On April 4th, the TD Toronto Jazz Festival announced this year’s line-up for Heather Bambrick and Friends, the series that anchors “The Festival Within The Festival”. And what a line up it is!!
We start things off on Friday, June 23, with the delightful, delicious, delovely JUNE GARBER, featuring Jazz at its most elegant, sensuous best. If you’ve ever seen June in performance, you already know her masterful skills as a performer, easily moving from Jazz standards to Cabaret-inspired gems. Originally from South Africa, June is truly and international entertainer and crowd favourite here, in the country she now calls home. She’s the perfect way to launch the series!
The only way to follow this strong a start is with a powerhouse performer, so on Saturday, June 24, we’ll welcome a woman with talent, energy, “sass”, and incredible command of every stage she graces: Shakura S’Aida! From across the US, into Europe, Shakura has established herself as a true Blues superstar, and we’re incredibly excited to have her “Force-of-Natureness” as a part of the series this year!!
The following weekend marks Canada’s birthday and we’re thrilled to start the weekend on Friday, June 30, with a woman who’s brought her Mexican / South African Roots and flamenco soul to Canada, becoming one of the leading Latin and World Music artists in the country: Amanda has toured internationally, representing her unique brand of multi-influenced Latin Jazz. On this evening, she’ll bring with her a flavour and spirit that will light the Home Smith Bar on fire!
Finally, on Saturday, July 1, we close out the series with the charming, charismatic, and ultra-suave Micah Barnes, whose latest recording New York Stories is delighting audiences across Canada and around the world. As a musician, Micah is a “multi-threat”, working as a singer, songwriter, pianist, and all-round entertainer. We can’t think of a better way to close the series and celebrate Canada’s birthday, than with one of Canada’s best artists.
As in previous years, the stellar cast of musicians with whom everyone will be performing will be lead by the incomparable Russ Little, who will be directing the musical traffic with his usual panache and flair! Once again, the band will include the creme-de-la-creme of the Jazz world, including Tom Szczesniak on piano, bassist Scott Alexander, and drummer Brian Barlow.
If past years are any indication, this series is guaranteed to sell out. It’s a highlight of the TD Jazz Festival, and not to be missed, so don’t wait! Book your tickets today and mark the dates on your calendars! Heather Bambrick and Friends, as a part of the TD Toronto Jazz Festival’s “Festival Within The Festival” – June 23, 24, 30 and July 1 at the Home Smith Bar in the Old Mill Toronto!!
For more information about the series, and to order your tickets, click HERE.