Live Music at The Jazz Room
Featuring local, national and international performers Friday and Saturday nights, Soul/R&B shows on select Thursdays, and special Sunday matinees.
This calendar includes only Grand River Jazz Society shows. For other events booked in The Jazz Room, please contact the event organizer directly or search online for event details and ticket information.
“It’s an honest sound that John uses to converse with the listener. Nothing is hidden. It’s all there on the table. Heart. Experience. Pleasure. Life.” -Sheldon Zandboer
The group’s repertoire consists of jazz standards, American songbook, and originals ranging from swing, bebop, and Brazilian rhythms.
John MacMurchy is a Canadian performer, composer and recording artist. He has released six albums to critical acclaim and international airplay. John has worked with international artists as varied as Warren Vache, Howard Alden, Guido Basso, Henry Mancini, Cleo Laine, Linda Ronstadt, Keith Emerson, and John Dankworth. John’s large band, Art Of Breath, has three albums out featuring his original compositions performed by seven of the finest instrumentalists in Canada as well as some superb vocalists. Reviews have highlighted the combination of sophistication and accessibility in the music. He has also written for string quartet and orchestra.
A versatile musician, John is busy as a session player, sideman, and arranger on the Toronto scene. The latest release is a live record with 8-string guitar virtuoso Dan Ionescu, recorded before a small studio audience.
“John MacMurchy is a fleet, accomplished reedman with a knack for writing and arranging. John’s got everything together and balanced out when it comes to: Tone, Technique extraordinaire, and seemingly unending ideas.”
Personnel:
John MacMurchy-tenor saxophone
Sheri Weldon-vocals
Danny McErlain-piano
Michael Herring-bass
Check out: “Round Midnight” “Neverwhere-Live at The Jazz Bistro”
An engaging, lyrical saxophonist, Mike Murley is one of Canada’s most celebrated and well-respected jazz artists. Currently active as a leader in various formations from duo to septet, Murley also maintains a busy schedule as both a sideman and an Associate Professor at the University of Toronto Jazz Program. He has played on fourteen Juno Award-winning recordings since 1990, seven as a leader or co-leader, seven as a sideman. His most recent Junos include The North (2018), Metalwood’s Twenty (2017) and his trio’s Test of Time (2013).Since moving to Toronto from his native Nova Scotia in 1981 Murley has enjoyed a career that has spanned a wide stylistic spectrum. Recordings with legendary Canadian artists such as Ed Bickert, Guido Basso, and Rob McConnell showcase the saxophonist’s talents in the mainstream standard repertoire. On the more contemporary side, Murley has collaborated frequently with the younger generation of improviser/composers including pianist David Braid and guitarist David Occhipinti. He is also well known for his work with the three-time Juno Award winning electric jazz group Metalwood. In addition he has recorded and performed with numerous other Canadian and international artists including John Abercrombie, David Liebman, Paul Bley, John Schofield and Kenny Wheeler.
Personnel:
Mike Murley-tenor saxophone
Nick Fraser-drums
Dan Fortin-bass
Kevin Turcotte-trumpet
Check out: “You Must Believe in Spring” “How High the Moon” “Embraceable You”
Tickets: https://www.showpass.com/mike-murley.
KFQ – Ken Foster Quartet
The members of KFQ have had the pleasure of playing together in various groups
and combinations including the Jim Edwards Group, New Vibes Quintet and KW
Big Band Theory to name a few. They have performed many times at the Jazz
Room and also at the Uptown Waterloo Jazz Festival, the London Jazz Festival and
Manhattan’s Bistro.
The quartet will explore the organ trio repertoire of artists such as Jimmy Smith
and Joey DeFrancesco as well as other contemporary jazz artists.
Personnel:
Ken Foster – Tenor Saxophone
Jim Edwards – Trombone
John Zadro – Organ/Keyboard
Andy Macpherson – Drums
Drummer, composer and bandleader Ernesto Cervini has built a reputation as one of Canada’s most distinctive and energetic jazz artists. His newest quartet brings together four exceptional Toronto musicians: trumpeter Kae Murphy, guitarist Andrew Marzotto, bassist Mark Godfrey, and Cervini on drums.
