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Gergana Velinova- vocals
Kristian Alexandrov - piano, percussion
Miles Hill - bass
Kosta Ruslanov - accordion

Vocalist, songwriter, and poet Gergana Velinova mesmerizes international audiences with her diverse artistic talents. Hailing from Sofia, Bulgaria, Gergana's musical journey has taken her across continents, captivating audiences in the US, Canada, and Europe since 1993.

With a repertoire spanning from Duke Ellington to Jobim and Mozart, Gergana effortlessly navigates the realms of Jazz, Gospel, Art Song, and Musical Theatre. She has graced prestigious stages and collaborated with Grammy and Juno nominees such as Willard Dyson, Neil Swanson, and Brad Turner, among others.

A trailblazer in her own right, Gergana has released six albums, including "The Thief" and "December Wishing," both lauded by critics and reaching the TOP 10 of US CMJ Top 40 and Roots Music charts.

Beyond her performance career, Gergana holds a Master of Arts Degree in Classical-Contemporary and Jazz Voice Performance from the Longy School of Music in Boston. She is renowned for her work as a music entrepreneur, choir director, and vocal coach, shaping aspiring talents in Canada and the US.

Raised in a family of musicians and educators, Gergana's musical journey began early, touring Europe as a soloist in the esteemed children's choir "Pim-Pam." Her passion for vocal expression led her to Los Angeles, where she pursued Jazz Voice Performance before embarking on post-graduate studies in Boston.

In New York City, Gergana flourished, forming the eclectic band Ensemble Gergana and immersing herself in the vibrant artistic community. She honed her craft under the mentorship of opera diva Stefka Evstatieva and soprano Lucy Shelton, shaping her distinctive vocal style.

Today, Gergana continues to inspire through her performances, educational initiatives, and community involvement. As conductor/director of the West Vancouver Heritage Choir and founder of the Bulgarian Children's Choir and School "Gergana," her legacy of musical excellence and mentorship thrives.

Whether Ensemble Gergana performs the singer's original tunes, jazz favourites or arrangements with a twist of Bulgarian rhythms, it is always a celebration of brilliant artistry and musicianship that will leave the audience asking for more.

Website: http://www.gerganavelinova.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K0lkbOpi9bs
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/www.gerganavelinovamusic/

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Chris Andrew - piano
Kodi Hutchinson - bass
Dave Laing - drums
PJ Perry - saxophone
Al Muirhead - trumpet
Mallory Chipman - vocals

The Hutchinson Andrew Trio (HAT), is a unique voice on the Canadian jazz scene. Since 2003, this acoustic piano-based trio has brought their sound to the Canadian jazz landscape. The Trio is comprised of three-time Western Canadian Award-nominated bassist Kodi Hutchinson, CBC Galaxie Rising Star pianist Chris Andrew, and Downbeat award-winning drummer Karl Schwonik. They are the winners of the 2013 TD Grand Jazz Award from the Montréal International Jazz Festival.

The Hutcheson Andrew Trio will pay tribute to Tommy Banks, the jazz legend who was both a world-class musician and a champion of the performing arts in his community. The Trio released ‘The Senator’ in tribute to Canadian jazz artist, community builder and Canadian Senator, Tommy Banks. The music for this album features three generations of musicians including Canadian Jazz saxophone master PJ Perry and vocalist Mallory Chipman (Tommy’s granddaughter and youngest-ever faculty member at Grant MacEwan University in Edmonton). The music is straight ahead joyful music that Tommy Banks played throughout his illustrious career arranged by his protégé Chris Andrew.

The Honourable Tommy Banks was known as a pianist, conductor, arranger, composer, TV personality, actor, producer and politician (1936-2018). Tommy had an unparalleled, multi-faceted career spanning more than 60 years in virtually every aspect of the entertainment industry in Canada. A professional jazz pianist at age 14, he went on to lead his bands, conduct symphony orchestras around the world, direct musical ceremonies at international events, host his long-running television show, and act in film and television. He also served nearly 12 years in the Canadian Senate.

Website: https://chronographrecords.com/artists/hutchinson-andrew-trio/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Hutchinson-Andrew-Trio/34787360064
YouTube: https://youtu.be/C_s3G6m_GGQ?si=3UZ1TsGQHn_UfC0v

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Cuban-Canadian pianist Hilario Duran, who admired Oscar Peterson since he was a child, had the opportunity to study and perform his music, and now, Hilario, in a Trio formation, is at the Fort Langley Jazz & Arts Festival to perform the music of the Canadian legend.

