Not Affiliated Big Band | 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm | Millennium Bandstand

Not Affiliated Big Band is a 20-piece, all-ages band, specializing in energetic jazz/swing music. The band members are a diverse and intriguing blend of musicians who love performing fun and powerful music for appreciative audiences. Not Affiliated kicks their way through all kinds of jazz, swing, standards, Latin, fusion and funk. Over the band’s nine-year history, Not Affiliated has developed into an exciting show band, impressing audiences with both their musicality, and their fun and relaxed stage presence. For more information visit http://www.notaffiliated.ca

Skylark | 9:00 pm - 10:30 pm | Millennium Bandstand

“Swingtastic” Skylark captures the sumptuous sound of the Big Band era. Their affinity for swing-jazz has let Skylark to work with such luminaries as Canada’s big band master Mart Kenney, and opening for comedian Bob Newhart. Their repertoire covers the great tunes from the 30’s to the 60’s and includes all the big names from Glenn Miller to Duke Ellington, along with a show-stealing tribute to the Andrews Sisters. Theatrical flair, including themed costumes and synchronized choreography are the hallmarks of Skylarks’ shows. Skylark members: Bonnie Craig, Dyanne Dumas, Marnie Kersten Quartet: Danny McErlain – keyboard Ron Johnston – upright bass Kurt Lund – sax and clarinet Glenn Anderson – drums For more information visit http://www.skylarktrio.com

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Master of Ceremonies | Jaymz Bee | Saturday - Sunday | Millenium Band Stand

Jaymz Bee moved to Toronto from North Bay in 1981 and hasn't stopped painting the town since. Jaymz acts as bandleader of The Royal Jelly Orchestra (since 1995), and is the president of Timely Manor Records, with artists such as Colleen Allen, Kollage, Adam Makowicz, William Carn and Marieve Herington, among others. Jaymz is an on-air host and producer at Canada's premierre jazz station, JAZZ.FM91 and can be heard weekday mornings with Ralph Benmurgui and on Saturdays from 6-8pm where he hosts "Jazz In The City". This is Mr. Bee's second year with the festival. "I love this area of Ontario...the downtown is beautiful, the people are friendly and the jazz at this festival is always top notch".

Master of Ceremonies | Craig Riley | Saturday - Sunday | Markham Museum Band Stand

Markham Jazz Festival is delighted to welcome Craig Riley as our emcee at the Markham Museum bandstand. Craig is perhaps best known as President of Markville Ford Lincoln, but he also contributes a great deal of his time to the community. From sponsoring sports teams, to sending kids to various entertainment events, to auctioneering at charity events, and a host of other initiatives, Craig continuously gives back. His participation at the Jazz Festival is just one more example of his dedication to his community.

Jazz Workshop with Heather Bambrick | 10:30 am - 12 noon | Varley Art Gallery Patio

Each year the Markham Jazz Festival includes a jazz educational component. The purpose of the workshop is to provide a high quality, informative, interactive introduction to jazz improvisation and soloing to aspiring jazz musicians of all ages.The workshop is intended to foster a love of jazz and to provide students and adults with the tools to pursue jazz music. Award winning Vocalist and Broadcaster Heather Bambrick will discuss and demonstrate various aspects of the Voice as an instrument of Jazz, dealing with technical issues like tone and placement, to elements of style, swing, and improvisation. The workshop is open to students and adults from Markham and other areas of the GTA.  Cost is $10 for students and $15 for adults. An application form can be downloaded.  Applications must be submitted by July 31st. Download Jazz Workshop Appilcation Form - PDF (123KB)

Valerie Shearman | 10:30 am - Noon | Markham Farmer’s Market

The Markham Jazz Festival in conjunction with the Markham Village BIA present “Market Jazz” which will run from 10:30 am to 3:00 pmn on Markham’s Historic Main Street. Performing in bands for the last 16 years in a variety of groups, Jazz was always her forte. Since Valerie emerged on the scene in the 1970s, this vivacious singer songwriter has come into her own. Having worked closely with Arthur Tuck and Gregory Martel, two Toronto songwriters, Valerie collaborated with them and wrote five new songs, as well as a new rendition to the classics Wonderful World. and At Last. Valerie has recently released her first jazz album titled Now it's My Turn.

