2024 YOUTH CONCERT SHOWCASE SERIES
Presented by the Tony Quo Vadis Foundation
in partnership with the Langley Heritage Society
Youth Concert Showcase Series Video
Check out our latest video to see performances by some incredible young and emerging jazz bands from our Youth Concert Showcase Series.
Our first-ever Youth Concert Showcase Series took place this year from May 26 to July 14, and it transformed the Fort Langley Heritage CNR Station gardens into a hub featuring live jazz, art, and history.
We offered eight weeks of free jazz performances by young artists every Sunday afternoon, featured local visual artists and the CNR Station offered guided tours of the restored and historic train station that dates back to 1915!
We supported eight amazing young jazz bands by giving them a chance to gain valuable festival experience and get paid to perform according to industry standards. They were also featured in our marketing and communication initiatives and received a professional video from their concert.
The eight bands who performed were:
⭐ Fort Langley Fine Arts School Junior & Senior Jazz Ensembles
⭐ Max Holmes Quintet
⭐ Seraphina Crema-Black Quartet
⭐ James Vickers
⭐ Ben Wayne Kyle Trio
⭐ JO49 = Jazz Orchestra of the 49th Parallel
⭐ Ruthie Ha Quartet
⭐ Trading Fours
The video also features interviews with our series funder, Tony Quo Vadis Foundation, co-presenter, Langley Heritage Society and festival organizers..
Check it out here! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JXbl5EDBQNg
Providing Unique Opportunities for Young Jazz Musicians
The Youth Concert Showcase Series – in addition to our Rising Star Jazz Award and Youth & Emerging Artists Stage at the festival – are pivotal in fostering development and growth for young musicians enthralled with jazz music and excited to progress in the jazz industry.
This new series will enable us to continue to meet our mandate of supporting young jazz artists and bringing even more music and art enjoyment to the greater Fort Langley community.
We thank the Tony Quo Vadis Foundation and the Langley Heritage Society for helping us to bring the Youth Concert Showcase Series to life. Their contributions are monumental in providing life-changing opportunities for young and emerging artists.
Presenting the 2024 Youth Concert Series Showcase Line-up!
️⭐May 26: Fort Langley Fine Arts School Junior & Senior Jazz Ensembles
️⭐June 2: Max Holmes Quintet
️⭐June 9: Gordy Li’s SMURF Quartet (Not Appearing due to health issues) Seraphina Crema-Black Quartet
️⭐June 23: James Vickers
️⭐June 30: Ben Wayne Kyle Trio and JO49 = Jazz Orchestra of the 49th Parallel
️⭐July 7: Ruthie Ha Quartet
️⭐July 14: Trading Fours
Artist Exhibiting at Youth Concert Showcase Series
Epiphany Neighbourhood Art Studio Student Exhibit
June 9
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Epiphany Neighbourhood Art Studios (ENAS) has a rich 31-year history of art education. From a single-room studio to a new state-of-the-art facility with a beautiful view, ENAS has classes for all students age 5 - 99+ in classical drawing and painting.
The Neighbourhood Art Studio began in 1991 under the creative direction of artist Robert “Bob” T. Barrett with the name The Fraser River Galleries Inc.
The Gallery took a unique approach to art instruction. It taught traditional, representational methods in the heyday of Post-Modern conceptualism. It had a casual class structure which allowed students to learn at their own pace. Students were taught one-on–one in a group setting by professional artists and the school offered grassroots arts instruction to students of all ages and levels.
In 2022, the Studio transitioned ownership and location from North Langley to Willoughby. Marguerite Bouchard, a life-long artist and former student of Bob’s, took the mantle of leadership to serve students in the Langley area.
Through the Neighbourhood Arts Studio, thousands of children, youth, adults, and seniors have developed a love for art and grown in their technique. Besides art classes and private lessons, they also offer workshops and host events
As Bob would fondly say…
“Art will change your life!”
For more information visit https://www.theartschool.com/
Janice Robertson, SFCA, NWWS
May 26
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Janice Robertson was born on Vancouver Island in 1952, into a family with a long history of women artists. She lives in the historic village of Fort Langley, BC.
Janice launched her career as a professional artist in 1989. She has received many awards including the Foreign Award in the Houston Watercolor Society’s Exhibition in Texas in 2004, the William and Margaret Foley Award in the Adirondacks National Exhibition of Watercolors in 2008, and she has won the Bronze Medal three times in the Federation of Canadian Artists Annual Signature Members exhibition.