The ensemble marks a new chapter in Cervini’s music, combining the melodic and rhythmic drive that has long defined his writing with a fresh, open-ended approach to the jazz quartet. Drawing inspiration from artists including Radiohead, The Smile, Avishai Cohen, Nir Felder, The Bad Plus and Pat Metheny, the group moves freely between lyrical melodies, intricate grooves, improvisation and raw energy.
Murphy, Marzotto and Godfrey are each compelling musical voices in their own right, and their contrasting personalities give the quartet its distinctive sound. Murphy brings a fearless, expressive approach to the trumpet; Marzotto adds both atmospheric colour and explosive energy on guitar; and Godfrey provides a deeply melodic and propulsive foundation. At the centre is Cervini’s drumming — energetic, interactive and always focused on serving the music.
The quartet’s debut album, Water Pistols at Dawn, showcases Cervini’s latest compositions and a band built around trust, interaction and a willingness to take chances. The result is contemporary Canadian jazz that is adventurous without losing sight of melody: sophisticated, playful, powerful and deeply communicative.
Personnel:
Ernesto Cervini-drums
Kae Murphy-trumpet and EVI
Andrew Marzotto-guitar
Mark Godfrey-bass
Check out: “The Sneaky Two” “Pennies from Heaven” “Moonlight Serenade”
Tickets: https://www.showpass.com/ernesto-cervini.
Tiffany Deriveau brings a powerhouse, genre-spanning approach to The Jazz Room’s Soul Series, with a set rooted in soul and driven by the music that grew from it.
Moving through Motown classics, funk, rock and soul, Tiffany puts her own stamp on iconic songs with dynamic vocals, infectious energy and commanding stage presence. Backed by a stellar band, she brings together timeless favourites, irresistible grooves and a few unexpected selections in a show that celebrates the music—and artists—that have shaped generations.
A two-time Dora Award nominee with more than 25 years as a professional performer, Tiffany’s career has taken her from some of Canada’s most celebrated stages to performances around the world. She has worked alongside legendary artists including Gladys Knight, Gregory Hines and ABBA’s Benny Andersson & Björn Ulvaeus, and has performed with companies including Mirvish Productions, Stratford Festival, Soulpepper Theatre and the Charlottetown Festival. Her work also spans film and television, with credits on projects for Disney, Netflix, NBC and Searchlight Pictures.
For this special Soul Series performance, Tiffany returns to the music at the heart of it all—soulful, funky, powerful and meant to be experienced live.
Personnel:
Tiffany Deriveau – vocals
Eric Lundgren on guitar
Tyler Wager on Bass
Michael Shand on keys
Joshua Park on Drums
Check out: I Got You (I Feel Good) No One Better Be Good To Me Time After Time Tina Turner medley Summertime
Matthew Rait is an accomplished guitarist and educator whose playing is deeply rooted in jazz while drawing inspiration from popular music and folk traditions. His playing is influenced by jazz guitar masters Ed Bickert, Lenny Breau, and Joe Pass, as well as songwriters such as Sting and Paul Simon. Matthew completed a Ph.D. in musicology in 2019, culminating in his dissertation, The Music of Sting. His doctoral research included interviews with artists such as Sting, Branford Marsalis, Rob Mathes, Laila Biali, and Jason Rebello, as well as a chance meeting with Jeff Beck at Centre in the Square in Kitchener. Matthew weaves these eclectic influences together to create meaningful melodic lines and beautiful jazz harmonies.
As a performer, Matthew has shared the stage and recorded with a wide range of accomplished Canadian musicians, including Barry Elmes, Lenny Boyd, Artie Roth, Lorne Lofsky, Pat Collins, Ian Bell, and Mary-Catherine Pazzano. His recorded work includes collaborations with Ron Westray on Jimi Jazz and Magisteria, his own release 6th Line, and the forthcoming album Fiasco with The Treeline, a folk-rock band based in Norfolk County. Matthew has performed at festivals throughout Ontario, including the Orillia Jazz Festival, Barrie Jazz and Blues Festival, Orangeville Jazz and Blues Festival, and Mill Race Festival of Traditional Folk Music. He has taught at York University and Wilfrid Laurier University and continues to teach privately and with a local school board in the Kitchener-Waterloo area.
