The Sunday Jazz Matinée presents the CANUS Traditional Jazz Band featuring Toni Blodgett, Al Pease, Alfons Fear and more!
Join us for a fun-filled afternoon featuring some of the city's most beloved traditional jazz musicians, led by pianist and vocalist Toni Blodgett. Joining her are clarinetist extraordinaire Al Pease, trumpeter Alfons Fear, bassist Joey Smith, and drummer and vocalist Kelby MacNayr.
Before the concert, join us for a fabulous introductory swing dance lesson led by some of the city's finest swing dance instructors! Whether you're taking your very first steps or just looking to brush up on your moves, everyone is welcome.
Dance lesson begins at 1:30 pm. No experience necessary. No partner required.
Toni Blodgett
Pianist Toni Blodgett has been a leading advocate for ragtime and traditional jazz piano in Victoria for more than 30 years. Hailing from the Canadian Prairies, Toni developed her distinctive style through a deep love and appreciation of early jazz masters such as Teddy Wilson, Erroll Garner, Jelly Roll Morton, and many others.
After relocating to Victoria, Toni turned her passion into her profession, becoming one of the region's most sought-after pianists, vocalists, and bandleaders. She has performed at festivals across North America, including a featured performance at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.
Al Pease
Clarinetist Al Pease has been setting the standard for jazz clarinet on Canada's West Coast for more than 40 years. A former member of the prestigious NORAD Band, Al has performed around the world and has long been a favourite of jazz audiences and fellow musicians alike. In Victoria, he regularly performs with Toni Blodgett's CANUS Traditional Jazz Band, Lloyd Arntzen's Blackstick, Kelby MacNayr's Swing Rhythm Kings, The Dixieland Express, and many others.
Alfons Fear
Trumpeter Alfons Fear grew up in Victoria, BC, and attended the renowned Esquimalt Jazz Studies Program during high school. He later studied at Humber College of Music and earned a Master's degree in Classical Trumpet Performance from the University of Victoria. Alfons is admired for his beautiful tone, creative soloing, and outstanding musicianship as an ensemble player.
Joey Smith
Bassist Joey Smith has toured the world with the Glenn Miller Orchestra, the Marc Atkinson Trio, and countless other acclaimed artists throughout Canada and the United States. A renowned guitarist, arranger, bassist, and educator, Joey brings remarkable depth, wisdom, and eloquence to every performance.
Kelby MacNayr
Drummer Kelby MacNayr honed his craft performing alongside many of Canada's and the United States' leading jazz musicians, including Victoria legends Ian McDougall, Louise Rose, and Neil Swainson, as well as internationally acclaimed artists Ingrid Jensen, John Clayton, and Larry Fuller.
Admission by donation ($20 suggested, but all are welcome regardless of funds)