Brian O’Kane Quintet | 12:00 pm - 1:30 pm | Millennium Bandstand

Brian O’Kane is a faculty member at Humber College, where he himself studied before moving to Montreal to attend McGill University. He is a member of the Rob McConnell Tentet, the Bernie Senensky Quintet, Hilario Duran’s Latin Jazz Big Band plus several others. He has performed with some major jazz artists such as Dave Brubeck, Vic Vogel, and Diana Krall. For this performance the Quintet will be performing tunes from the “Hard Bop” era – tunes by greats such as Hank Mobley, Kenny Dorham, and Lee Morgan. Exciting music from a very exciting time! Joining Brian for the MJF performance are: Alex Dean – tenor saxophone Brian Dickinson – piano Neil Swainson – bass Barry Elmes - drums

Brandi DIsterheft Trio | 12:00 pm - 1:30 pm | Markham Museum

Performing swinging originals with influences from Mingus to Bjork, fiery young bassist Brandi Disterheft has performed at the Montreal Jazz Festival, Mary Lou Williams Jazz Festival, Chico’s Ravinia Jazz Festival, and Carnegie Hall. This “up and coming artist” whose career began in her teens, was nominated for the rising star prize at the 2004 National Jazz Awards. Opening for Diana Krall at the 2005 Vancouver International Jazz Festival, and having studied with jazz giants Neils-Henning Orsted Pederson, Rufus Reid, and Danilo Perez, Brandi was a featured soloist with the Canada Pops Orchestra at age 21. “She has the same lope or rhythmical pulse as my late bassist, Ray Brown. She is what we call Serious.” - Oscar Peterson Brandi Disterheft’s trio also includes: Chris Gale – tenor sax Sly Juhas - drums For more information visit http://www.brandidisterheft.com

Heather Bambrick Quintet | 12:30 pm - 2:00 pm | Varley Art Gallery Patio

Heather Bambrick was destined to entertain. A native of St. John’s, Newfoundland, Heather began choral singing at age 10, and hasn’t stopped since. Heather easily demonstrates her effortless technique, lyrical fluidity, and naturally warm audience rapport. Her live shows are an entertaining combination of timeless standards, fresh, accessible original material, and just the right touch of humour. She produces and hosts the highly popular “Sunday Afternoon Jazz”, on Canada’s only all-Jazz radio station, Jazz FM 91, and has been named Broadcaster of the Year at both the 2005 and 2007 National Jazz Awards.

Taylor, Leathers and Carothers | 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm | Main Street Markham Parkette

Taylor, Leathers and Carothers is a Toronto-based jazz trio that has been performing around southern Ontario since 1995. This includes performances on local television (CITYTV), club dates such as the Rex Jazz Bar and the Montreal Bistro, private functions and numerous appearances at both the Beaches and the Downtown (Toronto) jazz festivals. They have recently released a CD entitled “A Baker’s Dozen” which is a musical tribute to some of the less well-known material of trumpet great, Chet Baker. The trio will be featuring music from their CD at the 2007 Markham Jazz Festival with a special concert on Main Street Markham. In addition to straight-ahead jazz, they also keep audiences interested by offering a varied musical menu including Brazilian and Classical music. Trio members: Ken Taylor – guitar Howard Leathers – trumpet and vocals Sam Carothers – acoustic bass

DEW East | 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm | Millennium Bandstand

Named after its members (Alex Dean, Barry Elmes, Steve Wallace), D.E.W. EAST is a versatile, co-operative group formed in 1998 as a vehicle to bring together three of Canada’s best jazz artists into a “power trio” format. With bassist Steve Wallace and percussionist Barry Elmes, Alex Dean performs on a variety of instruments, including tenor and soprano saxophones, bass clarinet, flute and oboe. This diversity makes it possible for only three composer/musicians to collectively explore a variety of ideas and sounds within a jazz framework. Note: Neil Swainson guests on Bass for this performance. (Photo: left to right – Barry Elmes, Steve Wallace, Alex Dean)

