up recording  that will be released sometime in 2027. The band will be performing their all-new 

Melissa Stylianou Trio
August 28 @ 5:00 PM

Melissa Stylianou - Vocals

Reg Schwager - Guitar

Jon Maharaj - Bass

NO RESERVATIONS

PAY WHAT YOU CAN

Toronto-born, NYC-based jazz vocalist Melissa Stylianou, hailed by piano master Fred Hersch for her “gorgeous instrument, superb musicianship, and great taste,” has garnered acclaim as both a gifted songwriter and a bold, imaginative interpreter of wide-ranging material spanning diverse genres, from the Great American Songbook to Johnny Cash to original songs. In addition to her five albums as a leader, Stylianou documented her close musical bond with guitar legend Gene Bertoncini and bassist Ike Sturm on the 2022 album Dream Dancing on Anzic Records. The album received wide critical acclaim, including a rare 5-star review in Downbeat Magazine.

Melissa is a member of the powerhouse vocal trio Duchess, alongside Amy Cervini and Hilary Gardner. Duchess released its 4th full-length recording this summer and has performed all over the US, Canada, the UK, and Europe. As a bandleader and featured vocalist, Stylianou maintains a busy performing and recording schedule. She is currently developing an album of original songs that will reflect and combine her Irish and Greek-Cypriot musical roots.

MARK KELSO'S MYSTIC ISLE PROJECT
August 26, 27, 28, 29 @ 8:00 PM

Mark Kelso - Drums,
Luis Deniz - Alto sax,
Mike Downes - Acoustic bass
Fowen Faracombe - Acoustic piano

The Mystic Isle Project is drummer/composer Mark Kelso’s new acoustic quartet, and his coinciding recording “The Antrim Coast”, (2025 JUNO jazz nominee)  featured music written for and dedicated to his birthplace of Belfast and its  surrounding areas in Northern Ireland. Incidentally, Mark says the Mystic Isle  refers to the whole island of Ireland, for the poets and writers, their wonderful  storytelling, and the country’s stunning landscapes.  

For the group, Mark hand-picked 3 of his all-time favourite musicians to bring his project to life. Mike Downes, a long-time musical cohort is on acoustic bass, Luis  Deniz, his Cuban compatriot in the Jazz Exiles, is on alto & soprano sax and rising  jazz superstar Ewen Farncombe is on acoustic piano. Mark says,“Even though  I’ve lived in Canada since I was 9 years old, Northern Ireland has always  remained close to my heart, and through all my visits there over the years, it has  remained one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen. I’m thrilled to be finally  honoring my homeland at this point in my life, and these players are the perfect  musicians to help me do that”.  

The quartet will be heading into the studio this August for a follow-up recording  that will be released sometime in 2027. The band will be performing their all-new 

Sean Stanley Quartet
August 29 @ 2:00 PM

Sean Stanley - Piano/Vocals

Kyle Tarder-Stoll - Sax

Gram Whitty - Bass

Morgan Childs - Drums

NO RESERVATIONS

PAY WHAT YOU CAN

The Sean Stanley Quartet PROUDLY plays Jazz, Swing & Blues, the music of Louis Armstrong, Stride piano of Fats Waller, Ray Charles soul music and Sean’s original compositions. From hot & firey to smooth & sweet their music is always based in blues and improvisation.

Jakob Durst
August 29 @ 5:00 PM

Jakob Durst - Tenor Saxophone

Jake Wilkinson - Trumpet

Lee Wallace - Guitar

Jonathan Meyer - Bass

Norbert Botos - Drums

NO RESERVATIONS

PAY WHAT YOU CAN

Jakob Durst (b. 2003) is a Canadian saxophonist currently residing in Toronto. Drawing his main influence from the Black American Art-form “Jazz”, Jakob cites Lester Young, Ben Webster and Charlie Parker as his greatest inspirations. Jakob has had the opportunity to play alongside Terry Clarke, Neil Swainson and Reg Schwager, among many other names in Canadian Jazz. He currently attends the University of Toronto, where he studies Human Biology and Ecology.

MARK KELSO'S MYSTIC ISLE PROJECT
August 26, 27, 28, 29 @ 8:00 PM

Mark Kelso - Drums,
Luis Deniz - Alto sax,
Mike Downes - Acoustic bass
Fowen Faracombe - Acoustic piano

The Mystic Isle Project is drummer/composer Mark Kelso’s new acoustic quartet, and his coinciding recording “The Antrim Coast”, (2025 JUNO jazz nominee)  featured music written for and dedicated to his birthplace of Belfast and its  surrounding areas in Northern Ireland. Incidentally, Mark says the Mystic Isle  refers to the whole island of Ireland, for the poets and writers, their wonderful  storytelling, and the country’s stunning landscapes.  

For the group, Mark hand-picked 3 of his all-time favourite musicians to bring his project to life. Mike Downes, a long-time musical cohort is on acoustic bass, Luis  Deniz, his Cuban compatriot in the Jazz Exiles, is on alto & soprano sax and rising  jazz superstar Ewen Farncombe is on acoustic piano. Mark says,“Even though  I’ve lived in Canada since I was 9 years old, Northern Ireland has always  remained close to my heart, and through all my visits there over the years, it has  remained one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen. I’m thrilled to be finally  honoring my homeland at this point in my life, and these players are the perfect  musicians to help me do that”.  

The quartet will be heading into the studio this August for a follow-up recording  that will be released sometime in 2027. The band will be performing their all-new 

PowerHouse TreeOh!
August 30 & 31 @ 8:00 PM

Wojtek Justyna (PL) – guitar

David Ryshpan (CA) – organ/keyboards

Shayneondrums (CA) – drums

PowerHouse TreeOh! (PL/CA) is a tight, groove-driven jazz trio blending punchy funk rhythms, vibrant keyboard textures, and gritty guitar flair. Led by Polish guitarist Wojtek Justyna—known for his distinctive tone, versatility, and inventive compositional style—the group features two outstanding musicians from Montreal’s vibrant music scene: keyboardist David Ryshpan, whose imaginative work on keys and synthesizer adds color and depth; and hayneondrums, whose dynamic groove locks everything in place. Together, they use Wojtek’s original compositions as springboards for improvisation and fiery interplay, guiding music lovers on an uplifting journey where the spirit of jazz and groove is felt in every

note.

PowerHouse TreeOh!
August 30 & 31 @ 8:00 PM

Wojtek Justyna (PL) – guitar

David Ryshpan (CA) – organ/keyboards

Shayneondrums (CA) – drums

PowerHouse TreeOh! (PL/CA) is a tight, groove-driven jazz trio blending punchy funk rhythms, vibrant keyboard textures, and gritty guitar flair. Led by Polish guitarist Wojtek Justyna—known for his distinctive tone, versatility, and inventive compositional style—the group features two outstanding musicians from Montreal’s vibrant music scene: keyboardist David Ryshpan, whose imaginative work on keys and synthesizer adds color and depth; and hayneondrums, whose dynamic groove locks everything in place. Together, they use Wojtek’s original compositions as springboards for improvisation and fiery interplay, guiding music lovers on an uplifting journey where the spirit of jazz and groove is felt in every

note.