HMC Presents: Harold Danko Trio
2024-10-03 20:00 - 22:30 (America/Toronto) | 141 Park Street North, 141 Park Street N, Hamilton, ON, L8R 2N4, Canada
Hamilton Music Collective Presents:
Harold Danko Trio
Thursday October 3, 2024
TICKET LINK

Featuring:
Neil Swainson (Bass)
Terry Clarke (Drums)
Series Tickets on sale Friday August 23 2024 9:00am
Individual Tickets on sale Friday September 6 2024 9:00am
Tickets: $45 / $25 (student)
Purchase a Series Ticket and save 15% on each show here.
Check out the rest of the fall series here.
Please choose your seats at check out!
Doors at 7:00PM, show at 8:00PM (two sets).
Thanks to our charcuterie sponsor Sam’s Cheese & Meats! Find them in the Hamilton Farmer’s Market.
About Harold Danko
A 30-album discography, associations with an impressive list of jazz legends including Chet Baker, Thad Jones/Mel Lewis and Woody Herman, not to mention countless recording sessions, only describe a fraction of what pianist Harold Danko brings to the table. In a career spanning more than a half century, Harold Danko has established himself as a distinguished pianist, composer and band leader, fortified by an impressive resume. Since 1980 he has earned ASCAP awards yearly for the value of his catalog of original compositions. Danko holds Professor Emeritus status at the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, NY, where he chaired the jazz studies program for eleven years.
Pianist/composer Harold Danko is best known for his long-term associations with an impressive list of jazz legends including Chet Baker, Gerry Mulligan, Thad Jones/Mel Lewis, Lee Konitz and Woody Herman. Beginning his piano studies at the age of five, Harold became serious about pursuing a career in jazz at the age of fifteen when he commenced studies with Gene Rush in Youngstown, Ohio. After graduation from Youngstown State University and a stint in the Army band, Harold landed the piano chair in Woody Herman’s Thundering Herd, which launched his career as a much sought after jazz musician. He also developed a reputation as a respected jazz educator and served on the faculties of the Manhattan School of Music, the New School/Mannes, and Hartt College.
He has performed at major jazz venues throughout the world as well as on recordings, television and video. As a band leader he has been featured in Lincoln Center’s “Meet the Artist” series, Washington (DC) Performing Arts Society series at J.F.K. Center, the Rochester International Jazz Festival, and numerous jazz festivals both in the USA and abroad. In 1995 he was awarded an NEA Fellowship to perform his own works in a series of concerts in New York City. Throughout the 90s Harold performed with and composed for his own quartet with Rich Perry (tenor saxophone), Scott Colley (bass) and Jeff Hirshfield (drums) and more recently a trio with Hirshfield and Michael Formanek (bass) with whom he has recorded a series of highly acclaimed CDs on the SteepleChase label. For more than two decades, Harold has won ASCAP awards, based on “the unique prestige value of [his] catalogue of original compositions.”
He accepted an appointment from the Eastman School of Music in 1998 and now chairs the Jazz and Contemporary Media department. He teaches jazz piano, directs the Jazz Performance Workshops, and heads the Eastman Jazz Trio, whose first CD was released in 2003. In addition to his own educational video, Jazz Keyboard Techniques, available only in Brazil, he can be seen and heard on video performances with Gerry Mulligan, Chet Baker, and Lee Konitz. Harold’s featured column, “Solo Piano”, appeared in Keyboard Magazine for more than five years, and his keyboard improvisation method, the Illustrated Keyboard Series, is a widely used reference.
His latest CDs, released over the last three years on the SteepleChase label, “Spring Garden”, “Rite Notes”, and “Trillium” are all inspired by Igor Stravinsky.
“These recordings document important steps in my continuing exploration of Stravinsky’s music for purposes of composition and improvisation – a harvest growing directly from the Rite of Spring and other related works. In live performances the eighteen pieces developed from my studies serve as springboards for further investigation and improvisation. My post-production work on the recordings sparked greater interest in finding even more content to draw on from Stravinsky’s scores, and the pieces have evolved into a kind of suite for solo piano incorporating details that had to be left out of the recordings. I premiered an abbreviated version in 2020 at my Leap Year concert on February 29 in East Rochester and longer versions later at the Bop Shop and Rochester International Jazz Festival.”
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Join Hamilton Music Collective for our 10th anniversary jazz concert series, showcasing top Canadian and international musicians in jazz, blues, and improvised music. Step into our cozy jazz lounge at 141 Park Street, featuring a top notch sound system (brand new in 2020), wine selections, and an attentive audience. It all comes together in the perfect venue to hear world-class jazz in downtown Hamilton!
All proceeds from ticket sales support the An Instrument For Every Child (AIFEC) program.
For more information about the Hamilton Music Collective and An Instrument For Every Child visit: hamiltonmusiccollective.ca
Parking is available in the parking lots. Read more here: https://www.thegasworks.ca/parking/

Open Jam For Youth
2024-10-05 13:30 - 15:00, 2024-11-02 13:30 - 15:00, 2024-12-07 13:30 - 15:00, 2025-02-01 13:30 - 15:00, 2025-03-01 13:30 - 15:00, 2025-04-05 13:30 - 15:00, 2025-06-07 13:30 - 15:00, 2025-09-06 13:30 - 15:00 and 2 more dates

HMC Presents: John Neudorf
2024-10-24 20:00 - 22:30
Hamilton Music Collective Presents:
John Neudorf
Thursday October 24, 2024
TICKET LINK
Featuring:
John Neudorf (Vocals)
Joel Haynes (Drums)
Nancy Walker (Piano)
Clark Johnston (Bass)
Chris Gale (Sax)
Series Tickets on sale Friday August 23 2024 9:00am
Individual Tickets on sale Friday September 6 2024 9:00am
Tickets: $45 / $25 (student)
Purchase a Series Ticket and save 15% on each show here.
Check out the rest of the fall series here.
Please choose your seats at check out!
Doors at 7:00PM, show at 8:00PM (two sets).
Thanks to our charcuterie sponsor Sam’s Cheese & Meats! Find them in the Hamilton Farmer’s Market.
About John Neudorf
With a blues foundation as deep as his jazz improvisations, vocalist John Neuford’s performances are an explosive fusion of scat, warm phrasing, and unmistakable passion for his craft. Originally trained as a jazz drummer, his brand new album “Here’s To Life,” features classics from The Beatles and Ray Charles along with original tunes that promise to elevate John’s musical narrative to new heights. A marvel not to be missed, Neudorf captivates audiences with every note.
Embark on a musical journey with John Neudorf, a seasoned force in the industry for the past three decades. Originally honing his skills as a jazz drummer at Mohawk College, John’s evolution into a dynamic vocalist under the guidance of Rosemary Burns marked the beginning of a remarkable transformation. Venturing into the blues realm, John fronted bands alongside classic blues players like Mel Brown and shared stages with the iconic Mat “Guitar” Murphy. Simultaneously exploring the rich landscape of jazz, John collaborated with local talents in the vibrant Niagara Region, culminating in studies with Mark Murphy, the esteemed “Down Beat” jazz vocalist of the year.
John’s musical odyssey includes performances at renowned jazz hubs in Toronto, showcasing his evolving confidence and technique. His debut album, “I Remember” (2001), introduced a captivating blend of melodic favourites like “Creepin'” and “I Remember Clifford,” alongside his soulful original composition, “Last Time.” With a blues foundation as deep as his jazz improvisations, John’s performances are an explosive fusion of scat, warm phrasing, and unmistakable passion for his craft. A marvel not to be missed, John Neudorf captivates audiences with every note. The crescendo of his journey unfolds in 2024 with the release of “Here’s To Life,” a new album featuring classics and original tunes that promise to elevate John’s musical narrative to new heights.
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Join Hamilton Music Collective for our 10th anniversary jazz concert series, showcasing top Canadian and international musicians in jazz, blues, and improvised music. Step into our cozy jazz lounge at 141 Park Street, featuring a top notch sound system (brand new in 2020), wine selections, and an attentive audience. It all comes together in the perfect venue to hear world-class jazz in downtown Hamilton!
All proceeds from ticket sales support the An Instrument For Every Child (AIFEC) program.
For more information about the Hamilton Music Collective and An Instrument For Every Child visit: hamiltonmusiccollective.ca
Parking is available in the parking lots. Read more here: https://www.thegasworks.ca/parking/

