“A marvelous Jazz ensemble whose artistry and resourcefulness can best be described as breathtaking.”
Jack Bowers, All About Jazz
The fabulously hip and swinging Jill Townsend Jazz Orchestra delights audiences as they perform regularly to sold out houses.
The band was established in 2000 with the purpose of presenting great playing of original Canadian music. Featured soloists include Brad Turner, Bill Coon, Dennis Esson, Steve Kaldestad, Cory Weeds, Dave Robbins and many more. The unique and dynamic sound of the band is also created by the repertoire, featuring sparkling compositions and delectable arrangements by Jill Townsend and Bill Coon.
Their premiere CD, Tales from the Sea generated international attention, and the Canadian National Jazz Awards twice nominated JTBB for “Big Band of the Year”. The band was invited to the prestigious IAJE Conference in New York where they performed and premiered a new work by Socan Composer Award recipient, arranger/composer/trombonist Ian McDougall.
The Band
Jill Townsend leader
Steve Kaldestad alto
Bill Runge alto
Cory Weeds tenor
Ben Henriques tenor
Chad Makela bari
Derry Byrne trumpet
Brad Turner trumpet
Tom Shorthouse trumpet
John Korsrud trumpet
Rod Murray trombone
Dennis Esson trombone
Jeremy Berkman trombone
Cam Henderson bass trombone
Bill Coon guitar
Rene Worst bass
Dave Robbins drums
jilltownsend.ca 