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| The French Connection at Toronto Jazz Festival As part of the 20th anniversary celebrations, The TD Canada Trust Jazz Festival features The French Connection Series. This impressive line-up includes an international profile of musicians performing at a variety of venues. The eclectic collection of Francophone and French artists of The French Connection Series is presented by Mouton Cadet Wines from Bordeaux in association with media partner, Radio-Canada, Radio and Television. Bienvenue France! The Richard Galliano Trio, features the accordion genius leading an all-star trio that includes George Mraz on bass and Al Foster on drums, June 27 at Harbourfront Centre Theatre. The Belmondo Brothers, with Stephane on trumpet and Lionel on saxophone, lead a dazzling quintet of French musicians and are recognized as international players in the Jazz world. Belmondo are currently on tour with Yusef Lateef when they appear June 30 at the Harbourfront Centre Theatre. Complementing the French Connection series is the Canadian debut of sultry singer, Jehro. Direct from the independent music scene of Paris, his 'Caribbean Soul' style promises to evoke memories of the Mediterranean when he opens for Seu Jorge on June 30th at Harbourfront's Concert Stage. In honour of Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day Francophones and Anglophones alike are invited to celebrate with a touch of jazz when the Festival plays host to a free afternoon performance at Nathan Phillips Square by Bernard Primeau and his Jazz Ensemble. A gifted drummer, Primeau is a pillar of jazz in Quebec, and his band plays an energetic and refreshingly modern acoustic jazz, which will give a Gallic flavour to Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day June 24. Alongside favourite Quebecois performers like international jazz pianist Lorraine Desmarais, appearing July 1 and 2 at The Pilot with Tiger Okoshi, and rising singer/guitarist/songwriter, Roxanne Potvin, opening for the Neville Brothers, June 28 at Harbourfront is a Quebec specialty of another kind. Poutine is available a la carte for Festival goers on-site craving a snack Alain Caron is the featured bass player in the Mike Stern band. He also writes and produces his own music for Le Band, touring to appreciative audiences around the world. Hear him at The Pilot at 9:00 and 11:00 on July 24. Award winning singer Michel Berube performs June 28 as part of the Cabaret Series at Young Centre for the Performing Arts, and on June 25 at Harbourfront, The Maple Blues Review play first rate Canadian blues, featuring Montreal singer, Dawn Tyler Watson. write your comments about the article :: © 2006 Jazz News :: home page |