HMC Presents: Mandy Lagan with Origins
2024-11-07 20:00 - 22:30
Hamilton Music Collective Presents:
Mandy Lagan with Origins
Thursday November 7, 2024
TICKET LINK
Featuring:
Mandy Lagan (Vocals)
Even Farncombe (Piano)
Ted Quinlan (Guitars)
Andrew Downing (Bass)
Derek Gray (Drums)
Matt Lagan (Sax, EWI)
Kevin Turcotte (Trumpet)
Series Tickets on sale Friday August 23 2024 9:00am
Individual Tickets on sale Friday September 6 2024 9:00am
Tickets: $45 / $25 (student)
Purchase a Series Ticket and save 15% on each show here.
Check out the rest of the fall series here.
Please choose your seats at check out!
Doors at 7:00PM, show at 8:00PM (two sets).
Thanks to our charcuterie sponsor Sam’s Cheese & Meats! Find them in the Hamilton Farmer’s Market.
About Mandy Lagan
Reimagining material from two of the most influential composers of our time, Canadian vocalist Mandy Lagan returns by popular demand to celebrate the song books of Paul Simon and Joni Mitchell. Joined by her seven-piece band Origins, Lagan is “no mere jazz vocalist” (CBC Radio). Lagan “rises to the challenge of honouring Mitchell’s legacy…” with her ambitious project The Joni Book, heralded as one of the top 20 CDs of 2018 by JAZZ.FM91.
Singer-composer-arranger-band leader, Mandy Lagan created the Origins Ensemble with the mandate of using pre-existing artistic work and redefining it through a musical, creative process.
In 2005 Ms. Lagan embarked on a project of creating songs using poetry from Robert Louis Stevenson’s “A Child’s Garden of Verses”. Verses was the first project of this nature.
Verses was a very personal project for Ms. Lagan. “A Child’s Garden of Verses” has been appreciated and loved by her family for three generations. Verses is an extraordinary collection of songs that took years to create as she worked closely with David Occhipinti, Joe Lagan, Nancy Walker, Carl Horton, Kevin Turcotte, Blair Mackay, Andrew Downing and Blair Mackay.
The Joni Book, also a project very close to the heart, Mandy assembled the Origins ensemble once again to help her to realize the arrangements she imagined for some of her favourite Joni Mitchell songs. Andrew Downing, Blair Mackay, and Kevin Turcotte continue to contribute to the Origins projects along with newcomers Dave Restivo, Ewen Farncombe, Ted Quinlan and Jim Vivian. “The Joni Book” was heralded as one of the top 20 CDs of 2018 by Jazz FM 91, where it receives regular airplay. It has also been featured on CBC Radio’s “Jazz with Laila Biali”. The press has praised Mandy’s imaginative arrangements, and her earnest, stunning vocals. She has truly made these songs her own, while honouring the stories, melodies and harmonies that make Joni’s music so powerful. The result is a wonderfully mature collection of playful and creative arrangements that clearly come straight from the heart.
THE PAUL SIMON PROJECT is the most recent endeavour for Mandy and her band, ORIGINS.The band consists of some of Canada’s finest jazz musicians, Ewen Farncombe-piano, Ted Quinlan-guitars, Kevin Turcotte-trumpet, Matt Lagan-sax, Andrew Downing-cello, Jim Vivian-bass, and Blair Mackay-percussion/drums. Once again Mandy and her band members are reimagining material from one of the most influential composers of our time, bringing their own unique flavour and approach to these iconic songs from The Paul Simon Songbook. This will be the 5th recording project under the leadership of Ms. Lagan.
Mandy began taking herself seriously as a singer in 1990 when she moved from Hamilton to Toronto and formed a band in order to play songs of Joni Mitchell’s as well as her own writing. In 2002 she released her first CD, “I Thought About You”, a collection of jazz standards and two originals. In 2003 she released her second CD, “You See Me”, a selection of five jazz standards and five originals. In 2007 she released her third CD, “Verses”, a collection of Robert Louis Stevenson’s poetry which she collaboratively set to music. The “Verses” project awarded her financial support from the Canada Council for the Arts and The Ontario Arts Council.
After 30 years in Toronto Mandy has returned to Hamilton where she continues her teaching, writing, recording and performing.
“Mandy’s new recording the Joni Book, is one of the most successful takes on Joni’s music I’ve heard. Great arrangements that keep the integrity of Joni’s tunes but makes them sound fresh and new. Also the laid-back and confident vocal approach from Mandy that makes this recording very strong.”
Brad Barker – JAZZ FM 91.1
“Folksinger was too limiting a term to describe Joni Mitchell, just as Mandy Lagan, in pushing the boundaries in new and original ways, is no mere jazz vocalist. This combination makes Lagan’s project “The Joni Book” a must-listen — make that “must” experience – for music fans from both schools.”
Mark Rheaume – CBC Radio
“Lagan rises to the challenge of honouring Mitchell’s legacy…. [she] wraps her voice around the layers of lyrical meaning and shading embedded in these great songs.”
Barry Livingston – WholeNote Magazine
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Join Hamilton Music Collective for our 10th anniversary jazz concert series, showcasing top Canadian and international musicians in jazz, blues, and improvised music. Step into our cozy jazz lounge at 141 Park Street, featuring a top notch sound system (brand new in 2020), wine selections, and an attentive audience. It all comes together in the perfect venue to hear world-class jazz in downtown Hamilton!
All proceeds from ticket sales support the An Instrument For Every Child (AIFEC) program.
For more information about the Hamilton Music Collective and An Instrument For Every Child visit: hamiltonmusiccollective.ca
Parking is available in the parking lots. Read more here: https://www.thegasworks.ca/parking/

HMC Presents: Darcy Hepner & Friends
2024-11-28 20:00 - 22:30
Hamilton Music Collective Presents:
Darcy Hepner & Friends
Thursday November 28, 2024
TICKET LINK
Ted Quinlan – Guitar
Nancy Walker – Piano/Keyboards
Paul Intson – Bass
Joel Haynes – Drums
Series Tickets on sale Friday August 23 2024 9:00am
Individual Tickets on sale Friday September 6 2024 9:00am
Tickets: $45 / $25 (student)
Purchase a Series Ticket and save 15% on each show here.
Check out the rest of the fall series here.
Please choose your seats at check out!
Doors at 7:00PM, show at 8:00PM (two sets).
Thanks to our charcuterie sponsor Sam’s Cheese & Meats! Find them in the Hamilton Farmer’s Market.
About Darcy Hepner
A crowd favourite and no unfamiliar name to jazz fans in Hamilton, Darcy Hepner is the son of professional musicians (conductor Lee Hepner and pianist Patricia Rolston). His professional career began as a cellist at the age of 15 and transitioned to flute, clarinet, and saxophone during his studies at McMaster University (BMus 1978). While pursuing jazz studies at the University of Miami he performed with Henry Mancini, BB King, Aretha Franklin, Tony Bennett, Mel Tormé and many others (MMUS 1980). Moving to New York City in 1983 he studied composition and saxophone at New York University with Lee Konitz and Bob Mintzer. During his second residency in New York from 1996 to 2005, Hepner toured with Blood, Sweat and Tears, played in Broadway and Off-Broadway shows and in clubs with such artists as Buster Poindexter, Tom Wopat and the Ed Palermo Big Band.
Since 2008 he has recorded and performed with Tom Wilson (musician) and LeE HARVeY OsMOND as both a woodwind player and conductor/arranger for his symphony shows which have included performances with the Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra and the National Arts Centre Orchestra in Ottawa.
In 2015, he collaborated with Canadian musician Ian Thomas as arranger and conductor to develop a concert for the Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra. The music for the concert was used to produce Thomas’s “Life In Song” recording. Since he has developed a sold out Beatles show for the HPO, and will conduct the music of James Bond in 2025.
Hepner taught at Berklee College of Music (Boston) 1985–89, and was founder and head of the Music Program at Selkirk College in Nelson, BC, 1989–96. From 2005 to 2020, he held the position of professor of music at Mohawk College, Hamilton
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Join Hamilton Music Collective for our 10th anniversary jazz concert series, showcasing top Canadian and international musicians in jazz, blues, and improvised music. Step into our cozy jazz lounge at 141 Park Street, featuring a top notch sound system (brand new in 2020), wine selections, and an attentive audience. It all comes together in the perfect venue to hear world-class jazz in downtown Hamilton!
All proceeds from ticket sales support the An Instrument For Every Child (AIFEC) program.
For more information about the Hamilton Music Collective and An Instrument For Every Child visit: hamiltonmusiccollective.ca
Parking is available in the parking lots. Read more here: https://www.thegasworks.ca/parking/

