September 11th: Van Django Trio
Van Django is Back!
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.
September 25th: The Lesley Branton Trio
Based in Vancouver, this trio features Lesley Branton (vocals), Jason de Couto (piano) and Graham Clark (bass).
Influenced by an array of artists and genres, this trio is passionate about sharing their love of music. Having met via Vancouver’s vibrant music scene, these musicians have melded their talents, and together have produced a unique and uplifting sound.
Lesley is a versatile vocalist, who grew up listening to artists including Carole King, James Taylor, Bonnie Raitt and Joni Mitchell. Also inspired by the Peggy Lee records her parents would play, and the timeless voice of Ella Fitzgerald, Les set out to follow her dream of becoming a professional singer. Les recently had the pleasure of recording a rendition of “Speak Low” at The Palace Studio, produced and engineered by Bill Buckingham, alongside: Jennifer Scott – acclaimed vocalist and jazz pianist and Rene Worst – respected bassist, producer, and educator.
A graduate of McGill University, Graham is an upright and electric bass player who plays a variety of styles from jazz to Top 40 to classical music. He has appeared on stage with the Vancouver Legacy Jazz Orchestra, Kamloops Symphony Orchestra and Electric Ballroom.
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.