Matthew will be joined by Ken McDonald on bass and Steve James on drums, bringing together a dynamic trio for an evening of improvisation, jazz standards, and musical exploration.
Personnel:
Mathew Rait-guitar
Ken MacDonald-bass
Steve James-drums
Gentiane MG is a Montreal pianist and composer known for emotionally resonant piano trio music that bridges contemporary jazz and classical influence. With her long standing trio she presents “Can You See the Birds?” a project shaped by connection, listening, and shared human experience. The music explores the themes of presence, resilience, forgiveness, and renewal, unfolding through intuitive interplay and collective improvisation. Rooted in an ear based creative process, the Trio’s performances are fluid, open, and deeply connected, inviting audiences into a space of attention, curiosity, and emotional clarity.
“Through the piano, Gentiane MG transcends emotions and plumbs the unknown“. Peter Hum, Ottawa Citizen
Personnel:
Gentiane Michaud-Gagnon-piano
Mark Nelson-drums
Levi Dover-bass
Check out: “Can You Hear the Birds”
Here is an interview and music excerpt on the album Wonderland. Also, listen to Empty Canvas, Road to Nowhere and Impossible Beauty.
The Duncan Wilson Trio is a classic jazz piano trio with an emphasis on tight ensemble playing, energetic arrangements, and melodic creativity. With the same lineup for nearly two years, you will have the opportunity to enjoy one of the few consistently working piano trios on the Ontario jazz scene.
Toronto-based pianist Duncan Wilson (b. 2002) is an exciting and versatile voice in Canadian jazz. Since 2023, Duncan has led one of the most consistently working piano trios in Ontario. Duncan’s playing style and compositions combine the beloved familiarity of classic jazz piano recordings with a 21stCentury freshness and intensity. His catchy melodies and inspiring grooves have helped him connect with audiences at the finest venues and festivals across Ontario. In addition to his academic training at the University of Toronto’s
Faculty of Music, the Orillia, Ontario native has learned his craft by sharing the bandstand with many masters of the Toronto jazz scene, including Dave Young, Terry Clarke, Don Thompson, Alex Dean, Kevin Turcotte, and many more. Also known as one of the city’s most in-demand sidemen, Duncan’s playing can be
heard on Jack Zorawski’s 2026 album Another Rhythm Song.
Personnel:
Duncan Wilson-piano
Christopher Parnis – bass
Alex Sgrignoll- drums
Check out: “Maybe You’ll Be There/You Are There” “Please Be Kind” “The Offer”
Saulter Suite
Colleen Allen, Jim Gelcer, George Koller, Fern LIndzon
Saulter Suite is a new collective formed by four vibrant veterans of the Toronto jazz scene. The group began as weekly socially distanced sessions during the slow rebound from months of isolation. Their repertoire is a salty sweet mixture of original material and deep dives into rarely performed Canadian compositions, and is as diverse and captivating as the performers playing it.
Alberta born Colleen Allen plays all saxes, flute, and clarinet. She is a top call in Toronto for live shows, festivals, and recording projects. Colleen is considered one of the most cherished musicians on the Canadian music scene. A dynamic solo performer and flawless ensemble musician, Colleen is known for her gorgeous warm tone, soulful style, and brilliant soloing. Colleen is a world-class musician whose musical talents have touched many audiences around the globe.
Jim Gelcer is a prolific recording artist, and sought after sideman, performing with the who’s who of Canadian jazz. He is at home in an eclectic range of genres, from jazz and rock to Klezmer and Kirtan, and an accomplished composer with numerous credits in television and film. Gelcer’s most recent recording “Jim and Paul Play Glenn and Ludwig” hit #1 in Canada on both the jazz and classical charts. He is also renowned in the world yoga community for his meditative mantra music recordings.
