Message from the Founder

As a musician over the years I have played numerous jazz festivals in and around Toronto and often wondered why we, the great jazz lovers of Etobicoke, did not have a festival of our own. With this inspiration I became and remain committed to bringing the best jazz festival to our community, not only by presenting top notch talent but also by giving the opportunity to younger musicians as well as their educators. They work tirelessly and deserve to perform and display all the talent that our neighbourhood develops. After all we are fortunate to boast the best music programs in the country as well as a massive pool of world class players.

Since our inception in 2015 we have and continue to fulfill all the intentions mentioned above in spite of making it through some difficult times, in particular, the Covid year of 2020 where all live events were shelved. However, we were lucky enough to be able to present a brief showcase in early November 2021, not as complete but at least it was a live event, rather than just virtual.

Last fall, 2022, we ran our first annual “Doc” Award Student Band competition, named after famed pianist, organist and composer, the late Doug Riley, who was affectionately referred to as “Doc”. The competition was held as part of “The Taste of the Kingsway” street festival on Bloor St W in Etobicoke. We had seven different entries who played over the weekend, and the three final groups played off on the Sunday, Oct 2. The prizes were substantial and we would like to thank Elavoe.ca for their financial support. Our new supporters, Footloose Dance Wear and the Sean Boutlilier School of Dance allowed us to use their staging and sound which was a perfect setting for this event. We are very grateful for their help.

This year, we have been contacted by quite a few interested students and we expect an even larger turnout with more competitors and, of course, some great jazz music. Our winning group from last year, Ale Nunez and her Quintet, will open on Friday, September 29th. She will also be featured on our VIP night, Thursday September 28, where she will participate with our Etobicoke Jazz Youth Orchestra, a 17-piece big band led by saxophonist and arranger, Dennis Kwok.

As always I would like to thank the people who continue to make all things happen, starting with my partner Jeff Robbs who heads up Big Story Entertainment along with John Sheridan and Matt Smallwood of Flying Colours. Other important participants include Colleen Noble, Eric Boucher, Miriam Clarke, Marco Riquero, Marshall Boyce, Alessandro Spadini and the many musician friends that are always willing to give of their time and help the cause.

As a PS I would also like to thank a great friend of mine, Judy Johnson who inspired me to start this Festival in the first place and due to health reasons has had to step down. Her spirit is always present.

Thanks to all, and we hope to see many new faces this year!

Curtis Smith, Founder and Artistic Director

curtis@jazzweststudios.ca