THE OSTARA PROJECT (AP)

An estimated five percent of jazz instrumentalists are women. In February 2022, Canadian bassist Jodi Proznick (JUNO nomination 2007, 2018) and pianist Amanda Tosoff (JUNO nomination 2022) decided to challenge the almost-exclusive male narrative by bringing together seven outstanding Canadian female jazz musicians, each one a composer and bandleader in her own right. The group recorded a self-titled album: seven compositions, one contributed by each member. The playing is powerful and the message is clear: these musicians have something to say, and they are creating the space where their voices will be heard. ArtSpring is so proud to be presenting The Ostara Project on International Women’s Day. Membership in The Ostara Project is fluid. A core group provides continuity and additional guests are invited, creating the opportunity to amplify the voices of more women, including new rising female stars. Come meet the new Canadian super group of award-winning female jazz musicians.

Jodi Proznick - composer/bassist | Amanda Tosoff - composer/pianist | Allison Au - composer /saxophonist | Rachel Therrien - composer/trumpet | Virginia Macdonald - composer/clarinet | Valérie Lacombe - composer/drums | Laila Biali - vocalist.

Thank you to John Moore for sponsoring this performance.

Photo Credits - from left to right Pascale Methot | Julie Artacho | Angela Fama Michele Mateus | Julia Hembree | Agnes Wywrot | Mike Thomas