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”

Taurey Butler is a phenomenal jazz pianist of the highest calibre.

Hailing from East Orange, New Jersey, he has played in numerous cities across the world from Hong Kong to New York and now makes his home in Montréal. Taurey’s debut self-titled recording on the Justin Time label was released in November 2011 to resounding critical acclaim. He emerges as a fully-formed master of hard-driving swing with a deep feeling for the blues and ballads.

It’s easy to get lost in the fire and funk, the sweetness and swing, of Taurey Butler. But you can also follow the light that his music emanates.

Musicians:
Taurey Butler (piano)
Rémi-Jean LeBlanc (bass)
Wali Muhammad (drums)

Youtube video: “Taurey Butler Trio – The Preacher”

Guillaume Martineau has pursued many years of professional studies in classical piano. Guillaume as a classical pianist received many honors including winning first prize at the Canadian Music Competion in 2009 and the opportunity to be heard playing Chopin in the recent movie “Louis Cyr”.

At the age of 13, Guillaume made his first attempts in jazz as a classical pianist with introduction from bassist Éric Lagacé. Over ten years later, Guillaume meets Éric Lagacé once again together with Oliver Jones and finally decides to make a diving transition into the world of jazz. After graduating from Berklee College of Music, Guillaume is now very active on Montreal’s music scene in many unique projects of his own.

Musicians
Guillaume Martineau, piano
François Jalbert, guitar
Olivier Babaz, bass
Mark Nelson, drums

Youtube video: “Le matin des magiciens”

Joaquín Núñez Hidalgo is a skilled percussionist Born and raised in Cuba, Joaquín’s early inspiration was his musically gifted father Porfirio Núñez. As a Self-taught musician, Joaquín has become a master percussionist, whose work can be heard on Grammy and Juno nominated records.

The Havana Jazz Safari is a musical overview of the trajectory to the Afrocuban Jazz from Cuba all the way to Canada, and we hope you can join us for the ride.

Musicians:
Joaquin Nunez( drums/percussion)
Danae Olano( piano)
Paco Luviano(bass)
Marta Elena (vocals)
Diango Vives Vicet (trumpet)
Dyalis Nunez-Machado (percussion & vocals)

Youtube video: Habana Safari EPK”