James Brown Quartet | 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm | Markham Museum

James Brown is one of Canada’s talented and versatile Composer/Guitarists. His playing draws influence from both Classical and Jazz traditions and he has been praised for his fluent technique, lyrical tone, and daring melodic intervention. James is currently on Faculty at the Royal Conservatory of Music in Toronto, where he teaches guitar and jazz improvisation. He is also co-founder of The New Guitar: a concert series dedicated to showcasing talents of Canadian Composers and Guitarists. The James Brown Quartet members include: James Brown – guitar Quinsin Nachoff – Tenor and Soprano Sax Mike Milligan – bass Anthony Michelli – drums For more information visit http://www.jamesbrown.ca

Margaret Stowe Trio | 2:30 pm - 4:00 pm | Varley Art Gallery Patio

“Stowe’s departure point is jazz, but her style ranges from folk to blues to world beats. Expect distinct renditions and original pieces propelled by Stowe’s trademark high energy and eclectic tastes.” (Prague Post Oct/06) Guitarist Margaret Stowe has performed all over Canada and Europe. A versatile, jazz-based guitarist, she has performed and recorded with many Canadian/International artists including Jackie Richardson, Ellen McIlwaine, Riga Chiarelli, Bug Rude Jake, Moses Scarlet, Salome Bey, and a host of others. She is guitarist for the TBS Women’s Blues Revue Band, and works with the incomparable Daisy DeBolt. Margaret’s eclectic original jazz and distinctive renditions can be quirky and offbeat as well as lyrical and moving. Her latest CD release is “Adventures of the Red Guitar” . Margaret Stowe’s ensemble also includes: Chris Gartner – bass Morgan Doctor - drums For more information visit http://www.margaretstowe.com

Worst Pop Band Ever | 4:00 pm - 5:30 pm | Millennium Bandstand

The Worst Pop Band Ever tries to amicably reconcile their love of improvisational jazz with “pop” music. They twist and bend originals and covers, straddling genres and butting heads with expectation. The band’s debut CD, “Thanks for Coming Out”, was released in April 2006, to critical acclaim. “The music’s fresh, may appeal to pop lovers but assuredly to jazzers keen on a kind of driven fluency as genre stylings are examined, discarded and reworked.” (Geoff Chapman, Toronto Star, May 4, 2006) Band members: Drew Birston – Bass Chris Gale – Saxophone Dafydd Hughes – Keys Leo37 – Turntables Tim Shia - Drums

June Garber | 4:00 pm - 5:30 pm | Markham Museum

June Garber is arguably one of Canada’s busiest Jazz singers. Hailing from South Africa, but having made her home here in the Toronto area for the last 20 years, June is one of Toronto’s “jewels of jazz”. June was selected by Bill King to be on his Jazz Diva II album; as well, Bill produced her solo album, “Smile”. June has performed locally and nationally at major Jazz Festivals and clubs, and internationally in countries such as the USA, Cuba, South Africa, and Europe. In addition to having a beautiful voice and repertoire, June’s stage presence brings her audiences into the magic of her music. June’s Quintet also includes: Ken Foster – Sax Sandy Mackay – Drums Don DiCarlo – Piano Larry Ernewein - Bass For more information visit http://www.junegarber.com

Jorge Miguel | 4:30 pm - 6:00 pm | Varley Art Gallery Patio

Jorge Miguel is a Spanish Canadian Flamenco guitarist and composer. Jorge Miguel’s style of Flamenco is full contact, hard-core. He features Alegrias, Bulerias, Tangos and Sevillanas - the traditional songs and dances passed down through the generations after hundreds of years of development and growth. Jorge has performed with his group on prestigious stages including the Du Maurier Theatre, River Run Centre, the Glenn Gould Studio, the Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts, and the Premier Dance Theatre. For more information visit http://www.jorgemiguel.com

