The Magic Sax Quartet, also known as the Saxophone Quartet of Santiago de Cuba, was founded on July 4, 1995. The ensemble is made up of outstanding instrumentalists, each contributing an important role, with a strong musical background that allows them to combine styles ranging from jazz to traditional Cuban son.

Each member can take on a soloist role when needed, but their main focus is the fusion of their individual talents to achieve a rich and cohesive sound. The group has received high praise from specialized publications such as Jazz Man, Jazz Podium, and World Music, which highlight their virtuosity and their innovative, distinctive sound within this format. In an interview with Paquito D’Rivera published in DownBeat magazine, he praised their interpretation of Ernesto Lecuona’s work “La Comparsa,” which they perform masterfully and with great versatility. This recording is featured on the album Alma de Santiago.

Juan Chacón González – Director, soprano saxophone
Julio César González Simón – alto saxophone
Rey Amaury Burgos Delis – tenor saxophone
Baudelis Rodríguez Sierra – baritone saxophone

Video: Lagrimas Negras

One of Canada’s most sought after musicians, Jim Doxas plays extensively both nationally and overseas. Distinguished for his improvisational approach to jazz, he makes the case that percussion can be as performative as a lyrical instrument.

Video: “Upstairs Jam Session hosted by Jim Doxas”

Hailing from the lower west side of Montreal, Otis – Ali delivers old school blues in an old school way, and never fails to entertain… Having shared stage and studio with some of the greatest blues musicians of our times, such as Junior watson, Fred Kaplan, Richard Innes, Larry Taylor, Johnny Dyer, Lazy Lester, Piano willie etc.

Youtube video: “Bharath & His Rhythm Four – Caraquet en Bleu”

Step into an evening of devotion, fire, and boundless improvisation as we celebrate the enduring legacy of John Coltrane.

Leading this commemorative performance is Kulusé Souriant, a musician whose very name is drawn from Coltrane’s transcendent composition “Kulu Sé Mama”, a title that foreshadowed his lifelong bond with the saxophonist’s work. Souriant’s path was further shaped under the guidance of legendary bassist Reggie Workman, a distinguished member of Coltrane’s quartet.

It was Workman who entrusted Souriant with a sacred mission: to broadcast Coltrane’s music and spirit to new generations, ensuring that its message of spiritual inquiry and sonic freedom never fades.

In this special anniversary concert, Souriant fulfills that calling, channeling the exploratory depth, raw passion, and meditative intensity that define Coltrane’s art. Join us for a night of living history, where legacy becomes breath, and every note carries the pulse of a master’s undying vision.

Nathan Bissonnette – tenor sax
Guillaume Carpentier – tenor sax
Santiago Ferrer – piano
Sean Burke – double bass
Kulusé Souriant – drums

Youtube video: “Grace and Mercy”

Marianne Trudel is a multi-talented pianist, composer, improvisor, and arranger. At once energetic and passionate, her music cross-cuts a wide swath of musical interests.

As a performer, she pursues an active career in a variety of settings ranging from solo performance to duo, Trifolia, Marianne Trudel 4 + Ingrid Jensen, septet, and large ensembles. She has played in Canada, United States, Mexico, France, Spain, Germany, England, Scotland, Netherlands, Itlaly, Hungary, Lithuania, and China. She has published 6 recordings as a leader, all having garnered rave reviews.

Musicians
Marianne Trudel: piano
Etienne Lafrance: bass
Sasha Daoud: drums

Youtube video: “Marianne Trudel joue Antonio Carlos Jobim”