Under the Surface plays at the most far-flung places such as major jazz and world music festivals, living rooms, museums, on the roofs of buildings and in churches. They take the audience into a hidden world in which tenderness, anger, safety, joy, loneliness, peace and sadness play a role and that makes the groups concerts literally a musical journey to the limits of the human soul.

A poetically inspired evening featuring @amandatosoffmusic Juno Award-nominated 2016 recording Words and selections from award winning and critically acclaimed Emilie-Claire’ repertoire.

JUNO winner Jocelyn Gould has been called a leader in the next generation of mainstream jazz guitarists. Her joyful energy captivates audiences around the world and her passion for music is infectious. She has absorbed the influences of the jazz guitar greats and has woven them into an exciting personal sound. Best known for her Juno award-winning Album Elegant Traveler, she blows audiences away with her warm tone and soulful playing.

With a fiery approach to improvisation, Bulgarian pianist Kristian Alexandrov and his stellar band create an evocative, visceral experience. From Afro-cuban rhythms, slammin’ blues to hypnotic Balkan-influenced motifs – Kristian’s original compositions explore the jazz/funk spectrum. Powerhouse singer/percussionist Shannon Gaye presents melodic, groove-driven material, steeped in Soul, Jazz and R&B tradition. The dynamic duo’s collaborations on stage and in the studio have resulted in six original CD’s and performances across Canada, the U.S. and Europe, as well as song placements in film and TV. Tap-dancer Tasha Lawson brings a whole new aspect to this unique event sharing her signature dance and rhythm!

JUNO Award winner Ernesto Cervini is a Modern Drummer who embodies the spirit of jazz legends Art Blakey and Billy Higgins. He uses the language of Hard pop as a launching pad for his funky and groovy arrangements. Ernesto Cervini’s Tetrahedron is featuring Jazz guitar phenomenon, Nir Felder. An energetically charged evening of music full of excitement and improvisation.

Laila’s live show is eclectic and energetic, a true representation of her on and off stage. Melodies take thrilling left turns and pre-choruses give way to instrumental interludes. One minute Biali is soaring over a bluesy storm of handclaps and hard-charging keyboard riffs, the next she is pouring out her soul on an impassioned ballad. It’s jazz, it’s pop, it can’t be put into a box but it’s beautiful. (Written by Laila Biali) Laila’s eponymous release won her a JUNO (Canada’s GRAMMY) for “Vocal Jazz Album of the Year.” The year prior, she was awarded the top prize at the Canadian Songwriting Competition in the Jazz category.

As a performer Hornby has played at festivals, clubs and concerts in North America, South America and Europe and appeared on more than 50 recordings. As an educator he has developed clinics and workshops in Canada, Germany, Italy, Poland, the United States, and Venezuela. He is also the founder and director of the Drumset Educational Camp (Mount Royal Conservatory) as well as the director of the Ambrose University Jazz Camp.

The Heavyweights Brass Band is a New Orleans-inspired brass institution that hits hard with its seasoned blend of groove, energy, virtuosity, and originality!