Tom Van Seters Quartet | 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm | Millennium Bandstand

Well known as a performer/composer on the Canadian jazz scene for many years, pianist Tom Van Seters is currently promoting his latest CD entitled "The Long View" which features legendary Canadian vibraphonist Don Thompson. After several years of teaching Jazz Studies full time at the Brandon University School of Music in Manitoba, Tom recently moved to Toronto to pursue doctoral studies at the University of Toronto. Tom’s music has been featured on radio programs throughout Canada and on stage at many Canadian music festivals. For this concert Tom is joined by some of Canada's premier jazz musicians. Kelly Jefferson – saxophones Jim Vivian – double bass Ted Warren – drums For more information visit http://www.tomvanseters.com

Tara Davidson Quartet | 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm | Markham Museum

Saxophonist and composer Tara Davidson has performed in 10 countries and at such prestigious venues as New York City’s Carnegie Hall, the J.F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington DC., and the Sony Center in Pori, Finland. She has produced two recordings as a leader, earned a jazz performance degree, and instructed at an international jazz workshop. She is an active performer and teacher in her hometown of Toronto, and is earning a reputation for herself as one of the leading lights in the next generation of Canadian jazz musicians. The Tara Davidson Quartet also includes: Adrean Farrugia – piano Jon Maharaj – bass Ernesto Cervini – drums For more information visit http://www.taradavidson.ca

MJF All-Star Big Band | 8:00 pm - 9:00 pm | Millennium Bandstand

The MJF All-Stars is an auditioned big band made up of Markham area high school students. The band is led by educator Leon Racine from Bayview Secondary School. Students auditioned for and practiced throughout the summer, in preparation for this one hour concert at the Millennium Bandstand on Saturday, August 17 as the “opening act” for the Saturday night headliners.

Hilario Duran Big Band | 9:30 pm - 11:00 pm | Millennium Bandstand

Renowned for his piano, arranging, and composing skills, Hilario Duran is one of Cuba’s premier ambassadors of Latin Jazz. “From the Heart” is a tribute to the “Golden Era” of the great jazz band orchestras in Cuba. This album quickly gained worldwide recognition resulting in a 2007 JUNO winner, GRAMMY nomination, and National Jazz Award Best Latin Jazz Band of the year. Duran’s blend of traditional Big Band sounds with hot Salsa and creative Latin Jazz melodies produces a sensational Latin-style Big Band experience. Some of the finest Canadian and Cuban soloists and performers form Duran’s 18-piece Latin Jazz Orchestra which feature prominently in the “who is who” of the Canadian scene. For more information visit http://www.hilarioduran.com

Darren Sigesmund Quintet | 12:00 pm - 1:30 pm | Varley Art Gallery Patio

Darren is a versatile and gifted trombonist who projects a warm brass sound through imaginative compositions. With the upcoming release of his new album, Strands, Toronto trombonist Darren Sigesmund continues to establish his quintet as a leading contemporary Canadian jazz ensemble. Strands is a contemporary blend of jazz, Latin, and classically influenced compositions that Sigesmund has showcased on several tours across Canada and abroad since 2004. The Darren Sigesmund Quintet has toured Asia Pacific several times with highlight performances at Japan Expo 2005, the Canadian Embassy in Tokyo, South Korea’s Jarasum International Jazz Festival, and premiere clubs across Australia. Ensemble members: Darren Sigesmund – trombone Quinsin Nachoff – tenor sax Reg Schwager – guitar Jon Maharaj – bass Anthony Michelli - drums For more information visit http://www.darrensigesmund.com