The trio will perform a compilation of Oscar Peterson's music, and Hilario's compositions influenced by Oscar such as "C Jam Blues," "Wheat Land," "Bossa Beguine," "Hymn To Freedom," The performance will also include music from the Cuban legend Ernesto Lecuona, arranged by Hilario but through Peterson's vision.

Hilario Luis Durán Torres - piano

Cuban-born Hilario Durán grew up in Havana in a musical family and began working as a professional musician in Cuba’s Los Papa Cun­-Cun Ensemble. Later in the 70’s, Hilario was chosen as Chucho Valdés’ successor in Cuba’s most modern big band, Orquesta Cubana de Música Moderna.

Hilario toured worldwide and performed with Dizzy Gillespie and Michel Legrand and as part of Arturo Sandoval’s band where he was pianist/keyboardist, arranger and musical director for nine years.

A fixture in the Toronto music scene, Hilario has garnered numerous accolades, including multiple Juno Awards and nominations, multi-Canadian National Jazz Award winner & nominee, an American Grammy nomination, and recognition from Latin Jazz USA with the 2007 Chico O'Farrill Lifetime Achievement Award for his outstanding contributions to Afro-Cuban Jazz and Latin Jazz. Named one of the 10 Most Influential Hispanic Canadians in 2009, Hilario is also a respected music educator at Toronto's Humber College.

Mark Kelso - drums Mark plays drums and an assortment of percussion instruments. His ability to play various musical styles has helped him to become one of Canada's most sought-after drummers.

Roberto Occhipinti - bass Imagination, versatility, and technical excellence describe Canadian bassist, Roberto Occhipinti A five-time Juno Award recipient, Roberto has enjoyed a productive career as a bassist and as a producer.

https://www.facebook.com/hilariodurantorres/
https://www.instagram.com/hilario.duran/
https://hilarioduran.com/

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Dino DiNicolo - vocals, bass
Dorothy Godlinski - backup vocals
Kelly Brown - guitar
Adam Cormier - drums
Andrew Davies - sax

From a solo musical experiment to a blossoming career spanning five CD releases and countless tours, Dino and The Sound of Soul have carved a path illuminated by passion and rhythm. At the heart of this musical journey lies Dino's mastery of the electric bass, his soulful vocals, and his innovative vocal percussion, which have propelled him across the globe, captivating audiences from New Zealand to the Caribbean, and from the bustling cities of North America to the cultural hubs of Europe.

What began as a solo endeavor has evolved into a dynamic quintet, with each member adding their unique flavor to the mix. Together, they create a sonic tapestry that transcends borders and genres, weaving elements of soul, funk, jazz, and beyond.

So come, groove with us, and let the rhythm of Dino and The Sound of Soul move your body and stir your soul.

Website: https://dinodinicolo.com/music/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dinodinicoloband/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dinodinicolo
YouTube: https://youtu.be/y3fg-py9T-0?si=zTbE_Vx2VPgRsjyI

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Jaiden has been playing the violin for 13 years and the guitar for seven, and he can't remember a time when he wasn't performing. He became obsessed with music when he was just over one year old, began performing at weddings and events at age four, and has been a contracted musician since he was 10.

He studies music in multiple senior-level bands at Vancouver Technical and in various programs including the VSO (Vancouver Symphony School of Music) Jazz Combo Program, Vancouver Learning Network, and more. He has studied with more than a handful of musicians, including Josh Zubot, Shannon Saunders, Chris Fraser, Cole McBride, Amanda Kilburn, Elizabeth Riegert, Lan Tung, and Juno Award-winning artists Meredith Bates and Cole Schmidt.

Jaiden is in his last year of high school and hopes to study jazz at either Capilano University of McGill's Schulich School of Music – or anywhere his peers take jazz as seriously as he does.

"I'm overwhelmed to have been chosen for this award! I'm a big fan of the Fort Langley Jazz Festival and more than honoured to have been recognized in this way," says Jaiden. "Free public music festivals got me hooked on learning music in the first place and have played a big part in shaping who I am as a musician. Things have come full circle. I'm over the moon!"