Janice is a signature member of the Federation of Canadian Artists, Landscape Artists International and the Northwest Watercolor Society. She was elected as an Artist in Residence at the annual Painters at Painters event in Campbell River BC in 2004. Janice served as President of the Federation of Canadian Artists from 1999 to 2001. She is listed in Who’s Who in Canada and her paintings are in collections throughout the world.
She is also a popular and well- respected workshop instructor and has written two instructional books on acrylic painting techniques.
Janice’s work is largely a reflection of her abiding love for the beauty of the west coast forests and beaches that she has known all her life. Her attachment to her home and garden are represented in her still- life paintings. She works in acrylic, watercolour and oil.
Janice Robertson is represented by galleries in Vancouver, Whistler, Sidney, and Fort Langley,.
For more information visit [www.janicerobertson.ca][0]
Lizete Dureault
June 2, June 9 and June 16
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Lizete Dureault is a contemporary artist residing and working full time from her studio in Langley, BC. Her focus is painting still life art primarily working with acrylics and mixed media. Lizete also enjoys painting with oils and water colours.
“The early 20th Century cubism movement is the driving influence in how I approach most of my current work. My mission is to achieve unique stylized works, bold imaginative statements of things I perceive and to capture west coast life style.”
For more information visit https://dureault.com/
Molly Gray
May 26, June 2, June 16, June 23 and June 30
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Molly Gray is a contemporary artist residing and working full-time from her studio in Langley, B.C., Canada on the unceded territory of Kwantlen First Nation. Growing up surrounded by agricultural farmland, Molly’s work is often influenced by animals and nature. She enjoys working in many art mediums, viewing her practice as a constant evolution of exploration and curiosity.
She has participated as one of two dozen featured artists with the Langley-based West Fine Arts Society in recent years and the Vancouver International "For Love of Art" exhibits since 2019.
Molly recently completed a four-month welding course at the University of the Fraser Valley and is planning on creating large-scale metal sculptures in the near future.
For more information visit https://www.mollygrayart.com/
Richard Brodeur
July 7, July 14 and July 23
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Richard Brodeur is an artist from British Columbia, Canada. Many Canadians will remember “King Richard”, as an exceptional goalie for the Vancouver Canucks of the National Hockey League, but he is also the force behind the popular “My childhood hockey memories” paintings.
The nostalgia of skating on outdoor ice is the premise of the series of works, and nostalgia can also describe many of his works on canvas as well, capturing in brilliant colors, distinctly Canadian scenery.
His love for our national sport inspired him to bring back a simpler time, dreaming of being like our heroes and as lover of nature, he loves to paint the beauty of Canadian landscape.
For over thirty years as a Federation Canadian Artist member has been part of International Show, showing in well known Galleries across Canada.
Richard considers himself as a storyteller bringing joy to people, making them smile and bringing them back to simpler time.
For more information visit www.brodeurartist.com
Susan J. Falk
May 26
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A lifelong artist and veteran teacher, Susan has been a pioneer in the Fraser Valley arts community for decades. Her professional foray into the art world began in the film industry where she worked as a makeup artist. After cutting her teeth in the industry, Susan then served as the head of the program for twelve years at her alma mater, John Casablancas.
In 1998, after years of studying painting and, eventually, selling her work part-time, Falk transitioned into her career as a full-time painter artist and instructor.
“While I was teaching at John Casablancas, I moved out to Langley. And so the commute was quite interesting. But I just kept practicing my painting, and taking different night school and summer school courses when I could,” recalls Falk. “After teaching in the makeup industry, I knew I could make the transition into teaching art, so I ended up going back to school again to get my instructors certificate.”
Today, Susan divides her busy schedule between teaching a selection of art classes, creating and showing her original works, and caring for her 10-acre hobby farm in South Langley. Her works are often inspired by her horses and the abundance of nature on her property.
Susan McClain
June 9, June 23, July 7 and July 14
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Susan McClain, a local Fort Langley artist, captures the world with big, bold color. Her expressionistic depictions of flowers, landscapes, urban scenes and beautiful creatures, create impact statements. Susan has a passion for pushing the ordinary in both her acrylic and watercolor artwork. Her paintings reflect a unique move beyond the normal and create her one of a kind style. She applies paint to canvas to achieve vibrancy and attention.
Susan lives with her artist husband in their Fort Langley home and studio; painting with happy, crazy abandonment.
Check out their work on Facebook at: The Little House Company and Art Gallery or krmcclain@telus.net for studio appointments.