George Koller is a bassist, producer, composer, multi-instrumentalist and promoter of jazz, world and folk music through concerts and his home-grown label ZSAN Records. In a wildly diverse career, he has worked with Peter Gabriel, Eartha Kitt, Chaka Khan, Eddie Harris, Loreena McKennitt, David Clayton-Thomas, Ian Tyson, The Shuffle Demons, Laila Biali, John McDermott, Larry Coryell, Karrin Allyson, Phil Woods, Michael McDonald, Carvin Winans, Sonny Stitt, Valdy, Holly Cole, and many more.
JUNO nominee Fern Lindzon is a multi-faceted pianist/vocalist/arranger. Fern possesses a technique WholeNote Magazine called ‘breathtakingly beautiful’, respected jazz critic Mark Miller wrote ‘is secure in her sense of herself, her art, and her craft’, New Canadian Music described as ‘one of the most adventurous and accomplished vocalists, pianists, and songwriters on the T.O. jazz scene’, and Montreal critic Irwin Block lauded as ‘a rare and fascinating talent’.
Personnel:
Colleen Allen-saxophone
Jim Gelcer-drums
George Koller-bass
Fern LIndzon-piano
Check out: “Live at Jazz FM”
Tickets: https://www.showpass.com/fern-lindzon-saulter-suite.
The Jazz Room welcomes Toronto’s Bullen Family Band to our stage for the first time! Father Eddie Bullen alongside sons Quincy and Tré-michael will present a show of soul/R&B/funk favourites and originals.
The Bullen family is a powerhouse of contemporary Funk, jazz, fusion, and rhythmic innovation,
bringing together three extraordinary talents across two generations. Spearheaded by Juno
Award–winning pianist, composer, and producer Eddie Bullen, the family legacy is anchored in a
rich tapestry of Caribbean rhythms, jazz traditions, and modern production. Since immigrating
from Grenada to Canada in 1980, Eddie has become a cornerstone of the Canadian music
scene, earning acclaim as a performer, arranger, and mentor.
Carrying that artistic tradition forward are his sons, Quincy and Tré-Michael Bullen. Quincy, a
dynamic pianist, guitarist, composer, sand producer, fuses classical and jazz roots with
contemporary R&B and hip-hop influences to create a distinct, genre-bridging sound that
resonates with audiences worldwide. As a skilled drummer, percussionist, and visual director,
Tré-Michael adds a vibrant, dynamic dimension to the family’s music, infusing every project with
rhythm, energy, and visual artistry.
Together, the Bullen family delivers a seamless fusion of tradition and modernity. Whether
performing dynamic Dueling piano concerts or collaborating on multi-genre studio productions,
their shared musical synergy and creative vision continue to captivate audiences and leave a
lasting mark on the music world.
Personnel:
Quincy Bullen – Vocal, Guitar & Piano
Eddie Bullen – Piano & Keyboard
Tre Michael Bullen – Drums
Marias Charlamagne – Bass
Check Out: “Use Me” “At The Beaches Jazz Festival” “Friends” “Sunset Marquee”
Learn more at www.bullens.ca
“Beddage has a well-developed identity on the demanding baritone, playing with real power…” -The Whole Note Magazine
“…An example of what a powerful and modern baritone could be… ” – modernbarisax.com
Shirantha Beddage is a twice JUNO nominated baritone saxophonist, composer and educator from Toronto, Canada. His original music combines hard bop and modern jazz to create a sound that is both accessible and sophisticated.
He has released three critically-acclaimed albums as a leader: Roots and Branches, Identity (2013 JUNO nominee) and Momentum (2017 JUNO nominee). As a side musician, he is featured on recordings with the Order of Canada Band, Laila Biali, Nancy Walker, Mike Downes and many others. His compositions and arrangements have been featured at Carnegie Hall, the Montreal Jazz Festival, and on the soundtrack of the Emmy-winning TV series “Fargo”. He currently performs as the leader of his own quartet, and as a side musician with ensembles such as the Carn-Davidson 9 and John McLeod’s Rex Hotel Jazz Orchestra. His newest album “Departures”, featuring arrangements of Sri Lankan melodies and original compositions, will be released on Rhea Records on October 16, 2026.