Diana Drew Quintet | 12:00 pm - 1:30 pm | Markham Museum

Diana Drew first stepped out on stage singing and playing the guitar at age seven. She was trained vocally by her father, a professional opera singer with the New York City Centre Opera Co. At eleven years of age, four record companies were knocking on her door, but were declined in favour of a “normal” childhood. Diana has sung professionally for many years at many venues including the Skydome, Maple Leaf Gardens, CNE, hotels, and many sports teams! She has worked on television, radio, video, film and musical theatre. Diana has formal training in voice, acting, and five instruments. Having survived two cancers (one of which was in her throat), she is a testimony to determination, willpower, and strength of spirit. “The voice is powerful, growly or sweeping, husky with hickory smoke…she holds the last note, holds it forever, leaving the sax and drums in her dust.” - Mike Strobel of the Toronto SUN. Joining Diana on stage will be: Bruce Philips – drums Ron Johnston – bass Neville Barnes – guitar John Johnson - sax For more information visit http://http://www.dianadrew.com

Flying Bulgar Klezmer Band | 12:30 pm - 2:00 pm | Millennium Bandstand

The Flying Bulgars have earned a reputation as one of the world’s most exciting and innovative ensembles performing original music based in traditional Yiddish sounds. Founded almost 20 years ago, the band has toured throughout Canada, Eruope and the United States…performing high energy music of cultural synthesis. They have been recognized for their excellent musicianship, unique compositional stance, and commitment to passionate performance. The Bulgars have released five critically acclaimed JUNO –nominated CDs, including the most recent “Sweet Return”. The group features: Dave Wall – lead vocals and percussion David Buchbinder – trumpet Peter Lutek – clarinet/saxophone Tania Gill – piano Victor Bateman – bass Frank Botos – drums

Colleen Allen | 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm | Varley Art Gallery Patio

Alberta born sax player and multi-instrumentalist, Colleen Allen is known as much for her charismatic stage presence as she is for her remarkable ease in fostering a collaborative spirit while playing with others. She has mesmerized audiences through Canada and Europe accompanying such notable performers as Rush, the Parachute Club, Colm Wilkinson, Anne Murray, and Oliver Schroer. She is currently involved as a soloist and singer in Molly Johnson’s band and her improvisational magic can be heard on Johnson’s CDs “Molly Johnson” and “Messing Around”. Her musical path has led her to a wide range of cultural events and in so doing, she has shared the stage with such diverse artists as David Suzuki, Michael Ondaatje and David Clayton Thomas. Colleen also works as composer and bandleader for theatrical events, and includes her projects with SoulPepper Theatre Company and Cirque du Soleil as some of her most rewarding musical undertakings. Performing with Colleen at the Markham Jazz Festival are: Rob Piltch – guitar Brandi Disterheft – bass Adrean Farrugia – piano Rick Lazar – percussion For more information visit http://www.colleenallen.ca

Silverleaf Jazz Band | 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm | Markham Museum

Playing Dixieland music, Silverleaf is a traditional 1920’s, 30’s and 40’s New Orleans syncopated style jazz band consisting of seven members. The Silverleaf Band has been in existence for the past twenty-seven years, playing many venues from the New Orleans Heritage Jazz Festival, the Buffalo Jazz Festival, du Maurier Downtown Jazz Festival, Beaches Jazz Festival - and many clubs, bars, and TV Shows. This is the kind of music music to get your feet tapping! Band Members: Jack (Creole) King - Banjos (Smokin’) Joe Van Rossem - Trumpet Manfred Koch - Trombone Roberta Hunt – Piano Chuck “Sammy” Clarke – drums Brian Graville – clarinet Dave Maynard – bass For more information visit http://www.silverleafjazz.com

Markham Gang | 2:30 pm - | Amica of Swan Lake

The Markham Gang Jazztet creates a blend of modern and traditional jazz themes which appeal to both avid jazz fans and casual listeners. With a core sound reminiscent of the cool jazz era, the group adds a mixture of unusual time signatures and chord changes, creating a variety of surprising twists and turns to well-known standards. Group members include: Douglas Pipher – saxophone Leon Racine – piano George Taylor – bass Amica of Swan Lake 6360 Sixteenth Avenue, Markham