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Norine Braun - vocals and guitar
Alice Fraser - keyboards
Huggybear Leanard - blues harp
Elliot Polsky - drums
Pat Darcus - bass
Dave Dykhuizen - lead guitar

Norine Braun is an Indigenous Canadian singer-songwriter recording artist with a prolific career spanning 14 albums. Her music explores themes of identity, heritage, and the universal journey of self-discovery. The upcoming album, "Journey Toward Wholeness," is a testament to Braun's resilience and the transformative power of music in exploring the depths of one's personal narrative.

Website: http://norinebraun.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/norinebraun
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/norinebraunmusic
News: https://vancouversun.com/entertainment/local-arts/how-norine-braun-came-to-story-of-gone-to-the-spirits

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Hayley Wallis - vocals
Steph Jackson - vocals, guitar, keyboards
Tim Charman - vocals, bass
Michael Guglia - drums

Hailing from the Kitasoo/Xais’xais Nation on the isolated island of Klemtu in the Great Bear Rainforest, singer-songwriter Hayley Wallis possesses a distinctive, confident voice with a rich texture that captivates audiences.

Her debut single, "Coffee Cup” a soulful pop anthem addressing mental health, soared to #1 on NCI’s Indigenous Music Countdown and gained regular rotation on SiriusXM. Hayley, now residing in Vancouver, BC, embarked on her musical journey at a young age, supported by her family and community. Balancing the roles of a young mother and aspiring artist, she garnered attention with top placements in CBC’s Searchlight and an official showcase at Canadian Music Week. Hayley, working closely with producer David Hodges, released her highly anticipated debut EP, "Halulu," in November 2022. Committed to storytelling and positive impact, she aims to resonate with listeners and empower her community, leaving a lasting legacy as a formidable R&B pop singer.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hayleycwallis?igsh=MXU4cjF0dXdwdmtvNA%3D%3D
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hayleywallismusic?mibextid=LQQJ4d
News:https://coastalfirstnations.ca/emerging-indigenous-artist-launches-new-album-in-vancouver/

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Maureen Washington - vocals
Karel Roessingh – piano
Joey Smith – bass
Damian Graham – drums

Canadian international jazz singer, Maureen Washington, is one of Vancouver Island's most sought-after vocalists. Her rich tones and captivating emotions have cultivated large audiences with her styling that encompasses the soul of Etta James, Carmen McRae and the modernity of Holly Cole. And yet she remains a voice of her own.

Maureen began her musical career in her hometown of Prince George, BC. Her vocal diversity lent itself to performances of blues, swing, jazz and funk with “BOP”, a band widely acclaimed as the best dance band in the Prince George region. Their versatile repertoire, ranging from jazz and R&B classics to lively originals, brought them sold-out crowds.

Website: https://www.maureenwashington.ca/home
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maureenwashingtonmusic/
YouTube: https://youtu.be/qYNtGzujtKA?si=1yI58Twj7FcnlvdF

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Director - Erik Hougaard
Saxes - Bob Walker, Tim Kelly, Geoff Blake, Dave Davies, Sandra Betker
Trumpets - David Esler, Kevin Lee, Peter Juric, Daniel Holker
Trombones - Andrew Clark, Mike Schaufele, Marty Fishman, Auby Axler
Vocals - Ikuko May
Percussion - Gabriel Yorston
Drums - Jim Kempton
Guitars - Paul Taylor
Bass - Paul Freeman
Keyboards - Bryan Phenix

The South Van Big Band is a 19-piece jazz orchestra based in Vancouver, BC. Its musical repertoire ranges across swing, bebop, Latin jazz, rock, funk, fusion and contemporary.

The band's music pays homage to the great bands of Count Basie, Dizzy Gillespie, Stan Kenton and countless others, but also crosses several different musical styles in blues, Latin jazz, funk, bebop, fusion, vocals and contemporary music, all arranged with big band orchestration.

The beat goes on with South Van Big Band, as it performs numerous public concerts throughout the year in the Lower Mainland, always striving to play with heart and soul through the dynamic power of a modern big band.

Website: http://www.Southvanbigband.com
Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/southvanbigband
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qGEGtIY72Fc

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John Korsrud - trumpet and flugelhorn
Jon Bentley - saxophones
Jillian Lebeck - piano
Conrad Good - bass
Dave Robbins - drums

Trumpeter and composer, John Korsrud, accompanied by a band comprised of Vancouver's top musicians, honors the legacy of jazz legend Kenny Wheeler. Wheeler, renowned as one of jazz's foremost composers and instrumentalists, has profoundly impacted the genre with his emotive and melancholic style, influencing countless contemporary composers.