HMC Presents: "Kind of Blue" Revisited
2025-02-06 20:00 - 22:30
Hamilton Music Collective Presents:
“Kind of Blue” Revisited
SOLD OUT!
Thursday February 6, 2025
CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS
Kevin Turcotte – Trumpet
Nick Morgan – Alto sax
Pat Labarbera – Tenor sax
Mark Eisenman – Piano
Neil Swainson – Bass
Terry Clarke – Drums
Series Tickets on sale Friday January 10 2025 9:00am
Individual Tickets on sale Friday January 17 2025 9:00am
Tickets: $45 / $25 (student)
Purchase a Series Ticket and save 15% on each show here.
Check out the rest of the winter series here.
Please choose your seats at check out!
Doors at 7:00PM, show at 8:00PM (two sets).
Thanks to our charcuterie sponsor Sam’s Cheese & Meats! Find them in the Hamilton Farmer’s Market.
About Pat LaBarbera
Pat LaBarbera, saxophonist, flutist, clarinetist, composer, jazz educator was born in Mt. Morris, New York and spent the first thirty years of his life in the United States before moving to Toronto in 1974. His father taught the basics of music to Pat and his two younger brothers, John (a gifted arranger/trumpeter) and Joe (a highly accomplished drummer). He studied at the famed Berklee College of Music, and soon after graduating, began to make his presence felt with the best of the American big bands.
By the time he relocated to Toronto, Ontario, Canada 1974, Pat LaBarbera was already well-known for his solo work with the bands of Louis Bellson, Woody Herman, and for seven years, touring and recording as featured tenor saxophone soloist with the Buddy Rich Band throughout every major city in the U.S., Europe, and Japan. Universally considered one of the world’s most exciting saxophonists.
LaBarbera has performed and recorded consistently with Elvin Jones since 1975, appearing at premier jazz festivals all over the world. After a brief hiatus, he rejoined Elvin Jones’ ‘Time Machine’ in 2001 to perform and tour North America, Britain. Europe, and Japan for the next two years. Describing LaBarbera’s phenomenal talent, Elvin Jones said, “Pat has tremendous musical ability beyond technical facility. He has great power of concentration to detail and is totally committed with body and soul.”
LaBarbera has played on every major network television show including The Ed Sullivan Show and Johnny Carson’s Tonight Show several times. He has worked with the biggest entertainers in the business including Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Dizzy Gillespie, Ella Fitzgerald, Chick Corea, Woody Shaw, and McCoy Tyner.
Pat LaBarbera has been among the key members of the Toronto jazz scene for the past three-plus decades, claiming Junos and ‘Jazz Report’ Awards for writing and performing with his own jazz ensembles all along the way. He has been on the full-time teaching faculty at Humber College for the past several years instructing on Saxophone, Ensemble Performance, Jazz Repertoire Development, and Advanced Jazz Theory and Performance. His album, Deep in a Dream, won the 2000 Juno Award for Best Mainstream Jazz Album.
His album, Deep in a Dream, won the 2000 Juno Award for Best Mainstream Jazz Album. His album, Crossing the Line, features pianist Brian Dickinson and bassist Neil Swainson, as well as special guests trumpeter Randy Brecker and drummer Joe LaBarbera.
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Join Hamilton Music Collective for our 10th anniversary jazz concert series, showcasing top Canadian and international musicians in jazz, blues, and improvised music. Step into our cozy jazz lounge at 141 Park Street, featuring a top notch sound system (brand new in 2020), wine selections, and an attentive audience. It all comes together in the perfect venue to hear world-class jazz in downtown Hamilton!
All proceeds from ticket sales support the An Instrument For Every Child (AIFEC) program.
For more information about the Hamilton Music Collective and An Instrument For Every Child visit: hamiltonmusiccollective.ca
Parking is available in the parking lots. Read more here: https://www.thegasworks.ca/parking/

HMC Presents: Heather Bambrick
2025-02-27 20:00 - 22:30
Hamilton Music Collective Presents:
Heather Bambrick
Thursday February 27, 2025
CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS
Heather Bambrick – Vocals
Stu Harrison – Piano
Ross MacIntyre – Bass
Chase Sanborn – Trumpet / Flugelhorn
Ben Wittman – Drums
Series Tickets on sale Friday January 10 2025 9:00am
Individual Tickets on sale Friday January 17 2025 9:00am
Tickets: $45 / $25 (student)
Purchase a Series Ticket and save 15% on each show here.
Check out the rest of the winter series here.
Please choose your seats at check out!
Doors at 7:00PM, show at 8:00PM (two sets).
Thanks to our charcuterie sponsor Sam’s Cheese & Meats! Find them in the Hamilton Farmer’s Market.
About Heather Bambrick:
Heather Bambrick is a JUNO-nominated vocalist who has collaborated with Phil Nimmons, Fred Hirsch, Gene DiNovi, Guido Basso, Lea Delaria, Rob McConnell, Peter Appleyard, the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, the Newfoundland Symphony Orchestra, and others.
Heather has released three solo recordings, including You’ll Never Know, which was nominated for Vocal Jazz Recording of the Year at the 2017 JUNO Awards and Jazz Recording of the Year at the 2018 East Coast Music Awards. Her new recording is set for release in early 2019. Heather has been a featured guest on numerous projects, and has been awarded Canada’s National Jazz Award for Vocalist of the Year.
Beyond singing, Heather is one of Canada’s top voice actors, voicing characters for commercial campaigns and several animated series including Emmy-nominated Wild Kratts, Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, and Justin Time. She is also an award-winning broadcaster on JAZZ.FM91 (Canada’s only all-Jazz radio station), and a highly regarded adjudicator and clinician, working at schools and festivals across Canada.
“Heather hits every right note”, says Mark Rheume of CBC Radio. WholeNote Magazine calls her “one of the finest jazz singers in this country”, and All About Jazz says her voice is a “paragon of clarity” and that “she’s the real deal in every way”.
Heather’s live performances have been described as “what happens when Ella Fitzgerald meets Carol Burnett at a Newfoundland Kitchen Party!” As a born-and-raised Newfoundlander, Heather uses her East-Coast charm to welcome the audience in to a true “show”.
Heather is a musician’s singer, operating at the top of her craft. She brings together top-notch musicians (internationally considered to be some of the best in their field), wide-ranging repertoire (including everything from jazz standards and impressive original compositions, to reimagined pop tunes and Newfoundland folk songs), interesting and unique arrangements, and outstanding stage presence and humour to create a show that is entertainment at its finest!
As Heather, herself, puts it: “People often feel a need to ‘connect’: to music, to stories, to artist, and to each other. I like to make that connection through music, stories, laughter, and true entertainment. As an artist, I feel it’s my duty ensure audiences are entertained and engaged through and through. There are a lot of people who crave that feeling of getting lost in a show – and I want to give it to them.”
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Join Hamilton Music Collective for our 10th anniversary jazz concert series, showcasing top Canadian and international musicians in jazz, blues, and improvised music. Step into our cozy jazz lounge at 141 Park Street, featuring a top notch sound system (brand new in 2020), wine selections, and an attentive audience. It all comes together in the perfect venue to hear world-class jazz in downtown Hamilton!
All proceeds from ticket sales support the An Instrument For Every Child (AIFEC) program.
For more information about the Hamilton Music Collective and An Instrument For Every Child visit: hamiltonmusiccollective.ca
Parking is available in the parking lots. Read more here: https://www.thegasworks.ca/parking/