Dr. Beddage is Assistant Professor of Jazz at the University of Toronto Faculty of Music. He previously held faculty appointments as Professor of Music at Humber College (Toronto, Canada) and Director of Jazz Studies at the Columbus State University Schwob School of Music (Columbus, Georgia, USA). He also adjudicates regularly at festivals throughout the country including MusicFest Canada, where he serves as Vice-Chairman of Instrumental Jazz.
He holds a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Jazz Studies from the Eastman School of Music, a Master of Music degree in Jazz Studies from William Paterson University, and a Bachelor of Music degree from Humber College.
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Personnel:
Shirantha Beddage – baritone sax
Nancy Walker – piano
Mike Downes – bass
Ian Wright – drums
Check out: Pork Chop Pushin’ the Traveling Wall-baris at the Pilot Tavern. and Musaladi Vannama
Sonny Rollins is a monumental American jazz tenor saxophonist and composer, widelycelebrated as one of the most influential and enduring musicians in jazz history. Rising to prominence in the 1950s, Rollins redefined the instrument through his robust tone, masterful melodic improvisation, and peerless rhythmic command. His seminal recordings, such as Saxophone Colossus and The Freedom Suite, solidified his legacy as a creative giant. Known for his legendary “sabbaticals” taken to perfect his craft—famously practicing alone on the Williamsburg Bridge—Rollins’ profound musical integrity and innovative spirit have shaped generations of improvisers worldwide. This tribute will be curated by a truly all-star cast including Mike Murley!
Personnel:
Barry Elms-drums
Mike Murley-tenor sax
Paul Novotny-bass
Reg Schwager-guitar
Check out: “Sonny’s Way”
photo credit Karl Leung
A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS is an Emmy Award-winning holiday movie
tradition, enjoyed by children and grownups everywhere. The 1965 soundtrack ranks
among the best-selling jazz albums of all time, having been certified 5-times platinum.
The cherished and nostalgic holiday music composed by Vince Guaraldi is equally as
magical as the film, especially hits such as “Christmas Time is Here.” Join us this holiday
season for a jazz performance with beloved jazz musicians Sullivan-Parker-Kettlewell.
Kyle Sullivan is a versatile drummer recognized across Toronto’s music scene. With an
impressive 20 album credits, most receiving radio airplay, Kyle is an alumnus of Humber
College’s esteemed Jazz Music Program. Over the years, he’s collaborated with Canadian
music luminaries like Ron Sexsmith, Cowboy Junkies, and has shared a 20-year journey
with Jerry Leger.
Teri Parker (MA, BMus) is a jazz aficionado — pianist, composer, and bandleader —
deeply rooted in Toronto. She honed her skills at the University of Toronto’s acclaimed
Jazz program, learning from legends like David Braid and Phil Nimmons. Teri has been
granted multiple awards to refine her craft internationally. Currently, she’s a mainstay in
Canadian jazz, gracing stages from the Toronto Jazz Festival to JAZZ.91 FM broadcasts.
Chris Kettlewell, an exceptional multi-instrumentalist, holds his laurels from Humber
College’s Jazz Performance program and Thompson Rivers University’s Music initiative.
Since his Toronto advent, he’s collaborated with renowned artists, from Fred Penner to
Maylee Todd. Chris is integral to several prominent Toronto projects, including The
Blazing Fiddles and The Toronto Jazz Collective. His musical journey spans global tours,
from France to Japan, and includes a memorable stint in London’s “Made in Dagenham”
musical
Check out: “A Charlie Brown Christmas”
Personnel:
Teri Parker – piano
Kyle Sullivan – drums
Chris Kettlewell – bass
Plus Kids Choir!
Tickets: https://www.showpass.com/teri-parkers-charlie-brown-christmas.