The Contributions of Canadian Artists to the Jazz World

Throughout the 20th century, Canada has produced its share of international jazz artists for the world to embrace. Although some of the orchestras like Guy Lombardo Dal Richards, and Mart Kenny were mainly designed to please audiences in a ballroom setting for dancing purposes, they still contributed superior music. in many cases. so that primary jazz artists could discover their music, and transform it for jazz connoisseurs to enjoy.

Some of the most influential artists from this genre in Canada include band leader/trombonist/composer/arranger Rob McConnell and his incomparable Boss Brass Big Band which attracted many guests to record with them, including Phil Woods, Mel Torme, The Singers Unlimited, and The Hi-Lo’s. McConnell’s harts have been studied by band leaders all over the world. Other international stars include Composer/trumpeter Kenny Wheeler, who flourished in the U.K., Winnipeg/Toronto Bassist Dave Young, who recorded with Oscar Peterson and Lenny Breau , Educator/Clarinetist/Composer Phil Nimmons, Trumpeter/leader Maynard Ferguson, Pianist/Composer Oscar Peterson, and vocalist/pianist Diana Krall to name a few. Not only were these pioneers of the Canadian jazz scene in great demand for concerts and record dates, but in many cases, their compositions were studied by other artists as well. Hence, The Great Canadian Songbook was created, with such desirable songs like ‘The Waltz I Blew’ by Rob McConnell, “Hymn For Freedom’ by Oscar Peterson’, ‘Undun’ by guitarist Randy Bachman, ‘The Swingin’ Shepherd Blues’ by Moe Koffman, “I’ll Never Smile Again’ and “Put Your Dreams Away’ by Ruth Lowe for Frank Sinatra, ‘Coquette’ by Carmen Lombardo, ‘Hockey Night In Canada Theme’ by Dolores Clamen, ‘Some of These Days’ by Shelton Brooks, and ‘Both Sides Now’ by Joni Mitchell.

Listed below are some essential jazz albums from our native land:
(1) The Atlantic Suite – Phil Nimmons ;
(2) The Candiana Suite – Oscar Peterson and/or Trail of Dreams-A Canadian Suite with Michel LeGrand and Oscar Peterson;
(3) Maple Groove – Ranee Lee;
(4) She Bop! – A Century of Women Jazz Compositions in Canada’ – Mother of Pearl;
(5) The Africville Suite-Joe Sealy;
(6) Even Canadians Get The Blues – Rob McConnell;
(7) Tales From The Sea – Jill Townsend;
(8) The Saskatchewan Suite by Oliver Jones :
(9) Lenny Breau and Dave Young Live At Bourbon Street in Toronto; and
(10) The Winnipeg Jazz Orchestra – Suite 150 Canada Celebration)-Big Band Portrait.