Kid's Morning Program - March Break Tech Week
2025-03-10 09:00 - 12:00
This March Break, dive into the world of music with our exciting new morning program! Designed for kids ages 8–12, this week-long adventure (9am–12pm) lets students explore the art of songwriting and music creation.
Students will get hands-on experience in our state-of-the-art music tech lab Soundhaus Studio, composing original movie scores on iPads and experimenting with a variety of traditional rock band instruments in a fun, daily jam-session. Working in groups with instructors Mr. Garrett in the beats lab and Mr. Andrew in the jam room, students will develop their skills, learn how to create music solo and together, and leave with a song of their own to cherish forever. No prior musical experience is required—just bring your creativity and enthusiasm!
By the end of the week, your child will have made new friends, learned to express themselves through music, and gained the confidence to jam with others and create new material. It’s a fun, educational, and unforgettable experience that will inspire young musicians of all levels.
Daily Schedule:

9:00 – 9:15am: Drop off
9:15 – 10:15am: Session 1 (Beats Lab / Jam Room)
10:15 – 10:30am: Snack break
10:30 – 11:30am: Session 2 (Jam Room / Beats Lab)
11:30 – 11:45pm: Clean up, Group Activity
11:45 – 12:00pm: Pick up

Cost: $155 for five mornings (March 10 – 14)

Location: The HMC Centre for Performance and Education at The Gasworks (141 Park Street North, downtown Hamilton)
Dates: Monday March 10 – 14, 2025

Intro to Digital DJing with DJ Realistic (Workshop)
2025-03-10 13:00 - 14:30
Intro to Digital DJing with DJ Realistic
Aaron Sakala aka DJ Realistic (he/him)
Ages 13 – 19
Monday, March 10 – 1:00 – 2:30 pm

Join Aaron Sakala aka DJ Realistic and get your hands on the decks with DVS (digital vinyl systems). DVS combines easy-to-use DJ software and your digital music collection with physical turntables and vinyl records. Dive into the basics of mixing and scratching with Serato in this hands-on workshop!

Join us for the second annual March Break Tech Week, offering something for youth of all ages! Kids ages 8-12 can create their own movie score and pick up a new instrument every day in our new Monday-Friday morning program. Teens ages 13 – 19 can choose from a variety of 90-minute workshops. Learn the basics of Digital DJing, explore electronic music with Ableton, or get hands on with effects pedals. Co-write with pro songwriters and producers, and get a taste of the Musical Futures Production Program from HMC.
All programs take place at The HMC Centre for Performance and Education at The Gasworks. Register now on our website!
https://hamiltonmusiccollective.ca/programs/march-break/
About DJ Realistic:
Born and raised in Hamilton, DJ Realistic (Aaron Sakala) has been a cornerstone of the local music scene celebrated for his exceptional mixing, blending, and scratching techniques for over thirty years.
REALISTIC’s collaborative highlights include Eklipz, Peoples Republic, Lee Reed, and WARSAWPACK, with whom he released two albums and toured Canada. He has also shared the stage with renowned artists such as Xzibit, DJ Krush, Alexisonfire, Roots Manuva, Saukrates, and Souls of Mischief.
Co-founder of Live N Direct, Hamilton’s pioneering hip-hop radio show on 93.3 CFMU, REALISTIC helped shape the city’s soundscape by supporting and promoting local talent.
A skilled sound engineer, he provides sound tech for musicians, sound design for theatrical productions, and records and produces music for EMCEEs.
REALISTIC privately mentors emerging and established DJs through custom tailored lessons and loves his time helping the upcoming generation cultivate their voices and hone their craft.

How to Collaborate and Write Great Songs (Workshops)
2025-03-11 13:00 - 14:30
How to Collaborate and Write Great Songs

Melissa Dutch (she/her) & Sasha Szlafarski (he/him)
Ages 13 – 19
Tuesday, March 11 – 1:00 – 2:30 pm

Join songwriter Melissa Dutch and producer/composer Sasha Szlafarski as they demonstrate tips and tricks to collaborate with others and write a great song. Experience the process and write lyrics and melodies together! Back by popular demand!

Join us for the second annual March Break Tech Week, offering something for youth of all ages! Kids ages 8-12 can create their own movie score and pick up a new instrument every day in our new Monday-Friday morning program. Teens ages 13 – 19 can choose from a variety of 90-minute workshops. Learn the basics of Digital DJing, explore electronic music with Ableton, or get hands on with effects pedals. Co-write with pro songwriters and producers, and get a taste of the Musical Futures Production Program from HMC.
All programs take place at The HMC Centre for Performance and Education at The Gasworks. Register now on our website!
https://hamiltonmusiccollective.ca/programs/march-break/
About Melissa Dutch:
MELISSA DUTCH is an ARTIST/PERFORMER/WRITER, and VOCAL COACH, specializing in contemporary pop, rock, soul, and indie genres, with a technical background in jazz, classical voice, musical theatre, and opera. She offers students a diverse and all-encompassing music education, or a specific focus on almost any genre.
She has been running her registered private studio, MELISSA DUTCH MUSIC STUDIO, from 2016 to today, with a community of dedicated voices. Melissa has an active career as a solo gigging, writing and recording artist in Hamilton and the GTA. Melissa has been recording and releasing original music as a powerful vocalist and an honest poet & lyricist since 2020.
Melissa’s dedication to holistic artistic growth has made her a passionate coach who believes in caring for the whole artist. She approaches instruction with a spirit of healing, acceptance, growth, and inclusivity (particularly for those who are neurodivergent and/or those on a mental/spiritual health journey with their art). The voice is our instrument, an extension of our natural body, the language of our heart, and an expression of our soul.
About Sasha Szlafarski:
Sasha is a multi-disciplinary musician, producer, audio engineer, and composer based in Hamilton, Ontario. His work is marked by a strong emphasis on both sonic and emotional honesty, with a balanced appreciation for both complexity and understatement in music.
Sasha began playing guitar at age 10 and quickly developed an interest in music production, teaching himself recording techniques. By middle school, he was engineering and mixing EPs for his bands. By high school graduation, he had released six EPs and toured internationally as a professional musician. He later pursued Film Scoring studies at the Berklee College of Music.
After completing his studies, Sasha built a career as a composer, engineer, and producer for film, television, and commercial music, working with various filmmakers and studying under Toronto composer Donald Quan. His work expanded into sound recording on film sets and post-production mixing.
In addition to his commercial projects, Sasha quietly produced music on the side for his close friends and colleagues who shared his passion for emotive music, unconventional orchestration, and layered storytelling. At the same time, Sasha advanced his engineering skills by working as a repair technician, specializing in guitars, amplifiers, recording studio equipment, and pedals, while also building his own gear. In 2021, he would eventually open Everything Hz, a professional recording studio, in Hamilton, Ontario.
In 2023, Sasha joined the Hamilton Music Collective, where he designed and outfitted their new recording studio and music tech educational facility, Soundhaus, at the iconic Gasworks building in Hamilton.

From Song Idea to Produced Track (Workshop)
2025-03-11 15:00 - 16:30
From Song Idea to Produced Track

Melissa Dutch (she/her) & Sasha Szlafarski (he/him)
Ages 13 – 19
Tuesday, March 11 – 3:00 – 4:30 pm

Join producer/composer Sasha Szlafarski and songwriter Melissa Dutch as they show how to produce a high quality track using a microphone, midi instruments and your own computer! Learn how to record and layer vocals, virtual instruments and effects to turn your song idea into a finished track. Back by popular demand!