May 26 - Fort Langley Fine Arts School Junior & Senior Jazz Ensembles
May 26, 2024: Opening Remarks: 12:30; Performance: 1 - 3pm
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The Langley Fine Arts School (LFAS) boasts a vibrant and inclusive music program that engages students from grades 6 to 12. Their jazz program encompasses various ensembles tailored to different age groups, including the Middle Years jazz program, Junior Jazz Band (grades 8-10), and Senior Jazz Band (grades 10-12). Under the guidance of dedicated directors Mark Lainchbury and Dylan Hohm, the bands rehearse for three hours weekly, focusing on high-quality repertoire curated from renowned jazz composers such as Count Basie and Charles Mingus and contemporary composers like Daniel Herzog.
In addition to their ensemble offerings, the LFAS band program nurtures individual talent through jazz combos within their grade 8, grade 9/10, and grade 11/12 music major classes, led by teachers Nico Stephenson, Jonny Michel, Dylan Hohm, and Mark Lainchbury. Even their youngest students in grades 6 and 7 have the opportunity to explore jazz through a beginner jazz club.
LFAS ensembles showcase their prowess at school concerts, jazz festivals, and public events, with notable achievements including invitations to perform at prestigious venues like the Vancouver Jazz Festival's Anthem Sounds of Youth Stage. Their Junior Jazz Band's recent win in the "Outstanding Junior Band" category at the Surrey Jazz Festival is a testament to the dedication and talent of their students and teachers. In addition, individual achievements, such as winning awards for outstanding performances and receiving scholarships, highlight the exceptional caliber of musicianship fostered within the program.
Check out their website: https://lfas.sd35.bc.ca/
Check them out on YouTube: https://youtu.be/lbc4Bhnve40?si=YhqxL_XJavifZ3bp
Check them out on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/langleyfineartsschool/
Director: Mark Lainchbury
Mark Lainchbury has been a Langley Fine Arts School music faculty member for the past 27 years. He has been leading concert bands, jazz bands, jazz combos and chamber music ensembles during that time. He was also the middle school music director for over 20 years.
Director: Dylan Hohm
Dylan Hohm has been a Langley Fine Arts School music faculty member for the past eight years. He is an integral part of our middle school and high school music program as a director, coach, and mentor. An alumni of the Capilano University Jazz program, Dylan continues to direct and perform with numerous community jazz bands and concert bands.
June 2 - Max Holmes Quintet
Sunday, June 2, 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
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Max Holmes - piano
Alison Lee - bass
Jack Colbourne - drums
Luka MacInnes-Cann - sax
William Xu - trumpet
Max Holmes is a rising star in the Canadian jazz scene, known for his prowess as a pianist and composer. His musical journey began at the age of five with classical training, immersing himself in the esteemed Canadian Royal Conservatory of Music's classical piano program for a decade. At the age of nine, Max discovered his passion for jazz and has since honed his craft under the guidance of luminaries such as Brad Turner, Lorraine Desmarais and George Cables.
Drawing inspiration from jazz legends like Oscar Peterson, Cedar Walton, and Herbie Hancock, Max has cultivated a style that seamlessly merges tradition with innovation. He has performed twice at the Fort Langley Jazz and Arts Festival; the first time as a soloist in 2019 at the age of 13 and the second with the Imus & Geddes Quintet in 2021. He has also been part of ensembles led by Fred Stride and Daniel Hersog and is the current pianist for the Jazz of the 49th Parallel Orchestra.
Max was selected three years in a row as the pianist for the Conn-Selmer Centerstage Jazz Band, an elite nationwide youth jazz ensemble. He has been the recipient of the 2022 Lou Williamson Rhythm Section Player Award and the prestigious 2024 Fraser MacPherson Jazz Scholarship.
Currently a senior and music major at Langley Fine Arts School, Max continues to push the boundaries of his musical expression while pursuing his passion for jazz. With plans to further his studies at The New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music in New York City, he is poised to make a lasting impact on the global jazz landscape.
Check Maxwell out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aQNu0fUcO34
June 9 - SERAPHINA CREMA-BLACK QUARTET
Sunday - June 9, 1:00 - 3:00pm
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Seraphina Crema Black - Voice
Lennox Wong-Chor - Drums
Emmet Murray- Bass
Francis Reyes - Piano
We are thrilled to announce an upcoming performance by a remarkable quartet comprised of four talented music students. These musicians hail from prestigious institutions, including Berklee College of Music, McGill University Schulich School of Music, the University of Northern Texas, and the University of British Columbia.