John is also the leader and principal composer of the 18-piece Hard Rubber Orchestra, a jazz/new music ensemble he formed in 1990.

As a composer, John commissioned and performed by The American Composers Orchestra, at New York’s Carnegie Hall in 2010, The Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, The CBC Radio Orchestra, Turning Point Ensemble and Vancouver New Music. As a trumpet player, John’s eclecticism has seen him perform with Anthony Braxton, to punk legends DOA, and The Vancouver Symphony.

Website: https://www.johnkorsrud.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/johnkorsrud
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnkorsrud/

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Bill Sample - piano
Darlene Cooper - vocals
Miles Foxx Hill - bass
Randall Stoll - drums
Tom Keenleyside - sax and flute
Jim Hopson - trombone

Wild Blue Herons with Horns are the magnetic husband-and-wife duo of BC Entertainment Hall of Fame Bill Sample, and Darlene Cooper.

Adding horns to their lineup, they play groove-oriented jazz with a funky/gospel twist (Jazz Crusaders, Dr. Music) to intimate ballads by the great ladies of jazz, in particular Nancy Wilson. Collectively, this team of musicians has played with everyone from Ray Charles to Celine Dion.

Website: https://www.wildblueherons.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wildblueherons
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wildblueherons/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2g1mFr6-yO4

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Steven Rutherford is in his second year at Trinity Western University and has maintained a 4.0 GPA while taking private percussion lessons with Nick Apivor. "No matter the difficulty of the music I give him, whether it's drum set, marimba, tympani, or Latin percussion, he takes on the challenge with a sense of adventure,” he says.

Steven began his journey in music by studying piano at age 10. He then started playing mallet percussion after joining a middle school percussion band. It took only a short time until he led the percussion sections in school productions and ensembles. "I feel grateful when asked to lead the percussion sections, as well as stepping in for my jazz combo professor to ensure my compositions are to my perfection," says Steven, who has played percussion for eight years and the drums for five.

Steven has composed four jazz pieces for the TWU Jazz Combo and participates in a local jazz group called 'The Ol' Jazz Factory,' where he is the main drummer/percussionist.

"My main goals with performing are to expand, promote, and grow 'The Ol' Jazz Factory' band to possibly play outside of our local area," says Steven, from Langley. "I see myself having a career within jazz music, possibly as a composer, bandleader, and professional musician."

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James Vickers - vocals, guitar
Carson Maertz - guitar
Ezra Beaton - bass
Sara Varro - drums

James Vickers is a remarkable 14-year-old blues prodigy who embarked on his musical journey in March 2020. Influenced initially by Angus Young, he soon found his soul resonating with the legendary Stevie Ray Vaughan, igniting a deep passion for the blues genre. His musical influences expanded further to include icons like Jimi Hendrix, Chuck Berry, Howlin' Wolf, Jonny Lang, and Colin James, alongside classic rock legends such as Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple, Rod Stewart, The Allman Brothers, and The Doors.

Having debuted on stage at the Queen's Sunday Blues Jam in Nanaimo, BC, James swiftly made a name for himself, playing numerous music festivals and opening for artists like Jim Byrnes, Crystal Shawanda, Michael Sharratt, and Wide Mouth Mason. Notably, his band, The James Vickers Band, has headlined at The Queen's and The Rod & Gun.

In January 2024, James showcased his immense talent at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, Tennessee, competing in the youth category, solidifying his status as an emerging force in the blues scene. With his Indigenous heritage adding a unique dimension to his artistry, the future shines brightly for James Vickers as he continues to captivate audiences with his soulful melodies and electrifying performances.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.104361711582279&type=3
News: https://www.nanaimobulletin.com/entertainment/youth-musician-plucks-strings-in-memphis-for-international-blues-challenge-7324802

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Pat Calihou is a Métis artist well known for carving Métis style paddles, canoes, Métis playgrounds, traditionally built red river carts and most recently a full-size replica York boat and a full-size red river cart located within the walls of Fort Langley National Historic site.

Pat is also a multi-instrumentalist and vocalist specializing in slide guitar performing Métis blues. While known for his wood carving abilities, this day he will be carving Matis Blues on his guitar.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Pat-Calihou-M%C3%A9tis-Artist-100057508506610/