Join us for the second annual March Break Tech Week, offering something for youth of all ages! Kids ages 8-12 can create their own movie score and pick up a new instrument every day in our new Monday-Friday morning program. Teens ages 13 – 19 can choose from a variety of 90-minute workshops. Learn the basics of Digital DJing, explore electronic music with Ableton, or get hands on with effects pedals. Co-write with pro songwriters and producers, and get a taste of the Musical Futures Production Program from HMC.
All programs take place at The HMC Centre for Performance and Education at The Gasworks. Register now on our website!
https://hamiltonmusiccollective.ca/programs/march-break/
About Sasha Szlafarski:
Sasha is a multi-disciplinary musician, producer, audio engineer, and composer based in Hamilton, Ontario. His work is marked by a strong emphasis on both sonic and emotional honesty, with a balanced appreciation for both complexity and understatement in music.
Sasha began playing guitar at age 10 and quickly developed an interest in music production, teaching himself recording techniques. By middle school, he was engineering and mixing EPs for his bands. By high school graduation, he had released six EPs and toured internationally as a professional musician. He later pursued Film Scoring studies at the Berklee College of Music.
After completing his studies, Sasha built a career as a composer, engineer, and producer for film, television, and commercial music, working with various filmmakers and studying under Toronto composer Donald Quan. His work expanded into sound recording on film sets and post-production mixing.
In addition to his commercial projects, Sasha quietly produced music on the side for his close friends and colleagues who shared his passion for emotive music, unconventional orchestration, and layered storytelling. At the same time, Sasha advanced his engineering skills by working as a repair technician, specializing in guitars, amplifiers, recording studio equipment, and pedals, while also building his own gear. In 2021, he would eventually open Everything Hz, a professional recording studio, in Hamilton, Ontario.
In 2023, Sasha joined the Hamilton Music Collective, where he designed and outfitted their new recording studio and music tech educational facility, Soundhaus, at the iconic Gasworks building in Hamilton.
About Melissa Dutch:
MELISSA DUTCH is an ARTIST/PERFORMER/WRITER, and VOCAL COACH, specializing in contemporary pop, rock, soul, and indie genres, with a technical background in jazz, classical voice, musical theatre, and opera. She offers students a diverse and all-encompassing music education, or a specific focus on almost any genre.
She has been running her registered private studio, MELISSA DUTCH MUSIC STUDIO, from 2016 to today, with a community of dedicated voices. Melissa has an active career as a solo gigging, writing and recording artist in Hamilton and the GTA. Melissa has been recording and releasing original music as a powerful vocalist and an honest poet & lyricist since 2020.
Melissa’s dedication to holistic artistic growth has made her a passionate coach who believes in caring for the whole artist. She approaches instruction with a spirit of healing, acceptance, growth, and inclusivity (particularly for those who are neurodivergent and/or those on a mental/spiritual health journey with their art). The voice is our instrument, an extension of our natural body, the language of our heart, and an expression of our soul.

Bring On The Bass with DJ Ade (Workshop)
2025-03-12 15:00 - 16:30
Bring On The Bass with DJ Ade

Adrian Duzyer aka DJ Ade (he/him)
Ages 13 – 19
Wednesday, March 12 – 3:00 – 4:30 pm

Put on your bass face for this sound design workshop, where you’ll create bass tones of such awesome power they’ll shake buildings and turn heads at traffic lights. Whether you want bass that pounds, thumps, wobbles, wubs or roars, this Ableton workshop will give you the strategies and techniques you need to create your own unique sounds, regardless of your skill level or software.

Join us for the second annual March Break Tech Week, offering something for youth of all ages! Kids ages 8-12 can create their own movie score and pick up a new instrument every day in our new Monday-Friday morning program. Teens ages 13 – 19 can choose from a variety of 90-minute workshops. Learn the basics of Digital DJing, explore electronic music with Ableton, or get hands on with effects pedals. Co-write with pro songwriters and producers, and get a taste of the Musical Futures Production Program from HMC.
All programs take place at The HMC Centre for Performance and Education at The Gasworks. Register now on our website!
https://hamiltonmusiccollective.ca/programs/march-break/
About DJ Ade:
Adrian Duyzer (DJ Ade) has been making beats since he fell in love with techno in the 90s. He’s produced dozens of tracks but, sadly, he’s still not famous. Over the past few years he’s been focused on producing deep dubstep and hip-hop, as well as performing live at underground parties that tend to get a little out of hand.

Wired for Noise: Pedals & Beyond with Nim
2025-03-13 13:00 - 14:30
Wired for Noise: Pedals & Beyond with Nim

Nim (they/them)
Ages 13 – 19
Thursday, March 13 – 1:00 – 2:30 pm

What’s with all that noise?! Join synth, bass, and live sound engineer Nim (Basement Revolver, Sound of Separation) for an electrifying exploration of noise music. Learn how to manipulate sound with effects pedals like reverb, delay and distortion to create wild soundscapes. Great for guitar/keyboard players and those interested in sonic experimentation!

Join us for the second annual March Break Tech Week, offering something for youth of all ages! Kids ages 8-12 can create their own movie score and pick up a new instrument every day in our new Monday-Friday morning program. Teens ages 13 – 19 can choose from a variety of 90-minute workshops. Learn the basics of Digital DJing, explore electronic music with Ableton, or get hands on with effects pedals. Co-write with pro songwriters and producers, and get a taste of the Musical Futures Production Program from HMC.
All programs take place at The HMC Centre for Performance and Education at The Gasworks. Register now on our website!
https://hamiltonmusiccollective.ca/programs/march-break/
About Nim:
Nim is a musician and audio engineer based in Hamilton. Their experience in the field has allowed them to approach music from all angles. From performing and writing to recording and mixing (both live and in the studio) Nim brings over a decade of perspective to the table, weaving it all together in their work creating experimental noise music.

Jambassadors Battle of the Bands
2025-04-02 19:00 - 21:00
Hamilton Music Collective presents
Jambassadors Battle of the Bands!

Friday May 2 2025
7:00 – 9:00pm
141 Park Street North, Hamilton (The Gasworks)
$10 Adults / $5 Students

Cheer on our students as they show off all they’ve learned in the Hamilton Music Collective Jambassadors program! Eight bands will perform for our special guest judges and one band will receive an awesome grand prize!
RSVP or pay at the door
All ages event.
All proceeds support the An Instrument For Every Child program. The Hamilton Music Collective is a registered Canadian charity.
About Hamilton Music Collective:
Hamilton Music Collective (HMC) is a non-profit organization that was founded in 2008 by a local group of musicians, educators and community supporters, who are passionate about music and believe in its transformative power to enrich lives and empower students. HMC’s mission is to invigorate the music scene in Hamilton through professional live performances, education, events, workshops and exhibits.

HMC Presents: Adam Kolker
2025-04-10 20:00 - 22:30
Hamilton Music Collective Presents:
Adam Kolker
Thursday April 10, 2025
CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS
David Occhipinti – Guitar
Neil Swainson – Bass
Terry Clarke – Drums
Series Tickets on sale Friday January 10 2025 9:00am
Individual Tickets on sale Friday January 17 2025 9:00am
Tickets: $45 / $25 (student)
Purchase a Series Ticket and save 15% on each show here.
Check out the rest of the winter series here.
Please choose your seats at check out!
Doors at 7:00PM, show at 8:00PM (two sets).
Thanks to our charcuterie sponsor Sam’s Cheese & Meats! Find them in the Hamilton Farmer’s Market.
About Adam Kolker
Adam Kolker is a multi-talented performer, composer and arranger. He performed and recorded with latin-jazz artist Ray Barretto from 1994 through 2002 (with whom he received two GRAMMY nominations). He also appears in New York City with groups including the Village Vanguard Orchestra, Fred Hersch’s “My Coma Dreams,” the Maria Schneider Orchestra, Bruce Barth, Judi Silvano, Lucia Pulido, and his own groups with John Abercombie and Billy Hart. He has recorded with Bruce Barth, John Hébert, Marty Ehrlich, The Story, Bobby Previte, Gunther Schuller, Bruce Saunders, Frank Carlberg, among others.
Adam is also a member of the Brooklyn Jazz Underground, was a full time Associate Professor at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst from 1999-2008 and currently teaches at Kutztown University and Prinz Claus Conservatory in the Netherlands.
Kolker’s first release as a leader, “Crazybird”, on A Records with Tim Hagans, Kevin Hays, Jeff Ballard and Doug Weiss, reached the Top Ten on the CMJ Charts, and received critical acclaim from such publications as Jazz Times, JazzIz and the Village Voice.
Other CDs include “Sultanic Verses” (Satchmo Jazz Records) with Bruce Barth, Billy Hart, Ray Barretto and John Hébert, “Change Of Time” (OmniTone Records) a trio with Russ Lossing and John Hébert, performing music based on music by Bela Bartok which received 4 1/2 stars in Downbeat Magazine and was voted one of the Top CD’s of the Decade.
“Meditacions” (Satchmo Jazz Records) co-led with Catalan drummer Xavi Maureta, received the award for “Best Modern Jazz CD” from the Catalan Jazz Society in 2002, and Kolker’s “Flag Day,” (Sunnyside) with John Abercrombie, John Hébert and Paul Motian, received critical acclaim from the New York Times, Jazz Times, Stereophile, and Downbeat.
In May 2011, Kolker released “Reflections” (Sunnyside), with John Abercrombie, John Hébert, Russ Lossing, Billy Mintz, Judi Silvano and Kay Matsukawa.
A cooperatively-led quartet with Scott Wendholt, Ugonna Okegwo and Victor Lewis, “AndThem” was released in 2015 (Fresh Sound Records).
“Beckon” – on Sunnyside Records – features a trio including Steve Cardenas on guitar and Billy Mintz on drums, accompanied by a woodwind trio of Lawrence Feldman (flutes), David Gould (clarinets) and Jackie Henderson (bassoon). Released in 2017.
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Join Hamilton Music Collective for our 10th anniversary jazz concert series, showcasing top Canadian and international musicians in jazz, blues, and improvised music. Step into our cozy jazz lounge at 141 Park Street, featuring a top notch sound system (brand new in 2020), wine selections, and an attentive audience. It all comes together in the perfect venue to hear world-class jazz in downtown Hamilton!
All proceeds from ticket sales support the An Instrument For Every Child (AIFEC) program.
For more information about the Hamilton Music Collective and An Instrument For Every Child visit: hamiltonmusiccollective.ca
Parking is available in the parking lots. Read more here: https://www.thegasworks.ca/parking/