Eliana Cuevas | 2:30 pm - 4:00 pm | Millennium Bandstand

Venezuelan born singer, songwriter, composer and bandleader Eliana Cuevas has created her own musical language out of jazz and a variety of Latin American popular styles. Accompanied by a stellar quartet of piano, bass and two percussionists, she uses her remarkable vocal abilities to explore a wide diversity of rhythms and feelings encompassed in a body of mainly original work. A dynamic and compelling performer, she has met with an enthusiastic reception both at home and abroad. Based in Toronto, Eliana performs regularly with her own quartet and as guest vocalist with a variety of other ensembles in clubs and concerts. Eliana has recently finished recording her second full length CD entitled “Vidas (Lives)”. Accompanying Eliana are: Luis Guerra – vocals Luis Orbegoso – percussion Daniel Stone – percussion George Koller – base 3 For more information visit http://www.elianacuevas.com

Norman Marshall Villeneuve’s Jazz Messengers | 2:30pm - | Rouge Valley Retirement Residence

Norman Marshall Villeneuve first started to play drums at the tender age of nine. A pillar in the Canadian jazz scene, the 50-year old percussion veteran has made Toronto home for the past 30 years, and has earned a reputation as a mentor to a younger generation of players. Villeneuve’s live shows engage audiences, and his rhythmic passion resonates with fans long after the performance ends. Rouge Valley Retirement Residence 5958 Sixteenth Avenue, Markham 905-294-1114

Dave Young Quintet | 4:00 pm - 5:30 pm | Varley Art Gallery Patio

The quintet that will be appearing at the Markham Jazz Festival is the culmination of several years of work in Toronto. The repertoire will include compositions by Dave Young and Charles Mingus. Although Young has been influenced by many musicians over the years, he still goes back to his music and his intensity. He has released a CD entitled “Mainly Mingus” which includes several of his compositions. As well as Mingus, the Dave Young Quintet will play compositions of Duke Ellington, Thelonius Monk, and some of their own creation. Much of their music is based either in “blues” or the “black gospel style” and has high emotional content. The group includes: Dave Young – bass Steve McDade – trumpet John Johnson – saxophone Gary Williamson – piano Ethan Ardelli – drums For more information visit http://www.daveyoung.ca

Samba Squad | 4:00 pm - 5:30 pm | Markham Museum

Founded by one of Canada’s unsung musical heroes Rick Shadrach Lazar, the colourful thirty-plus member drum group performs a variety of samba-based West and North African, Caribbean and Afro-Cuban styles of carnival rhythms based on traditional Brazilian percussion instruments. Lazar’s open-door philosophy means that Samba Squad has become a microcosm of multicultural Toronto and one of the most exhilarating live music experiences in Canada, featuring members of all ages and backgrounds. Remarkably, most are non-professional musicians whose raw talents Lazar has encouraged and shaped. “The joy that they bring to it, that’s what you can’t buy”, he says. Listening to Samba Squad is infectious! The music of this remarkable rhythmic collective is also the subject of “Samba Squad:Drums We Love”, a Riddle Films documentary, which had its world television premiere on VisionTV in the fall of 2006. For more information visit http://www.sambasquad.com

KC Roberts | 4:30 pm - 6:00 pm | Millennium Bandstand

Funk / Hip Hop / Rock. Imagine if Jamiroquai, The Roots and The Neptunes decided to put on a show with Jimmy Hendrix. Guitarist / singer / mc, KC Roberts brings with him a fierce-sounding 8 piece band, with horns, female vocals and a rhythm section. KC seamlessly blends funk and jazz with hip hop, house, jungle and rock. Band members include: KC Roberts – Lead Guitar and vocals Angela Wheeler – Vocals Kirsten Rea – vocals Will Loach – trumpet RJ – trombone Bobby Hu – saxophone Tyler Emond – bass guitar Colin Kingsmore – drums Todd Pentley - keys For more information visit http://www.myspace.com/kcrobertsandtherawblue