The quartet is eager to present a captivating mix of jazz standards, beloved Jobim hits, and their own original compositions. Their diverse backgrounds and shared passion for jazz promise an unforgettable experience for all who attend.
We invite you to join us for an afternoon of exceptional music and to support these emerging artists as they share their talents with our community.
http://youtu.be/aVNba7FkMJg?si=d5gIm0rFWjDyM1No
https://www.instagram.com/crema_black/
June 16 - Ben Wayne Kyle Trio
Sunday June 16, 1:00pm - 3:00pm (Rescheduled to June 30)
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David Caballero - Bass
Ben Wayne Kyle - Guitar
Karl DeJohn - Drums
Ben Wayne Kyle is a guitar player, composer and singer based in Vancouver. The trio plays across a variety of genres including jazz, funk, folk and rock. Their set is mainly original instrumental music inspired by artists such as Bill Frisell, Grant Green and Pat Martino. The Trio is currently writing and recording their first album of original music. Ben is joined by local legends Dave Caballero on bass and Karl DeJong on drums.
Check out their website: https://www.benwaynekylemusic.com/
Check them out on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ben.kyle
June 23 - James Vickers
Sunday June 23, 1:00 - 3:00pm
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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.
Check out this article about him: https://www.nanaimobulletin.com/entertainment/youth-musician-plucks-strings-in-memphis-for-international-blues-challenge-7324802
Check him out on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.104361711582279&type=3
June 30 - Ben Wayne Kyle Trio and JO49 = Jazz Orchestra of the 49th Parallel
Sunday, June 30, 12:00 - 3:30pm
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Saxes: Dave Llewellyn , Elliot Ashton, Dylan Holm, Bryan Phenix, Martin Petruk
Trumpets: Ayden Landsman, Daniel Holker, Chad Joiner, Andrea Flello
Trombones: Bruce Flello, Mike Schaufele, Kory Pahl, Harrison Rose, Rod Ellard
Drums - Jim Kempton
Guitar - Brendan Twamley
Bass - Brock Foerster
Keys - Maxwell Holmes
The Jazz Orchestra of the 49th Parallel (JO49) is the newest big band in the lower mainland, featuring students, music teachers, and other players residing south of the river or in the Fraser Valley. The ensemble comprises 18 skilled musicians, offering a contemporary instrumental big band experience.
With a fusion of traditional big band elements and innovative arrangements, their repertoire showcases a diverse instrumentation of brass, woodwinds, and rhythm. From classic swing to funk and Latin influences, JO49 delivers a captivating musical experience, blending tradition with experimentation to create a dynamic and engaging sound with a fresh take on the timeless big band sound.
Check them out on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Jazz-Orchestra-of-the-49th-Parallel/61551245417593/
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Ruthie Ha - saxophone
Richardo Galvez - trombone
Bella Fedrigo - bass
Sadie Koshan - drums
Ruthie Ha is a tenor saxophonist and a third-year student in the Jazz program at Capilano University. Ruthie is very excited to play some various jazz standards as well as a few originals.
Check them out on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ruthlfha_music/
Check them out on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ruthie.summer
Check them out on YouTube :https://youtu.be/YJyMySksKVI?si=OZiFfca_AbTsR-uk
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Alison Lee - Upright Bass
William Xu - Trumpet
Sadie Koshan - Drum Kit
Maxwell Holmes - Piano
Trading Fours is a Vancouver-based jazz quartet comprised of members Allison Lee (bass), William Xu (trumpet), Maxwell Holmes (piano), and Sadie Koshan (drums). They are accomplished young musicians, having performed in honours ensembles at the provincial and national levels, such as BCMEA Honour Jazz Ensemble, the Conn-Selmer Centerstage Jazz Band, and the York University National Youth Jazz Combo. Members have received recognition at MusicFest Canada, Fraser Mcpherson Jazz Fund, and have played at the TD Vancouver International Jazz Festival. Their playing is full of energy, joy, and playfulness!
About Alison Lee - Leader of Trading Fours
Allison Lee is a 16-year-old jazz bassist living in Vancouver, BC. She has a passion for playing, arranging and writing music and has performed at countless venues such as Carnegie Hall, Times Square, the Orpheum and Queen Elizabeth Theatre. She is also involved in string orchestra, several combo ensembles and band at her school.
Check out their website: http://tradingfours.band
Check them out on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RHQJtmpqUzo
Sponsored by Global TV and Long and McQuade
Thank you to the North Langley Community Church for use of their stage.