January 9th: Van Django Trio
music is well-rooted in the gypsy jazz of 1930’s Paris France. Since the
group’s formation in 1998, they have toured extensively in Canada as
well as international forays to the US, Europe and China.
The group has had repeat performances at Djangofest Northwest
(DFNW) in 2008-2016 sharing the stage with gypsy jazz luminaries such
as the John Jorgenson Quintet, the legendary gypsy jazz guitarist
Romane and many others.
The group have released 4 CD’s: “Tiptoe Trip”, “Waltz in the Shape of a
Tree”, “Hotel Europe” and a Christmas CD with special guests titled,
“Cool Yule”. They have been well received and played on many radio
stations including; CBC, RDI, Espace Musique, NPR and Lyric FM in
Ireland CD.
January 23rd: Paul Caldwell
Welcome Paul Caldwell for the first time at Coquette!
Irish singer-songwriter Paul Caldwell has the ability to seamlessly blend the soul of Irish ballads with the nuance of Canadian folk music. His live performance can have you hanging on to every word or swaying to unforgettable melody’s.
February 6th: The Lesley Branton Trio
Based in Vancouver, this trio features Lesley Branton (vocals), Jason De Couto (piano) and Alvin Brendan (guitar). In addition to becoming an in demand session musician, Alvin has been quickly crafting a strong identity for himself as a Jazz musician in Vancouver. Despite his youth, he has been fortunate enough to land many performances and recording opportunities with Vancouver’s best. Alvin attributes his cool and sophisticated sound to his learning from his local heroes Bill Coon and Ron Samworth, as well as having the opportunity to learn from internationally acclaimed legends Peter Bernstein and Lorne Lofsky. In combining his love for early Jazz/Swing music with his contemporary influences, Alvin always aims to create a statement that adheres to a rich musical tradition whilst being exciting and fresh. Jason de Couto is a professional Vancouver, B.C. musician focused primarily on piano and keyboards. He works with a variety of musicians, ensembles, and multi-disciplinary artists in an array of styles and genres. He holds degrees from UBC, SFU and Capilano University, and is currently also an elementary school music teacher for the North Vancouver School District. Musician and composer, Emilio completed his studies and was awarded his bachelor of music in Jazz Studies at Capilano University. Emilio’s style is a dynamic range from jazz and bebop to contemporary, classical, and pop. The Lesley Branton Trio plays a variety of jazz standards and Bossa Novas which are as diverse as their audiences.