HMC Presents: Tony Monaco B3 Organ Trio
2025-04-24 20:00 - 22:30
Hamilton Music Collective Presents:
Tony Monaco B3 Organ Trio
Thursday April 24, 2025
TICKET LINK
Tony Monaco – B3 Organ
Ted Quinlan – Guitar
Ted Warren – Drums
Series Tickets on sale Friday January 10 2025 9:00am
Individual Tickets on sale Friday January 17 2025 9:00am
Tickets: $45 / $25 (student)
Purchase a Series Ticket and save 15% on each show here.
Check out the rest of the winter series here.
Please choose your seats at check out!
Doors at 7:00PM, show at 8:00PM (two sets).
Thanks to our charcuterie sponsor Sam’s Cheese & Meats! Find them in the Hamilton Farmer’s Market.
About Tony Monaco
Tony Monaco may be the best organ player you have yet to hear of, flying stealth while playing arguably some of the hottest B-3 around. Mentored by the legendary Jimmy Smith in what is considered the more classic style, Monaco does not swing, smolder or smoke. “Tony Monaco burns is this most fitting!” CriticalJazz Review2012. Tony Monaco began his keyboard life at age eight. When he was twelve, his destiny as a jazz organist was sealed when he first heard Jimmy Smith. An enthusiastic student, Tony began working in Jazz clubs as a teenager in his native Columbus, Ohio, guided by local organ gurus Hank Marr and Don Patterson. Four years later, Jimmy Smith invited Tony to come play at his club in California, a peak lifetime experience for Tony.
In April 2000, Tony met fellow jazz organist Joey DeFrancesco, who offered to produce a debut CD for him. This collaboration resulted in the critically acclaimed “Burnin Grooves”. The international success of the recording served as the catalyst for regional and national tours. Tony has since released 8 International releases and toured around the globe many times. Tony also toured and recorded with Pat Martino for over two years! As an ardent student of the organ, it’s no surprise that Tony is an accomplished teacher as well. In addition to private students, classes and clinics, Tony has produced a series of instructional DVDs titled “Playing Jazz Hammond” that have become indispensable for many serious students of the organ. Tony continues to expand his catalogue using most updated technologies. He developed a system of giving lessons one on one online and gives lessons to students around the globe! His passion for teaching allowed him to secure his “Artist in Residence” status at Hope College in Holland, Michigan where he teaches students both online as well as in regular workshops, groups and one-on-ones at the College. Presently, Tony maintains a very busy schedule that includes festival appearances, clinics, and workshops.
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Join Hamilton Music Collective for our 10th anniversary jazz concert series, showcasing top Canadian and international musicians in jazz, blues, and improvised music. Step into our cozy jazz lounge at 141 Park Street, featuring a top notch sound system (brand new in 2020), wine selections, and an attentive audience. It all comes together in the perfect venue to hear world-class jazz in downtown Hamilton!
All proceeds from ticket sales support the An Instrument For Every Child (AIFEC) program.
For more information about the Hamilton Music Collective and An Instrument For Every Child visit: hamiltonmusiccollective.ca
Parking is available in the parking lots. Read more here: https://www.thegasworks.ca/parking/

Jambassadors Battle of the Bands
2025-05-02 19:00 - 21:00
Hamilton Music Collective presents
Jambassadors Battle of the Bands!

Friday May 2 2025
7:00 – 9:00pm
141 Park Street North, Hamilton (The Gasworks)
$10 Adults / $5 Students

Cheer on our students as they show off all they’ve learned in the Hamilton Music Collective Jambassadors program! Eight bands will perform for our special guest judges and one band will receive an awesome grand prize!
All ages event.
All proceeds support the An Instrument For Every Child program. The Hamilton Music Collective is a registered Canadian charity.
About Hamilton Music Collective:
Hamilton Music Collective (HMC) is a non-profit organization that was founded in 2008 by a local group of musicians, educators and community supporters, who are passionate about music and believe in its transformative power to enrich lives and empower students. HMC’s mission is to invigorate the music scene in Hamilton through professional live performances, education, events, workshops and exhibits. HMC is best known for their program An Instrument For Every Child which provides free high quality music lessons to children in Hamilton’s highest-needs schools and community centres.

Beats By U! Student Showcase
2025-06-04 18:30 - 20:00
Cheer on our students at the second annual Beats By U! Student Showcase! Hear original electronic beats from the next generation of producers, DJs and beat makers.
Students from three of our beat making / music production classes will be performing their original music on stage in the Gasworks theatre for the first time. This event is open to the public and we hope to have support from friends and family in this intimate, dance club environment.
Where: Theatre inside the HMC Centre for Performance and Education at The Gasworks
When: Wednesday June 4 2025
Time: 6:30 – 8:00pm
Doors open at 6:00pm
Performances begin at 6:30
Part of the Musical Futures Production Program by Hamilton Music Collective.
Read more about our music production classes here.
Price: Free entry (donations accepted)
All ages event.
All proceeds support the An Instrument For Every Child program. The Hamilton Music Collective is a registered Canadian charity.
About Hamilton Music Collective:
Hamilton Music Collective (HMC) is a non-profit organization that was founded in 2008 by a local group of musicians, educators and community supporters, who are passionate about music and believe in its transformative power to enrich lives and empower students. HMC’s mission is to invigorate the music scene in Hamilton through professional live performances, education, events, workshops and exhibits. HMC is best known for their program An Instrument For Every Child which provides free high quality music lessons to children in Hamilton’s highest-needs schools and community centres.

HMC Presents: Harold Danko Trio
2025-10-02 20:00 - 22:30
Hamilton Music Collective Presents:
Harold Danko Trio
Thursday October 2, 2025
Ticket Link
Harold Danko – Piano
Terry Clarke – Drums
Pat Collins – Bass

Series Tickets on sale Friday August 22 2025 9:00am
Individual Tickets on sale Friday September 5 2025 9:00am

Tickets: $45 / $25 (student)
Purchase a Series Ticket and save 15% on each show here.
Check out the rest of the fall series here.

Please choose your seats at check out!
Doors at 7:00PM, show at 8:00PM (two sets).

About Harold Danko
A 30-album discography and long-term associations with legendary jazz artists not to mention countless recording sessions and worldwide tours, describe only a fraction of what pianist Harold Danko brings to the table. In a career spanning more than a half century Harold has established himself internationally as a distinguished pianist, composer, and band leader fortified by a most impressive resume.
Danko holds Professor Emeritus status at the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, NY, where he chaired the jazz studies program for eleven years but is probably best known for his long-term associations with jazz luminaries including Chet Baker, Gerry Mulligan, Thad Jones/Mel Lewis, Lee Konitz, and Woody Herman. During that time his reputation as a jazz educator grew as he served on the faculties of the Manhattan School of Music, New School/Mannes, and Hartt College before accepting the Eastman appointment in 1998.
Beginning piano studies at the age of five, Harold became serious about pursuing a career in jazz at fifteen when he commenced studies with Gene Rush in Youngstown, Ohio. After graduation from Youngstown State University and a stint in the Army band, Harold landed the piano chair in Woody Herman’s Thundering Herd, which launched his career as a much sought after jazz musician. He has performed at major jazz venues throughout the world as well as on recordings, television, and video. As a band leader he has been featured in Lincoln Center’s “Meet the Artist” series, Washington (DC) Performing Arts Society series at J.F.K. Center, the Rochester International Jazz Festival, and numerous jazz festivals both in the USA and abroad. In 1995 he was awarded an NEA Fellowship to perform his own works in a series of concerts in New York City. Throughout the 90s Harold performed with and composed for his own quartet with Rich Perry (tenor saxophone), Scott Colley (bass) and Jeff Hirshfield (drums) and more recently a trio with Hirshfield and Michael Formanek or Jay Anderson (bass) with whom he recorded a series of highly acclaimed CDs on the SteepleChase label. Since 1980 he has earned ASCAP awards yearly for “the unique prestige value of [his] catalogue of original compositions.”
At the Eastman School of Music he developed the Jazz Performance Workshop curriculum and chaired the Jazz and Contemporary Media department, taught jazz piano, theory, and history, and led the Eastman Jazz Trio and Quartet. Harold’s featured column “Solo Piano” appeared in Keyboard Magazine for more than five years, and his keyboard improvisation method “The Illustrated Keyboard Series” is a widely regarded reference, in addition to his educational video “Jazz Keyboard Techniques”, available in Brazil.
His latest CDs, released over the last three years on the SteepleChase label, “Spring Garden”, “Rite Notes”, and “Trillium” are all inspired by Igor Stravinsky.
“These recordings document important steps in my continuing exploration of Stravinsky’s music for purposes of composition and improvisation – a harvest growing directly from the Rite of Spring and other related works. In live performances the eighteen pieces developed from my studies serve as springboards for further investigation and improvisation. My post-production work on the recordings sparked greater interest in finding even more content to draw on from Stravinsky’s scores, and the pieces have evolved into a kind of suite for solo piano incorporating details that had to be left out of the recordings. I premiered an abbreviated version in 2020 at my Leap Year concert on February 29 in East Rochester and longer versions later at the Bop Shop and Rochester International Jazz Festival.”
https://youtu.be/youe-L3Ze8w?si=dE0crQV9yY-PnB1Q
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Join Hamilton Music Collective for our fall jazz concert series, showcasing top Canadian and international musicians in jazz, blues, and improvised music since 2014. Step into our cozy jazz lounge at 141 Park Street, featuring a top notch sound system (brand new in 2020), wine selections, and an attentive audience. It all comes together in the perfect venue to hear world-class jazz in downtown Hamilton!
All proceeds from ticket sales support the An Instrument For Every Child (AIFEC) program.
For more information about the Hamilton Music Collective and An Instrument For Every Child visit: hamiltonmusiccollective.ca
Parking is available in the parking lots. Read more here: https://www.thegasworks.ca/parking/

HMC Presents: Avataar ft. Sundar Viswanathan
2025-10-23 20:00 - 22:30
Hamilton Music Collective Presents:
Avataar featuring Sundar Viswanathan
Thursday October 23, 2025
TICKET LINK
Sundar – Saxes/Flutes
Michael Occhipinti – Guitar
Laura Swankey – Vocals
Julian Anderson-Bowes – Bass
Ravi Naimpally – Tablas/Percussion
Max Senitt -Drums

Series Tickets on sale Friday August 22 2025 9:00am
Individual Tickets on sale Friday September 5 2025 9:00am

Tickets: $45 / $25 (student)
Purchase a Series Ticket and save 15% on each show here.
Check out the rest of the fall series here.

Please choose your seats at check out!
Doors at 7:00PM, show at 8:00PM (two sets).

About Avataar
Avataar is an award-winning Brampton-based world-jazz group featuring some of Canada’s finest jazz, world, funk, and pop musicians. Petal, (2016) received critical acclaim from publications including DOWNBEAT, JAZZIZ, allaboutjazz and worldmusiccentral.com. Worldview was released in Oct 2021 and won the 2022 JUNO award for Best Jazz Album of the Year (Group)

Avataar’s music is inspired by the deep musical traditions of India, Africa and Brazil, rooted within the framework of modern jazz. In an innovative marriage of ancient and modern, driving grooves intersect with cinematic atmospheres and soaring melodies, creating a fresh, emotive sonic experience. Band members share an eclectic range of musical expertise -hardbop, pop, rock, electronica, free improvisation, world and R&B/Soul filter into the interpretations of the tunes.

Bios:
JUNO-winning saxophonist/flutist/vocalist and composer Sundar Viswanathan has shared the world stage with national/international artists alike. He has performed extensively in Europe (including stints with the Grammy-nominated Charles Tolliver Big Band at several Jazz Festivals),Japan, Brazil, South Africa, Canada, the Caribbean, and the USA.Musical associations from Jazz and World music arenas include Wynton Marsalis, Vijay Iyer, Kenny Wheeler, Jaffa Road, Lee Konitz, Dave Holland, Kiran Ahluwalia, Rez Abbasi, John Abercrombie, Suba Sankaran, Terry Clarke, Joe Lovano, John Hicks, Cecil McBee, Billy Hart, Jim McNeeley, Hip Hop artist GURU, and Dave Douglas. He has been commissioned to compose/perform with several Dance companies in Canada/USA. Sundar has been reviewed/profiled in Downbeat, JAZZIZ, the New York Times, Worldmusiccentral.org, Toronto Star, Ottawa Citizen, EYE magazine and several other Canadian and international publications. Sundar’s music has been featured on CBC radio, JAZZ FM, WBAI, Radio Bombay and college radio nationally and internationally.
JUNO-nominated Canadian vocalist, improviser and electronic sound artist, Laura Swankey is dedicated to exploring the full capacity of her voice, both in solo settings and in collaboration with others. Her solo work for voice and electronics sets simple, earnest melodies and stories over top of lush soundscapes and bizarrely textured grooves.Laura creates and presents with Noam Lemish’s 2024 Juno-nominated Twelvetet, Plastic Babies, Parade, The Afton Project, Elisa Thorn’s HUE, Mike McCormick’s Proxemics, and Jazz Bras Dot Com. She is thrilled to be joining Sundar Viswanathan’s 2022 Juno award-winning ensemble, Avataar. In 2024, Laura will be releasing a duo album of improvised music with long-time collaborator and friend, guitarist Patrick O’Reilly (W/DRWNRecords), as well as albums with Parade, The Afton Project and Plastic Babies.
An eight-time JUNO Award nominee, guitarist/composer Michael Occhipinti‘s inventive approach to creative music of all kinds has earned him a broad array of listeners and the respect of criticsandmusiciansalike.Crossinggenresthatincludejazz,chambermusic,funk,worldmusic,and anything involving modern guitar sounds, Michael is both a versatile musician and an imaginative bandleader.HisSicilian JazzProject hasbeen called “a masterpiece of cross-cultural fusion” and has thrilled audiences in Canada, the U.S., Italy, and Mexico -the project earned Michael a JUNO nomination, and a Chalmers Award that allowed him to live in Sicily from March -June 2010.
Bassist Tyler Emond is a multi-instrumentalist, composer, and music producer, who has worked with a broad array of musical acts found in Canada and around the globe. As a bassist/guitarist he has performed and recorded with Alessia Cara,TylerShaw, Matt Dusk, Amalia, Mark Kelso’s Jazz Exiles, Avataar, Marito Marques, Ahmed Moneka, Fethi Nadjem, The Canadian Arabic Orchestra, Naseer Shamma, Mr. Something Something, Tamar Ilana & Ventanas, Netsanet Melesse, Dead Prez & Randy Brecker. As an audio engineer andmusical directorEmondhas produced recordings for Hush, Kune, Ahmed Moneka,TylerShaw, Tamar Ilana & Ventanas, Tennis Partner, Tara Moneka, Fethi Nadjem, Melissa Lauren, Duane Forrest, Janelle Monique, Melanie Brulee, Kristin Fung, and Natureboy
Ravi Naimpally studied the art of tabla playing in India. Having completed extensive training with his uncle Nikhil Ghosh and also Anindo Chatterjee, Ravi has been an active member of the Toronto world music scene for nearly 20 years. As a vital part of Toronto’s large South Asian community, Ravi continues to perform traditional music from India. Ravi has had several Juno nominations and is featured on Kiran Alhuwalia’s Juno winning CD Beyond Boundaries. For the last 11 years Ravi has led his own Indo-jazz ensemble Tasa, which was awarded an Urban Music Award for Best World Music album.
Juno winning drummer/percussionist Max Senitt is a highly regarded and in-demand freelance musician on the Toronto and international scene. He brings a wealth of experience and versatility gained from performing across Canada, USA, theCaribbean, SouthAmerica, and Europe with such Grammy and Juno award winning artists as: Alex Cuba, Hilario Duran, Odessa/Havana, Josh Groban, Odessa Havan, the Flying Bulgars, and Carol Welsman. Presently a member of Tzadik Recording artists “Zebrina” and Uruguayan singer Valeria Matzner’s bands,he also leads his own Trio.
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Join Hamilton Music Collective for our fall jazz concert series, showcasing top Canadian and international musicians in jazz, blues, and improvised music since 2014. Step into our cozy jazz lounge at 141 Park Street, featuring a top notch sound system (brand new in 2020), wine selections, and an attentive audience. It all comes together in the perfect venue to hear world-class jazz in downtown Hamilton!
All proceeds from ticket sales support the An Instrument For Every Child (AIFEC) program.
For more information about the Hamilton Music Collective and An Instrument For Every Child visit: hamiltonmusiccollective.ca
Parking is available in the parking lots. Read more here: https://www.thegasworks.ca/parking/

HMC Presents: Adrean Farrugia Trio ft. Jessica Lalonde
2025-11-06 20:00 - 22:30
Hamilton Music Collective Presents:
Adrean Farrugia Trio feat. Jessica Lalonde
Thursday November 6, 2025
TICKET LINK
Adrean Farrugia – Piano
Jessica Lalonde – Vocals
(Band TBD)

Series Tickets on sale Friday August 22 2025 9:00am
Individual Tickets on sale Friday September 5 2025 9:00am

Tickets: $45 / $25 (student)
Purchase a Series Ticket and save 15% on each show here.
Check out the rest of the fall series here.

Please choose your seats at check out!
Doors at 7:00PM, show at 8:00PM (two sets).

Toronto vocalist Jessica Lalonde partners with Juno award winning pianist Adrean Farrugia and his trio. Together they bring an eclectic blend of music and song, taking the listener on a journey through early jazz, of the Broadway and Ellingtonian variety, to popular songs of the modern era, with nods to Lalonde’s training in Opera and Chanson Francaise, and Farrugia’s roots in Bach, Beethoven, and Bebop.
Recently listed by Jazz FM91 as one of “Eight Canadian Women in Jazz You Need to Know”, Jessica Lalonde has made a name for herself as a compelling, passionate, and eclectic Canadian artist. Her unique and powerful vocal sound blends a wide range of musical influences, transcending genres. Since her early days as a young singer, she has enjoyed lending her voice to a diverse array of projects ranging from Operatic roles in Vancouver and Italy, to Indie-Rock backing vocals, to New Music, to every major Jazz festival in Canada.
Multiple award-winning pianist and composer Adrean Farrugia has garnered national, and even international recognition for his highly creative and individual approach to the piano– highly lyrical, rhythmic and playful, always pulling emotion from the listener. He’s performed on stages worldwide from Paris to Tokyo, New York City to Tel-Aviv, bringing his unique piano approach to more than 50 recordings to date, garnering 9 Juno award nominations, 2 Juno Awards, and a 2020 award for Artist of the Year at the Production Music of America’s Mark Awards. Together, this duo mesmerizes audiences with music that hits the heart and fascinates the mind. This is music that has something for everyone.
About Adrean Farrugia:
An award-winning artist and Juno nominee, Adrean Farrugia has performed with legends such as Ernie Watts, Randy Brecker, Molly Johnson, Sheila Jordan, Jane Bunnett, and Kenny Wheeler, and has appeared on more than 60 recordings. He has been recognized with two Juno Awards, eight nominations, and numerous accolades including a Mark Award for ‘Best Production Music Artist’ from the Production Music Association of America.
Adrean leads multiple creative projects including the trio Eurostar, with a new album set for release in 2025, and the Toronto-Montreal quartet Tangent. He is endorsed by Shigeru Kawai Pianos.
He holds degrees from Mohawk College, the University of Toronto, and York University, and has taught at Humber College, Mohawk College, U of T, and York. Most recently, he served as Assistant Professor at Saint Francis Xavier University.
About Jessica Lalonde:
Jessica Lalonde has spent her life exploring music in all its shades and facets. Raised on Country and Rock & Roll, she fell for jazz during her formative years. Lalonde began singing around her hometown of Midland in small jazz duos and trios, and for her local Big Band. Eventually the clarity and strength of her voice led her into serious vocal study and she obtained an Honours Bachelor of Music Degree in Performance from Wilfrid Laurier University. She excelled in her studies, winning a performance scholarship, several prestigious concerto competitions, and holding the title roles in the University’s opera productions.
After graduating she recorded a solo album of jazz and big band hits produced by jazz veteran Bill King. The album Spinning Daydreams, features some of Canada’s finest and most sought after musicians including Kevin Breit (Norah Jones, kd lang, Cassandra Wilson), Davide DiRenzo (Jacksoul, Sophie Milman, Tomi Swick), Duncan Hopkins (Diana Krall, Mark Murphy, Rob McConnell and the Boss Brass) and Ann Lindsay (Blue Rodeo, Dionne Warwick, The Chieftans).
Following the production and touring of this project, Lalonde continued to explore and hone her instrument by delving into Bel canto singing under the guidance of Metropolitan soprano Aprile Millo, and in 2015 she had the privilege of performing in Italy alongside Ms. Millo for a series of concerts benefitting the Museo and Comittato Renata Tebaldi, the Amici delle case di Puccini, and Villa Verdi. While there, she was also honoured to work with legendary Conductor Maestro Richard Bonynge.
Jessica enjoys a diverse array of performing opportunities including recent collaborations with Juno award winner Chris Gestrin for a headlining performance of “From Heaven to The Centre of The Earth,” a multimedia performance art piece at the Vancouver Art Gallery’s FUSE Festival. She has also performed backing vocals on three Born Ruffians albums, and is featured on Will Currie and the Country French’s album, They Killed Us, Jaymze Bee’s soon to be released collaborative project, Muse and jazz giant, John MacMurchy’s latest Art of Breath recording project. Looking to expand into new markets Jessica signed with Folkstar Productions and re-released her Christmas single “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” to overwhelming support. With these appreciations she is now headed back into the recording studio with the talented John MacMurchy to record her second album. Look for her new album to drop late 2018.
Ultimately the connecting thread between these various musical genres and adventures has been an ability to express the core emotion of whatever composition she is singing, whether by Puccini, Gershwin or a local folk rock band. This expression is filtered through an open heart and depth of understanding; channelled through a voice that feels as though it may unleash at any moment, but chooses rather to remain grounded; an unaffected purity of tone conveying shadow and light.
“Such a distinct voice, genuine natural talent and undeniable beauty.” – Awesome Music
“Jessica Lalonde is one of the top Canadian women in jazz you need to know!” – Jazz.FM91

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Join Hamilton Music Collective for our fall jazz concert series, showcasing top Canadian and international musicians in jazz, blues, and improvised music since 2014. Step into our cozy jazz lounge at 141 Park Street, featuring a top notch sound system (brand new in 2020), wine selections, and an attentive audience. It all comes together in the perfect venue to hear world-class jazz in downtown Hamilton!
All proceeds from ticket sales support the An Instrument For Every Child (AIFEC) program.
For more information about the Hamilton Music Collective and An Instrument For Every Child visit: hamiltonmusiccollective.ca
Parking is available in the parking lots. Read more here: https://www.thegasworks.ca/parking/
